Parallel Paths Patents (Class 285/124.1)
  • Patent number: 7926853
    Abstract: A pipe joint structure includes a plurality of fluid flow path portions, a socket connected to the fluid flow path portions, a connection plate disposed to abut against the socket, a plurality of pipes connected to each other by the connection plate, and a seal member disposed between the plurality of pipes and the socket. The socket includes a connection portion that is located to cover an edge of the connection plate and to fix the plurality of pipes to the plurality of fluid flow path portions. The pipe joint structure can be suitably used for a heat exchanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: DENSO Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshiki Katoh, Mitsugu Nakamura, Arinori Shimizu, Sadayuki Kamiya, Hiroki Naganawa, Takaharu Nagoya, Takayuki Hirose
  • Patent number: 7905250
    Abstract: An adapter for use in association with upstream and downstream portions of a piping system is disclosed. The adapter includes a first chamber having an inlet adapted to receive fluid therethrough, an outlet adapted to expel fluid therefrom, and a sidewall extending therebetween defining a first chamber interior. The adapter also includes a second chamber having an inlet adapted to receive forced fluid therethrough, an outlet adapted to expel the forced fluid therefrom, and a sidewall extending therebetween defining a second chamber interior. The first chamber interior is isolated from the second chamber interior. The first chamber is adapted to receive forced fluid therethrough from an upstream portion of a piping system, and the second chamber is adapted to provide forced fluid therethrough to a downstream portion of the piping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Brad L. Noll, William M. Orr, Frank Kock
  • Patent number: 7866709
    Abstract: A crosstalk device for coupling of two exhaust lines of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine through which exhaust can flow in parallel has a housing having two inlets and two outlets that are connected so they communicate through an interior space of the housing and by which the two exhaust lines can be connected to the crosstalk device. The crosstalk device has an inexpensive design and high stability because its housing is assembled from two half-shells whose parting plane extends across the main direction of flow of the crosstalk device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: J. Eberspaecher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Arnulf Spieth, Markus Tuech, Michael Krause
  • Patent number: 7828971
    Abstract: A reverse osmosis system that includes a housing having an inlet port, a permeate port and a concentrate port. A membrane element is within the housing. The reverse osmosis system further includes (i) a first connector that is connected to the inlet port; (ii) a second connector that is connected to the permeate port; and (iii) a third connector that is connected to the concentrate port. A key is inserted between each of the first, second and third connectors. The key is configured such that the key cannot be inserted between the first, second and third connectors unless each of the first, second and third connectors is properly connected to the respective inlet, permeate and concentrate ports. In some embodiments, the key is configured such that the key cannot be removed from between each of the first, second and third connectors when there is pressure at the inlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: GE Osmonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. Kloos, Philip M. Rolchigo, Christopher J. Kurth, Chia Kung, Thomas J. Cartwright, Richard M. Reckin, Kenneth J. Sieth
  • Patent number: 7780200
    Abstract: A connecting structure for a joint member is constituted by a joint member formed from a metal material and having a hexagonal shape in cross section, which is inserted into a first port of a valve body made from a resin material. A U-shaped clip is inserted into a clip hole that confronts the first port and engages with a pin groove, which is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the joint member. In accordance therewith, axial displacement of the joint member accommodated within the first port is regulated. Further, rotational displacement of the joint member with respect to the first port, which also is formed with a hexagonal shape in cross section, is regulated while the joint member is connected with respect to the first port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kaichiro Mitsui, Kazuo Ogawa
  • Patent number: 7726699
    Abstract: Apparatus for dental treatment includes a base, a treatment unit, and a connecting piece. The treatment unit has one or more treatment instruments and one or more lines for the supply of water, air and electricity. The connecting piece is placed in between the base and the treatment unit. The treatment unit can be disconnected from and connected to the base by using the connecting piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignees: Okey Holding BV
    Inventor: Petrus Jacobus Keirsgieter
  • Patent number: 7717471
