Repairing Patents (Class 138/97)
  • Patent number: 10767806
    Abstract: A clamp comprising a spanner extending across a gap between first and second longitudinally extending edges of a band clamped onto a fluid conduit having a circumference orientated about an axis; a connecting assembly configured to tighten the spanner and band to the conduit and a gasket between the band and spanner and the conduit; the gasket comprising a first circumferential seal bead protruding from an inner side of the gasket and having a circumferential length that is equal to or greater than the circumference of the conduit and at least one standalone header bead protruding from the inner side of the gasket and disposed at least partially between the spanner and the conduit and having a circumferential length that is substantially less than the circumference of the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Total Piping Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Daryl M. Piontek, Raymond C. Minich
  • Patent number: 10730732
    Abstract: A device operable, by a user standing above the grade of a pipe, to install a hoisting strap around the pipe. A device body carries wheels and has an opening structured for installation onto the pipe at a mid-span location. The opening is reversably enlarged during installation of the device to permit entrance of the pipe into partially encircled engagement by the body. Typically, three or more wheels are biased by the body into rolling engagement on the pipe at the installed position. Once installed, the device captures an end of the hoisting strap, and carries the strap end under the pipe as the device is rotated about the pipe centerline. The strap end can then be removed from the device to sling the pipe in a conventional lifting arrangement. The device can be removed from the pipe by pulling the device to again expand the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Inventors: Stephen John Paul Lasslo, Tom James Lasslo, Jeremiah John Garcia
  • Patent number: 10683959
    Abstract: A method and assembly for sealing an opening in a pipe wherein the opening is a damaged/cracked section in a length of pipe or the junction between a main pipe and a lateral pipe. The assembly includes a sealing member attached to a positioning tube such as preliner. The sealing member is combined with the preliner so that when the assembly is positioned in the main pipe, the sealing member corresponds with the opening. The sealing member is sized such that it extends along the main pipe on opposite sides of the opening. A mainline liner is installed within the preliner. In some embodiments, after the mainline liner cures and hardens, a cutter is used to cut an opening in the mainline liner, preliner, and sealing member to reinstate service to the lateral pipe. The sealing member remains in place around the periphery of the lateral pipe junction to act as a water stop at the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10641427
    Abstract: Example aspects of a stent for repairing a pipe and a method for repairing a pipe are disclosed. The stent can comprise a spring, the spring defining an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface defining a void; and a seal on the outer surface of the spring; the stent configurable in a compressed orientation, wherein the spring is compressed, and an expanded orientation, wherein the spring is expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Clifton Braun, Cody Badger, Karl Halden
  • Patent number: 10591102
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for repairing a pipe system including a main pipe extending between a first and second manhole and one or more lateral pipes extending from the main pipe is provided. Aspects of the invention include the use of a main liner member having a plurality of lateral liner tubes in fluid connection and extending from the main liner member. The main liner member is used to line a main pipe, while the multiple lateral liner tubes extend into separate lateral pipes extending in various orientations from the main pipe. This method and apparatus provides for a single assembly to be able to line multiple pipes, which reduces time and cost for pipe repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jason M. Mathey, Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10583431
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable containment device for manipulating organic and/or chemical substances, which includes: a transporting case including two half-cases (2, 3) connected by a hinged structure (4) such as to be movable between a closed position (F), in which the half-cases (2, 3) are against one another and define a stowing space for at least the hinged structure (4), and an open position (O), in which the half-cases (2, 3) are spaced apart from one another by being maintained vertical by the hinged structure (4) and in which the half-cases (2, 3) and the hinged structure (4) form a supporting structure for a flexible containment enclosure (20); and a plastic, removable and flexible containment enclosure (20) that is at least partially transparent, for forming a generally parallelepiped foldable isolation chamber provided with means (31, 32) for accessing the inside of the enclosure and with means (21) for attachment to the supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: QUATTROCENTO
