Sewer Patents (Class 15/104.31)
  • Patent number: 11841105
    Abstract: A motorized apparatus includes a body assembly and a maintenance device mounted to the body assembly. The maintenance device is configured to perform a service operation on a surface. The maintenance device extends from the body assembly at an angle. The motorized apparatus also includes a plurality of leg assemblies coupled to the body assembly and configured to support the body assembly and the maintenance device at a distance from the surface. The motorized apparatus further includes at least one actuator assembly coupled to the plurality of leg assemblies and configured to independently actuate each leg assembly of the plurality of leg assemblies. The at least one actuator assembly is configured to receive instructions related to a position of the maintenance device and actuate the plurality of leg assemblies to adjust an orientation of the body assembly and the maintenance device relative to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Alexander Kyle Duncan, Todd William Danko
  • Patent number: 11794226
    Abstract: The present disclosure comprises devices, systems and methods for the removal of a precipitate from a surface of a water treatment chamber using a dasher assembly having two cylindrical actuator rods connected to a dasher for scraping an interior surface of the water treatment chamber. The water treatment chamber has an enclosed first end, an enclosed second end, and an electrolysis rod extending linearly therein. The two cylindrical actuator rods extend linearly within the water treatment chamber and pass through the enclosed first end so that portions of the two cylindrical actuator rods are within the water treatment chamber and portions are outside the water treatment chamber. The dasher includes an aperture therethrough so the electrolysis rod can pass through the aperture and allow the dasher to translate from a first location and a second location by translation of the two cylindrical actuator rods via a mechanical actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: Dynamic Water Technologies Global, L.L.C.
    Inventors: George Tuan Long Chac, Melvin Mathew, Michael Christopher Boyko, Henry Mohrschladt, Steve Devoll
  • Patent number: 11766798
    Abstract: A cutter is provided for cutting through obstructions disposed in the interior of pipes ranging in size from approximately 8? to approximately 15? in diameter or from approximately 12? to approximately 24? in diameter. The cutter has been reduced in size relative to known root cutters to be capable of being used with smaller-diameter pipes, but is sufficiently powerful to cut through obstructions, such as mineral deposits, for example, that known flexible cutters capable of being used with these smaller-diameter pipes are incapable of cutting through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: USB-USA, LLC
    Inventors: Ulrich Simpfendorfer, Simon Simpfendorfer, Martin Hurlebaus, Manuel Schwab
  • Patent number: 11623255
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of pump cleaning and unclogging. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tool which allows a user to unclog and remove rags, cloth materials, debris, or other obstructions from submersible and master-station pumps. Further, the invention can be used either as a hand tool or as an attachment to a crane or other machine for power assisted pulling, unclogging, and removal of rags, cloth materials, debris, and other obstructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Inventors: Travis Duffus, Gary Morrison
  • Patent number: 11614412
    Abstract: Pipe inspection systems including a push-cable, jetter, and camera assembly are disclosed. A jetter nozzle may be configured to spin and/or propel the camera head within a pipe or other cavity. A cutter line may be attached to the camera head to clean obstructions. A sonde may be coupled to a camera head to generate magnetic field signals for use with a buried utility locator to locate a pipe or other cavity into which the camera head is deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: SEESCAN, INC.
