With Closures And Plugs Patents (Class 138/89)
  • Patent number: 11873938
    Abstract: A pipeline pigging element (10) that changes its size in an axial and a radial direction as a function of applied pipeline pressure. The pigging element includes at least two circumferential zones (13, 15) having different section modulus than one another, each of the zones changing at different rates from one another between an uninflated and an inflated state at the applied pipeline pressure. The pigging element reacts to changes in pipe geometry, having a first length and a first diameter at a first applied pipeline pressure and a second length and a second diameter different than the first at a second applied pipeline pressure. As the pigging element wears, it becomes easier to inflate at the applied pressure and sealing contact with the pipe wall remains substantially unaffected. No onboard pumps or fluid circuits are required to inflate the pigging element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Poe, Matt Logan, John R. Morrow, Charles G. Boellstorff
  • Patent number: 11840090
    Abstract: A liquid ejection head includes: a casing, which is hollow, and has an opening at one end; a lid member, which is fixed to an end portion of the opening of the casing; and a member arranged inside the casing. The lid member has a liquid supply port. The member has a first liquid guide groove, and the casing has a second liquid guide groove. The second liquid guide groove extends from the end portion of the opening to a side opposite to the opening in the side wall inner surface of the casing, the first liquid guide groove extends to a side surface of the member which is in contact with or close to the side wall inner surface of the casing, and the first liquid guide groove and the second liquid guide groove are located so as to allow fluid communication therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shigeki Fukui, Isamu Yoneda, Hiroki Tajima, Masatoshi Ohira
  • Patent number: 11826539
    Abstract: A system, method, and article for delivering an antimicrobial agent into the lumen of a trans-dermal catheter are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises an elongate member configured for insertion into a lumen of a catheter, and the elongate member containing an antimicrobial. In the alternative an antimicrobial agent can be placed on an interior surface of a retaining ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: ICU Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Ziebol, Keith J. Modert
  • Patent number: 11673012
    Abstract: A workout station includes a main body, a main beam, a bar, and mounting fasteners. The main beam extends from the main body. The bar extends perpendicularly through the main beam opposite the main body. The mounting fasteners extend through the main body and fasten the workout station to a vertical substrate. The main body, the main beam, the bar, and the mounting fasteners support a user hanging from the bar. The main body secures the workout station to a tree or pole at a predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Inventor: James William Bellaus
  • Patent number: 11619322
    Abstract: The clean-out cap locator forms a cap that encloses a clean-out plug. The clean-out cap locator comprises a threaded cap, a control circuit, a remote control, and a personal data device. The control circuit determines the GPS coordinates of the control circuit. The control circuit transmits the GPS coordinates of the control circuit to the personal data device. The control circuit generates an audible alarm indicating the location of the clean-out cap locator. The control circuit senses the flow of fluid around near the clean-out cap locator. The control circuit transmits an alarm to the personal data device when the control circuit senses a back-up in the clean-out plug. The control circuit generates an audible alarm when the control circuit detects a back-up in the clean-out plug. The remote control sends a signal to the control circuit that causes the control circuit to generate an audible alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Inventor: Jason Russell
  • Patent number: 11608928
    Abstract: A one-piece shield for temporarily covering the upper inlet of a downspout. The shield includes a single sheet of resilient material, with a pair of tabs that cooperate with a slot in the sheet. The sheet is rolled up to create a tubular portion. One of the tabs is turned into the tubular portion to block the passage into the tubular portion, and the other tab cooperates with the slot to keep the device rolled up, so that the tubular portion blocks entry of debris into the downspout. The device is unrolled after use, and stored flat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Inventor: Robert Green
  • Patent number: 11584841
    Abstract: The present invention relates to fluid-infused elastomers that outperform their non-infused base elastomer in harsh environmental conditions. These fluid-infused polymers may be used in applications including geothermal technologies where the oil-infused elastomers may be subject to harsh conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC
    Inventors: Mark C. Grubelich, Erica Marie Redline
  • Patent number: 11541219