    Inventors: Dominique Parzy, Sébastien Parzy, Cyril Desmoort
  • Patent number: 10571064
    Abstract: Pipe splitting apparatuses and systems including a replaceable blade, and methods therefor, are provided. In various examples, a pipe splitting apparatus includes an outer surface including a recess. A blade including a portion is disposed within the recess. A hardenable material is disposed within the recess. The hardenable material is configured to flow upon application to fill empty space within the recess and at least partially around the portion of the blade disposed within the recess. The hardenable material is further configured to harden after application to secure the portion of the blade within the recess and fix the blade to the pipe splitting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 10571065
    Abstract: Techniques for refurbishing an existing host pipe, useful in deployments in confined spaces or providing limited access to the host pipe. In currently preferred embodiments, a plurality of cartridges each include (1) a liner pipe section, (2) at least one rod and (3) at least one centering ball, wherein each rod and centering ball is received inside its corresponding liner pipe section such that each rod is stabilized within its corresponding liner pipe section via contact between at least one centering ball and the liner pipe section. Once the first cartridge is inserted into the host pipe, a second cartridge is concatenated to the first by connection of their respective rods and liner pipe sections. The second cartridge is inserted into the host pipe, and so on. Upon completion, the rods and centering balls may be withdrawn from the concatenated string of liner pipe sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: FHE USA LLC
    Inventor: Roger W. Thompson
  • Patent number: 10557587
    Abstract: A tool with a rotatable guide head and a rotatable reamer head is pulled through old asbestos-containing pipe to break up the pipe. Liquid is supplied through a shaft between the guide head and reamer head so as to form a slurry mixture with the broken pipe. The slurry is removed through vertical bored relief holes. A drying compound is added to the slurry, which then hardens for easy disposal of the solidified waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Inventor: Ted R. Dimitroff
  • Patent number: 10544894
    Abstract: A clamp comprising a band, the band comprising first and second edges, first and second lug elements connected proximate to the first and second band edges, multiple bolts extending transversely between the first and second lug elements, the first lug element comprising a transversely extending lug finger having a finger bearing surface, the second lug element comprising a lug finger land having a bearing surface, the lug finger extending transversely between the first and second lug elements, the finger bearing surfaces of the lug finger and the lug finger land contoured relative to each other such that tightening the band to reduce a gap between the edges of the band in a first range causes the first lug element to rotate in a first direction of rotation and in a second range causes the first lug element to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2020
    Assignee: Total Piping Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Daryl M. Piontek, Raymond C. Minich
  • Patent number: 10534456
    Abstract: Example implementations relate to a touch screen light absorption layer. For example, a display device may include a touch screen sensor to receive a touch input, a display panel to display content based on the touch input, and a light absorption layer adjacent to the touch screen sensor. The light absorption layer may absorb blue light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Wei Kuang Chu, Kuan-Ting Wu
  • Patent number: 10495249
    Abstract: A method and means for repairing the junction of a main and lateral pipe are provided. A repair assembly includes a launcher device, a bladder assembly surrounding the launcher device, and a liner assembly surrounding the bladder assembly. The bladder assembly is frangibly connected to the launcher device to maintain the position of the bladder assembly relative to the launcher device during transport and positioning of the assembly. Likewise, the liner assembly, which includes main and lateral liner members, is frangibly connected to the bladder assembly. The frangible connections allow the position of the repair assembly to be maintained. The frangible connections can be broken, such as by inflation and/or tearing or pulling apart of the components of the repair assembly. Thus, the invention provides a way to mitigate the movement of components of the repair assembly during transport and positioning of the repair assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10472931
