With Strain Relief Patents (Class 285/114)
  • Patent number: 6758425
    Abstract: A high-voltage powder spray gun includes a rear terminal segment (60) of a powder tube (38) and the front terminal segment (58) of a hookup tube (56) which are inserted far enough in axial and sealing manner to subtend, between their overlap ends (69, 78), a powder-tight, electrically insulating expanse (76) to preclude electrical leakage currents. An electrically conducting bush (42) runs over the outer overlap end (78) of the hookup-tube/powder-tube connection to shunt any electric charges that might issue at the outer overlap end (78) between the hookup tube (56) and the powder tube (38). An electrically grounded shielding sheath (90), such as a helical compression spring, is configured radially away above the outer overlap end (88) between the rear terminal segment of the hookup tube (56) and the front end of powder hose (84) slipped over the rear terminal segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: ITW Gema AG
    Inventor: Hanspeter Michael
  • Publication number: 20040108715
    Abstract: A force absorbing restraining system for a number of pipe sections, each having an integral restraining system which is subsequently connected and works in conjunction with the integral restraining system of adjacent pipe sections. It is known that during an explosive failure either of a pipe section or a joint between pipe sections, a tremendous amount of reaction force is generated by escaping effluent flow. This force, in turn, may energize equipment such as pipes, pumps, and the like to exhibit uncontrolled motion often at a rate of several hundred feet per second. The restraining system of the present invention is designed to absorb a sudden burst of explosive energy and to lessen the reaction forces generated by the explosion so as to ensure that equipment does not move about a service site in an uncontrolled manner which could injure people and damage buildings or other equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Melissa Bergman, Brent Johnson
  • Patent number: 6672626
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for stabilizing a joint between two sections of corrugated pipe. A first section of corrugated pipe is associated with a second section to form a joint. One flexible member with two ends is looped around the first section of pipe, secured against a corrugation, and the two ends are associated and tightened. A section of the flexible member is left as a tail. A second flexible member is installed the same way on the second section of pipe, again with a section left as a tail. Each tail is then stretched across the joint, threaded between the other flexible member and pipe, brought back across the joint, and cinched forming two axially aligned supports secured against a corrugation, such that two axially aligned support are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Agri Drain Corporation
    Inventors: Charlie J. Schafer, Mark P. Gettler, William Littler, IV
  • Patent number: 6659690
    Abstract: A stress joint for a subsea riser has a reduced diameter intermediate section to reduce bending stresses on the connection between the stress joint and the riser as well as the subsea equipment. The stress joint having a riser joint with a threaded upper end for connection to a riser string. Attached to a lower end of the riser joint is an upper transition section that tapers from the diameter of the riser joint to a reduced diameter. An intermediate section below the upper transition section has a reduced outer diameter. A lower transition section connects the lower end of the intermediate section to the subsea equipment. The lower transition section is tapered from a reduced diameter to a larger diameter to ensure a firm connection with the subsea equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Parviz Abadi
  • Patent number: 6652006
    Abstract: A fluid transfer device includes a first section and a second section. The first section includes a first flange with a first fastener on an outer diameter of the adapter. The fluid transfer device includes a coupler secured to the second section to rotate independently of the second section and to mate with an end of the first section. The coupler includes a second flange with a second fastener on an outer diameter of the coupler. A support couples to the first and second fasteners of the flanges to secure the first section to the second section and to prevent relative rotation of the flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Digiacomo
  • Publication number: 20030178843
    Abstract: A hollow fitting assembly is secured with a pressure-tight seal in a hole which is disposed in a curved wall of a vessel. A body barrel portion of a hollow body element is inserted through the hole from a concave side of the vessel wall. A force-distributing washer is inserted over the free end of the body barrel portion such that a concave face of the washer faces the hole, and a flat face of the washer faces away from the hole. A pusher flange is screwed onto the free end of the body barrel portion. Jack bolts are screwed into internally threaded apertures of the pusher flange and are brought into abutting relationship with the flat face of the washer so that upon tightening of the jack bolts, a flange portion of the hollow fitting compresses a seal ring against the concave side of the vessel wall to form a pressure-tight seal around the hole. An externally threaded hollow connection member is attached to a threaded interior of the body barrel portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: J. Eugene McAliley