    Inventors: Mark S. Olsson, Eric M. Chapman, Justin W. Taylor, Matthew J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 11435753
    Abstract: A robot having a camera cleaning function and a method of controlling the same are provided. The robot has a cleaning function for securing a camera field of view. The robot includes a camera that has a foreign material detection sensor, a rotation cover formed of a transparent material to protect the camera from the foreign material and at a position spaced apart from the camera in all directions, and a housing fixed to a photographing position of the robot. The camera outputs a detection signal upon detecting a foreign material, and takes an image in all directions. The rotation cover rotates according to the detection signal. The housing fixes a driving module of the rotation cover, and is connected to a cleaning module for cleaning the rotation cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jun Lee, Nakyeong Kim, Sungmin Moon, Sanghak Lee
  • Patent number: 11035204
    Abstract: A wellbore hydraulic line rectification device arranged to rectify a hydraulic line in-situ includes a rectification line feeder, and a longitudinal first rectification line. The rectification line feeder is arranged to feed the first rectification line longitudinally into the hydraulic line. A cross section of the first rectification line has at least three protrusions arranged to slide along an inner surface of the hydraulic line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: WELLMEND AS
    Inventor: Pål Hjertholm
  • Patent number: 10688540
    Abstract: An advancing unit for a cleaning spiral, which can be rotated by a motor about its longitudinal axis, of a pipe cleaning machine, such as, for example, a pipe cleaning machine having a drum. The advancing unit includes a drive device, which produces the advancement of the cleaning spiral, with at least two clamping parts, wherein at least one clamping part thereof can be brought into a clamping position against the cleaning spiral in such a manner that the clamping parts press against the cleaning spiral, so that an advancement of the cleaning spiral is generated in the case of a rotating cleaning spiral. The advancing unit further comprises a control device for controlling the advancement of the cleaning spiral by means of at least one of the clamping parts as well as a safety device, by which at least one of the clamping parts can be brought out of its clamping position against the cleaning spiral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Rothenberger AG
    Inventors: Olaf Bode, Maximilian Gottschalk
  • Patent number: 10640966
    Abstract: A sewer cleaning device has a rinsing hose, to which pressurized water is applied, which is stored on an assigned storage reel and which passes through a transportation apparatus adjacent to the storage reel. A manner of operating, which protects the rinsing hose, is achieved by providing a reel arrangement, around which the rinsing hose is wrapped at least once, having two redirection reels arranged laterally adjacent to one another in the radial direction, which are offset in relation to one another in the axial direction by at least the thickness of the rinsing hose and of which at least one redirection reel is arranged tilted about an axis of symmetry, which perpendicularly intersects the axes of the two redirection reels, so that during each complete wrap around the reel arrangement forming the transportation apparatus by the rinsing hose, a pitch of the path assigned to the rinsing hose results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Inventor: Karl Wiedemann
  • Patent number: 10501927
    Abstract: A drain cleaner including a rotatable drum, a cable at least partially housed within the drum, and a body supporting the drum. The body includes a first housing and a second housing. The first housing and the second housing are movable relative to one another between a closed position, in which the drum is secured to the body, and an open position, in which the drum is removable from the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: TTI (MACAO COMMERCIAL OFFSHORE) LIMITED
    Inventor: Parke Pleasants
  • Patent number: 10400433
    Abstract: A drain cleaning device for cleaning and clearing a clogged drain is provided. The drain cleaning device comprises an elongated shaft having a first end and a second end. A rotator handle is secured to the first end of the elongated shaft with the rotator handle driving the elongated shaft in rotation by rotationally cranking the rotator handle. A hollow handle sheath surrounds the elongated shaft with the handle sheath allowing the elongated shaft to freely slide along a length of the handle shaft and freely rotate within the handle sheath. A resilient plunger head is mounted on an end of the handle sheath adjacent the second end of the elongated shaft. A conical terminal fitting is mounted to the second end of the elongated shaft with the conical terminal fitting movable into and out of the plunger head wherein the drain cleaning device quickly and easily clears any clogged or blocked drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Inventor: Boris Mills
  • Patent number: 10370910