    Abstract: A system and method for performing a flexible liner inversion out from a low-permeability borehole. A flexible liner may be installed by eversion down a subterranean borehole to selectively seal the borehole. Such a liner may be removed from the borehole by inverting it up the borehole. Water is added into the borehole beneath the lowest end of the liner, to permit or facilitate inversion of the liner. Water is allowed to flow from the interior of the liner to the borehole space beneath the liner, thereby raising the pressure in the unsealed borehole beneath the liner, and thereby allowing the liner to be further inverted upward. By allowing water to flow from the liner interior to a borehole volume beneath the liner, the need for a long vent or pumping tube is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Inventor: Carl E. Keller
  • Patent number: 10427102
    Abstract: A method for repairing a membrane filtration module in fluid communication with a plurality of additional membrane filtration modules includes fluidly connecting a fluid transfer assembly to the membrane filtration module, fluidly isolating the membrane filtration module from the plurality of additional membrane filtration modules, forcing liquid within the membrane filtration module into the fluid transfer assembly by introducing a pressurized gas into the membrane filtration module, releasing the pressurized gas from the membrane filtration module, fluidly disconnecting the fluid transfer assembly from the membrane filtration module, repairing one or more damaged membranes in the membrane filtration module, and fluidly reconnecting the membrane filtration module to the plurality of additional membrane filtration modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: Evoqua Water Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Zhiyi Cao, Bruce Gregory Biltoft, Jessica Stiller, Ying Hao Teo
  • Patent number: 10422441
    Abstract: A pipe loosening device and methods are shown. In one example, the pipe loosening device enables a method wherein a pipe to be replaced is deformed but not burst, and a portion of a sidewall of the pipe is forced outward into the surrounding soil to compact a local region of the surrounding soil and loosen the existing pipe. The pipe may then pulled from the ground along an axis of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Olander
  • Patent number: 10414950
    Abstract: The invention relates to a separating film based on polyolefins or ethylene copolymers with a content of organic and optionally inorganic pigment and at least one UV stabilizer. The separating film has a transmission percentage between 5 and 20% in the range from 400 to 700 nm and a transmission percentage of <2% in the range from 300 to 500 nm. Such separating films have the advantage that marking regions applied onto membranes which can be found below the separating film remain detectable, and adhesives which can be found below the separating film are effectively protected from UV light and premature aging by the addition of inorganic and organic pigments and UV stabilizers. The invention further relates to composite structures of corresponding separating films and adhesives, to water-tight membranes with coatings made of adhesive and separating films, and to uses of corresponding membranes for sealing structures against water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: SIKA TECHNOLOGY AG
    Inventor: Peter Hübscher
  • Patent number: 10407862
    Abstract: A subterranean fluid transport system, flange assembly and method of installation is disclosed. In some embodiments, the subterranean fluid transport system includes a pipe segment with a rigid outer surface and a flexible inner sleeve positioned within the borehole of the pipe segment. The flexible inner sleeve configured to expand and contract within the borehole of the pipe segment when fluid is transported therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventors: Grant M. Rohlmeier, H. Warren Johnson
  • Patent number: 10408373
    Abstract: A method for installing a liner in a large diameter pipeline. In accordance with the method, the interior surface of the pipeline to be repaired is prepared by removing excess debris and dirt. A repair composite is brought into the tunnel or pipeline in a dry state. Once the dry repair composite is laid out in the structure to be repaired the repair composite is folded out and saturated and wetted out with high pressure spray guns. The spray guns are employed within the structure and an appropriate resin material is applied as required to wet out the fiber material. A calibration bladder is inflated and holds the repair composite in place against the pipeline walls until the epoxy resin is fully cured. Once the process is complete, the bladder tube is retrieved out of the system leaving the repair composite as a stand-alone system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: WARREN ENVIRONMENTAL & COATING, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Warren
  • Patent number: 10408023
