With Frangible Or Deformable Element Patents (Class 285/2)
  • Patent number: 11572151
    Abstract: A drain configured to evacuate leaks of fluid, such as fuel, from a leak collecting system of an aircraft, the drain comprising a rigid tube secured to a plate, the plate being configured to be attached to an external wall of the aircraft, a flexible pipe configured to join the collecting system to the rigid tube, one end of the flexible pipe being received within the rigid tube. The rigid tube comprises a channel, the channel being configured to allow separation of the rigid tube from the plate at the location of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS SAS
    Inventors: Gerard Millet, Bruno Alquier
  • Patent number: 11262010
    Abstract: A quick connect connection assembly, including a quick connect, including a first end, a second end, a first radially outward facing surface, a first radially inward facing surface, a second radially inward facing surface, and at least one aperture extending from the first radially outward facing surface to the first radially inward facing surface, and an indicator tab operatively arranged to be removably secured to the quick connect, the indicator tab including at least one arm, wherein the at least one arm is arranged to extend through the at least one aperture and radially inward from the first radially inward facing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: Oetiker NY, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristian Hagen, Thomas Hall
  • Patent number: 11230883
    Abstract: A tubular electromechanical actuator includes an electric motor, a housing, a closure element and a crown. The housing includes a first end and a second end. The closure element is configured to close off the second end of the housing and includes indentations configured to engage with recesses in the housing. The crown is arranged at least around the housing and at the second end of the housing. The crown is a monobloc part and includes clearances and a stop. The clearances of the crown are configured to engage with the indentations of the closure element. The stop is configured to engage with the indentations of the closure element, following the assembly of the crown with the closure element and a rotational movement of the crown relative to the closure element, so as to block the translation of the crown with respect to the closure element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: SOMFY ACTIVITES SA
    Inventors: Marc Sonzini, Florian Doche
  • Patent number: 11187560
    Abstract: A traverse mechanism for measuring flow characteristics in a fluid flow path is provided. The traverse mechanism includes a rotating member configured to rotate 360 degrees about an axis in a circumferential direction. The traverse mechanism also includes a probe coupled to the rotating member. The probe extends in a radial direction relative to the axis through a portion the rotating member into the fluid flow path. Rotation of the rotating member enables the probe to map or measure one or more flow characteristic in the fluid flow path 360 degrees about the axis in the circumferential direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Bala Muralidhar Singh Bahadur, Joshy John, Srinivas Rao Pakkala
  • Patent number: 11111735
    Abstract: A downhole tool for connecting with a conveyance line. The downhole tool includes a first body and a second body. The first body and second body are connected together, wherein the first body is operable to move with respect to the second body when a predetermined tension is applied to the line from a wellsite surface to cause the downhole tool to release the line. The first body and second body may be connected together via a plurality of pins, wherein the pins are configured to break when the predetermined tension is applied to the line from the wellsite surface to cause the downhole tool to release the line. The downhole tool may comprises a line end termination device operable to connect with the line. The line end termination device is operable to release the line when the predetermined tension is applied to the line from the wellsite surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignee: Impact Selector International, LLC
    Inventors: James Patrick Massey, Brandon Martin
  • Patent number: 10808767
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a main shaft of a wind turbine with mounting segments. The main shaft includes a shaft portion and a disc portion. The disc portion includes a coupling surface, a hollow portion, and an alignment portion. The alignment portion is characterized by one or more mounting segments coupled with the alignment portion. The mounting segments are configured to align a component of the wind turbine with the central axis of the main shaft. Further, the one or more mounting segments are coupled to the alignment portion using at least one fastening device. The mounting segments have a thickness ‘t’ that may be constant or varied based on the component 32 of the wind turbine coupled to the main shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: SIEMENS GAMESA RENEWABLE ENERGY A/S
    Inventors: Srinivas Ratna Kosuri, Martin Moeskjaer, C. Gangadhara Reddy
  • Patent number: 10753421
    Abstract: A damping valve device for a vibration damper includes a first damping valve that moves into a through-flow operating position in a first operating range with increasing flow velocity of a damping medium. A second operating range with a progressive damping force characteristic is influenced by a throttle point in connection with a valve body that can be transferred into a throttle position. The valve body moves in closing direction with increasing flow velocity of the damping medium and is arranged in series with the damping valve. The valve body is constructed as a ring element with variable diameter that executes a radial closing movement in direction of a flow guide surface in which a defined minimum passage cross section is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Jörg Rösseler, Aleksandar Knezevic, Benjamin Thiessen
