Filling Head Shiftably Or Separably Connected To Supply Patents (Class 141/387)
-
Patent number: 7082972Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle has a body with a spout, which together define a passageway for flow of fuel from a hose connected to a fuel dispenser, through the spout, and into a vehicle fuel tank fill pipe. A boot surrounding the spout defines an outer rim that engages a surface surrounding the fill pipe. A valve within the nozzle body starts and stops flow of fuel through the passageway. An anti-spitting lockout assembly resists opening of the valve, but a linkage mechanism triggers release of the lockout assembly when the boot rim engages the surface surrounding the fill pipe, signaling insertion of the spout into the fill pipe, to permit actuation of valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Healy Systems, Inc.Inventor: James W. Healy
-
Patent number: 7080673Abstract: A system of the type wherein LNG from a tanker (30) is offloaded to a moored vessel (16), which has a regas unit (36) which heats the LNG to transform it into gaseous hydrocarbons, and which has a pump unit (38) that pumps the gaseous hydrocarbons to a consumer (46) such as an onshore gas distribution facility. The system is constructed to enable more rapid tanker unloading so the tanker is released earlier to sail back to a pickup location. The moored vessel has a thermally insulated LNG storage facility such as LNG tanks (100), with a capacity to store all LNG not regassed during offloading of the tanker. The regas unit has sufficient capacity to regas all LNG received in one tanker load, before the tanker returns with another load of LNG.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Assignee: SBM-IMODCO, Inc.Inventors: Jack Pollack, Hein Wille
-
Patent number: 7073457Abstract: An offshore offloading system for hydrocarbon products from a storage station such as an LNG/FPSO to a shuttle vessel. The system includes a yoke mooring arrangement having a yoke and a connection assembly. One end of the yoke is selectively disconnectable to the shuttle vessel, while the other end of the yoke is rotatably connected to an end of the connection assembly which has its other end rotatably connected to a frame which extends from an end of the storage station. The yoke and connection assembly are arranged such that a transverse force in the lateral or y-direction moves the end of the yoke less than twice the movement of the yoke in response to an x-direction force. The system also includes arrangements for providing a hydrocarbon fluid flow path from the storage station to the shuttle vessel when the shuttle vessel is disconnectably moored to the storage station.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2003Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventor: L. Terry Boatman
-
Patent number: 7066219Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid transfer system, in particular for LNG in which an articulated vertical and horizontal mooring arm are suspended from a support on the processing vessel. Independently moveable ducts, for instance cryogenic hard piping are placed parallel to the mooring arms such that a transfer system is obtained in which is the mooring forces are insulated from the fluid transfer line with which rapid connection and disconnection is possible and which provides a large yaw resistance. In a preferred embodiment, the mooring system comprises two vertical arms connected to a triangular horizontal yoke attached to the bow of the LNG-carrier for improved yaw resistance.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2005Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.Inventors: Leendert Poldervaart, Jack Pollack
-
Patent number: 7013937Abstract: Apparatus for transporting mineral from a point of mining to a remote location, the apparatus including a mobile mineral breaker rig (MBR) having a mineral outlet, the rig including a fluid inlet pipe for receiving conveying fluid, a mineral inlet for introducing mineral from said mineral outlet into said fluid pipe and a fluid outlet pipe for conveying said fluid mixed with mineral received from said mineral outlet, an extensible pipeline assembly (EPA) connected at one end to said inlet and outlet pipes and being adapted for connection at its opposite end to one end of a static pipeline communicating with said remote location, said extensible pipeline assembly being expandable to enable said mobile rig to move away from said one end of the static pipeline whilst maintaining fluid communication therewith, said extensible pipeline assembly comprising a series of elongate pipe assemblies (90a, 90b, 90c) which are articulated at adjacent ends to one another in a zig-zag manner via an articulated joint, each eloType: GrantFiled: June 21, 2004Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: MMD Design and ConsultancyInventor: Alan Potts
-