    Abstract: A device for disinfection of a medical injection port is provided. The device includes a capping portion having an inner surface, a hollow portion having an inner surface, a proximal opening, and a distal opening, a connector coupling the capping portion of the device to the hollow portion thereof, and a disinfecting absorbent material disposed inside the capping portion of the device. The connector permits movement of the capping portion between a fully-seated position on the hollow portion of the device, and a position apart from the proximal opening thereof to permit ingress to the medical injection port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: DRMA Group International LLC
    Inventor: Zoran Drmanovic
  • Patent number: 11511098
    Abstract: A hemostasis valve assembly for use in a medical device. The hemostasis valve assembly may include a main body portion defining an internal cavity, a seal cartridge disposed within the internal cavity, and a low pressure valve assembly positioned within the internal cavity adjacent to the seal cartridge. The low pressure valve assembly may include a first valve member having a first valve body and a second valve member having second valve body. A portion of a distal side of the first valve member may abut at least a portion of a proximal side of the second valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC LIMITED
    Inventors: Sumit Agrawal, Biten Kishore Kathrani
  • Patent number: 11499664
    Abstract: A masking plug is provided for masking a hole in a part during a finishing operation. The masking plug includes an elongated shaft a first end terminating at a terminal surface and a second end. An outer surface of the shaft has external threads adjacent the first end thereof adapted for receipt in the hole. An enlarged body has a first end operatively connected to the shaft and a second operatively connected to a head. The diameter of the body is greater than the diameter of the shaft. The head has a polygonal configuration and is adapted for forming a mating relationship with a tool. The terminal surface of the shaft includes a hollow cavity formed therein which is configured to urge the outer surface of shaft radially outward in response to a pressure buildup in the cavity during the finishing operation so as to maintain the shaft in hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: Custom Fabricating & Supplies
    Inventors: Henry Asik, Brian Asik
  • Patent number: 11454015
    Abstract: A water leak detection plate is placed between the toilet flange plate attached to a subfloor and a toilet base with a wax seal disposed between them. The detection plate includes a circular disc body with a wastewater hole axially aligned with the wastewater hole formed on the toilet flange plate. Surrounding the wastewater hole is an outer flange area with a perimeter edge. Formed on the outer flange area are two bolt holes aligned with two bolts attached to the toilet flange plate used to attach the toilet base to the toilet flange plate. Formed or attached to the disc body's perimeter edge is a continuous, upward extending gutter configured to collect water leaking from the wax seal or the toilet base. Also formed on the bottom surface of the disc body is an upward extending recessed cavity in which the toilet flange plate rests. The detection plate may be used with an external water detection device placed in the gutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Inventor: Brett Earnest
  • Patent number: 11426849
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an insert and system of installing the same. The insert includes a tapered core and a cylinder. The core releasably secures to an installation device which includes a depth stop or a depth control to control the installation depth of the insert. The insert may be provided in a tray that allows for easier handling of the inserts and installation thereof in installation holes, for example in a hydraulic manifold. In some cases, the core includes a threaded hole to releasably secure the insert to the installation device, thus allowing the installation device to pull the core into the cylinder. The core and cylinder may be made of metallic materials such as steels, steel alloys and others. In some cases the insert can withstand blow out pressures of 40,000 psi or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: Engineered Inserts & Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Kirilichin, David P. Turechek, Brian P. Krieger
  • Patent number: 11408548
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a gripping plug for use in connecting to a pipe wherein the pipe defines an inside radius, having a body of the gripping plug; an inboard seal mounted on the body towards an inboard end of the gripping plug and an outboard seal mounted on the body towards the outboard end of the gripping plug, wherein both the inboard seal and the outboard seal are each located between two clamping plates; at least one wedge cone mounted on the body between the inboard seal and the outboard seal; at least one discrete gripping device slidably engaged with the at least one wedge cone, wherein each of the at least one discrete gripping devices define an outer surface; and an actuation-retraction mechanism configured to actuate the at least one discrete gripping device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: USA Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Casey Sue, John Rey De Leon, Richard Sallee
  • Patent number: 11408549