  • Publication number: 20030178846
    Abstract: A tube joint comprises a joint body which is provided with an attachment/detachment mechanism for attaching/detaching a fluid tube and which is formed of a resin material, and a bellows section which has annular projections and annular recesses alternately formed to be continuous in an axial direction and which disperses external force (impact force) applied to an outer surface of the joint body to avoid any concentration of stress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Applicant: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takumi Ezura
  • Patent number: 6623044
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a riser pipe element comprising a main tube (5), connection means (2) at both ends, at least one auxiliary pipe length (4) arranged substantially parallel to the tube. The auxiliary pipe length is secured at both ends to the connection means of the main tube so that the longitudinal mechanical stresses to which the connection means are subjected are distributed in the tube and in the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Jean Guesnon, Marcel Le Comte
  • Patent number: 6612619
    Abstract: A quick coupler retention clip is disclosed for preventing an inadvertent disconnection of a quick coupler. The clip device includes a unitary clip having a first and a second end. The first end of the clip is of annular configuration so that the body of the coupler extends through the annular first end for anchoring the first end of the clip relative to the body. The second end of the clip is a C-shaped configuration to removably engage a groove defined between a collar and the body of the coupler. A strap extends between the first and second ends of the clip for securing the first and second ends of the clip together. The disconnection of the body from the port of the quick coupler is permitted only when the C-shaped second end is removed from engagement with the groove so that inadvertent disconnection of the body from the port is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Martin H. Wieder
  • Patent number: 6609730
    Abstract: A stabilized mounting assembly (15) and method for sensing pressure in a conduit, such as a pipeline, is disclosed wherein the load on the NPT threaded taps (31) is reduced and transferred from the NTP threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Century Industries Company
    Inventor: Peter B. Hutton
  • Patent number: 6604758
    Abstract: An assembly of a flexible elastomeric fluid conveying hose which comprises a rigid coupling and a member extending partially into the hose body. A stress relief member, in the form of a helical spring, is mounted directly on the coupling member and also inserted into the body to prevent kinking or collapsing of the hose. The rigid coupling may also be of the swivel type of various configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Dayco Products, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin C. Assenheimer
  • Patent number: 6601877
    Abstract: A piping structure of a working machine, which prevents damage to the hoses that are so arranged as can be flexibly bent on the working machine. The piping structure of a working machine comprises a guide cylinder in which is slidably inserted an intermediate portion of hose to define the bending position of the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Nishikawa, Takahiro Iwamoto, Toshiyuki Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6594869
    Abstract: A tube clamp is constructed to include a binding strap injection-molded from high strength plastics, the binding strap having two lugs at two ends, and a smoothly arched rib-reinforced extension bearing flange forwardly extended from the first leg and adapted for supporting the second lug and guide movement of the second lug toward the first lug, a screw bolt inserted through a through hole in the first lug and threaded into a screw hole in the second lug and screwed up with a nut to fix the tube clamp to the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Dian-Tai Chen
  • Publication number: 20030080553
    Abstract: A quick coupler retention clip is disclosed for preventing an inadvertent disconnection of a quick coupler. The clip device includes a unitary clip having a first and a second end. The first end of the clip is of annular configuration so that the body of the coupler extends through the annular first end for anchoring the first end of the clip relative to the body. The second end of the clip is a C-shaped configuration to removably engage a groove defined between a collar and the body of the coupler. A strap extends between the first and second ends of the clip for securing the first and second ends of the clip together. The disconnection of the body from the port of the quick coupler is permitted only when the C-shaped second end is removed from engagement with the groove so that inadvertent disconnection of the body from the port is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Martin H. Wieder