Patent number: 6983763Abstract: The invention relates to a distributor device for thick matter, especially for concrete. The distributor device (16) comprises a concrete distributing boom (18) carrying a conveying conduit (20), which has at least two boom arms (30 to 36) that can be swiveled about horizontal articulation axes (38 to 44) relative to one another or relative to a boom support (26). At least one of the boom arms, preferably the base arm (30), is telescopically movable. In order to be adaptable to the telescoping movements, the conveying conduit is assembled from three interlinked conduit sections in the area of the telescoping boom arm. A first conduit section (58) is rigidly linked with the stationary member (46), while a second conduit section (60) is rigidly linked with the extensible telescoping member (48). The device further comprises an intermediate section (62) which is connected with its ends (64, 66) to the first and the second conduit section (58, 60) and which is configured as a flexible pipe.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Putzmeister AktiengesellschaftInventors: Hartmut Benckert, Hans Renz
-
Patent number: 6976443Abstract: A crude oil transportation system uses a dynamically positionable floating crude oil storage and offloading vessel and a dynamically positionable shuttle tanker. The dynamically positionable floating crude oil storage and offloading vessel is a self-contained unit including a flexible transfer hose for connecting to the production platform and a flexible discharge hose for connection to the dynamically positionable shuttle tanker.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventors: Narve Oma, Tor Erik Hildén, Kjell Egil Helgoy, Trygve G. Egge
-
Patent number: 6973948Abstract: A system is described for offloading LNG (liquified natural gas) from a tanker for eventual delivery to an onshore gas distribution station. The system includes a floating structure that floats at the sea surface and that is connected to the tanker so they weathervane together. The floating structure carries a regas unit that heats the LNG to produce gas, and delivers the gas through a riser to an underground cavern that stores the gas. Gas from the cavern is delivered through a seafloor pipeline to an onshore gas distribution station. The regas unit includes water pumps and other equipment that is powered by electricity. The electricity can be obtained from an electric generator on the floating structure, with surplus electricity delivered through a sea floor electric power line that extends along the sea floor to an onshore electricity distribution facility.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: SBM-Imodco, Inc.Inventors: Jack Pollack, Hein Wille
-
Patent number: 6948538Abstract: A fueling crane comprises an extensible boom rotatably associated with a pedestal wherein the extensible boom has a first end rotatably affixed to a fuel inlet pipe mounted on the pedestal and a second end terminating in a fueling nozzle. The extensible boom has at least one elbow joint between the first end and the second end wherein the elbow joint permits the fueling crane to provide fuel to any vehicle spaced from the pedestal within a given radius. The extensible boom is generally disposed in an upright manner wherein the elbow joint is spaced horizontally from but substantially directly above the pedestal and the second end is substantially adjacent the first end when the extensible boom is in a storage position. The improved extensible boom has means for returning the fueling nozzle to the storage position with the fueling nozzle disposed directly over a fuel drip collector thus providing for an environmentally secure fueling station.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Inventors: Joseph M. Nusbaumer, Ronald Woods
-
Patent number: 6945286Abstract: A single-point connection apparatus for a closed fluid transfer delivery system having a mobile dispense to transfers liquid from a chemical delivery vessel to a chemical-receiving device, e.g., a dry cleaning machine, with return flow of vapor therefrom to the delivery vessel. A first passage selectively connects the delivery vessel to the liquid-receiving device. Liquid is only then pumped to the liquid-receiving device. A second passage connects the receiving device to the delivery vessel for a vapor return flow. A chamber of the apparatus has a filling valve to receive a filling adapter to deliver liquid. Associated with the filling valve is a relief valve mechanism providing continuous, uninterrupted liquid flow at an increased liquid flow rate through the first passage, inhibiting backflow of liquid through the second passage for continuous, uninterrupted vapor flow from the liquid-receiving device while liquid is being received by that device.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Economy Controls CorporationInventor: William H. Freeman
-
Patent number: 6938643Abstract: The invention relates to a storage structure having a fluid transfer boom for transfer of cryogenic liquids such as liquified natural gas (LNG) from a first storage structure to a vessel. The boom has two arms which are rotatably connected at their first ends via a swivel joint. In one embodiment a liquified natural gas duct is supported within the first and second arms which form a gas tight housing around the liquified natural gas duct. The transfer boom according to the present invention provides a redundant containment system wherein the LNG duct is supported by the structurally strong and self-supporting transfer boom which confines the natural gas in case of a leak in the inner LNG duct. In a further embodiment the transfer boom comprises seven swivel joints in total such that rotation in all directions is possible when the vessel is moored to the storage structure and has to cope with relative motions of roll, pitch, yaw, heave, sway and surge.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2003Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.Inventor: Jack Pollack