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a gripping apparatus, for use in connecting to a pipe wherein the pipe defines an inside radius, the apparatus having at least one discrete gripping device mounted on a body, wherein the body is a wedge cone; an outer surface on each of the at least one discrete gripping device, wherein the outer surface has a transition surface defined by a means for reducing any sharp transition point; a coating on the outer surface; a collective actuation-retraction mechanism connected to the wedge cone and to each of the at least one discrete gripping device; and a collective extension-retractable mechanism connected to each of at least one discrete gripping device. The disclosure further relates to an alternative exemplary embodiment wherein the gripping apparatus further includes a spring, wherein the spring pre-biases each of the at least one discrete gripping device beyond the inside radius of the pipe to instantly grip the inside radius.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: USA Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Tracy Sue, Casey Sue, Richard Sallee
  • Patent number: 11407093
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an insert and system of installing the same. The insert includes a tapered core and a cylinder. The core releasably secures to an installation device which includes a depth stop or a depth control to control the installation depth of the insert. The insert may be provided in a tray that allows for easier handling of the inserts and installation thereof in installation holes, for example in a hydraulic manifold. In some cases, the core includes a threaded hole to releasably secure the insert to the installation device, thus allowing the installation device to pull the core into the cylinder. The core and cylinder may be made of metallic materials such as steels, steel alloys and others. In some cases the insert can withstand blow out pressures of 40,000 psi or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Engineered Inserts & Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Kirilichin, David P. Turechek, Brian P. Krieger
  • Patent number: 11391405
    Abstract: Example aspects of a pipe repair assembly, a deployment probe for repairing a pipeline, and a method of repairing a pipeline are disclosed. The pipe repair assembly can comprise a retainer device comprising a retainer tab extending into a retainer slot, the retainer device movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and a pipe repair device comprising a spring and an engagement tab, the engagement tab defining a channel, wherein, in the engaged position, the engagement tab is received in the retainer slot and the retainer tab engages the channel, and in the disengaged position, the engagement tab is disposed outside of the retainer slot and the retainer tab is disengaged from the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventor: Aurelian Ioan Furcoiu
  • Patent number: 11391404
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a gripping apparatus for use in connecting to a pipe wherein the pipe defines an inside radius, having: a body of the gripping apparatus; a wedge cone mounted on the body; at least one discrete gripping device slidably engaged with the wedge cone; and an actuation-retraction mechanism configured to actuate the at least one discrete gripping device. The actuation-retraction mechanism of the gripping apparatus may be a collective actuation-retraction mechanism in an exemplary embodiment. In further disclosed alternative exemplary embodiments, the actuation-retraction mechanism of the gripping apparatus may be a plurality of individual actuation-retraction mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: USA Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Tracy Sue, Casey Sue, Richard Sallee
  • Patent number: 11376949
    Abstract: A closure device for a fluid container, in particular a hydraulic tank, has a base (4), which can be attached to the container opening and has a cover part (2), which encloses a ventilation and/or a filter device (36). The cover part (2) is held on the base (4) so as to be freely rotatable in a functional unlocking position. In a functional locking position, the closure device permits the container opening to be unlocked by a safety device (48, 50, 58) while connecting the cover part (2) to the base (4). The safety device (48, 50, 58) can be actuated by a magnetic device generating a magnetic field (62). The magnetic device establishes the functional locking position of the cover (2) and the base (4) by magnetic force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: HYDAC FILTERTECHNIK GMBH
    Inventor: Michael Kerber
  • Patent number: 11376644
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for bending a pipe to mitigate internal wrinkling, with particular benefit when bending a lined pipe upon spooling. Bending is performed continuously by advancing the pipe through a bending zone while an internal mandrel is held at the bending zone to resist wrinkling. In one variant, the mandrel comprises longitudinally-spaced pipe-engaging elements and a tensile link between the elements allows relative movement between the elements. A holdback connection on one of the elements applies hold-back force to that element to be transmitted to the other element via the tensile link. In another variant, the mandrel comprises an elongate pipe-engaging body with a hold-back connection at one end of the body. The body is flexible to bend with the pipe and is shaped to engage an inner surface of the pipe along most of the length of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Acergy France SAS