  • Patent number: 6478339
    Abstract: A piping joint for preventing pipe members laid across the connection end faces of two adjacent structural elements from being damaged by changes in the relative positional relationship between the two adjacent structural elements due to the expansion and contraction caused by changes in the temperature or external stresses. The piping joint connects the end portions of the two pipe members laid in two structural elements whose connection end faces can displace relatively to each other, between the connection end faces to make the two pipe members communicate. It comprises a fixed unit (30) fixedly embedded into the connection end face of one of the structural elements and a movable unit (50) supported by the fixed unit so as to be movable along the connection end face. The pipe member in the structural element is connected to the fixed unit, and the pipe member in the other structural element is connected to the movable element. The two pipe members communicate in the fixed unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: New Tokyo International Airport Authority
    Inventors: Yoichi Abe, Shoichi Kameta, Katsuhiko Hagiwara, Shunji Kawabata, Takafumi Oshima
  • Publication number: 20020163184
    Abstract: The problem of securing a connection in a mechanical structure. fluid line, or electrical line, that can not readily be secured by traditional lock-wiring techniques, is solved through a method and apparatus for securing a connection with a commonly available commercial lanyard and a lanyard retainer. The lanyard retainer has an elongated center section adapted for positioning the retainer adjacent the connection, and means at both ends of the retainer for engaging and retaining the lanyard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventor: James Blair
  • Patent number: 6467811
    Abstract: The present invention is a flanged connection repair device and method for flanged pipe joints and the like that produces axial compression against the flanges of the joint so that the flange bolts may be removed and replaced, while simultaneously producing radial pressure on the sealant between the flanges, mechanically and radially compressing the sealant into the joint, directing the sealant around the full perimeter of the flanged joint. By providing both axial and/or radial compression the invention stops leaks in the pipe without interrupting the use of the pipe, duct work, and the like, and can be used permanently or temporarily, repeatedly, and under a variety of conditions including moderate to high internal pressures, vacuums, and temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Omega Multi National
    Inventor: Jessie Q. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6467813
    Abstract: A reinforcement fitting provides shrinkage and expansion capabilities while maintaining sealability at the connection between existing pipes. The reinforcement fitting includes an externally fitting portion with an inside diameter that can fit over the existing pipes, a contact member installed in a recessed portion formed on the inside of the externally fitted portion having a tapered contact surface and a contact portion to contact with an outer surface of one of the existing pipes wherein contact resistance with one of the existing pipes increases when an external force is exerted in the direction to separate the existing pipes, an engagement portion which is able to engage with a flange portion of the other existing pipe when the external force is exerted in the direction to separate the existing pipes, and a cut out portion formed at an outer side of the reinforcement fitting for establishing a clearance for a protruded portion used in connecting the existing pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Waterworks Technology Development Organization Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Takemura, Kikuo Saito, Kohtaro Morikawa
  • Patent number: 6460895
    Abstract: A brake hose sleeve composed of rigid plastic which has a throat structured to positively (snappingly) interfit with respect to the annular crimp cavity of the fitting into which the brake hose is sealingly attached. The throat is located at an end of the brake hose sleeve, and is characterized by an annular recess defined by an annular recess wall and a plurality of mutually spaced and axially oriented ribs. Each rib has a convex contour which interfits with the concave contour of the annular crimp cavity of the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Achille Souvatzidis
  • Patent number: 6443497
    Abstract: A device for tightening a spout, attached to a previously installed angled pipe having an outside radius of curvature, in a position relative to a stop member having an opening through which at least a length of the pipe extends, comprising, at least one sleeve, comprises: at least a first leg and a second leg which meet at a juncture which defines an angle substantially corresponding to the angled pipe, wherein the first and second legs have a combined total length, wherein the first leg has a leg length and is substantially rigid along at least a portion of the leg length, has an inside radius of curvature that is approximately equal to or greater than the radius of curvature of the angled pipe, and wherein the sleeve has a slit, along the entire total length of the first and second legs, to allow the sleeve to be pressed onto and at least partially about the angled pipe; and a method for using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: David B. Gravison