-
Patent number: 6935390Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for fluid transfer between a fixed marine production platform and a work vessel (eg. jack up barge). The method includes positioning the work vessel next to the production platform and then adjusting the elevational position of the vessel relative to the production platform so that the deck of the production platform and the deck of the work vessel or at about the same elevational position. A bridge truss spans between the deck portions of the production platform and work vessel, the truss having interconnected truss members and a planar surface that enables flexible hoses to be supported by the truss. The truss further includes a plurality of piping spool pieces that span across the truss. Ends of the spool pieces have quick connect fittings that enable the spool pieces to be quickly connected to the piping system of the production platform and work vessel. The gap between the production platform and the work vessel are spanned with the truss.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Inventor: John P. Williamson
-
Patent number: 6932127Abstract: A system for transferring oil from an offshore tanker to a platform. The system comprises at least one flexible hose (4) which is adapted to direct transfer of oil from a supply means (7-10) on a deck (2) on the platform (1) to the tanker (58) in question, and a number of hose handling stations (3) which are distributed around the circumference of the platform deck (2). Each station (3) is provided with a coupling unit (15) which communicates with the supply means (7-10) and is arranged for connection or disconnection of an end (11) of the hose (4), and a handling means (18-22, 24, 25) for lowering or hoisting of the house end (11) to/from the surface (5) of the water around the platform (1).Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2001Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Teekay Norway ASInventors: Arild K. Samuelsen, Trygve G. Egge
-
Patent number: 6926049Abstract: An in-flight hose-and-drogue refueling system composed of: a refueling hose-and-drogue unit extending from a refueling aircraft for engaging with a refueling probe of an aircraft to be refueled and; a drogue steering assembly for steering the drogue, the drogue steering assembly including a plurality of individually controllable, compressed air driven thrusters, and a compressed air supply line extending along the hose for supplying compressed air to the thrusters, wherein the hose and the supply line form a unit having a circular outline.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: UAV Refueling Inc.Inventors: Eric N. Enig, Julius W. Enig
-
Patent number: 6923225Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid transfer system, in particular for LNG in which an articulated vertical and horizontal mooring arm are suspended from a support on the processing vessel. Independently moveable ducts, for instance cryogenic hard piping are placed parallel to the mooring arms such that a transfer system is obtained in which is the mooring forces are insulated from the fluid transfer line with which rapid connection and disconnection is possible and which provides a large yaw resistance. In a preferred embodiment, the mooring system comprises two vertical arms connected to a triangular horizontal yoke attached to the bow of the LNG-carrier for improved yaw resistance.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2002Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings, Inc.Inventors: Leendert Poldervaart, Jack Pollack
-
Patent number: 6883532Abstract: The invention relates to a large-scale manipulator, especially of concrete pumps. Said large-scale manipulator has a bending boom (22) which consists of at least three boom arms (23 to 27) and which is preferably configured as a concrete spreader boom. The arms of said boom are each pivotable to a limited extent about horizontal bending axes (28 to 32) which are parallel to each other, by means of a drive aggregate (34 to 38), respectively. A control device (50, 62, 52) for moving the boom with the help of actuating mechanisms that are allocated to the individual drive aggregates, and means for damping mechanical vibrations in the bending boom are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2001Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Putzmeister AktiengesellschaftInventor: Kurt Rau
-