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brake, shear and cable management system and method for effectively braking and cutting cable from a rotatable drum, such as drilling line, boring line, electrical line, fiber optic line or the like. The brake, shear and cable management system includes a cable management assembly, a cable brake assembly and a cable cutting assembly used in conjunction to manage, retain and sever a spent portion of cable upon the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Absolute Oilfield Equipment, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Fetters, III, Mark Dunbar
  • Patent number: 10348070
    Abstract: A kit and a method for using same for pulling wire or cable through a wall or ceiling comprising a drill bit guide, a fish head rod with at least one extension, a bushing and further comprising a drill adapted for right angle drilling, at least one drill bit with at least one drill bit extension. The drill bit guide sits inside a ceiling opening for a lighting fixture has a channel that guides a drill bit at a consistent and set distance above the ceiling interior surface. The guide has a rim guard to protect the ceiling opening edge. The fish head rod and extensions have a guide line to orient a user peering from below the ceiling and a guide strip to keep the fish head rod at a consistent and set distance above the ceiling interior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Wesbit Designs, LLC
    Inventors: Wesley Norris Ryan, Christopher Paul Witthaut
  • Patent number: 10071401
    Abstract: Various feed control devices for plumbing tools such as drain cleaning machines are disclosed. The feed control devices include a collection of angled rollers that contact a cable or snake of the drain cleaning machine. Another collection of a single or dual angled roller(s) are mounted or otherwise engaged with a handle, and can be selectively positioned and contacted with the cable. By changing the position of the handle, rotation of the cable is translated to axial movement thereby advancing or retracting the cable. Also described are drain cleaning devices utilizing the feed control devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: Ridge Tool Company
    Inventors: Jon R. Dunkin, Michael J. Rutkowski, Alex M. Cole, Larry F. Babb
  • Patent number: 9526534
    Abstract: A surgical instrument configured to introduce a spinal fixation rod into a vertebral implant. When the spinal fixation rod is engaged with the surgical instrument and the surgical instrument is put into a retention configuration, the spinal fixation rod cannot be removed from the surgical instrument until the spinal fixation rod is properly oriented with respect to the surgical construct and the surgical instrument is released from the retention configuration. The surgical instrument includes a surgical instrument body, an actuator, an engagement assembly, and a transfer assembly that extends between the actuator and the engagement assembly. The surgical instrument can also be used as part of a method for introducing a spinal fixation rod or part of a kit for introducing a spinal fixation rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph C. Solitario, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9447889
    Abstract: A valve isolation tool for insertion through a vent duct and vent duct valve of a gas flow duct. The isolation tool includes an outer tube having proximal and distal ends, the outer tube having a diameter sized to extend through the vent duct and blocking valve. An inner tube having proximal and distal ends is arranged coaxially with and movable within the outer tube. An inflatable balloon is attached to the distal end of the inner tube, wherein the isolation tool outer tube is insertable through the vent duct to an opening in the gas flow duct. The inner tube is slidably insertable through the outer tube until the balloon is situated within a bore formed through the gas flow duct and is inflatable therein to block any gas leak through the gas flow duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Mohammad Ahmed Al Shammary
  • Patent number: 9194114
    Abstract: A drain cleaner for cleaning entangled obstructions such as a clog from a drain pipe such as a sink, tub or shower. A rod extending into the drain pipe is formed of a material which is either metal or plastic but stiff enough that it will not buckle but flexible enough to bend around curves. Arms connected to the distal end of the rod normally flex outwardly such that when the arms are inserted into the pipe they are resiliently flexed against the inside wall of the pipe, the arms being circumferentially spaced apart from each other to create spaces between them and each arm can each flex resiliently independent of the other arms. The device may push some of the clog through to be washed out of the pipe. Obstruction material which is not moved downstream will then be grasped by the arms as the arms move outwardly against the inside wall of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Inventor: Marvin Petry
  • Patent number: 9139998