  • Patent number: 10738542
    Abstract: An apparatus for temporarily connecting a first tool part to a second tool part of a tool includes a plurality of frangible members connecting the first tool part to the second tool part. The frangible members break only after being subjected to a predetermined applied force. The frangible members cooperate to differentially resist loading applied to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Baker Hughes, a GE Company, LLC
    Inventors: Mark K. Adam, Mahmoud M. Marzouk, Christopher R. Hern
  • Patent number: 10669700
    Abstract: A wireless communication electronics storage apparatus that stores wireless communication electronics at a fire hydrant and provides access for electronic connections of the wireless communication electronics to sensors located within the fire hydrant at a main valve below ground level, and a method of mounting wireless communication electronics to a fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Kennedy Valve Company
    Inventor: Arne Feyling
  • Patent number: 10418742
    Abstract: A connector-assembly includes a connector-housing and a primary-lock-reinforcement device. The connector-housing retains electrical-terminals within terminal-cavities defined by a terminal-tower disposed within the connector-housing. The electrical-terminals mate with one or more corresponding electrical-terminals along a mating-axis of the connector-assembly. The primary-lock-reinforcement device slideably engages the terminal-tower and is moveable from a shipping-position to a pre-stage-position. The primary-lock-reinforcement device has a base and a skirt. The primary-lock-reinforcement device has a post extending beyond an inner-surface of the skirt that engages a corresponding L-shaped slot defined by an outer-surface of the terminal-tower. The corresponding L-shaped slot has a first-leg and a second-leg. The first-leg defines a wall configured to inhibit a movement of the primary-lock-reinforcement device along the mating-axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Carlos A. Gonzalez Delgadillo, Jorge I. Escamilla Rodriguez, Pedro Yabur Pacheco
  • Patent number: 9651172
    Abstract: A low profile rotatable adjustable segmented clamp device having a substantially flat rotatable surface composed of individual segments having adjustable fasteners sequentially connecting the individual elements to form the rotatable adjustable segmented clamp. The low profile and rotatability of the clamp is achieved for by having each adjustable fastener disposed within the outer perimeter of the rotatable adjustable clamp. As a consequence of its low horizontal and vertical profile the rotatable adjustable clamp prevents failure of municipal water main valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Neal McNamee, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9580975
    Abstract: The invention relates a cylinder release arrangement, wherein at least one cylinder is arranged with a piston within the cylinder, and a cylinder head closing off one end of the cylinder, forming a chamber between the piston and the cylinder head, wherein the cylinder is provided to arrange a leakage of fluid from one side of a piston to the other side of the piston, when the piston is in a given position within the cylinder, and release means are provided for the subsequently controlled release of the cylinder head from the cylinder. The invention also comprises a cylinder arrangement with a release mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea AS
    Inventors: Hans-Paul Carlsen, Tor-Øystein Carlsen, Olav Inderberg, Anthony D. Muff, Arild Sundkvist, Pål Fadum, Roy Arne Klevstad, Thor-Arne Løvland, Simen Rønne, Geir Tandberg, Bernt Olav Tømmermo
  • Patent number: 9551325
    Abstract: A wind turbine flange connection between a hub and a nacelle of the wind turbine, a wind turbine, a wind turbine hub and a wind turbine nacelle is provided. The hub of the wind turbine comprises a first flange and the nacelle of the wind turbine comprises a second flange. The first flange and the second flange are connected to each other by a number of connection means, to transfer forces between the first flange and the second flange. The first flange comprises a plurality of holes and the second flange comprises a plurality of holes corresponding to the holes in the first flange. Shear pins are arranged in the holes in the flanges to transfer rotational forces between the hub and the nacelle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Henning Ebbesen, Akhilesh Shukla
  • Patent number: 9477049
    Abstract: Lockable connection assemblies including lockable connection components are described. A lockable connection assembly may include an assembly for connecting components in an electrical or communication system, such as a fiber optic communication network. The lockable connection assemblies may include a connector (for example, a plug) and an adapter configured to be connected together, for example, using a bayonet-type connection. The components of the lockable connection assemblies may include elements configured to prevent the connector from unintentionally disconnecting from the adapter. For instance, the connector may include a locking nut configured to engage and lock a coupling nut connected to the adapter from rotating and disconnecting from the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: Senko Advanced Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Gniadek, Yuki Nishiguchi, Kazu Takano