    Abstract: A hydraulic line attachment device is provided. The hydraulic line attachment device comprises a first assembly comprising a first frame constructed for holding a plurality of first hydraulic line couplers and a first coupling member; and a second assembly comprising a second frame constructed for holding a plurality of second hydraulic line couplers and a second coupling member constructed to engage the first coupling member and align the plurality of first hydraulic line couplers with the plurality of second hydraulic line couplers. At least one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member comprises an arm constructed to engage at least one of the first frame and the second frame and engage the other of the first coupling member and the second coupling member. The other of the first coupling member and the second coupling member comprises a cam that engages the arm to provide tightening of the first assembly relative to the second assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Westendorf Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Langenfeld, Matthew N. Westendorf, Neal W. Westendorf, James Curtis Stender, Mitch Gibler
  • Patent number: 7690394
    Abstract: A crossover manifold system for hot and cold water faucet pairs arranged back to back on opposite sides of a partition, the system comprising a pair of manifold tubes, wherein each tube comprises a central section; a first intermediate section and a second intermediate section, wherein each intermediate section is adjacent to and angled with respect to the central section; and a first distal section and a second distal section, wherein each distal section is adjacent to and angled with respect to the first and second intermediate sections, respectively. The first and second distal sections are approximately parallel to one another, and the manifold tubes cross over one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Graybeal
  • Publication number: 20100051262
    Abstract: A sand control screen assembly (40) is operably positionable within a wellbore (48). The sand control screen assembly (40) includes a base pipe (42) having at least one opening (60) and an internal flow path (44). A swellable material layer (46) is disposed exteriorly of the base pipe (42). A fluid collection subassembly (50) is disposed exteriorly of the swellable material layer (46). The fluid collection subassembly (50) is in fluid communication with the internal flow path (44). A filter medium (62) is operably associated with the sand control screen assembly (40) and is disposed in a fluid path between the exterior of the sand control screen assembly (40) and the internal flow path (44). In response to contact with an activating fluid, radial expansion of the swellable material layer (46) causes at least a portion of the fluid collection subassembly (50) to contact the wellbore (48).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Ronald G. Dusterhoft, Kim Vance Thornton, Carl Bismark Ferguson, Floyd Randolph Simonds, Tommy Frank Grigsby, William Mark Richards, Luke William Holderman
  • Patent number: 7648392
    Abstract: A connector apparatus for connecting an air supply unit and a mattress or cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenith W. Chambers, John Boyd Havener, Terry J. Stratman
  • Patent number: 7625014
    Abstract: A connector includes a rear body portion and a front body portion. The front side of the rear body portion, and the front body portion disposed therearound, are for fluidly coupling to first and second sources of pressurized fluids in a co-axial manner. The rear side of the rear body portion is for fluidly coupling to first and second destinations of the pressurized fluids in an adjacent manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Alcon, Inc.
    Inventor: Denis P. Turner
  • Patent number: 7584764
    Abstract: A method of fluidly connecting coaxially aligned first and second couplings (50, 130), wherein the both couplings (50, 130) have an inner high pressure passage (26) and a coaxial outer lower pressure passage (53). Initially the first coupling inner high pressure passage (26) is fluidly connected with the first outer lower pressure passage (53) while isolating the second coupling inner high pressure passage (166) and the coaxial outer lower pressure passage (151). Then the first coupling inner high pressure passage (26) and one of the second coupling inner and outer passages (166, 151) is fluidly connected with the first coupling coaxial outer lower pressure passage (53) while isolating the other of the second coupling inner and outer passages (166, 151).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Ojars Maldavs
  • Patent number: 7469932
    Abstract: A stationary receptor for a separation module is positioned between a pump housing and the separation module. The stationary receptor has a pivot line and two shelves on its outer surface which permit fitting the separation module into the stationary receptor adjacent the pump housing. The separation module has a housing, a filter within the housing and at least one outlet and one inlet, which are positioned to mate with fittings of the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: J Karl Niermeyer, Marc Laverdiere, Ralph J. Stankowski, Joseph Smith
  • Patent number: 7464507