  • Patent number: 6409228
    Abstract: A spring system for connecting two flanges (13, 14), for use especially in a motor vehicle exhaust system. The spring system is configured as an elastic, flexible clamp with functionally first (1, 2) and second (4, 5) U-shaped clamping jaws positioned opposite each other. This provides a spring system which is easy to assemble and economical to produce. To this end the spring system has the U-shaped arms (6, 7) of the clamping jaws (1, 2; 4, 5) having only locally very restricted areas (8, 9, 10) for direct application to the pieces (11, 13; 12, 14) to be joined by means of the clamp. Four application areas (8) exercising both clamping functions are present in at least one of the clamping planes (100 or 200), of which two areas are arranged in pairs and situate diametrically opposite each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignees: Christian Bauer GmbH & Co. KG, DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Rolf Fadini, Helmut Hutt, August Kästner
  • Patent number: 6409223
    Abstract: A corrugated hose (2) has a holder (1) to releasably fix the corrugated hose (2) in an angled or curved position in relation to a lengthwise projection of the inner tube, whereby the holder (1) fits snugly into at least one recess or corrugation valley (4) of the corrugated hose (2). The holder has two legs (5, 6), and the legs (5, 6) can snugly fit the corrugated hose (2) which curves between the two legs (5, 6) in a position ready for use. At least one of the snug fits is made with a cut-out (8) open at the side in which the corrugated tube (2) can be inserted from the side under elastic deformation (FIG. 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Anton Hummel Verwaltungs GmbH
    Inventor: Mario Bartholomä
  • Patent number: 6382680
    Abstract: A coupler apparatus for hoses, etc. comprises a pair of coupler bodies 1a, 1b having no distinction between male and female and having the same structure. Front end faces of the coupler bodies are provided with seal faces 5. In addition, the front end faces of the coupler bodies are provided with a plurality of engaging projections 8 and engaging recesses 7 formed among the engaging projections. The engaging projections 8 and engaging recesses 7 are axially engaged with the engaging projections 8 and engaging recesses 7 of the mating coupler body in a complementary manner. One side face 8a of each engaging projection 8 is provided with an engaging hook portion 9, and the engaging hook portions 9 are circumferentially engaged to couple the pair of the coupler bodies 1a, 1b. At least both side faces 8a, 8b of the engaging projection 8 are defined by radially extending planes passing through a central axis of the coupler body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Sakura Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Horimoto
  • Patent number: 6375231
    Abstract: An enteral feeding clamp that secures a feeding adapter in relative position to a feeding device. The clamp includes C-shaped members integrally connected by one or more elastic webs. It also includes an elongated elastic band corresponding to each C-shaped member. The band has proximal and distal ends, and is integrally connected to the corresponding C-shaped member at its proximal end. Each of the elongated elastic bands has an enlarged head integrally formed at its distal end. A groove and receptacle are provided on the outer surface of each of the C-shaped members wherein the elastic band can be extended around the feeding adapter or feeding device, be placed in the groove, and have the head placed in the receptacle to secure the clamp in position. A method of using the feeding clamp is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Applied Medical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: George J. Picha, Gary Austin, Eric Lab
  • Patent number: 6375232
    Abstract: A lip seal union fitting attaches to a female boss associated with a hydraulic component. The female boss includes a bore, a first threaded portion located on an inner surface of the bore and a seat. A body of the lip seal union fitting is constructed of a first material and includes a tube-side end, a boss-side end, and a central portion. A second threaded portion is located on an outer surface of the boss-side end. A lip seal is constructed of a second material. The lip seal extends from the central portion of the body towards the boss-side end. The lip seal includes an outer surface that engages the seat of the boss to create a fluid seal as the first and second threaded portions are rotatably engaged. The first material has a greater material hardness than the second material. The first material includes at least one of steel, stainless steel, an titanium alloy and the second material includes at least one of aluminum and aluminum alloy. The lip seal is attached to the body using inertia welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Norman F. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6354521