  • Patent number: 9401560
    Abstract: A downsized, high-power, single-pole electrical connector is disclosed. The connector employs an insulating axial positioner between two rigid insulators, such that the insulating axial positioner maintains proper internal axial alignment while allowing for use of a smaller outer shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated (Delaware)
    Inventor: Charles David Gilliam
  • Patent number: 9353602
    Abstract: A riser weak link in a riser connects a floating installation or vessel to a hydrocarbon well on the seabed. The weak link includes a first riser part in the form of an upper housing for connecting to a riser upper section; a second riser part in the form of a lower housing for connecting to a riser lower section, wherein one riser part is arranged to extend into the other riser part; and connection devices for releasably connecting the upper and lower housings. The weak link includes a first connection device arranged to fail if a tensile force on the first and second riser parts exceeds a first threshold force, and that the weak link includes a second connection device arranged to fail if a compressive force on the first and second riser parts exceeds a second threshold force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: STATOIL PETROLEUM AS
    Inventor: Christian Andreas Kongshem
  • Patent number: 9322225
    Abstract: A weak link (17, 43) for a riser system comprising a pin (2, 25) and a box (1, 24), bolts (11, 34) for releasably connecting the pin (2, 25) and the box (1, 24), the bolts being designed to break at a predefined tension. The link further comprising a pressure balancing mechanism for balancing axial forces acting on the bolts (11, 34) due to end cap effect. The weak link also comprises a strong mode mechanism and a dampening mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: AKer Subsea AS
    Inventors: Knut Møgedal, Kristian Guttulsrud, David Brown, Jonas Åkerlund
  • Patent number: 9169699
    Abstract: A technique facilitates a variety of well services. A tubing string is provided with a latch assembly having a lower latch assembly portion, an upper latch assembly portion, and a latch mandrel. The latch mandrel comprises a weakened region disposed in a housing of the latch assembly. Additionally, a release mechanism may be employed to facilitate release of the upper latch assembly portion from the lower latch assembly portion upon separating the latch mandrel at the weakened region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Gary Rytlewski
  • Publication number: 20140306443
    Abstract: A vessel, such as a rocket motor tube, comprised of an insert, and a joint that allows the insert to decouple from the vessel to relieve pressure when subjected to excessive temperatures and/or a predetermined temperature or temperature range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: General Dynamics-OTS, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew D. Diehl, Eric Michael Schneck, Gregory Norman Bogan
  • Patent number: 8783729
    Abstract: A coupling system including a coupling for fastening to one end of a pipe via a fastening connection is provided. The coupling system includes a safety fastener device in the form of a sleeve surrounding the fastening connection and having a first end for welding to the pipe, and a hook-forming second end for co-operating with the coupling in such a manner that the hook is suitable for providing fastening between the coupling and the pipe in the event of the fastening connection is damaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Turbomeca
    Inventors: Benoit Michel Bernard Vincent Auzias, Francis Jean Criado, Gerald Andre Charles Senger
  • Patent number: 8668229
    Abstract: A contamination resistant connecting system includes, a first conduit, a first connector in operable communication with the first conduit, a first seal configured to seal at least part of the first connector from an environment, a second conduit operationally connectable with the first conduit, a second connector in operable communication with the second conduit that is operationally connectable with the first connector and a second seal configured to seal at least part of the second connector from an environment. Additionally, at least one piercing device is configured to pierce through the first seal and the second seal to allow operational connection of the first conduit with the second conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Carl W. Stoesz, Luis E. Mendez
  • Patent number: 8505633
    Abstract: A coupling to serve as a logging head or other downhole weakpoint assembly. The coupling is configured with a variety of internal tensile members. The individual members and load bearing capacities of each may be selectively engaged in a variety of combinations so as to provide a host of different load bearing capacities to the weakpoint coupling. Such selectable engagement is achieved through the dialing of a key by the user without the need to add or remove any load bearing features from the coupling. Thus, the user-friendly nature of the coupling is enhanced and the possibility of the user leaving behind supplemental load bearing tensile members for change-out is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: L. Michael McKee
  • Patent number: 8459699
    Abstract: A coupling system including a coupling for fastening to one end of a pipe via a fastening connection; and a sleeve surrounding the fastening connection is disclosed. The sleeve includes a first end for welding to the pipe, and a hook-forming second end for co-operating with the coupling in such a manner that the hook is suitable for providing fastening between the coupling and the pipe in the event of the fastening connection being damaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Turbomeca