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for protecting pipe ends that project upwardly during building construction and for reducing the safety hazard posed by such pipe ends. The devices include a rigid body suitable for positioning on a base on which concrete will be poured, having two opposed end walls, two opposed side walls, a recess therebetween, a top end, a bottom end, and a lateral tab extending from at least one end wall. A shield is securable to at least one side wall for protecting the pipe ends during later construction. In two embodiments, a plate positioned at the bottom end has an opening dimensionally and spatially configured to correspond to each pipe end requiring protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Zierer Investment Enterprises LLC
    Inventor: Donald R. Zierer
  • Patent number: 7464967
    Abstract: A hydraulic quick coupling is described for the coupling of structural components. Two interacting quick-coupling parts are provided which are arranged respectively on the structural components, one quick-coupling part having at least one guide bolt which can engage in a centering bore of the quick-coupling part lying opposite it, each quick-coupling part being provided with coupling plugs or coupling sleeves for the connection of the hydraulic lines, and at least one quick-coupling part being arranged movably on one structural component in order to connect or separate the two quick-coupling parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Liebherr-Hydraulikbagger GmbH
    Inventors: Rolf Mieger, Thomas Zitterbart
  • Patent number: 7425021
    Abstract: A pipe is received through a through hole of a connector. A bulged portion of the pipe is press fitted into a recess of the connector located at a first side of the connector and a retaining member is located at a second side of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: DENSO Corporation
    Inventors: Satoru Yamanashi, Shun Kurata
  • Publication number: 20080197623
    Abstract: A hydraulic system, comprising a housing (1) on which a first and second connecting member (30,50) are fitted, for connecting the first and the second line respectively The first and the second line are provided with a first and a second insertion fitting (20,40) respectively, each connecting member (30,50) having a body (31,51) with an insertion bore (32,52) for an insertion fitting (20,40), which insertion bore (32,52) extends from an insertion side, and each connecting member (30,50) further comprising an elastic locking member (35,55). The part of the insertion bore (32,52) of each connecting member (30,50) extending between the insertion side and the locking member (35,55) forms a coding part (37,57), in which the coding part (37) of the first connecting member (30) differs with regard to one or more dimensions thereof from the coding part (57) of the second connecting member (50).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Tone Oudelaar, Ivo Schasfoort
  • Patent number: 7401753
    Abstract: The invention recites an exhaust pipe clamp for clamping at least two pipes. The clamp includes a band formed to at least partially surround each of the two pipes, the band defining an internal volume. A reaction block is interconnected with the band and disposed substantially within the internal volume. The exhaust clamp also includes a clamping member operable to reduce the internal volume of the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Bozmoski, Brian Campbell
  • Patent number: 7399003
    Abstract: A plurality of cylindrical port defining portions project from a passage defining member defining a plurality of passages. A supply line defining body defining a plurality of supply lines is formed of an elastic member. The supply line defining body includes a plurality of openings each communicating with a corresponding one of the liquid supply lines. Each of the port defining portions extends perpendicularly to the direction in which each of the passages extends. Each of the openings extends perpendicular to the direction in which each of the liquid supply lines extends. A securing member fastens the port defining portions with respect to the corresponding openings collectively, by applying fastening force to the passage defining member and the supply line defining body in the axial direction of each port defining portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Atsushi Kobayashi, Toshio Kumagai, Yoshiharu Aruga, Izumi Nozawa
  • Patent number: 7367101
    Abstract: A filler pipe for introducing a fuel from a fuel inlet to a fuel tank. Connected to the filler pipe 10 is a bracket 14, which has a cross-section of a “hat” shape and is constructed by bottom wall portions 14-1 located at its ends and is under a face to face contact with an outer surface of the filler pipe 10 and an upper wall portion 14-3 located between the bottom wall portions 14-1 and spaced from the opposite outer surface of the filler pipe 10. The bottom wall portions 14-1 are welded to the opposed surface of the filler pipe. The bracket 14 has a wing part 14-5 extending integrally from the upper wall part 14-3 and having a free end 14-5? welded to the opposed surface of a breather pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Unipres Corporation
    Inventors: Yukikazu Takahashi, Nobuhide Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7347455