Patent number: 6871667Abstract: A distribution device for dense substances, especially concrete, with a distribution boom carrying a concrete-conveyance conduit, with at least one telescopic boom section (4) consisting of a first telescopic component and a second telescope component (6) that can be extended with respect to this first component, as well as at least one reinforcement beam that is arranged on one of the telescope components and carries a section of the concrete-conveyance conduit, wherein a section of the concrete-conveyance conduit in the region of the telescopic boom sections consists of a flexible hose with a compensation loop to accommodate the extension movement of the telescopic motion or of at least one scissor-type conduit assembly made up of swivel elements connected to each other in such a manner than the swivel elements in the two terminal positions of the telescopic boom section are substantially arranged in a crossover position and, together with the articulated joints that interconnect them, move past each otherType: GrantFiled: February 7, 2002Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Schwing GmbHInventors: Friedrich Schwing, Horst Heckmann
-
Patent number: 6863086Abstract: An unloading system includes a transport for flowable product and an unloading assembly for enabling the flowable product to be removed from the transport without requiring personnel to crawl under the transport in order to connect or disconnect the transport and the unloading assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2002Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: OMYA Industries, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey Keith Heiberger
-
Patent number: 6810931Abstract: The filler spout comprises a tubular body having mounted therein a valve member and a magnetic actuator element connected to the valve member via a coupling member comprising two elements that are coupled to each other via a coupling that includes radial clearance.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Serac GroupInventor: André Graffin
-
Publication number: 20040211485Abstract: A system for transferring oil from an offshore tanker to a platform. The system comprises at least one flexible hose (4) which is adapted to direct transfer of oil from a supply means (7-10) on a deck (2) on the platform (1) to the tanker (58) in question, and a number of hose handling stations (3) which are distributed around the circumference of the platform deck (2). Each station (3) is provided with a coupling unit (15) which communicates with the supply means (7-10) and is arranged for connection or disconnection of an end (11) of the hose (4), and a handling means (18-22, 24, 25) for lowering or hoisting of the hose end (11) to/from the surface (5) of the water around the platform (1).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2004Publication date: October 28, 2004Inventors: Arild K. Samuelsen, Trygve G. Egge
-
Patent number: 6786233Abstract: The present invention is a boom system comprising a first boom section having a distal end and a proximal end. A second boom section includes a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the second boom section is rotatably coupled to the distal end of the first boom section. At least one of the boom sections is substantially formed from composite materials.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Schwing America, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Anderson, David R. Bissen, Lawrence P. Schmidt, Brian E. Spencer, Leo B. Willner, Richard T. Atherton, Richard L. Grover
-
Patent number: 6786250Abstract: A fuel-dispenser station which comprises one or more fuel hoses with fuel-dispenser nozzles useable to control a flow of fuel, which has been purchased from a fuel vendor, from the fuel vendor's fuel storage tank to the customer's fuel storage reservoir. The fuel-dispenser station comprises one or more hydraulics modules, fuel-hose modules, and/or head electronics modules. Each of the modules of the fuel-dispenser station constitutes a subsystem of the fuel-dispenser station and comprises a module frame-structure to which all of the other components of the module are engaged. Such a module of a fuel dispenser station can be assembled as a unit before being mounted to the fuel-dispenser station and can further be removed from the fuel-dispenser station as an assembled unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2003Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Tokheim Holding B.V.Inventor: Dean P. Stanley
-
Publication number: 20040168744Abstract: System for loading and unloading of fluid products to or from a vessel (1), where a fluid hose (4) is fastened to the bottom side of a submerged frame (2) so that the frame (2) is free to turn around a vertical axis with respect to the hose (4) in that an additional hose (9) is connected with the hose (4) at the frame and with the vessels coupling for loading and unloading, and that the frame (2) may be maneuvered with contact against the bottom of the vessel, and held in positioned during the operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2004Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: Claes W. Olsen
-
Publication number: 20040154698Abstract: The liquid cargo mooring and fluid transfer system of the present invention includes a first column affixed to the ocean floor. The first column supports one end of an extended length space frame. At the opposite end of the space frame is a buoyant support. The buoyant support includes a flat tank and a buoyant column. Fluid transfer equipment is attached to the column portion of the buoyant support on the second end of the space frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Jaap De Baan