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a culvert cleaning apparatus for attachment to a bucket of an earth moving machine. The culvert cleaning apparatus comprises a long shaft that has rotating arms attached to it. As the apparatus is inserted into a culvert and through a debris field the arms are pushed against the shaft to minimize the diameter of the apparatus. As the apparatus is removed from the culvert, the arms engage with debris, rotate outward to increase the functional diameter of the apparatus and pull/push debris out of the culvert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Lowell Conner, Jr., Grant Robert Conner
  • Publication number: 20150114145
    Abstract: Quick-change system for wheels of an inspection crawler, in particular, of a pipe inspection and/or a sewage cleaning system comprising an adapter support and a wheel support (32), wherein the adapter support essentially is formed cylindrically, the wheel support has an essentially cylindrical and axial recess wherein the adapter support is arranged rotatably around a longitudinal axis of the quick-change system relative to the wheel support within the recess of the wheel support, and a locking means is arranged in the recess of the wheel support which cooperates with the wheel support and with the adapter support, and which locks the adapter support in a locked state against rotation around the longitudinal axis of the quick-change system relative to the wheel support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Dominik POMP
  • Patent number: 8984698
    Abstract: Lightweight sewer cable that may include an elongate central resilient non-metallic core member, an elongate metallic helical coil spring surrounding the core member, and an elongate non-metallic spacer between the core member and the coil spring are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Seescan, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark S. Olsson
  • Patent number: 8951361
    Abstract: An apparatus for guiding hydraulic hoses for use in cleaning sewer lines. The claimed hose guide locks the hydraulic hose, near the head of the hose, in a clamp, providing rigidity for an operator trying to locate the opening of a clogged pipeline. Once the hose has been placed at the pipeline opening, the operator releases the hose from the hose guide, pressurizes the hose so as to separate the hose from the hose guide, removes the hose guide from the sewer line, and cleans the pipeline with the hydraulic hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Daniel Sutton
  • Patent number: 8833293
    Abstract: The present invention relates to coating of tubes, and more particularly to a system and method for coating and/or renovating deteriorated or pitted tubes to extend tube life and enhance performance. Using this system and method a thin coating is applied to the interior of a tube such that the coating is uniform in thickness and covers all regions of the tube. The coating material may be selected to minimize changes in heat transfer or may be selected to provide for the change in working fluid within the tube such that the working fluid does not negatively interact with the tube material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Plastocor, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Horn
  • Patent number: 8739354
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a compact user friendly multi tool mobile sewer jetting and in ground utility servicing vehicle with one or more reels mounted on an articulated boom which is pivotably mounted to a service vehicle via a slewing ring gear. A vacuum excavation system with a vacuum hose and vacuum hose reel may also be mounted on the mobile vehicle. The articulated boom having a first end pivotably mounted to a mobile vehicle via a slewing ring gear. The articulated boom may have sufficient strength to support a jetter hose reel mounted near a second end of the boom and the boom may have sufficient move ability to position and stabilize the reel near a man hole or service work area for user friendly use by an operator. Sensors, monitors and controllers are included to gather data related to the operation of the service vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Lynn A. Buckner
  • Patent number: 8650696
    Abstract: A sanitary sewer cleaning apparatus for removing roots and debris with a segmented circular brush attached to a rodder root removal tool. As the apparatus travels through a sewer line, the segmented brushes, which are mounted on hinges, fold back to reduce drag and facilitate movement through obstructed sewers. As the rodder pulls back the apparatus, the brushes engage the walls of the pipe to pull roots and debris to the sewer access point. The preferred embodiments comprises rodder coupler, an extension arm for coupling a plurality of brushes in a radial configuration, a plurality of brushes for collecting the root infiltration debris, and a plurality of hinges for angularly altering the plurality of brushes relative to the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventors: Nathaniel Morales, Cody White
  • Publication number: 20130291322
    Abstract: A multifunction cleaning device for fluid conduits employed to communicate wastewater for treatment, such a sewers and drains. The multi-use tool includes a debris and hose grabber and may also be employed as an interchangeable and/or reversible scraper element for sidewall scraping of grease. The tool aids in debris removal and high pressure hose realignment and positioning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Jim Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8566996