    Abstract: A quick disconnect and release hose couplings is disclosed where the socket will disconnect and release from a plug if the hose connected to the hose coupling is pulled with sufficient force. A quick disconnect female socket used in the hose coupling includes a body portion and a movable sleeve. The hose coupling includes an end conduit that is adapted for coupling to a hose. The end conduit is connected to an intermediate conduit, and the intermediate conduit is connected to the body portion of the socket. The hose is in fluid communication with the socket through the end conduit and intermediate conduit. The intermediate conduit also permits the end conduit to move relative to the body portion. A mechanical coupling is attached to the end conduit and to the sleeve of the socket such that when the end conduit moves relative to the body portion the mechanical coupling moves the sleeve relative to the body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Thomas V. Kusilek, James P. McAuley
  • Patent number: 6354937
    Abstract: A sleeve assembly for supporting flexible duct includes a frame with first and second frame sections. The frame sections are secured together by fastener subassemblies. The sleeve assembly accommodates flexible duct in various angular and straight configurations. The frame can comprise various suitable materials and skeletal or solid-exterior construction. The sleeve assembly is adapted for various installations in air distribution systems of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Dale J. Crook
  • Patent number: 6322006
    Abstract: A sprayer device includes a tube extended from a sprayer member and a hose coupling the tube to a water reservoir. A pipe is slidably engaged on the hose and the tube. A control ferrule is engaged on the pipe and has an inclined inner peripheral surface for adjustable forcing and securing the pipe to the tube. One or more conduits may further be adjustably secured to the pipe. The pipe and the conduit may be easily and quickly adjusted relative to the tube and the pipe respectively and will not affect the water tight seal between the hose and the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Wen-Li Guo
  • Patent number: 6318762
    Abstract: A first bracket 16 is fixedly mounted by swage locking to a female connector 10 which is fixedly joined at one end with a resin tube 9 while a second bracket 20 is fixedly mounted by welding to a corresponding pipe 11. When an insertion end 11a of the corresponding pipe 11 is inserted into the other end of the female connector 10, the first bracket 16 and the second bracket 20 are turned relative to each other and about the axis of a second connecting end portion 6 of the female connector 10 so that a coupling hole 18a provided in the first bracket 16 and a coupling hole 22a provided in the second bracket 20 are coincided with each other across which a bolt or an anchor clip is inserted and tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Tomoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 6290264
    Abstract: A resin tube 9 inserted and fixed to one end of a female connector 10 and a corresponding pipe 11 connected by snap in to the other end of a female connector 10 are fixed by a first holding means 17 and a second holding means 18 of a holder member 16 respectively. Holding portion of either the resin tube 9 and the corresponding pipe 11 is located off the common axis L as securely held by the holder member 16. Either the resin tube 9 or the corresponding pipe 11 is turned about the female connector 10 so as to connect with either the first holding means 17 or the second holding means 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tomoki Inoue
  • Publication number: 20010017467
    Abstract: A first bracket 16 is fixedly mounted by swage locking to a female connector 10 which is fixedly joined at one end with a resin tube 9 while a second bracket 20 is fixedly mounted by welding to a corresponding pipe 11. When an insertion end 11a of the corresponding pipe 11 is inserted into the other end of the female connector 10, the first bracket 16 and the second bracket 20 are turned relative to each other and about the axis of a second connecting end portion 6 of the female connector 10 so that a coupling hole 18a provided in the first bracket 16 and a coupling hole 22a provided in the second bracket 20 are coincided with each other across which a bolt or an anchor clip is inserted and tightened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Applicant: TOKAI RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Tomoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 6279959