-
Patent number: 6763862Abstract: A submerged connection assembly for connecting an end of a pipeline to a flexible hose that runs to a SPM buoy including an elastic suspension arrangement between the SPM buoy and the connection assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: William L. Fontenot, Charles A. Zimmermann
-
Patent number: 6755212Abstract: The present invention is a boom system comprising a plurality of articulated boom sections. Each boom section has a longitudinal axis. A stiffening layer is attached to a surface of at least one of the boom sections, and extends within about ten degrees of parallel to the longitudinal axis of the boom section. The stiffening layer is formed of a fiber-reinforced composite material including a plurality of fibers and matrix material.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Schwing America, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Anderson, David R. Bissen, Lawrence P. Schmidt, Brian E. Spencer, Richard L. Grover, Leo B. Willner
-
Publication number: 20040099337Abstract: A method and a system for loading and storage of oil from a production platform on a tanker (FSO vessel) which is equipped with a dynamic positioning system (DP system), the oil being transferred via a loading hose extending between the platform and the tanker. The tanker when required is moved substantially along a circular arc which is predefined in relation to the platform, at the same time as the tanker by means of the DP system when required is turned about a defined point on the tanker, for achieving an optimum power consumption during the loading operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2003Publication date: May 27, 2004Applicant: Navion ASAInventors: Tor Erik Hilden, Trygve Gerhard Egge, Narve Oma, Kjell Egil Helgoy
-
Publication number: 20040099336Abstract: The invention concerns an assembly comprising balanced loading and unloading arm (14) installed at a first location and having articulated pipeline arms (15, 16) mounted through one of its end on a base (18) and provided at the other of its ends with a system connecting (28) the articulated pipeline arms to coupling means (29) installed at the second location. It further comprises a cable (32) linked through one of its ends to the connecting system (28) and through the other of its ends to means (35-39) adapted to subject said cable to constant tension, and a connecting winch (42) whereon is wound a connection cable (41) for bringing the connecting system (28) in a position to be connected to the coupling means (29).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2003Publication date: May 27, 2004Inventor: Renaud Le Devehat
-
Publication number: 20040069374Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for fluid transfer between a fixed marine production platform and a work vessel (eg. jack up barge). The method includes positioning the work vessel next to the production platform and then adjusting the elevational position of the vessel relative to the production platform so that the deck of the production platform and the deck of the work vessel or at about the same elevational position. A bridge truss spans between the deck portions of the production platform and work vessel, the truss having interconnected truss members and a planar surface that enables flexible hoses to be supported by the truss. The truss further includes a plurality of piping spool pieces that span across the truss. Ends of the spool pieces have quick connect fittings that enable the spool pieces to be quickly connected to the piping system of the production platform and work vessel. The gap between the production platform and the work vessel are spanned with the truss.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventor: John P. Williamson
-
Patent number: 6719009Abstract: The present invention is a concrete piping system comprising a pipeline. The pipeline includes an intake end, an output end, a liner resistant to concrete abrasion and a pressure tube of composite materials placed over the liner. A concrete pump is connected to the intake end of the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Schwing America, Inc.Inventors: David R. Bissen, Lawrence P. Schmidt, Brian E. Spencer, Leo B. Willner
-
Publication number: 20040055664Abstract: A fuel tank inlet assembly for receiving fuel during automatic vehicle fueling and a pump assembly for delivering fuel during automatic vehicle fueling and the combination thereof. The fuel tank inlet assembly includes a fuel conduit with a fuel exit for operative connection with a fuel tank and the pump assembly includes a fuel nozzle for operative connection with the inlet assembly. One preferred embodiment of the invention includes a positioning system which utilizes inductive triangulation to connect the pump assembly to the inlet assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2002Publication date: March 25, 2004Inventors: Ronald F. Horvath, Kenneth J. Dragotta, Frank M. Bilicki
-