    Abstract: A removable frame system (100) consists of a first end (101) and a second end (102) and is made up of at least two side frame components (103 & (107) where all said side frame components are single piece components with no adjustments or added parts. Side frame components (103 & 107) form a pivoting body capable of swinging open and closed to form a payload cavity (113) desirable to contain a payload subsystem (112) that is designed to operate a payload application device (115). There are only three components that make up the remote frame system (100) that supports the operation of the payload (112). Removable frame system (100) supports rugged operation and in the field re-configuration for a multiple of purposes. One embodiment is to be deployed in the sewers as a root cutting system that employs a motor for the payload (112) and a root cutter for the payload application device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventors: Malvin A. Nezat, II, Michael J. Hnatek
  • Patent number: 8505146
    Abstract: A line has a proximal end, a distal end and a flexible intermediate extent with a central axis. An auger head has a central base and a plurality of semicircular disks. Each disk has an interior edge coupled to the base. The disks extend generally radially from the base. Each interior edge has an inner end and an outer end. The base has a tapering outer end coextensive the outer ends of the disks. The base has a flat inner end transverse to the axis. Coupling components removably join the distal end of the line and the inner end of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin R. Jessup
  • Publication number: 20130180549
    Abstract: A tool for cleaning a drainage structure comprises a rod having a center longitudinal axis, a barrel housing having a proximal opening and a distal opening, the barrel housing having a center longitudinal axis and coupled coaxially to the rod, the barrel housing having an outside dimension that can be accommodated within the drainage structure, the distal opening of the barrel housing having a sinusoidal tearing contour. The tool further comprises a plurality of cutting implements radially coupled to and between the rod and the barrel housing, the cutting implements having a distal cutting edge and being angularly oriented to facilitate sweeping debris in a selected direction, and the barrel housing and cutting implements operable to rotate about the center longitudinal axis of the rod to dislodge and loosen debris inside the drainage structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: Harr Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Harr Technologies, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8458845
    Abstract: A pipe cleaning device having a base; a plurality of bristles disposed on the base; and a connecting component disposed on the base, the connecting component is generally rectangular in cross section and has a first channel disposed therein, the connecting component is for engaging a standard attachment piece on a snake cable, the attachment piece being generally U-shaped with a first wing and a second wing each extending upwardly from a base platform, wherein a second channel is disposed in the first wing and a third channel is disposed in the second wing; wherein the connecting component can be inserted in between the first wing and the second wing such that the first channel is aligned with the second and third channel, wherein a screw can be threaded through the first, second, and third channel to secure the base to the snake cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Robert E. Tabieros
  • Patent number: 8365336
    Abstract: A rotatable root saw blade for routing through a sewer line for purposes of cutting debris or roots from the interior wall of the sewer line includes a body having an arcuate portion having a forward cutting edge which moves along a substantially circular path when rotated, and the forward cutting edge defines a series of V-shaped teeth therealong. Each V-shaped tooth has a leading cutting edge and a trailing edge which meet at an apex. The leading cutting edge of each tooth is substantially parallel to the direction of axial movement of the saw blade along the length of the sewer line, and the trailing edge of each tooth forms an angle with the direction of axial movement of the blade which is between about 22° and 63°. Furthermore, a notch is defined between each successively-arranged pair of teeth wherein the notch has a depth of between about 0.5 and 1.0 inches as measured from the apex of an adjacent tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony C. Morris
  • Patent number: 8356377
    Abstract: A reinforced cup for use on downhole devices is disclosed. The reinforced cup is comprised of a cylindrical metal sleeve. Surrounding the outer circumferential surface of the metal sleeve is a flexible mesh cage comprised of a plurality of woven wire strands. A resilient cover is formed around the metal sleeve and flexible mesh cage so that the metal sleeve and flexible mesh fabric are encased by the resilient cover. The flexible mesh cage serves to reinforce the resilient cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Full Flow Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M. Harper