    Inventor: Stephane Bombino
  • Patent number: 11344715
    Abstract: Flush syringe assemblies are described herein. Such flush syringe assembly may include a barrel including a side wall defining a chamber, an open proximal end, a distal end having a distal wall with an elongate tip extending distally therefrom having a passageway therethrough in fluid communication with said chamber. A collar may be mounted on the distal wall of the barrel and surrounding the elongate tip. A disinfectant-loaded swab may be disposed in the collar. The flush syringe assembly may also include a removable cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Nicholas Erekovcanski, Roza Mahmoodian
  • Patent number: 11346485
    Abstract: A mechanical lock unit with a shaft lock assembly and method of achieving a self-lock mode for, e.g., hydraulically activated isolation plug module. The shaft lock assembly includes a teeth-form ring that surrounds a shaft. The teeth-form ring defines a plurality of teeth. A teeth-form split gripper assembly is positioned to surround the teeth-form ring. The teeth-form split gripper assembly has at least a first teeth-form split gripper and a second teeth-form split gripper with a spring therebetween for biasing the first teeth-form split gripper away from said second teeth-form split gripper. The first teeth-form split gripper and the second teeth form split gripper having an inner surface that defines a plurality of teeth for cooperative engagement with the plurality of teeth of the teeth-form ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Khanh Van Nguyen, Hallgeir Foss Alsvik
  • Patent number: 11343944
    Abstract: A deep-water submersible system is disclosed. The system can include a pressure vessel and an internal assembly. The internal assembly can include a housing and a wedge lock assembly coupleable to the housing. The wedge lock assembly can include a plurality of wedge members arranged along a longitudinal axis and including end wedge members at each end and one or more intermediate wedge members between the end wedge members. The wedge lock assembly can also include a displacement device along the longitudinal axis and connecting the end wedge members. The displacement device can be actuatable in one direction to move the end wedge members toward one another to displace adjacent wedge members relative to one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis to engage and apply a clamping force to the housing and the pressure vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Brian M. White
  • Patent number: 11333286
    Abstract: A foreign material exclusion device that is adapted to seal an area of a construction, such as a tube or pipe, from foreign material or debris temporarily, wherein the device has a resilient body for holding the device within a particular construction. The device also includes a post extending through the body and a base connected to a first end of the post, the base including a flange for maintaining the body on the post. The device further includes a cap that is securely locked to a second end of the post to prevent the post being withdrawn from the cap. The device body is captured between the base and cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: ADVANCED F.M.E. PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Nolfi, Chase Penix
  • Patent number: 11306859
    Abstract: A hydrophobic separating plug is used to separate and inhibit mixing between a first material and a second material. The plug may be formed of a hydrophobic material or may be formed of a plurality of pigs that are a solid or semi-solid material that may be hydrophobic or may have a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic surface. The plurality of pigs may be disposed within a hydrophobic fluid and the pigs may be neutrally buoyant in the hydrophobic fluid. The hydrophobic separating plug has dimensions sufficient to substantially fill the cross-section of pipe sections in which it is located and to define a leading edge and a trailing edge such that the leading edge is in contact with a first material and the trailing edge is in contact with a second material. Advantageously, mixing between the first material and the second material is inhibited by the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Tropicana Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Johnny Casasnovas, Gerald Olean Fountain, Jeffrey D. Mathews
  • Patent number: 11215114
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes a block having at least one cylinder, a head joined to the block, a fastener coupling the head to the block and comprising a shank extending along a fastener axis between the block and the head, a fluid conduit extending parallel to the fastener axis and having an inner surface defined by the shank, and a seal fixed to the shank sealing the fluid conduit to prevent a fluid disposed in the fluid conduit from flowing across the seal in the fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Vaibhav Karekar, Todd M. Willis
  • Patent number: 11203028