    Abstract: A piping riser protector for protectively covering the end portion of a riser assembly that includes a larger diameter central pipe and a plurality of smaller diameter peripheral pipes connected by a flange includes a polymeric body that protectively covers inner and outer surfaces of an end portion of the larger diameter pipe and provides enclosures that cover the exposed end portion of the smaller diameter pipe sections in between the end of each smaller diameter pipe section and the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Inventor: Weldon Taquino
  • Patent number: 7311882
    Abstract: A manifold for connecting external capillaries to the inlet and/or outlet ports of a microfluidic device for high pressure applications is provided. The fluid connector for coupling at least one fluid conduit to a corresponding port of a substrate that includes: (i) a manifold comprising one or more channels extending therethrough wherein each channel is at least partially threaded, (ii) one or more threaded ferrules each defining a bore extending therethrough with each ferrule supporting a fluid conduit wherein each ferrule is threaded into a channel of the manifold, (iii) a substrate having one or more ports on its upper surface wherein the substrate is positioned below the manifold so that the one or more ports is aligned with the one or more channels of the manifold, and (iv) means for applying an axial compressive force to the substrate to couple the one or more ports of the substrate to a corresponding proximal end of a fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Sandia National Laboratories
    Inventor: Ronald F. Renzi
  • Patent number: 7311337
    Abstract: A housing structure is provided having at least two housing sections each provided for covering and/or closing a hydraulic coupling, particularly for dust protection. A first hydraulic coupling is disposed above a second hydraulic coupling, preferably in a vehicle or tool, such as a commercial agricultural or industrial vehicle. A housing section has an opening that is reversibly sealable with a closing element and through which a counterpart of a hydraulic coupling can be inserted to create a hydraulic connection. The housing structure has an area disposed below for collecting leaking fluid. Retaining means are provided for each reversibly sealable opening by which the escape of leaking fluid from the respective opening is largely preventable. Wetting of the hydraulic coupling with leaking fluid and the escape of leaking fluid from the opening of the housing structure is avoided by simple structural means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Martin Trinler, Sascha Wendel
  • Patent number: 7311338
    Abstract: A modular chemical handling apparatus has a first component coupled to a second component. The first component is retained proximate to the second component by a locking mechanism. Fluid conduit connection devices and/or electrical connection devices in the first component are coupled to corresponding conduit connection devices and/or electrical connection devices in the second component by couplers. At least one laterally sliding lock shaft is employed for coupling the first module to the second module and for decoupling the first module from the second module. In one embodiment, counterweights are used to maintain the sliding lock shaft and each of the connection devices in the fully coupled position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Parsons Corporation
    Inventor: James Osterloh
  • Patent number: 7305830
    Abstract: In a gas turbine engine, a fuel inlet tube comprising a body, a channel defined in the body and in fluid communication with a manifold, and a side inlet in fluid communication with the channel, the side inlet being sealingly isolated by at least two annular sealing members concentric with each other and disposed about the tube body at longitudinally spaced part points thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventor: Jason Fish
  • Patent number: 7299823
    Abstract: A connector (1) connects an air-inflatable mattress (4) which alternately inflatable cells (11, 12) to a pump. Air-supply lines (13, 14) from the pump are attached to male parts (2) of connector (1). Air-supply lines (15, 16) from mattress (4) connect to passages (17, 18) of female parts (3) of the connector (1). When the male parts (2) and the female parts (3) are engaged, supply lines (13, 14) are in fluid communication with fluid lines (15, 16) via passages (17, 18) in the female part (3). When the male parts (2) are removed from the connector (1) to disconnect the air supply, one-way valves (7) seal the air-supply lines (13, 14) and expose a cross-connect port (8) in interconnecting the female part passages (17, 18). Thus cells (11, 12) are interconnected and the pressure is equalized throughout the mattress (4). The invention provides a self-sealing automatic transport mode connection system upon disengagement of the male parts (2) from the mattress (4), thus eliminating user error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventor: Anthony George Smith
  • Patent number: 7226089