    Abstract: The present invention provides an optical disc provided with a watermark inside, which is visible with naked eyes from a reproduction side of the optical disc, and the producing method and the production apparatus thereof. The optical disc comprises a transparent substrate having an information signal recorded surface, a reflective layer formed on the information signal recorded surface thereof, an adhesive layer formed on the reflective layer, a mask layer on the adhesive layer and a transparent dummy substrate on the mask layer stacked in this order. The adhesive layer is made of an adhesive of which curing speed is changed according to a controlled amount of radiation of ultraviolet rays. The watermark is recorded in the optical disc by irradiating the ultraviolet rays on the adhesive through the mask layer provided with light shielding members to cause the adhesive to be cured by controlling a curing speed of the adhesive corresponding to existence or nonexistence of the light shielding members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Victor Company of Japan, Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Nishizawa
  • Patent number: 6224116
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for positioning and holding together a secondary pipe on a branch connector before the branch connector is mounted on a buried main pipe for transporting fluid. The device rests solely on the secondary pipe and on the branch connector away from the main pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Gaz de France (G. D. F.) Service National
    Inventors: Philippe Caraveo, Patrick Le Cointe, Michel Taillade
  • Patent number: 6193282
    Abstract: A flexible elastomeric fluid conveying hose which includes a rigid coupling having a member extending partially into the hose body. A stress relief member, in the form of a helical spring, is mounted directly on the coupling member and also inserted into the body to prevent kinking or collapsing of the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin C. Assenheimer
  • Patent number: 6173996
    Abstract: A method is used for interfacing materials of dissimilar thermal expansion in an X-ray tube. Initially, a first joint is identified, which has a first component to be received into a second component. Typically, the first component has a higher coefficient of expansion than the second component, so the purpose of the invention is to reduce the physical expansion of that component in the joint. A plurality of slots is introduced along the approximate axial length of a coupling member at the joint, to achieve the aforementioned purpose. The coupling member is provided between the two components, and has a thermal expansion rate greater than one component and less than the other component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mark O. Derakhshan, Thomas G. Ebben
  • Patent number: 6161874
    Abstract: A simple water spray hose rolling device includes a water spray hose, an inlet connector and a spray connector at the two ends of the water spray hose, an upper fixed base, an under fixed base, a locking ring, and an elastic connection between the two bases. Edge strips at two sides of the water spray hose are enclosed by two semicircular splints in the interior of the inlet connector to affix the water spray hose to the inlet connector. The two fixed bases include two symmetrical T-shape clamping plates connected by an elastic connector. Through the fillister formed between the two T-shape clamping plates, the water spray hose of this invention can be rolled up and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Formosa Saint Jose Corp.
    Inventor: Ming-Shun Yang
  • Patent number: 6139068
    Abstract: A union lock for maintaining a union between two conduits is disclosed. In a first embodiment, the union lock includes a pair of bridgepieces. Each of the bridgepieces includes an elongated member. A substantially semicircular flange is coupled to each end of the elongated members. A tab is coupled to each end of the flanges, each tab having a hole formed therein for receiving a connector. During use, the bridgepieces are placed around the conduits and secured to each other by placing the connectors in the holes in the tabs. By tightening the connectors, the elongated members may be compressed against the conduits and against a union nut joining the conduits, thus maintaining the union. In a second embodiment, the union lock includes a pair of elongated members. A substantially circular flange is coupled to each end of the elongated members. A tab is coupled to each end of the flanges, each tab having a hole formed therein for receiving a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Tommy E. Burress, Duane A. Thompson, James V. Caroselli
  • Patent number: 6113154
    Abstract: A pressurized fluid circulating assembly includes a body made of non-metallic, brittle material. At least two apertures formed by internal threads are disposed in the body. First coupling members each include a first externally threaded male portion that can engage the threads of one of the apertures, a second internally threaded female portion and a head with multiple flats. Second coupling members each have an externally threaded male portion that can engage the second threaded portion of one of the first coupling members. A movement-inhibiting member is disposed at a fixed position near at least one flat of each of two of the first coupling members to prevent their rotation. A device may employ a movement-inhibiting member having a size and shape so as to be adapted to be received at a fixed position near at least one flat of each of two of the first coupling members when threaded into engagement with the apertures, thereby preventing rotation of the first coupling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Bruno H. Thut