    Abstract: A masking plug assembly includes a lower anvil and an elongate member coupled to a central portion of the lower anvil, where the elongate member includes at least one coupling part. The assembly also includes an upper anvil having a central opening for receiving the elongate member therethrough, where the upper anvil includes at least one complementary coupling part configured to be releasably coupled with the at least one coupling part of the elongate member. The assembly also includes a deformable plug with a central opening for receiving the elongate member therethrough, where the deformable plug is configured to be positioned within the hole of the structure between the lower anvil and the upper anvil, and where the deformable plug is composed of a resilient material such that at least a portion of the deformable plug expands horizontally when compressed vertically between the lower anvil and the upper anvil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Theodore Warner, James L Scherer
  • Patent number: 11187366
    Abstract: Example aspects of a stent spring for a stent, a stent for repairing a pipe, and a method for repairing a pipe are disclosed. The stent spring for a stent can comprise a plurality of minor springs connected in a series around a circumference of the stent spring, each of the minor springs defining a first leg and a second leg; and a spring constrictor engaged with each of the minor springs, each of the spring constrictors movable between a first position, wherein the corresponding minor spring defines a first maximum width, and a second position, wherein the corresponding minor spring defines a second maximum width that is greater than the first maximum width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventor: Aurelian Ioan Furcoiu
  • Patent number: 11150115
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a housing for a field device in measuring and automation technology for monitoring and/or determining at least one process variable of a medium, wherein the housing includes at least one housing body which has, in the interior thereof, a housing chamber which is defined by a housing wall, wherein the housing wall has at least one opening, into which opening a threaded element is inserted in a releasably fastened manner, which threaded element is set up to receive a cover, wherein the opening can be tightly closed by means of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Endress+Hauser Flowtec AG
    Inventors: Thiérry Moser, Niklaus Hänggi
  • Patent number: 11079058
    Abstract: Example aspects of a stent for repairing a pipe and a method for repairing a pipe are disclosed. The stent for repairing a pipe can comprise a coiled extension stent spring comprising a plurality of spring coils and a seal assembled with the coiled extension stent spring and configured to engage an inner surface of a pipe, wherein the stent is configurable in an extended configuration and a contracted configuration, the coiled stent spring biasing the stent to the contracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: Mueller International , LLC
    Inventor: Aurelian Ioan Furcoiu
  • Patent number: 11060653
    Abstract: The block fitting assembly comprises a male block having a projecting portion extending from a planar face thereof and a sealing and capping element configured for engagement with the male block. The sealing and capping element includes a face portion for engaging the planar face of the male block and a cap portion projecting from the face portion. The cap portion includes a circumferentially extending sidewall having a webbed portion and a cover portion. The cover portion of the sidewall is configured to be separated from the cap portion by a tearing or shearing of the cap portion at the webbed portion of the sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: HANON SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Eric Kesler, Dale Filhart
  • Patent number: 11035513
    Abstract: Example aspects of a stent for repairing a pipe and a method for repairing a pipe are disclosed. The stent for repairing a pipe can comprise a coiled extension stent spring comprising a plurality of spring coils and a seal assembled with the coiled extension stent spring and configured to engage an inner surface of a pipe, wherein the stent is configurable in an extended configuration and a contracted configuration, the coiled stent spring biasing the stent to the contracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Mueller International , LLC
    Inventor: Aurelian Ioan Furcoiu
  • Patent number: 10980523
    Abstract: A medical device has an outer tubular body and an inner tubular body. A tissue engagement member is attached to the distal end of the inner tubular body. The tissue engagement member and the inner tubular body are retractable inside the outer tubular body. The tip of the tissue engagement member is configured to penetrate the tissue of a patient and secure on an organ. The movement of the tissue engagement member is limited to a predetermined angle and a predetermined distance. The medical device is configured to deliver multiple agents and/or modalities through the inner tubular body. The agents and/or modalities are supplied through delivery mechanism placed inside of the inner tubular body. A method of treating cardiac condition includes applying one or more agents and/or modalities to the same area of the heart either simultaneously or sequentially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventor: Stephanie Toy
  • Patent number: 10976213