    Abstract: A jacketed pipe flange (10) for connection to an end of an inner pipe (12) and to an end of a jacketed outer pipe (14) surrounding the inner pipe includes a central throughport (16) for mating with the inner pipe. The first annular sealing surface (18) surrounds a central throughport for sealing fluid within the inner pipe, a second annular sealing surface (20) surrounds the first sealing surface, and a third annular sealing surface (22) surrounds the second annular sealing surface for sealing fluid in the jacketed outer pipe from the exterior of the flange. An annular gap (24) separates the first and second sealing surfaces, and a test port (26) fluidly connects the annular gap with an exterior port in the flange. A plurality of axially extending throughports (34) in the flange between the second and third sealing surfaces pass fluid through the jacketed outer pipe and the flange to downstream components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph Wilkinson, III
  • Patent number: 7223262
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of connectors for connecting a container with a fluid preparation device for preparing a fluid, in particular a container with a concentrate for the preparation of dialysis fluid. In order to simplify the handling during both the manufacturing process of such containers and the connection of such containers to the fluid preparation devices, the invention proposes a design of a connector (1) for connecting a first and second fluid line of the container with a third and fourth fluid line of the fluid preparation device with two lateraly spaced-apart mounting means (2, 4) which each incorporate one of two orifices (3, 5) terminating the first and second fluid lines. The invention also concerns a corresponding container and fluid preparation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Winfried Brehm, Thierry Dupin, Ilona Eggert, Thomas Faulhaber, Thomas Graf, Philippe Laffay
  • Patent number: 7195283
    Abstract: A tubular connection for centering a tube within a female connecting block that has a throughbore with a chamfer, wherein a transition surface is defined between the chamfer and the throughbore. The tube has an upset bead, a tapered portion narrowing from the upset bead, and an end-form extending from the tapered portion, the end-form having an annular groove with an O-ring therein. The connection further includes a device for securing the tube within the female connecting block whereby the upset bead of the tube is caused to abut the female connecting block. The tube locates inside the female connecting block such that the end-form seals via the O-ring inside the throughbore of the female connecting block and the tapered portion of the tube sealingly engages against the transition surface of the female connecting block to keep the tube centered within the female connecting block and to form a secondary fluid-tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Hutchinson, FTS, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry H. Chisnell
  • Patent number: 7185490
    Abstract: An exhaust manifold has a head flange constructed for receiving at least two exhaust pipes arranged side-by-side, and includes spaced apart first and second longitudinal flange portions. A mounting assembly is provided for sealingly securing the exhaust manifold to a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine and includes a mounting rail formed with a shoulder which laps over the first longitudinal flange portion and contacts the first longitudinal flange portion in a spring-elastic manner. Plural screw fasteners at least indirectly clamp the second longitudinal flange portion to the cylinder head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Benteler Automobil Technik GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Smatloch, Wilfried Rostek, Graham Bush
  • Patent number: 7182371
    Abstract: A manifold for connecting external capillaries to the inlet and/or outlet ports of a microfluidic device for high pressure applications is provided. The fluid connector for coupling at least one fluid conduit to a corresponding port of a substrate that includes: (i) a manifold comprising one or more channels extending therethrough wherein each channel is at least partially threaded, (ii) one or more threaded ferrules each defining a bore extending therethrough with each ferrule supporting a fluid conduit wherein each ferrule is threaded into a channel of the manifold, (iii) a substrate having one or more ports on its upper surface wherein the substrate is positioned below the manifold so that the one or more ports is aligned with the one or more channels of the manifold, and (iv) device to apply an axial compressive force to the substrate to couple the one or more ports of the substrate to a corresponding proximal end of a fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Sandia National Laboratories
    Inventor: Ronald F. Renzi
  • Patent number: 7175207
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting element for efficiently connecting components and subassemblies with the most diverse configurations to wall, ceiling and floor surfaces of buildings or frames. The connecting element has two coupling halves (1a, 1b) that can be interconnected by jointing and can be fixed to components or subassemblies to be connected by fixing means. The coupling halves and the fixing means are proportioned to guarantee that the connected components or subassemblies maintain a predetermined mechanically stable state during the exertion of operational forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Frank Prochiner