    Abstract: A pin-box well tubular connector assembly having pin and box connector members (6,5) with intermeshing external and internal screw thread profiles is optimized for expansion downhole in a wellbore by: A) inserting a swellable dope in the gap between the pin and box connector members (6,5) and optionally B) configuring the pin and box connectors (6,5) such that in axial direction a gap of at least 0.2 mm is present between the external and internal screw thread profiles; and/or C) configuring the box connector member (5) such that it has at least one thread (10) that does not engage a thread on the pin member (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: SHELL OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Daniele Di Crescenzo, Serge Methieu Roggeband
  • Patent number: 10400936
    Abstract: Conduit system for conveying fluids is described. The conduit system comprises a conduit, a tubular, and a sealing component. The tubular is positioned radially interior of an inner surface of the conduit along a length. The tubular comprises a polymeric material. The sealing component is positioned proximate the distal end of the tubular in an annulus formed between an outer surface of the tubular and the inner surface of the conduit, the sealing component constructed and arranged to seal the annulus. Methods for reducing corrosion of or providing pressure integrity to a conduit are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Venkat R. Krishnan, Neerav Verma, Astrid-Cecilie Alveid Haarseth, Timothy D. Anderson, David A. Baker, Stefanie L. Asher
  • Patent number: 10348069
    Abstract: This invention relates to a winch and to a method of using the winch. The winch is ideally adapted for mounting to the boom of a vehicle such as a mini-excavator, and is likely to find its greatest utility in relation to the removal of underground pipes, electricity conduits, fiber optic cables and the like, as well as in the bursting of pipes. The invention provides a winch comprising a support column, a base, a magazine, a drive mechanism and a mounting structure. The drive mechanism is connected to the magazine and is adapted to rotate the magazine in use. The support column connects the magazine to the base. The mounting structure is adapted for mounting to the boom of a vehicle. The winch has a rotatable connection between the base and the mounting structure which is securable in a chosen rotational position, so that the base of the winch can be correctly aligned regardless of the orientation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Inventors: Jacobus Hendrik Cilliers, Joseph Henry Harris
  • Patent number: 10336041
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a coextruded multilayer films. In one embodiment, the coextruded multilayer film includes a core component having from 15 to 1000 alternating layers of layer A and layer B. Layer A has a thickness from 30 nm to 1000 nni and layer A includes a propylene-based polymer having a crystallization temperature (Tpc). Layer B includes an ethylene-based polymer having a crystallization temperature (TEc), wherein Tpc<TEc. Layer A has an effective moisture permeability less than 0.40 g-mil/100 in2/day.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Steven R. Jenkins, Patrick Chang Dong Lee, Joseph Dooley, Donald E. Kirkpatrick, Bernard E. Obi
  • Patent number: 10327933
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to cannulae, delivery systems, methods of making cannulae, and methods of making delivery systems. A delivery system comprises an elongate outer tubular member defining an outer tubular member lumen, a cannula having a circumferential wall extending between a proximal end and a distal end and defining an interior lumen, and an intraluminal medical device disposed within the outer tubular member lumen distal to the cannula and not about the cannula. A pattern of openings arranged in an interrupted spiral extends circumferentially along the cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Joshua Frye Krieger, Melissa Lonn
  • Patent number: 10322020
    Abstract: An implant delivery system is described, having a distal tip and outer sheath that remain in a fixed position during implant delivery. A pusher mechanism within the sheath pushes an implant out of a gap between a distal end of the sheath and the distal tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: Terumo Corporation
    Inventors: Cang Lam, Shirley Vong, Greg Kelley
  • Patent number: 10309572
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for repairing a pipe system including a main pipe extending between a first and second manhole and one or more lateral pipes extending from the main pipe is provided. Aspects of the invention include the use of a main liner member having a plurality of lateral liner tubes in fluid connection and extending from the main liner member. The main liner member is used to line a main pipe, while the multiple lateral liner tubes extend into separate lateral pipes extending in various orientations from the main pipe. This method and apparatus provides for a single assembly to be able to line multiple pipes, which reduces time and cost for pipe repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jason M. Mathey, Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10302237