    Inventors: Benoit Michel Bernard Vincent Auzias, Francis Jean Criado, Gerald Andre Charles Senger
  • Patent number: 7967072
    Abstract: A release mechanism for incorporation into a logging head. The release mechanism may be a tensile release mechanism that employs a plurality of tensile members for interchangeable insertion into a plurality of tensile compartments. As a result, a weakpoint for the logging head may be user defined on location at the oilfield. Furthermore, for potentially deeper wells, a rotatable release mechanism may be alternatively or additionally incorporated into the logging head. The rotatable release mechanism may be employed to effectuate a release of the logging head upon signaling from surface equipment. Additionally, the rotatable release mechanism may be powered to achieve the release solely from a downhole power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: L. Michael McKee
  • Patent number: 7954225
    Abstract: First and second components can be releasably coupled together with a locking pin having a sacrificial o-ring. The first and second components have respective first and second openings that are aligned with each other and receive the locking pin. The second opening has a square edge located adjacent to a recess in the first opening. The o-ring has an outside diameter greater than the diameter of the square edge and an inside diameter less than the diameter of the square edge when assembled. The locking pin is inside of the first and second openings, with the o-ring inside of the recess. To release the components, the locking pin is moved out of the first opening to shear the o-ring against the square edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Charles T. Webb
  • Publication number: 20100282474
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a subsea overload release system and method. The disclosure provides a releasable connection system than can be overridden during an overload condition, and is resettable in a subsea location in situ. During normal operation, a collet sleeve is slidably engageable with a collet having one or more fingers that can releasably couple a first member with a second member. During an overload condition, an overload piston acting on fluid in an overload reservoir causes an overload pressure and a rupture or other release of fluid through an overload pressure member, causing the overload reservoir to at least partially collapse. The collapse allows the system to extend and force open the fingers to disengage the second member from the first member. When the overload symptom is rectified, the overload reservoir can be reset and the overload pressure member reset or replaced without requiring repairs above sea surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: TECHNIP FRANCE
    Inventor: Harvey O. MOHR
  • Patent number: 7789100
    Abstract: A connection apparatus. The apparatus comprises a wing mandrel having a first check valve disposed within an inner bore of the wing mandrel, a thread mandrel abutting the wing mandrel, with the thread mandrel having outer threads and a second check valve disposed within an inner bore of the thread mandrel. The apparatus further comprises a latch dog carrier disposed about the wing mandrel and the thread mandrel, with the latch dog carrier having a plurality of dogs, wherein the dogs having an inner portion with threads and an outer portion with outer ribs. The apparatus further contains a shell partially disposed about the latch dog carrier, with the shell having inner ribs, and wherein the inner ribs of the shell engage the outer ribs of the dogs. The apparatus further comprises a hydraulic port configured to deliver hydraulic fluid to the latch dog carrier so that the shell moves relative to the latch dog carrier in order to disconnect. A method of releasing a union is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Venturi Oil Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Gazewood
  • Publication number: 20080136163
    Abstract: An easily usable quick connector includes a connector body 12, a retainer 16, and a complete connection indicating member 28 capable of being repeatedly used for indicating if a tube 14 has been inserted in the connector body 12 with an end part thereof provided with an annular ridge 15 locked in place by the retainer 16 at a position for complete connection. The complete connection indicating member 28 is combined with the connector body 12 so as to be movable into the connector body 12. The complete connection indicating member 28 can be completely pressed into the connector body 12 only when the end part of the tube 14 is inserted in the connector body 12 so that the locking tongues 24a and 24b of the retainer 16 are engaged completely with the annular ridge 15 of the tube 14.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: SANOH KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Okada
  • Patent number: 7117892
    Abstract: This disclosure is concerned with fluid system components. In one example, A quick disconnect valve assembly includes first and second valve elements configured to releasably engage each other. Each valve element includes a housing that defines a valve seat and a fluid passageway. A plunger is disposed within each housing and arranged for selective engagement with a corresponding valve seat. Each plunger is biased into a sealing engagement with the valve seat by a resilient element disposed within the housing. Consequently, the fluid passageway of each valve element is closed off when the first and second valve elements are separated from each other. When the valve elements are engaged, the respective biases associated with the plungers counteract each other to the extent that each plunger is lifted off the corresponding valve seat and fluid communication is established between the respective fluid passageways of the first and second valve elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A. Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 6895952