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention include methods and systems for a testing mechanism to be utilized when repairing and replacing a valve utilized on a tank car. The testing mechanism may comprise a pipe plug device configured to plug a siphon pipe located on a tank car and a pressure test device to conduct a leak detect test after the pipe plug device is removed from the siphon pipe. The pipe plug device may include a pipe plug bladder and a pipe plug pressure fitting to inflate and deflate the pipe plug bladder against a wall of the siphon pipe. The pressure test device may include a pressure test valve cap with a test valve bladder located on the pressure test valve cap, a bladder pressure fitting to inflate and deflate the test valve bladder, and a test pressure fitting to pressurize a valve, the test pressure fitting located on the pressure test valve cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Union Tank Car Company
    Inventors: Jay Lloyd, John Kolb, Greg Cieslak, Neil Finn
  • Patent number: 10969293
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention include methods and systems for a testing mechanism to be utilized when repairing and replacing a valve utilized on a tank car. The testing mechanism may comprise a pipe plug device configured to plug a siphon pipe located on a tank car and a pressure test device to conduct a leak detect test after the pipe plug device is removed from the siphon pipe. The pipe plug device may include a pipe plug bladder and a pipe plug pressure fitting to inflate and deflate the pipe plug bladder against a wall of the siphon pipe. The pressure test device may include a pressure test valve cap with a test valve bladder located on the pressure test valve cap, a bladder pressure fitting to inflate and deflate the test valve bladder, and a test pressure fitting to pressurize a valve, the test pressure fitting located on the pressure test valve cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Union Tank Car Company
    Inventors: Jay Lloyd, John Kolb, Greg Cieslak, Neil Finn
  • Patent number: 10953162
    Abstract: A tamper evident closure structured for attachment to a connector of a medical device including an end cap, and a tip cap disposed within the end cap in an operative position. An indicator member is removably connected to the end cap. A cover is connected to the end cap and includes an access opening dimensioned to allow the connector of the medical device to be positioned therein, into attachment with said tip cap. Cooperative dimensioning between the periphery of the access opening and the outer surface of the connector results in an engagement therebetween and a closure and the access opening when the connector is disposed there-through into attachment with the tip cap. A twisting or rotation of the tip cap in a single direction, within the end cap results in disconnection of the indicator member from the end cap, thereby providing an indication of tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Inventors: Timothy Brandon Hunt, Jonathan J. Vitello
  • Patent number: 10941894
    Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to an apparatus for releasably sealing a pipe. Particularly, the apparatus comprises a bar that includes an interior, an exterior, a first end that includes external threads, and a second end that includes a stop. The device further comprises a sleeve positioned over a portion of the bar, and a coupling comprising internal threads that couple to the bar external threads. The device includes a compressible gasket sandwiched between first and second adaptors. Advancement of the coupling over the bar external threads increases pressure on the sleeve, which compresses the gasket between the first and second adaptors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Inventors: Joseph Aaron Bowen, Justin Matthew Vance
  • Patent number: 10883653
    Abstract: Installation of a removable tripod foot is facilitated by a cross-axis aperture in the foot and loosening of the threaded connection of the foot and the tripod's leg is resisted by a resilient element engaging interfacing surfaces of the foot and the leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Really Right Stuff, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph M. Johnson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 10870520
    Abstract: A drinking container comprises a vessel; a cap, atop the vessel; a lid; and a hinge located proximate a rear of the lid and interconnecting the cap to the lid, to allow the lid to pivot on the cap between a closed and open position. A locking tab is at the front of the lid that engages with an inner surface of the cap, to retain the lid in the closed position. A first abutment surface is on the cap and a second abutment surface is on the lid. The first and second abutment surfaces are arranged to contact with each other as the lid is pivoted from the open position to the closed position. Contact of the first and second abutment surfaces urges the lid and the tab forward as the lid is pivoted to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Inventor: Marc Heinke
  • Patent number: 10866215
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for examining a workpiece, wherein the device comprises a carrier; at least one transceiver, which is arranged on the carrier; and a protective device, which is designed to protect the at least one transceiver from soiling. The invention further relates to a system for examining a workpiece, comprising such a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: NDT Global Corporate LTD.