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved method and assembly for repairing a pipe or the junction of two pipes, such as sewer pipes. The assembly includes a launcher device having a launcher device body, a launcher device opening disposed on the launcher device body, and a main bladder substantially surrounding the launcher device body. The main bladder includes an opening that substantially aligns with the launcher device opening. The assembly further includes an absorbent liner and a lateral bladder having a tubular lateral bladder body portion and a flange portion. The flange portion of the lateral bladder is attached to the exterior of the launcher device body. A method of using the assembly includes impregnating the liner with resinous material; inserting at least a portion of the liner into the lateral bladder; inflating the bladders; pressing the liner against the pipe; and allowing the resinous material to cure and harden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10302239
    Abstract: A launch system for a pressurized pipeline includes a housing attachable to the pipeline such that an inside of the housing is open to an interior of the pipeline and an outside of the housing is exposed to an ambient environment outside the pipeline. A first actuator arrangement is disposed on the outside of the housing, and a second actuator arrangement is disposed on the inside of the housing. A seal arrangement is disposed in the housing between the first actuator arrangement and the second actuator arrangement. Each of the first and second actuator arrangements is configured to receive a cable having a portion extending outside the housing, a portion extending through the seal arrangement, and a portion extending inside the housing. The actuator arrangements are independently operable to pull the cable relative to the seal arrangement for moving the cable into and out of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: ULC Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, Robert E. Kodadek, Michael Passaretti, Eric S. Feldman, David Antanavige, Benjamin Lagosz-Sinclair
  • Patent number: 10295106
    Abstract: A launch system for a pressurized pipeline includes a housing attachable to the pipeline such that an inside of the housing is open to an interior of the pipeline and an outside of the housing is exposed to an ambient environment outside the pipeline. A first actuator arrangement is disposed on the outside of the housing, and a second actuator arrangement is disposed on the inside of the housing. A seal arrangement is disposed in the housing between the first actuator arrangement and the second actuator arrangement. Each of the first and second actuator arrangements is configured to receive a cable having a portion extending outside the housing, a portion extending through the seal arrangement, and a portion extending inside the housing. The actuator arrangements are independently operable to pull the cable relative to the seal arrangement for moving the cable into and out of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: ULC Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, Robert E. Kodadek, Michael Passaretti, Eric S. Feldman, David Antanavige, Benjamin Lagosz-Sinclair
  • Patent number: 10247348
    Abstract: The lining device is intended to line a sewer branch pipe with a lining tube. It includes a holding chamber for the lining tube, the holding chamber having a straight holding-chamber bearing line. Furthermore, it has a reduction piece which is attached to an end side of the holding chamber and has a straight reduction-piece bearing line, which is aligned with the holding-chamber bearing line. Moreover, it has a deflection piece which is provided with a blow-out connection piece for fastening one end of the lining tube to, wherein a position of the blow-out connection piece is settable and adaptable to the position of a junction of the sewer branch pipe leading into the main sewer. Furthermore, it has pressure application device in order to blow out a lining tube, present in the holding chamber and fastened to the blow-out connection piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Inventor: Verica Meier
  • Patent number: 10234350
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for detecting an imminent failure or an existing failure in a water supply hose to an appliance and reporting the changed condition of the hose to a designated person at a designated address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: United Services Automobile Association (USAA)
    Inventors: Eric David Schroeder, Carlos J. P. Chavez, Manfred Amann
  • Patent number: 10201444
    Abstract: Methods for assembling a stent delivery system are provided, as well as the stent delivery assemblies and devices formed by such methods. Also provided is a method for loading a stent into a delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Emily E. Rusk, Stephan P. Mangin, Claude O. Clerc, Michael E. Zupkofska
  • Patent number: 10168527