  • Patent number: 8347445
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a remote controlled robot for cleaning inner walls of a duct, more specifically, to a remote controlled robot comprising: a cart movable in the duct by remote control; at least one first link pivotally connected to the cart, which is relatively rotatable to the cart; a first driving unit to drive the first link to relatively rotate to the cart; at least one second link pivotally connected to the first link, which is relatively rotatable to the first link; a second driving unit to drive the second link to relatively rotate to the first link; and a cleaning means installed at the second link for separating dusts from the inner walls of the duct, thereby enabling to clean the upper inner-walls and the bottom inner-wall of the duct simultaneously, and to continuously proceed with the cleaning in case of the height change of the duct to reduce cleaning time thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: IBS Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Byung Wook Park
  • Patent number: 8347446
    Abstract: A tool for cleaning a drainage structure comprises a rod having a center longitudinal axis, a barrel housing having a proximal opening and a distal opening, the barrel housing having a center longitudinal axis and coupled coaxially to the rod, the barrel housing having an outside dimension that can be accommodated within the drainage structure, the distal opening of the barrel housing having a sinusoidal tearing contour. The tool further comprises a plurality of cutting implements radially coupled to and between the rod and the barrel housing, the cutting implements having a distal cutting edge and being angularly oriented to facilitate sweeping debris in a selected direction, and the barrel housing and cutting implements operable to rotate about the center longitudinal axis of the rod to dislodge and loosen debris inside the drainage structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Harr Technologies, Inc
    Inventor: Robert E. Harr
  • Patent number: 8192559
    Abstract: An assembly for rotating and axially directing a high pressure spray hose and spray head to clean residue from tubing bores. Modular, remotely controlled subassemblies are concentrically aligned and mounted to a hose drive framework to rotate in synchrony and direct a high-pressure water hose and spray head. A hose drive assembly controls hose rotation and axial hose movement via biased pinch wheels. A resilient, eccentric linkage controls pinch wheel pressure. A layering arm uniformly layers the hose at a hose reel. Rotational sensors and/or a pneumatic booster and a disk brake assembly facilitate non-kinking hose collection and release without spillage. A re-configurable hose support framework contains a driven walking beam having drive assemblies that laterally and vertically index a hose support and control the inclination of the walking beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel T. Garman
  • Patent number: 8146196
    Abstract: A machine for pipe maintenance, which travels forward through a pipeline and effectively removes foreign substances sticking to the inside of a pipeline, using friction members 70 that are moved along the inside of the pipeline by a rotator assembly 30 and rotated by rotating shaft assemblies 50, which come in contact with the inside of the pipeline is disclosed. Further, rotating shaft assemblies 50 and a rotator assembly 30 are respectively rotated by first and second rotating units 40, 60, such that it is possible to maximize the effect of removing foreign substances in the pipeline by smoothly rotating the friction members 70, and also improve durability by preventing an erroneous operation and damage due to load that is applied during the operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: KMC Robotics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sangyoung Seo
  • Patent number: 7891041
    Abstract: A device that can be used to spread a thin, even coating of liquid material on a surface is provided. In one embodiment the device is adapted to be used to apply floor coating on a floor surface. The device is configured such that the applicator portion of the device applies a generally constant contact force on the surface, even when the force applied by the user on the tool varies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: John J. Dyer, Mitchell T. Johnson, Erik J. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100263144
    Abstract: A rotatable root saw blade for routing through a sewer line for purposes of cutting debris or roots from the interior wall of the sewer line includes a body having an arcuate portion having a forward cutting edge which moves along a substantially circular path when rotated, and the forward cutting edge defines a series of V-shaped teeth therealong. Each V-shaped tooth has a leading cutting edge and a trailing edge which meet at an apex. The leading cutting edge of each tooth is substantially parallel to the direction of axial movement of the saw blade along the length of the sewer line, and the trailing edge of each tooth forms an angle with the direction of axial movement of the blade which is between about 22° and 63°. Furthermore, a notch is defined between each successively-arranged pair of teeth wherein the notch has a depth of between about 0.5 and 1.0 inches as measured from the apex of an adjacent tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony C. Morris