  • Patent number: 6086113
    Abstract: A connector assembly 10 for use with tubular conduits 30 is disclosed which is a male portion that is put into a female portion. The male portion makes use of the end of the conduit itself, and the female portion only requires a stepped bore. The seal 50, stabilizing bushings areas 34 and retainer 138 are carried on the male portion. The seal 50 may be retained on the male, and the connection may be either a quick connect or require a tool to assemble. The connection may seal the highest pressures and withstand very high forces on the male and female portions. Also disclosed is the use of this connection in a multiple port device. The connection may be completed in the depth and diameter that is allotted to a "thread-in" or "flare" connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Proprietary Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald D. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 6074379
    Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a strain relief device which assists in resisting bending and/or torsional forces while at the same time resisting axial pull forces to avoid separation of the strain relief device from the catheter tube during use. By way of example, the strain relief device of the present invention preferably includes an elongate body formed of an elastomeric material having a lumen formed therethrough along its entire length. The strain relief device lumen may be generally divided into proximal, central and distal portions which may each be of varying and/or different diameters. The strain relief device is preferably placed about a selected portion of the catheter tube, and the proximal and distal portions are bonded to the catheter tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventor: James B. Prichard
  • Patent number: 6065782
    Abstract: Device for supporting a pipe joint which joins a substantially vertical pipe with at least one substantially horizontal pipe. In one embodiment, the device comprises (a) a base member, (b) a clamp sized and configured to clamp the vertical pipe, and (c) at least one arm member which is attached at one end to the base member and attached at the other end to the clamp. The devices of the invention provide support or reinforcement to conventional pipe joints to enable those joints to better withstand gravitational and other forces over extended periods of time. Improved underground pipe systems employing pipe joints, as well as methods for providing support to pipe joints, are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Leslie L. Allen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6050610
    Abstract: A stress reduction groove for tubular connections which relates to a threaded pipe connection, and includes a box member, a pin member, and a continuous groove formed in the thread of one of the members. The box member has a tapered, internal, generally dovetail-shaped thread with stab flanks, load flanks, roots, and crests. The internal thread has a beginning and an end and increases in width in one direction. The pin member also has a tapered, external, generally dovetail-shaped thread with stab flanks load flanks, roots, and crests. The external thread increases in width in the other direction so that the complementary flanks of the respective threads move into engagement during rotational make-up of the connection and form sealing surfaces that resist the flow of fluids between the threads upon rotational make-up of the connection. A section of one of the internal and external threads has the continuous groove formed in the roots thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Hydril Company
    Inventors: Doug Enderle, John Greenip
  • Patent number: 6017064
    Abstract: In a piping system having a main pipe or fitting joined to a lateral pipe, a restraint body or sling extends about the fitting or main pipe and is secured at opposite ends to the lateral pipe. The lateral pipe, main pipe or fitting and restraint body are formed of plastic material. The restraint body includes a bend intermediate its ends for wrapping about the fitting or main pipe and has arcuate sections at its ends for solvent-welding to the lateral pipe. Any tendency toward separation of the lateral pipe and the main fitting or main pipe is resisted in tension by the restraint body and the joint is stress-relieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventor: Donald W. Harrington
  • Patent number: 6012742
    Abstract: In order to improve a piping comprising at least one pipe and reinforcement on the outer wall of each pipe in such a way as to increase the maximum permissible internal operating pressure, it is proposed that the reinforcement should be capable of expansion along the length of the pipe and capable of contracting radially in such a way that a bias pressure can be applied to the pipe around its circumference by the longitudinal expansion of the reinforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Deutsche Forschungsanstalt Fuer Luft -und Raumfahrt e.V.