    Abstract: A multi-tube inspection system with a reel having a plurality of cameras is placed in the upper header. Each camera is attached to its own lead line and has a light source. An inspector, located in the upper header, aligns each camera with a tube and then operates the reel to simultaneously lower the cameras through their respective tube. As the cameras pass through the tubes, they capture a video image of the interior length of the tube. The video image is stored and relayed to a control center where additional inspectors can review the video image of the interior of the tube. Each video is identified and tied back to the tube in a data base. If a defect is identified, the tube can be taken out of service (blocked off) or scheduled for cleaning. Once cleaned, the tube is then reinspected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Clearwater Downstream Services, LLC
    Inventor: Kishlay Tripathy
  • Patent number: 10161824
    Abstract: A method of pressure testing a closed hydraulic system for leaks includes heating or cooling pressure intensification fluid before it enters the closed hydraulic system under pressure. The closed hydraulic system may be for example a blowout preventer for an oil/gas well, a manifold system or tubulars. The intensification fluid is heated or cooled to a temperature at or near the temperature of the fluid within the closed hydraulic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: HilFlo, LLC
    Inventors: Clifford Lee Hilpert, Jeffrey Lee Hilpert, Lewis Jackson Dutel, Laura Tufts Meyer
  • Patent number: 10151394
    Abstract: A leak patching system includes a container that may contain a fluid. The container is perforated such that the container has a leak. A first magnet is selectively positioned to engage the container. The first magnet magnetically engages the container when the container is comprised of a ferromagnetic material and the first magnet is aligned with the leak. A sealant is applied to the first magnet. The sealant seals the leak when the first magnet is applied to the container. In this way the sealant inhibits the fluid from escaping through the leak. A second magnet is selectively positioned to engage the container when the container is comprised of a non-ferromagnetic material. The first magnet magnetically engages the second magnet to retain each of the first magnet and the second magnet on the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Inventor: William Pittman
  • Patent number: 10132440
    Abstract: A launch system for a pressurized pipeline includes a housing attachable to the pipeline such that an inside of the housing is open to an interior of the pipeline and an outside of the housing is exposed to an ambient environment outside the pipeline. A first actuator arrangement is disposed on the outside of the housing, and a second actuator arrangement is disposed on the inside of the housing. A seal arrangement is disposed in the housing between the first actuator arrangement and the second actuator arrangement. Each of the first and second actuator arrangements is configured to receive a cable having a portion extending outside the housing, a portion extending through the seal arrangement, and a portion extending inside the housing. The actuator arrangements are independently operable to pull the cable relative to the seal arrangement for moving the cable into and out of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: ULC Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, Robert E. Kodadek, Michael Passaretti, Eric S. Feldman, David Antanavige, Benjamin Lagosz-Sinclair
  • Patent number: 10125469
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and means for repairing the wall of a manhole wherein a material capable of curing and hardening is adhered to the wall. An expandable bladder engages the curable and hardenable material and presses against and smoothes the material. The bladder may be chemically bonded to the curable and hardenable material or it may be mechanically bonded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10119645
    Abstract: A pipe pulling lubrication apparatus includes a pipe anchor having an anchor body. The anchor body includes a first coupling feature near an anchor body proximal portion and a distal pipe coupling feature near an anchor body distal portion. The distal pipe coupling feature is configured to couple and position a replacement pipe exterior surface near an anchor body exterior surface. The lubrication apparatus further includes a lubrication system including a lubricant conduit extending within the anchor body from the distal pipe coupling feature toward an anchor body intermediate portion between the first coupling feature and the distal pipe coupling feature. The lubrication system includes a lubricant distributor having one or more lubricant passages extending from the lubricant conduit toward the anchor body exterior surface, the lubricant distributor is configured to deliver a lubricant to the replacement pipe exterior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 10107439
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of operations of cutting and isolating pipes that may contain a product that is hazardous to the environment or the personnel carrying out work and requires leak tight handling. The invention relates more particularly to a containment device 1 for work carried out on a pipe comprising a rigid tool flange 11 having an end wall provided with an orifice with a section adapted to the external cross of the pipe, an opening wider than the orifice located opposite the end wall, and a side access 111 for a cutting tool, and a flexible film 13 for forming a leak tight volume around the pipe, wherein a first film end that is fixed to the opening in teh tool flange mounted on the pipe and a second film end that is connected to the pipe. The invention also relates to a method for cutting and isolating a pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: SOLETANCHE FREYSSINET