  • Patent number: 7725978
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a culvert includes a rod pushing and pulling machine, a rod string made from a series of extension rods coupled end to end, which rod string is mounted at a proximal end to the rod pushing and pulling machine. A debris removal tool is mounted on a distal end of the rod string. The debris removal tool may comprises a rod having a center longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end, the rod having a coupling at its proximal end. A bucket is mounted at the distal end of the rod, which bucket has an end opening positioned so that movement of the bucket along the culvert scoops debris into the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Harr Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Robert E. Harr
  • Patent number: 7721375
    Abstract: A tool for cleaning a drainage structure comprises a rod having a center longitudinal axis, a barrel housing having a proximal opening and a distal opening, the barrel housing having a center longitudinal axis and coupled coaxially to the rod, the barrel housing having an outside dimension that can be accommodated within the drainage structure, the distal opening of the barrel housing having a sinusoidal tearing contour. The tool further comprises a plurality of cutting implements radially coupled to and between the rod and the barrel housing, the cutting implements having a distal cutting edge and being angularly oriented to facilitate sweeping debris in a selected direction, and the barrel housing and cutting implements operable to rotate about the center longitudinal axis of the rod to dislodge and loosen debris inside the drainage structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Harr Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Robert E. Harr
  • Patent number: 7685669
    Abstract: A snake feeding device comprises a base having opposite ends, an actuator pivotally mounted on the base, and first and second sets of drive rolls spaced apart in the direction between ends of the base. Each set includes a roll on the base and two rolls on the actuator for engaging a snake therebetween and displacing the snake relative to the base in the direction between the ends thereof in response to rotation of the snake. The actuator selectively displaces the rolls of each set relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Michael J. Rutkowski, Jon R. Dunkin
  • Patent number: 7676878
    Abstract: Improvements are provided to an apparatus for cleaning a tubular. One set of improvements is provided by a nose shaft extending from the motor, a cone positioned on the shaft, and a brush positioned on the shaft between the nose cone and the vibratory motor. Another set of improvements is provided by a new passage and port arrangement on the piston and sleeve for the vibratory motor. Another improvement is provided by a set of passages and ports to provide oil flow to the area being cleaned. Another improvement is provided by capturing exhaust gas from the motor and exhaust of same at a location away from the operator of the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Steven Charles Merrix Parker-Smith
  • Patent number: 7676879
    Abstract: A battery-powered sewer and drain cleaner comprising a frame, a rotatable drum mounted on the frame which has a flexible plumber's snake associated therewith, a DC motor mounted on the frame for driving the drum and a rechargeable battery mounted on the frame for powering the DC motor. A control is connected to the DC motor for controlling the operation thereof. The use of DC power for the cleaner eliminates the electrocution hazard associated with AC-driven sewer and drain cleaners and eliminates the need for an extension cord. The sewer and drain cleaner of this invention includes new and unique circuitry to bypass the motor high current demand around the more delicate circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventors: Keith H. Rutenberg, John A. Kline
  • Patent number: 7562717
    Abstract: A culvert opening and cleaning apparatus which is designed to be operably mounted to an implement of heavy machinery such as a grader and is further designed to utilize the auxiliary hydraulic connection provided by the implement of heavy machinery. The culvert opening and cleaning apparatus comprises a mounting operably engaged to an implement of a heavy machinery, a telescoping arm member attached to the mounting means, the telescoping arm member having an outer housing and an inner concentric arm that are telescopically slidable relative to each other, a culvert cleaning tool engaged to the inner arm of the telescoping arm member, and a telescoping ram having at least one concentric cylinder and a piston that are telescopically slidable relative to each other, wherein a distal end of the piston is attached to the culvert cleaning tool for positing the culvert cleaning tool for opening of the culvert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Woodybilt Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: James W. Woodcock, Frank W. Woodcock, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090165226