    Abstract: An appliance end fitting for connecting a gas operated appliance to a pressurized gas cylinder includes a simplified interior valve that acts as both a thermal valve and an excess flow control valve. The end fitting has an elongated body formed in two telescoping sections, an inner section, and an outer section. An interior opening extends through both sections and includes an enlarged center portion. A floating valve member in the center portion is movable toward a valve seat at an outer end of the center section. A spring urges the valve member away from the valve seat but excessive gas flow moves the valve member toward the valve seat and restricts the valve. The two sections of the body are held in an extended axial position by a heat activated material, such as fusible solder, where the nipple opens the cylinder shutoff valve when the body is connected to the cylinder outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Company
    Inventor: Patrick E. Bachelder
  • Patent number: 6843506
    Abstract: A safety device (23) for a fluid hose (14) having at one end one part (19) of a separable connector (18) by means of which the hose (14) may be connected to another pipe (21) carrying the other part (20) of the connector, the connector parts separating when the connector (18) is subjected to a tensile load. The device (23) includes an elongate tether (24) having one end attached to the hose (14) at or adjacent the one connector part (19) and its other end attached to the pipe (21) at or adjacent the other connector part (20). The tether (24) is arranged to break when the connector parts has exceeded a pre-set distance, the breaking strain of the tether (24) being lower than the load required to separate the connector (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Graham William Osborne
  • 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: 6736157
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for blocking a liquid- and/or vapour-flow from a hose and positioning a hose rupture to a coupling in the hose, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Malte Persson & Son AB
    Inventors: Lars-Inge Andersson, Anders Rosengren
  • Patent number: 6722701
    Abstract: An invention coupling for LP gas or similar fuel source systems is disclosed. The coupling includes a nipple having a nose and a recess, a nut notably disposed in the recess and a fuse disposed between the nut and the nose. The coupling automatically decouples from the fuel source when the fuse acts and shuts off the fuel flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Forgamex S.A. DE C.V.
    Inventor: Jose J. Ortiz Godinez
  • Patent number: 6698714
    Abstract: A fluid safety discharge system for a relief valve having an inlet and an outlet includes a bushing frictionally engaging the relief valve outlet. The relief valve outlet is internally threaded for engaging with a threaded device, such as a discharge line. The bushing may contain a separate body and engagement region for use with hard-plumbed discharge lines. Optionally, an adapter may be used for retrofitting the bushing to an existing relief valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Lawrence M. Dulac
  • Patent number: 6692034
    Abstract: A breakaway device joins a portion of a dispensing hose that is connected to a fueling station with a portion of a dispensing hose that is joined to a coupling that connects to a vehicle during fueling. The breakaway device includes a pair of leg members that are joined by their proximal ends to the dispensing hose portions. The distal ends of the leg members are joined at an angle to a frangible member that includes a pair of inner segments that are joined in an abutting fashion by a surrounding frangible sleeve. When a driveaway occurs, the leg members are pulled apart and exert a bending moment on the frangible member. As a result, the frangible member breaks which prevents significant damage to the station. A pneumatic line that provides pressurized air to open the station dispensing valve is attached to each leg member so that when the frangible member breaks, the pneumatic line is ruptured so that pressurized air is no longer delivered to the dispensing valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Chart Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Drube, Jesse Gamble, Gilbert J. Bily
  • Patent number: 6594881
    Abstract: A torque limiting device that allows a drill string to rotate relative to the cutting structure of the bit when a predetermined torque is applied between the cutting structure of the drill bit and the drill string. The torque limiting device utilizes a retaining member which restricts rotational movement of a first component of the torque limiting device relative to a second component. When a sufficient torque load is placed on the cutting structure of the drill bit, the retaining member allows rotational movement of the first component relative to the second component and allows the drill string to continue to rotate relative to the cutting structure of the bit until the torque is sufficiently reduced. The torque limiting device may be an integral part of a drill bit, may be a separate device attached between the drill string and the drill bit or between the drill string and a downhole motor, or may be part of a near-bit sub or incorporated in a downhole motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Gordon A. Tibbitts
  • Publication number: 20030080551