Publication number: 20040050862Abstract: An unloading system includes a transport for flowable product and an unloading assembly for enabling the flowable product to be removed from the transport without requiring personnel to crawl under the transport in order to connect or disconnect the transport and the unloading assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2002Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventor: Jeffrey Keith Heiberger
-
Patent number: 6701980Abstract: A fueling assembly for use in the transfer of fuel is disclosed. The assembly includes a platform and a plurality of swivel joints and pipe sections. The assembly can be folded onto and supported by the platform, and can be unfolded to extend away from the platform. A vertically-moving assembly and a horizontally-moving assembly are provided, each including two swivel joints and connected to each other by an elbow pipe. A coupler may be attached to one of the swivel joints for releasable coupling with a fueling assembly, and for receiving fuel from the fueling assembly. The hydrant may be attached to a pantograph or to any mobile pipeline or mobile pipe segment.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Nova Group, IncInventor: Guy G. Rothrock
-
Patent number: 6698451Abstract: The invention is a placing boom comprising a plurality of boom sections connected together in an articulated arrangement. A pipeline is carried by the boom sections, wherein the pipeline is disposed inside at least one of the boom sections.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Schwing America, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Anderson, Lawrence P. Schmidt, David R. Bissen, Brian E. Spencer, Leo B. Willner
-
Patent number: 6688348Abstract: A submerged flowline termination buoy supports flowlines below the sea's dynamic wave zone. An export hose, connected to the flowline at a submerged connection assembly which is supported from the termination buoy, is selectively connected to a dynamically positioned shuttle tanker above the buoy. The export hose is allowed to weathervane and is marked with a marker buoy when it is not connected to the shuttle tanker. The marker buoy is anchored to the export hose with a swivel to allow uninterrupted weathervaning of the hose.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventor: William L. Fontenot
-
Publication number: 20040011424Abstract: A system for transferring a fluid product between a carrier, such as a vessel, and an installation, in particular a fixed installation, for processing and storing the product. The system includes a tubular structure for conveying the product between the vessel and the installation, a device for connection to a manifold of the vessel and a flexible transfer pipe connected to the installation. The connection device and the pipe are connectable to each other at free ends for transferring the fluid product between the vessel and the installation. At least the free end of the flexible transfer pipe includes a product handler for displacing the free end between a position for connection to the connection device and a disengaged position for storage. The invention enables the transfer of cryogenic liquefied natural gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventors: Bernard Dupont, Stephane Paquet
-
Patent number: 6675822Abstract: The invention relates to a concrete distributing boom for mobile and stationary concrete pumps. The inventive boom is provided with a substructure (14, 14′, 14″), a pillow block (32) that can be rotated around a vertical axis on the substructure and a stack of arms (16) consisting of several mast arms (34, 34′, 34″) that can be pivoted against each other. The first mast arm (34) is articulated to a hinge (36) of the pillow block (32). Moreover, a drive mechanism (38) is provided that is provided with a driving pinion (42) for rotatably driving the pillow block (32). Said pinion (42) can preferably be rotated around a vertical axis by means of toothed racks (40). The aim of the invention is to enable to easily change masts between different substructures (14, 14′, 14″). The pillow block (32) that is connected to the stack of arms (16) can be detachably coupled to the driving pinion (42) which is arranged in the substructure.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Putzmeister AGInventors: Rolf Schmitz, Dieter Schillinger
-
Patent number: 6637479Abstract: A system for transfer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) between two vessels (1, 2). The system comprises a coupling head (7) mounted at one end of a flexible pipe means (4) and arranged for attachment on a platform (19) at one end of one vessel (1) when it is not in use, and a connection unit (8) mounted at one end of the other vessel (2) and comprising a pull-in funnel (50) shaped for guided pull-in of the coupling head (7) to a locking position in which the pipe means (4) can be connected to transfer pipes (56) on the other vessel (2) via a valve means (31) arranged in the coupling head. The coupling head (7) is provided with a guide means (40) and is connected to at least one pull-in wire (42) for guided pull-in of the coupling head (7) into the connection unit (8) by a winch means (66) an the other vessel (2).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Statoil ASAInventors: Jorgen Eide, Glenn Pedersen, Kare Breivik, Arild K. Samuelsen