    Inventor: Thomas Hennig
  • Patent number: 10851597
    Abstract: A combination of a casing tube and a closed end unthreaded tubular thread protector that has an inside diameter significantly greater than the outside diameter of the casing tube is described. Further, the thread protector is typically much longer than the threaded portion of the associated casing tube such that a significant amount of axial movement of the protector relative to the casing tube is required to remove it therefrom. The casing protector is most typically comprised of a polymeric material, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, that is soft enough as to not damage or mar the threads on the casing in which it is in contact, but stiff enough in the tubular form of the protector to prevent impact loads from being transferred to the threads there beneath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Inventors: Robert C Lynch, Bobby Don Walker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10837587
    Abstract: A plug for sealing a passage extending about a longitudinal axis (A) comprises a shell having a circumferential wall extending between an end wall and an opening, and an internal cavity extending axially within the shell, and an expander having a head and a shank extending axially from the head, the head retained with the cavity and the shank extending axially through the opening of the cavity, wherein the circumferential wall comprises an inner surface having at least a first region and a second region, the second region proximate the opening and the first region adjacent to the second region and extending therefrom towards the end wall, the inner surface in the first region tapering inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis (A) to provide a first angled ramp, and the inner surface in the second region tapering further inwardly to provide a second angled ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Marcin Cis, Dariusz Kiełbowicz
  • Patent number: 10830233
    Abstract: A valve cover lock assembly for a pump having a fluid end module can include a ring adapted to couple to the module, an insert comprising a plurality of segments, and a cone adapted to couple with the insert, wherein the ring comprises a first coupler and the insert comprises a second coupler configured to couple with the first coupler, wherein the cone is configured to move one or more of the plurality of segments when the cone is moved, and wherein the first and second couplers are adapted to at least partially resist movement of the insert. A method of locking a valve cover can include coupling a ring to a valve cover opening, disposing an insert comprising a plurality of segments at least partially within the ring, coupling an actuator to the insert, and coupling the insert to the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Premium Oilfield Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Douglas A. Jahnke
  • Patent number: 10816312
    Abstract: An integrated hole sealing, device includes a capsule plug, an outer capsule having a first hole site, an inner capsule having a second hole site, a capsule water injection pipe, a borehole water injection pipe and a tapered plug. Two ends of the outer capsule and the inner capsule are respectively fixed on the capsule plug and the tapered plug. The capsule plug, the tapered plug, the outer capsule and the inner capsule form a closed hollow cylindrical cavity. A middle part of the inner capsule is a hollow pipeline, and two ends thereof respectively correspond to the first and second hole sites. The borehole water injection pipe passes through the hollow cylindrical cavity. A part, located in the hollow cylindrical cavity, of the borehole water injection pipe is telescopically wound outside the inner capsule. The capsule water injection pipe passes through the capsule plug and extends into the hollow cylindrical cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignees: China University of Mining and Technology, XUZHOU BOAN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CO., LTD
    Inventors: Wei Yang, Baiquan Lin, Changzheng Lu, Ru Jia, Minghua Lin
  • Patent number: 10816125
    Abstract: An insert for sealing a hole having a diameter. The insert includes a plug having a maximum outer diameter that is equal to or less than the diameter of the hole. The plug also has a sleeve, a core, and a pin. The sleeve has a length and a void. The core and the pin are both press-fit into the void at opposite ends of the void. The core has a first length, a first tapered outer wall, and a threaded hole extending partly through the core. The pin has a second length, a second tapered outer wall, and a passage extending there-through. The plug also has protrusions located on an outer surface of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Engineered Inserts & Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David P. Turechek, Victor Kirilichin
  • Patent number: 10808663