    Abstract: A breakaway device joins a portion of a dispensing hose that is connected to a fueling station with a portion of a dispensing hose that is joined to a coupling that connects to a vehicle during fueling. The breakaway device includes a pair of leg members that are joined by their proximal ends to the dispensing hose portions. The distal ends of the leg members are joined at an angle to a frangible member that includes a pair of inner segments that are joined in an abutting fashion by a surrounding frangible sleeve. When a driveaway occurs, the leg members are pulled apart and exert a bending moment on the frangible member. As a result, the frangible member breaks which prevents significant damage to the station. A pneumatic line that provides pressurized air to open the station dispensing valve is attached to each leg member so that when the frangible member breaks, the pneumatic line is ruptured so that pressurized air is no longer delivered to the dispensing valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas K. Drube, Jesse Gamble, Gilbert J. Bily
  • Patent number: 6497295
    Abstract: A down-hole tool comprises a generally tubular body for connection in a drill string, the body typically having an upper tubular member and a lower tubular member interconnected to be axially secured and relatively rotatable, and a frangible element securing the upper and lower members together rotationally and adapted to rupture at a predetermined load
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Limited
    Inventors: Mark Carmichael, Paul Howlett
  • Patent number: 6457896
    Abstract: A breakaway coupling having a loop for receiving a connecting element. The loop includes a material reduction region. The material reduction region is formed as part of the loop such that the loop breaks at that region when placed under a pre-defined load. The coupling may be of fixed or swivel configuration. The material reduction region has dimensions less than the remainder of the loop such that-when the selected load is reached, the loop will break in that region. This design is particularly suited for those conditions when an underwater connecting element, such as a rope tied between an underwater lobster trap and a floating buoy, comes in contact with a marine animal. If the animal is of sufficient size, such as a whale, to apply the selected load to loop breakage, the connecting element will be released and the possibility of entanglement with the marine animal will be substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Eric deDoes
  • Patent number: 6450541
    Abstract: A releasable connector connects between coiled tubing, a pipe string or similar tubular string and a tool/piece of equipment. Two sleeve-shaped inter-connectable parts are configured to be releasable, wherein one is connected to the coiled tubing, and the other is connected to the tool/equipment. A locking device holds the two sleeve-shaped parts of the connector in a blocked non-released position, and a retaining sleeve keeps the locking device in its locking position. The retaining sleeve is axially displaceable for releasing the connector by a sufficient, axial displacing movement. A coaxial displaceable piston body with a transversal end surface can be influenced by fluid pressure in order to start a releasing process. The piston body has a spring, which resists the displacement of the piston and is arranged in a spring chamber. In an initial position of the connector, the spring chamber is filled with a medium which can be forced out through a cavity and an opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Bakke Technology AS
    Inventor: Stig Bakke
  • Patent number: 6349767
    Abstract: A disconnect tool includes a housing that has a first segment and a second segment. A first collet is coupled to the first segment and has a first plurality of fingers, each of the first plurality of fingers is bendable between a first position in which the fingers engage the first segment and prevent relative sliding movement between the first and second segments, and a second position in which the fingers do not engage the first segment and do not prevent relative sliding movement between the first and second segments. A first piston is positioned in the housing and has a third position wherein the piston engages and prevents the fingers from bending from the first position, and a fourth position wherein the piston does not engage and prevent the fingers from bending from the first position. The disconnect tool includes means for selectively retaining the first piston in the third position and means for moving the first piston from the third position to the fourth position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Gissler
  • Patent number: 6308727
    Abstract: A coaxial hose, dual plane, swivel breakaway assembly for use in combination with a fuel dispenser apparatus is disposed between a hose attached to a fuel dispenser unit and a nozzle. The swivel breakaway assembly 30 has body portions with a first, assembled condition and a second condition in which the body portions are separated. A fuel valve located in the dispenser-end body portion permits flow of fuel when the body portions are assembled and resists flow upon separation. An element securing the body portions together releases engagement upon application of tension force above a predetermined maximum level to the hose and nozzle across the swivel breakaway assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the hose is coaxial, and a vapor valve is also disposed within the swivel breakaway assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Healy Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Healy
  • Patent number: 6257625