  • Patent number: 7163237
    Abstract: A separation module is provided having a housing, a filter within the housing and at least one outlet and one inlet. The outlet and inlet are positioned to mate with fittings of a pump housing. A stationary receptor positioned between the pump housing and the separation module has a pivot line and two shelves on its outer surface which permit fitting the separation module in a stationary receptor adjacent the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: J Karl Niermeyer, Marc Laverdiere, Ralph J. Stankowski, Joseph Smith
  • Patent number: 7152885
    Abstract: A connection structure of a multi-channel tube with branching tubes is provided with a multi-channel tube having an end, the multi-channel tube including; an outer tube; a partition being formed in a unitary body and running parallel with the outer tube, the partition partitioning an interior of the outer tube into two or more channel holes; and a passage formed at an end of the partition, the passage linking the channel holes; two or more branching tubes respectively inserted into the channel holes to an insertion depth greater than a depth of the passage measured from the end of the multi-channel tube; and brazing material spreading beyond the passage over clearances between the multi-channel tube and the branching tubes and connecting the multi-channel tube and the branching tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Calsonic Kansei Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Takamatsu, Hiromi Takasaki, Susumu Satou
  • Patent number: 7073825
    Abstract: A fluid pressure apparatus is formed of a fluid pressure device including a plurality of ports opening in rows on its one end face and a pipe joint assembly in which a plurality of quick-type pipe joints are retained by a joint holder in the same arrangement as the respective ports of the fluid pressure device, in rows. Pipes from respective actuators are connected to the respective pipe joints in advance. After the actuators and the fluid pressure device are installed, the respective pipe joints of the pipe joint assembly are inserted into the corresponding ports of the fluid pressure device to thereby connect the pipes to the respective ports of the fluid pressure device by one operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Hideyuki Takada, Bunya Hayashi, Yukihiro Matarai
  • Patent number: 7052051
    Abstract: A quick-coupling device having a support (18) on which a female member (20) is mounted in a manner to move between a position of retaining a male member (14E) in a position fitted into the female member (20) to a position of releasing the male member (14E) from the female member (20). This device has a lever (24) articulated to the support (18) between a rest position, wherein the lever (24) is separated from the female member (20), to a position of collaboration that allows the female member (20) to be driven toward a position to allow the male member (14E) to be released. The lever (24) includes structure (26) for guiding the male member (14E) in such a way as to encourage guidance of the male member (14E) to mate with the female member (20) when the lever (24) is in the rest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Francois Gaffe, Remi Demerssemann, Philippe Come
  • Patent number: 7037424
    Abstract: A connector apparatus is provided which is configured to replace a separation module in a system for dispensing a fluid. When it is desired to purge the system of a dispensed fluid, the connector apparatus, having the same configuration of an inlet and an outlet as the separation module, replaces the separation module and a purging fluid is passed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Mykrolis Corporation
    Inventors: J. Karl Niermeyer, Gastón de los Reyes, Christopher R. Wargo, Richard L. Miller, Stephen K. Guerrera
  • Patent number: 7028484
    Abstract: A multiple conduit system for a gas turbine engine, the multiple conduit system extending between a plurality of conduit inlet and outlets. A channel is formed in a surface of a gas turbine engine component, and the channel is adapted for conveying a fluid flow from an inlet to an outlet. At least a first sealing member is disposed within the channel and divides the channel into at least a first discrete conduit and a second discrete conduit. A second sealing member encloses the channel to define the second discrete conduit. The first and second discrete conduits are each adapted to direct an independent fluid flow from respective inlets to respective outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Lev Alexander Prociw, Harris Shafique, John Sokalski, Claude Raymond Pelletier
  • Patent number: 7021667
    Abstract: A connector apparatus is configured to replace a separation module in a system for dispensing a fluid. When it is desired to purge the system of a dispensed fluid, the connector apparatus, having the same configuration of an inlet and an outlet as the separation module, replaces the separation module and a purging fluid is passed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Mykrolis Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Campbell, J. Karl Niermeyer, Gastón de los Reyes, Christopher R. Wargo, Richard L. Miller, Stephen K. Guerrera