    Inventors: Frank Kocian, Richard Kochendoerfer
  • Patent number: 5992900
    Abstract: A packless swivel joint capable of rotation without the necessity for a mechanical drive includes a hollow tubular member provided with helical corrugations of tight pitch and a corrugation pitch to corrugation with ratio of between two to one to three to one which unwinds to the application of only internal pressure. A limit stop may be provided to limit the amount of unwinding. Annular-shaped bellows of a circular cross section can be utilized to absorb lengthening of the swivel joint in applications where lengthening is to be prevented. In one preferred embodiment, the helical corrugation is preferably continuous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Chester Markmann Heller
  • Patent number: 5927761
    Abstract: A connector assembly 10 for use with tubular conduits 30 is disclosed which is a male portion that is put into a female portion. The male portion makes use of the end of the conduit itself, and the female portion only requires a stepped bore. The seal 50, stabilizing bushings areas 34 and retainer 138 are carried on the male portion. The seal 50 may be retained on the male, and the connection may be either a quick connect or require a tool to assemble. The connection may seal the highest pressures and withstand very high forces on the male and female portions. Also disclosed is the use of this connection in a multiple port device. The connection may be completed in the depth and diameter that is allotted to a "thread-in" or "flare" connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Proprietary Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald D. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 5924742
    Abstract: A valve having a purging apparatus includes a valve body having a defined passage that is aligned along an axis of the valve body. A conduit having an axis passing downwardly through the valve body and in communication with the passage forms an angle with the axis of the valve body. A slit is formed in the valve body about the axis of the conduit to establish a housing integral with the valve body. The slit surrounds and isolates the housing and a portion of the conduit from the valve body to a given depth and includes a depth and a width such that the housing is isolated from stresses induced in the valve body. A tubular element is joined to the housing in axial alignment with the conduit and is inserted to a depth that is less than the given depth of the slit. The valve is purged through the tubular element via the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: BTR Valves S.A.
    Inventor: Guy-Laurent M. Butigieg
  • Patent number: 5915739
    Abstract: A retention device is provided for positioning and retaining an open generally cylindrical hose clamp on a selected hose. The device extends generally about a longitudinal axis and has a retainer and a locator spaced axially from the retainer in side-by-said relationship. The locator and retainer are coupled together and the locator is adapted to hold the clamp while the retainer is adapted to engage the hose to maintain the device in position on the hose. As a result, the clamp can be positioned orthogonally relative to the hose and the assembly is then ready for engagement on a rigid tubular fitting with the locator positioned on the hose remote from the tubular fitting. This permits the hose to be engaged over the tubular fitting with no direct resistance from the retention device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: ACD Tridon Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin M. Cradduck, Craig A. Senovich
  • Patent number: 5899506
    Abstract: A confining ring set suiting wider range of diameters of pipes, wherein a "C" shaped confining ring is provided at three locations thereon with three screw holes equidistantly spaced with one another, each screw hole is provided with a screw therein pointing at the center of a chamber of the confining ring, the chamber is fitted therein with an external annulus which in turn is fitted therein with an inner annulus; the external and inner annuli have "C" shaped openings, an internally extended annular rib is provided on the top of the inner annulus, and an externally extended annular rib is provided on the top of the external annulus, the annular ribs are both provided with notches thereon to scatter stress, the confining ring set having the external and inner annuli can be used to confine pipes of a wider range of diameters, for the smaller pipes, three screws on ring set and effect of confining can thus be increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Shao-Chien Tseeng
  • Patent number: 5873608
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety device which finds particular application in association with the quick disconnect assembly of a pneumatic hose. In its broadest context, the present invention includes a first hose clamp which is adapted to be removably secured to a first segment of pneumatic hose. The present invention also includes a similar second hose clamp which is adapted to be removably secured to a second segment of pneumatic hose. These two hose clamps are interconnected by way of a length of cord. When in use, the two clamps and cord prevent the first and second segments of hose from falling away from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventors: Jeffrey McClain Tharp, Marcella Tharp, legal representative