-
Patent number: 6637480Abstract: A variable volume buffer is employed to conduct a multitude of articles from an elevated supply stream into a container at a lower elevation while maintaining a drop distance for the articles that is shorter than the distance from the source to the bottom of the container. The bottom of the buffer is vertically displaced in response to the height of the articles in the buffer in a continuous or step-wise function to maintain the fill level of the articles in the buffer at substantially a constant drop distance from the source. Upon the bottom of the buffer moving adjacent the bottom of the container, the gate is opened and the buffer is raised to permit the spilling of the articles directly from the buffer and into the container.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Han-Tek, Inc.Inventors: Jon Tobin, Kristin Leahy, Stanley May, Timothy Lemley
-
Patent number: 6631745Abstract: An arrangement and pull-in method for fluidly coupling a steel riser to a flowline of a turret on a FSO/FPSO. The riser is pulled into a connector by a pull-in line inside the flowline. A pull-in head is releasable secured inside the upper end of the riser. The pull-in head is released from the riser after the riser is locked into the connector. A flex joint is placed above the connector to provide alignment of the connector to the riser during installation.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: William L. Fontenot, Charles L. Garnero, Brent A. Salyer, Stephen P. Lindblade, L. Terry Boatman
-
Publication number: 20030188799Abstract: A safety kit 10 is provided for use with a flexible hose 2 for interconnecting a portable tank 14 with a another tank 12 to transmit fluids between the tanks. The safety kit includes a control housing 5 adapted for securing to one end of the hose, and a cable support housing 36 for securing to the opposing end of the hose. A valve member 20 is moveable relative to a seating surface for opening and closing flow through the control housing. A cable 18 is provided for positioning within the flexible hose 2. The cable may be in compression in one embodiment and in tension in other embodiments. If in compression, the cable support housing includes a cable loading mechanism 210, 250. When the cable is in tension, the trigger moves in response to movement of the cable to close off flow to the flexible hose.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2002Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventors: Kevin Cessac, Frank Gonzales, Spence M. Nimberger, Robert L. Ward
-
Patent number: 6609544Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for fluid transfer between a fixed marine production platform and a work vessel (eg. jack up barge). The method includes positioning the work vessel next to the production platform and then adjusting the elevational position of the vessel relative to the production platform go that the deck of the production platform and the deck of the work vessel or at about the same elevational position. A bridge truss spans between the deck portions of the production platform and work vessel, the truss having interconnected truss members and a planar surface that enables flexible hoses to be supported by the truss. The truss further includes a plurality of piping spool pieces that span across the truss. Ends of the spool pieces have quick connect fittings that enable the spool pieces to be quickly connected to the piping system of the production platform and work vessel. The gap between the production platform and the work vessel are spanned with the truss.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Inventor: John P. Williamson
-
Patent number: 6588465Abstract: The aerial refueling drogue utilizes a bleeding drogue canopy providing substantially constant loads over a range of refueling speeds, by passive movement of the bleeding drogue between a retracted position and and extended position. The passive variable speed drogue comprises leading edge support arms, center support arms, and trailing edge support arms mounted to a refueling coupling member, with a forward drogue canopy attached between the leading edge support arms and the center support arms. An aft bleeding drogue canopy is connected between the center support arms and the trailing edge support arms. Springs in the trailing edge support arms bias the bleeding drogue canopy to a retracted position. In an alternate embodiment, cords are attached to the trailing edge of the aft bleeding drogue canopy, continue through the trailing edge support arms, up each center support arm, and through rings attached to the inside of the aft bleeding drogue canopy.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: West Coast Netting, Inc.Inventors: William L. Kirkland, Matts Lindgren, Jerry Stultz
-
Publication number: 20030084961Abstract: A submerged connection assembly for connecting an end of a pipeline to a flexible hose that runs to a SPM buoy including an elastic suspension arrangement between the SPM buoy and the connection assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2002Publication date: May 8, 2003Applicant: FMC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: William L. Fontenot, Charles A. Zimmermann