    Abstract: To obtain an end cap that enables a brazing material ring to be appropriately placed and brazing to be reliably performed when inserting and placing an insertion part of the end cap in an end part of a rail body and securing the end cap by brazing it with the brazing material ring and, also, that is unlikely to result in a broken rail body when internal pressure is applied. An end cap to be inserted into and placed inside an end part of a rail body 2 and secured to an inner circumference of the rail body 2 by brazing, wherein an outer circumference of an insertion part 3 for insertion into the rail body 2 comprises an engagement groove 10 that is composed of a pair of side surfaces 11, 12 and a bottom surface 13 and that is capable of engagement with a brazing material ring 15.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: USUI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kengo Murofushi, Takanori Kanda
  • Patent number: 10774608
    Abstract: A technique facilitates deployment of equipment, e.g. an electric submersible pumping system, in a subsea production operation. According to an embodiment, a subsea tree assembly, e.g. a horizontal subsea tree assembly, comprises a spool body housing having a channel extending therethrough. A production receptacle structure is secured within the channel and provides a reduced internal profile for securing wellbore equipment. For example, the internal profile may be constructed to sealably receive a cable hanger used to support power cable by which an electric submersible pumping system may be suspended. The production receptacle structure also may be equipped with a production stab for interfacing with a tubing hanger located below the production receptacle structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: OneSubsea IP UK Limited
    Inventor: David June
  • Patent number: 10724808
    Abstract: A plug assembly is used to block flow through a heat exchanger tube. The plug assembly includes a frusto-conical plug body, a frangible attachment on an end of the plug body, and a ring assembly circumscribing the plug body. When positioned around a larger diameter portion of the plug body, the ring assembly is urged radially outward to seal against and block flow through the tube. An installation device draws the plug body within the ring assembly to set the plug assembly in the tube. The installation device is manually operated, and positions the ring assembly over the larger diameter portion of the plug body by exerting an axial force onto the frangible attachment while simultaneously holding the ring assembly in place. The ring assembly is held in place with a second axial force directed opposite to that of the one applied to the frangible attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Ridha A. Alhassan, Shadi M. Hazmi, Abdullah M. Al-Otaibi, Jalal M. Ramdhan
  • Patent number: 10718458
    Abstract: A gate valve cartridge, valve housing and installation assembly as well as a completion plug for a line stop fitting and installation assembly. The gate valve cartridge comprises a gate, a paddle, a threaded valve stem and a completion plug. Both completion plugs include an outer circumferential slot for accommodating a circumferential seal and both completion plugs also accommodate a normally-closed check valve. The check valves have an open distal end for receiving a check valve actuator and an open proximal end in communication with fluid disposed proximally of the circumferential seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Hydra-Stop LLC
    Inventors: Andrew J. Nelson, Christopher C. Vazzana, Cole Strickland, Carl Mastny
  • Patent number: 10704248
    Abstract: A drainage system (1) for installation in a wet area such as a shower stall. The drainage system (1) comprises an outer drainage conduit (2) adapted to extend within a subfloor (100) of a wet area and an inner drainage conduit (3). The conduit (2) comprises a rim (20) and a pipe body (21). The inner drainage conduit (3) also comprises a rim (30) and a pipe body (31). The rim (30) and pipe body (31) are nestable within the outer drainage conduit (2). When nested, the pipe bodies (21, 31) are adapted to be connectively sealed together using sealant, the rims (20, 30) are adapted to hold a waterproofing membrane (107) between the rims (20, 30) and to be connectively sealed in a water-tight manner to the waterproofing membrane (107) using sealant or, in the absence of a waterproofing membrane (107), the rims (20, 30) are adapted to be connectively sealed together using sealant in a water-tight manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Elfblend Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Leslie Lawrence Howson
  • Patent number: 10683958
    Abstract: An “Adjustable Drainpipe Test Plug Device” (hereinafter “Device”) includes a lever arm and a plug seal assembly coupled that lever arm. The plug seal assembly fully or partially mechanically seals the drainpipe when the Device is locked into one of a plurality of plugging positions through a drainpipe side opening. A positioning arm assembly is rotatably coupled to a rear portion of the lever arm to releasably engage the lever arm while a foot of the positioning arm releasably engages a bottom rim of the side opening, thereby locking the Device into plugging position. An adjustable extensible rod of the positioning arm assembly enables the foot to engage the side opening of pipes having different nominal wall thicknesses. The Device may include a through-hole passing from a front side of the plug seal assembly to a rear side, and may include a fluid fill hose sealably coupled to the through-hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventor: George Tash