  • Patent number: 7021670
    Abstract: A joint for joining a double pipe, which is provided with an outer pipe for transfer of a first fluid, and an inner pipe for transfer of a second fluid. The joint is provided with a flange including a first through bore and a second through bore, a branch portion and a connection pipe having a first end and a second end, the first end being brazed with the inner pipe of the double pipe and the second connection portion being inserted into the second through bore and defining a second portion for connection of the second circuit pipe, whereby the connection pipe transfers second fluid between the second circuit pipe and the outer pipe of the double pipe. The branch portion is provided with a first connection portion for connection of the first circuit pipe, the first connection portion being inserted into the first through bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Calsonic Kansei Corporation
    Inventors: Hiromi Takasaki, Yoshikazu Takamatsu, Koji Murayama
  • Patent number: 7021668
    Abstract: A hydraulic line attachment device is provided. The hydraulic line attachment device comprises a first assembly comprising a first frame constructed for holding a plurality of first hydraulic line couplers and a first coupling member; and a second assembly comprising a second frame constructed for holding a plurality of second hydraulic line couplers and a second coupling member constructed to engage the first coupling member and align the plurality of first hydraulic line couplers with the plurality of second hydraulic line couplers. At least one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member comprises an arm constructed to engage at least one of the first frame and the second frame and engage the other of the first coupling member and the second coupling member. The other of the first coupling member and the second coupling member comprises a cam that engages the arm to provide tightening of the first assembly relative to the second assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Westendorf Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Langenfeld, Matthew N. Westerndorf, Neal W. Westerndorf, James Curtis Stender, Mitch Gibler
  • Patent number: 6926311
    Abstract: A quick connector connects a pump and a fluid container is disclosed. The quick connector includes an upper component, a lower component, at least a telescopic tube, a connector body, and a soft cover. The upper component includes a first groove and a first buckle on one side thereof. The lower component has a second grove and a second buckle at locations corresponding to the first buckle and the first groove of the upper component, so that the upper component can be fitted to the lower component with the buckles and grooves. The telescopic tube is fitted between the upper component and the lower component to fasten the two components, and is connected to the fluid container at one end. The connector body includes an inner tube corresponding to the telescopic tube, and at least a movable board. The inner tube is partially overlaid inside telescopic tube, and is connected to the pump at one end. The movable board is fitted to the connector body with a turning shaft, and is rotary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Apex Medical Corp.
    Inventors: Kai-Hsiang Chang, Po-Jen Hsueh
  • Patent number: 6893052
    Abstract: A connecting arrangement for coolant lines includes a first coupling piece, connected seal-tight to a first line endpiece, and a second coupling piece, connected seal-tight to a second line endpiece. The coupling pieces each have radially extending sealing surfaces on the side facing toward the other coupling piece. A sealing ring is mounted between the sealing surfaces. The coupling pieces are joined to each other via a screw arranged laterally offset from the sealing surfaces so the line endpieces connect to each other via respective bores in the coupling pieces. A form body between the coupling pieces arranged at a spacing from the screw on the side facing away from the sealing surfaces is configured so a lever action occurs when the coupling pieces are joined to each other leading to a uniform pressing together of the sealing ring between the sealing surfaces of the coupling pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: ContiTech Kuehner GmbH & Cie. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Wildermuth, Mike Eismann
  • Patent number: 6890005
    Abstract: A tubular connection for centering a tube within a female connecting block that has a throughbore with a chamfer, wherein a transition surface is defined between the chamfer and the throughbore. The tube has an upset bead, a tapered portion narrowing from the upset bead, and an end-form extending from the tapered portion, the end-form having an annular groove with an O-ring therein. The connection further includes a device for securing the tube within the female connecting block whereby the upset bead of the tube is caused to abut the female connecting block. The tube locates inside the female connecting block such that the end-form seals via the O-ring inside the throughbore of the female connecting block and the tapered portion of the tube sealingly engages against the transition surface of the female connecting block to keep the tube centered within the female connecting block and to form a secondary fluid-tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Hutchinson FTS, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry H. Chisnell