-
Publication number: 20030084960Abstract: A submerged flowline termination buoy supports flowlines below the sea's dynamic wave zone. An export hose, connected to the flowline at a submerged connection assembly which is supported from the termination buoy, is selectively connected to a dynamically positioned shuttle tanker above the buoy. The export hose is allowed to weathervane and is marked with a marker buoy when it is not connected to the shuttle tanker. The marker buoy is anchored to the export hose with a swivel to allow uninterrupted weathervaning of the hose.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2002Publication date: May 8, 2003Applicant: FMC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: William L. Fontenot
-
Patent number: 6557598Abstract: A device is shown for filling a wildlife feeder with material. The device has a primary conduit and a pressure source connected to the primary conduit for propelling air through the primary conduit. A secondary conduit extends from the primary conduit such that at least a portion of the air flowing though the primary conduit flows through the secondary conduit and into a primary receptacle wherein a pressure is created inside the primary receptacle that is equal to or greater than the pressure in the primary conduit. The primary receptacle has a sealable feed port for receiving material to be conveyed and an outlet connected to the primary conduit down stream from the pressure source and the secondary conduit such that material can pass from the primary receptacle by gravity flow through the outlet and become entrained in the movement of the air created by the pressure source and into a secondary receptacle which is located at an elevated location.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Inventors: Nolan S. Glover, Dan Cloud
-
Publication number: 20030066572Abstract: A vacuum pump depressurizes a scavenging chamber to discharge the air or gas residing in a via hole. Then, a paste chamber provided adjacent to the scavenging chamber moves on the scavenged via hole. A squeezing unit provided in the paste chamber pushes a conductive paste into the via hole. Keeping the inside space of the via hole in a depressurized condition is effective to let the conductive paste enter deeply into the via hole. The inside space of the via hole is entirely filled with the conductive paste.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Inventors: Atushi Sakaida, Toshihisa Taniguchi
-
Patent number: 6516836Abstract: Draining of the waste tank of a recreational vehicle is improved by using a motor to operate the waste hose. The motor causes the proximal end of the hose to be extended from its housing in the RV while the distal end remains attached to the waste tan. The extended proximal end can then be inserted into the access pipe of a sewer system for draining the waste tank. The motor will retract the hose when the waste tank has been emptied. The motor is operable either by throwing a switch on the motor or pressing a button on a remote control unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventor: Reginald E Fields
-
Patent number: 6513556Abstract: The flexible hose assembly 10 interconnects a portable tank and another tank for transmitting hazardous fluids. A back check housing 34 contains a valve member 56 and a seating surface 58 for closing off flow through the back check housing. A flexible hose 16 extends downstream from the back check housing, and a flexible sensing line 26 extends within the flexible hose downstream from the back check housing for transmitting fluid pressure to a piston 36. The piston 36 is axially movable between a locked and unlocked position, and when in a locked position maintains the valve member in the open flow position and when in the unlocked position allows the valve member to move to the closed position. A biasing member is provided for biasing at least one of the piston and valve members to the unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: PGI International, Ltd.Inventors: Spencer M. Nimberger, Robert L. Ward, Frank Gonzales
-
Patent number: 6484752Abstract: A mobile concrete pump comprising a supporting frame (16) mounted on a chassis (10) and a pump unit (30) disposed on the supporting frame (16) and having a rear material feeder container (32). Conveyor pipes or tubes (38, 40) can be connected to the pump unit (30), and can be transported in magazines (42, 44) along with the automatic concrete pump. The magazines can be easily accessed when they are moved from a transport position substantially parallel to the loading area (48, 50) into a removal or unloading position, with back end tilting downwards, by rotating said magazines around an axis of rotation (52, 54) parallel to the vertical axis of the chassis and tilting around a tilting axis (56, 58) which runs crosswise in relation to their longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the vertical axis of the chassis. Rotation and tilting of the magazines (42, 33) can be done manually or using hydraulic means.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2000Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Putzmeister AktiengesellschaftInventors: Willi Ebinger, Dieter Schneider, Alexander Huslik