    Inventor: Germinal Lacambra
  • Patent number: 10077677
    Abstract: A holding device of a cooling tube for a turbojet casing, the holding device including a first plate configured to be arranged in integral contact with a turbojet casing; a second plate, the first and second plates having a gap therebetween; a first spacer and the second spacer which are arranged between the first plate and the second plate and defining the gap between the first and second plates, the first and second spacers having a spacing therebetween suitable for passing the cooling tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINES
    Inventors: Sébastien Jean Laurent Prestel, Baptiste Marie Aubin Pierre Jouy
  • Patent number: 10072847
    Abstract: A method for repairing a bundled tube fuel injector includes removing a portion of a pre-mix tube, aligning a tube tip with the remaining portion pre-mix tube and fixedly connecting the tube tip to the pre-mix tube. The method may further include removing an aft plate and an outer shroud from the bundled tube fuel injector so as to expose the pre-mix tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Gregory Scott Means, Steven Charles Woods, Mark Carmine Bellino, James Christopher Monaghan, Jonathan Dwight Berry, Patrick S. Riley
  • Patent number: 10041790
    Abstract: A misalignment calculation system comprising a misalignment calculator for calculating a misalignment occurring in butt welding of end portions of a first steel pipe and a second steel pipe by using profile data measured in a circumferential direction on the first steel pipe end portion by presetting a first angle datum, and profile data measured in a circumferential direction on the second steel pipe end portion by presetting a second angle datum. The misalignment calculator calculates the misalignment amount in a state in which an angle formed between the first and second angle datums is adjusted to an input angle and in which the center of profile data showing an external surface geometry at the first steel pipe end portion is aligned with the center of the profile data showing an external surface geometry at an end portion of the second steel pipe so that misalignment can be evaluated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: NIPPON STEEL & SUMITOMO METAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masaki Tanaka
  • Patent number: 10036680
    Abstract: A sensor carrier module for use in a pipeline pig may include a plurality of skids arranged about an axis of the sensor carrier module, and a flexible section. Each skid typically includes an upstream end, a downstream end, and at least one sensor between the upstream end and the downstream end. Each sensor may be configured to sense a parameter of a wall of a pipeline. The flexible section may be attached to the downstream ends of the skids and to a flange. The flexible section may include wheels configured to roll along the interior surface of the pipeline as the sensor carrier module passes through the pipeline, and a force system to apply a radial force that urges the wheels to interface with the interior surface of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Inventor: Volker Frueh
  • Patent number: 10024481
    Abstract: A repair assembly and method of use is provided. The repair assembly includes a liner assembly for repairing a pipe system including a first pipe, a second pipe extending from the first pipe, and in some embodiments a third pipe extending from the second pipe. The third pipe may include multiple pipes. The repair assembly further includes a bladder assembly. The liner and bladder assembly are configured to work together to be positioned within the first, second, third and any additional pipes to line and repair all of the components of the pipe system in a single repair. Such repair will reduce the amount of time required to repair such pipe systems, and will increase the efficiency of repairing pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Larry W. Kiest, Jr., John Rinehart, Jason M. Mathey, Dan Engel, Daniel L. Read, Pete Dannenberg
  • Patent number: 10020080
    Abstract: A nozzle repair method and a nuclear reactor vessel include: removing a trepanning portion (208) as a connection portion with respect to an in-core instrumentation cylinder (204) in a groove-welding portion (206); removing the in-core instrumentation cylinder (204) from a semi-spherical portion (66) as a lower end plate; forming a surface buttered-welding portion (210) by buttered-welding the surface of the groove-welding portion (206); forming a welding groove (212) by grooving the surface buttered-welding portion (210); inserting a new in-core instrumentation cylinder (204A) provided with a circumferential groove portion (204f) outside an instrumentation equipment guide passage (204d) into an attachment hole (203); and fixing the new in-core instrumentation cylinder (204A) by groove-welding the welding groove (212). Accordingly, since the nozzle welding area is suppressed to a predetermined range, the workability of the repair is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Nishimura, Takeshi Yamamoto, Hideshi Sakashita, Kensuke Tsuboi, Tomonobu Sato