    Abstract: A hose puller that includes puller wheels that are motorized and configured to grip, among other things, a high pressure water hose. The hose puller further includes an idler wheel that is positioned to oppose the puller wheels. The idler wheel is spring loaded to help ensure that the hose maintains frictional relation with the puller wheels. Alternatively, the hose puller may have puller wheels shaped to grip a high pressure water hose. The hose puller also includes a camera that is configured to show images that enable the operator to control the hose puller from a remote location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Rufus Davis
  • Patent number: 7530363
    Abstract: An assembly for rotating and axially directing a high pressure spray hose and spray head to clean residue from tubing bores. Modular, remotely controlled subassemblies are concentrically aligned and mounted to a hose drive framework to rotate in synchrony and direct a high-pressure water hose and spray head. A hose drive assembly controls hose rotation and axial hose movement via biased pinch wheels. A resilient, eccentric linkage controls pinch wheel pressure. A layering arm uniformly layers the hose at a hose reel. Rotational sensors and/or a pneumatic booster and a disk brake assembly facilitate non-kinking hose collection and release without spillage. A re-configurable hose support framework contains a driven walking beam having drive assemblies that laterally and vertically index a hose support and control the inclination of the walking beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel T. Garman
  • Patent number: 7526827
    Abstract: A drain pipe cleaning apparatus includes a drive apparatus that includes a housing having a front end, a back end and a peripheral wall extending between the front and back ends. A drive shaft extends outwardly of the front end of the housing. The drive shaft is rotated about its axis when the drive apparatus is actuated. A pair of tethers is provided. Each of the tethers is attached to the drive shaft and extends to opposite directions with respect to each other. Each of a pair of cleaning members is attached to one of the tethers opposite of the drive shaft. The cleaning members scrape an inside surface of a pipe when the drive shaft is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Edward L. Bitterman
  • Patent number: 7478451
    Abstract: A snake feeding device comprises a base having opposite ends, an actuator pivotally mounted on the base, and first and second sets of drive rolls spaced apart in the direction between ends of the base. Each set includes a roll on the base and two rolls on the actuator for engaging a snake therebetween and displacing the snake relative to the base in the direction between the ends thereof in response to rotation of the snake. The actuator selectively displaces the rolls of each set relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Michael J. Rutkowski, Jon R. Dunkin
  • Patent number: 7398785
    Abstract: A tool for cleaning a culvert comprises a rod having a center longitudinal axis, a housing having a center longitudinal axis and coupled coaxially to the rod, the housing having an interior chamber, the housing has an outside dimension that can be accommodated within the culvert, and at least one paddle operable to rotate about the center longitudinal axis of the rod inside the interior chamber of the housing, the at least one paddle operable to dislodge and loosen debris inside the culvert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Harr Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Robert E. Harr
  • Patent number: 7367077
    Abstract: Drain cleaning apparatus comprises a housing in which a drain cleaning cable is coiled and from which the cable is displaced for introducing an outer end of the cable into a drain to be cleaned. The housing is stationary and the cable is rotated about its axis relative to the housing by a drive motor coupled to an inner end of the cable. A manually operable cable feeding device can be coupled with the housing for feeding the cable outwardly and inwardly relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Michael J. Rutkowski, Larry F. Babb
  • Publication number: 20080060152
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for cleaning pipes, drains, culverts, and similar structures. It is often desired that such structures be cleaned after they have become clogged, or partially clogged, by foreign debris such as sand, dirt, mud, leaves, trash, tree branches, or other foreign material. The apparatus comprises a first lead, a second lead, an insertion pole for inserting the first lead through the structure to be cleaned, and a canister which attaches to the first lead and second lead and is pulled forward and backward through the structure to be cleaned. The invention is also directed to a method for cleaning a culvert, pipe, drain, or similar structure comprising the steps of inserting a first lead through the structure to be cleaned, attaching the first lead to a canister, attaching a second lead to the canister, and pulling the canister forward and backward through the structure to be cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Barry Brungard