  • Patent number: 6871878
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention is a make-break connector for use, for example, with a heat exchanger, which make-break connector includes: (a) two or more connectors; and (b) a make-break mechanism affixed to one of the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Cool Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. J. Miros
  • Patent number: 6860290
    Abstract: A rapid coupling system for establishing a connection of at least two pressurized lines in a pressure sealed manner is provided. A first coupling plug element has an operating mechanism, including a journal, in a connecting block thereof. A second coupling socket element is adapted to be connected to the first coupling element in a pressure sealed manner. A control unit is arranged in a socket element connecting block and includes a displaceable plunger having at least one cam. A pressure relief unit is connectable to at least one of the pressure lines via a pressure relief connection. When the first and second coupling elements are connected to one another, the journal of the operating mechanism displaces the control plunger, causing at least one cam of the control plunger to engage the pressure relief unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Tema Marketing AG
    Inventor: Per Knuthson
  • Patent number: 6860516
    Abstract: A channel tube coupling structure for an anti-pollution type endoscope which can easily and smoothly couple a multi-lumen type channel tube extending from a base end of an outer sheath with tubes on a side of the endoscope and separate the multi-lumen type channel tube therefrom. At a side surface in a vicinity of the base end of the channel tube, side holes communicate with a plurality of tubes that are formed so as to be shifted from one another in an axial direction. A coupling hole, where the base end portion of the channel tube is loosely inserted thereinto and freely removed therefrom, provides a space in a radial direction between the channel tube and the coupling hole. Annular sealing members are provided which seal portions between the respective side holes, in a state where the base end portion of the channel tube is inserted into the coupling hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Teruo Ouchi, Kazuyuki Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6835310
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for using various types of coupling system to connect together a tube (2) and a filter housing (3). According to the invention, the device comprises: a head plate (21) independent of the type of coupling system, the head plate being fixed to the housing (3) and being provided with passages (22) opening out into a bearing face (23) of the head plate; for each backing-plate (Pi) of given type, a first bearing face (25) complementary to the bearing face (23) of the head plate (21) and a second bearing face (29) adapted to co-operate with a flange (B1) of corresponding type; a sealing gasket (28) interposed between the first bearing face (25) of a backing-plate (Pi) of a given type and the head plate (21); and releasable connection means (30) between the head plate (21) and each backing-plate (P1) of a given type in order to provide sealing between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Technologies Avancees & Membranes Industrielles
    Inventor: Philippe Lescoche
  • Patent number: 6832787
    Abstract: A manifold for connecting external capillaries to the inlet and/or outlet ports of a microfluidic device for high pressure applications is provided. The fluid connector for coupling at least one fluid conduit to a corresponding port of a substrate that includes: (i) a manifold comprising one or more channels extending therethrough wherein each channel is at least partially threaded, (ii) one or more threaded ferrules each defining a bore extending therethrough with each ferrule supporting a fluid conduit wherein each ferrule is threaded into a channel of the manifold, (iii) a substrate having one or more ports on its upper surface wherein the substrate is positioned below the manifold so that the one or more ports is aligned with the one or more channels of the manifold, and (iv) device to apply an axial compressive force to the substrate to couple the one or more ports of the substrate to a corresponding proximal end of a fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Sandia National Laboratories
    Inventor: Ronald F. Renzi
  • Publication number: 20040217586
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in identifying or distinguishing at least one substance or article associated with the apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a translucent body and an identification formation. The translucent body is for defining or engaging an opening. The identification formation is embedded in the translucent body in a predetermined relationship with the opening. At least one characteristic of the identification band is visible through the translucent body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Mastropaolo