  • Patent number: 10006580
    Abstract: Lining hose for renovating fluid-bearing pipe systems with at least one curable layer, wherein this at least one curable layer comprises at least on resin-impregnated fiber belt (fiber ribbon) and a first outer tubular foil, which is arranged on the curable layer on the surface opposite to the surface facing the fluid medium transported and which first outer tubular foil is equipped with a reinforcing element on both surfaces of the tubular foil and which is impregnated with resin on both surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: SML VERWALTUNGS GMBH
    Inventors: Stefan Reichel, Christian Noll
  • Patent number: 9982828
    Abstract: The method for rehabilitating a damaged section of a pipe without a need for a resin absorbent liner is provided. The method includes pumping a low viscosity material towards a damaged section of pipe and changing the viscosity prior to dispensing of the material. For example, the material may be partially cured prior to dispensing. The partially cured or higher viscosity material is compressed between an inflating bladder and interior wall of the pipe, and the material that is allowed to fully cure. The bladder either can then be removed from the pipe or could be allowed to maintain in the pipe providing a new interior surface for the repaired pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Larry W. Kiest, Jr., Jason M. Mathey
  • Patent number: 9945505
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for lining a pipe line having a first pipe section in communication with a second pipe section where the first pipe section has an inside diameter greater than an inside diameter of the second pipe section. A transition tube having an outside diameter substantially equal to the inside diameter of the second pipe section and a length substantially equal to or greater than the length of the first pipe section is inverted into the pipe line along with a liner. A resinous material applied to the liner cures and hardens the liner after inversion. The transition tube creates a surface against which the liner can be compressed to help prevent the liner from being overstretched in the wider first pipe section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest
  • Patent number: 9937673
    Abstract: A method of repairing a conduit includes generating, from a sensor, a signal representative of an unmanufactured opening in the conduit. The conduit includes a liner material positioned therein. The liner material is operatively engaged to the sensor. The method also includes sealing the unmanufactured opening using the liner material upon generation of the signal by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: United Services Automobile Association (USAA)
    Inventors: Charles L. Oakes, III, Jordan Newmark, Bradly Jay Billman
  • Patent number: 9933105
    Abstract: An underground pipe repair device is for a joint between a service pipe and a branch pipe. The underground pipe repair device may include a first T-shaped joint liner having a base portion extending laterally in the service pipe, and an arm portion extending vertically into the branch pipe, and a second ring-shaped liner under the first T-shaped joint liner and aligned with an opening in the branch pipe. The underground pipe repair device may include an annular spacer aligned with the opening in the branch pipe and being between the first T-shaped joint liner and the second ring-shaped liner. The annular spacer may include a radial step, and the second ring-shaped liner may be coupled to the base portion of the first T-shaped joint liner to retain the annular spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: InnerCure Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Jerold L. Botts
  • Patent number: 9903523
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved method and assembly for repairing a pipe or the junction of two pipes, such as sewer pipes. The assembly includes a launcher device having a launcher device body, a launcher device opening disposed on the launcher device body, and a main bladder substantially surrounding the launcher device body. The main bladder includes an opening that substantially aligns with the launcher device opening. The assembly further includes an absorbent liner and a lateral bladder having a tubular lateral bladder body portion and a flange portion. The flange portion of the lateral bladder is attached to the exterior of the launcher device body. A method of using the assembly includes impregnating the liner with resinous material; inserting at least a portion of the liner into the lateral bladder; inflating the bladders; pressing the liner against the pipe; and allowing the resinous material to cure and harden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.