    Abstract: A flexible joint comprises: first cylindrical bodies comprising a pair of spherical ring members; a second cylindrical body comprising a sleeve relatively movably inserted in the first cylindrical bodies from an axial direction X of the second cylindrical body; third cylindrical bodies comprising a pair of casing tubes which are fitted around outer peripheral surfaces of the first cylindrical bodies and are provided with mutually slidable spherical inner peripheral surfaces, the casings being formed at their opposite ends with connecting portions, and being provided at their outer peripheral surfaces of large diameter portions with projections having through holes; and rods capable of being inserted into the through holes formed in the outer peripheral surfaces of the large diameter portions, each of the rods being provided and fixed between the projections of the pair of third cylindrical bodies for restricting the telescopic movement of the tube joint, wherein the rods comprise a pair of rods connected to e
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Taisei Kiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Kitani, Masaru Kitamura, Yasushi Fujita
  • Patent number: 6179343
    Abstract: A pipe elbow is provided having two parts, each part having an arcuate segment. The arcuate segment of the first part fits sealably into the arcuate segment of the second part. By severing a portion of the arcuate segment of the first part at an angle needed for a specific run of pipe and inserting it into the arcuate segment of the second part, the assembled elbow will conform to the required angle. In addition, a sloped shoulder on the outside of the first part fits in close proximity to the end of the second part to ensure a extension of the first part into the second part in order to meet industry standards for minimum overlap of mating parts. An angled end on the arcuate segment of the second part may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Dennis S. Byrnes
  • Patent number: 6161872
    Abstract: A breakaway system for a compressed natural gas fueling hose. The system includes an upper ring that surrounds the fueling hose. A lower portion includes three concentric disks that are arranged as a gimbals. An outer disk is coupled to the upper ring with three rods. The lower portion surrounds a male connector. A female connector, generally of the type known a quick-release connector, is coupled to the fueling hose. When the female connector is connected to the male connector, an outer sleeve of the female connector engages the inner disk of the gimbals. When a lateral force is exerted by the hose against the upper ring, the rods cause at least the outer ring to tilt relative to the male connector. Because of the gimbals arrangement, the inner disk always remains substantially flat and thus exerts a force against the sleeve thereby disconnecting the female connector from the male connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
    Inventor: John J. Vranicar
  • Patent number: 6123123
    Abstract: A system for dispensing a fluid from a first tank into a second tank, in which one of the tanks is attached to a vehicle. The system comprises a flexible, stretchable, resilient delivery hose, a first end of the delivery hose being connected to the first tank and a second end of the delivery hose being attached to a nozzle adapted to dispense the fluid into the second tank. A flexible tension element is provided between first and second fittings on the hose, the fittings being separated by at least six feet (two meters), the tension element substantially eliminating stretching of the delivery hose between the fittings. The tension element substantially reduces damage to the hose and to surrounding persons and objects when the hose is pulled and released as in a drive-away from a gasoline dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: M. Carder Industries, Incorporated
    Inventors: Mervin L. Carder, Sr., E. Leonard Poli
  • Patent number: 6102626
    Abstract: A caisson wellhead system having a weak point wherein the wellhead system may be installed in a well as a single unit. The caisson wellhead system of the invention includes a lower tubular member having an upper rim. A lower rim of an upper tubular member is placed on the upper end of the lower tubular member. A removable connector is installed inside of and between the lower tubular member and upper tubular member for temporarily connecting the upper tubular member and the lower tubular member. A weak point is formed at the interface between the lower tubular member and the upper tubular member when the removable connector is removed. Therefore, the caisson wellhead system will break at a controlled location if any external components of the well equipment are struck by a foreign object such as an iceberg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Lionel J. Milberger
  • Patent number: 6070910
    Abstract: A closet flange with a body portion having a tapered end and a plurality of grooves circumferentially disposed about the tapered end. The grooves increase in diameter in the upstream direction and are configured to receive an elastic O-ring. As the closet flange is inserted into a drain pipe the O-ring travels from groove to groove providing an increasingly tighter fit. The flange is installed without tools by pushing the flange into the end of the pipe until the desired tightness is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: James Bruno
    Inventor: B. Eugene Hodges
  • Patent number: 5979867
    Abstract: Technically a functional combination of a nipple with a plug, a stem, a spring, a guide bushing and a coupling nut to form a quick disconnect device for a valve on portable cylinders for LP gas.The device disconnects the gas supply in case of an excess flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Forgamex, S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: Jose J. Ortiz Godinez