Beaded Conduit Patents (Class 285/233)
  • Patent number: 10756455
    Abstract: A coaxial cable connector for coupling a coaxial cable to an equipment port, the coaxial cable including a center conductor surrounded by a dielectric material, the dielectric material being surrounded by an outer conductor, the coaxial cable connector including: a post including a first end adapted to be inserted into a prepared end of the coaxial cable between the dielectric material and the outer conductor, wherein the post includes a second end including an enlarged shoulder, wherein the enlarged shoulder has a radial face that faces away from the first end of the post, wherein the radial face is substantially flat; a body member adjacent to the post; a coupler including an internally-threaded region for engaging the equipment port; and a grounding member contacting the post and the coupler, wherein the grounding member provides an electrically-conductive grounding path through the post and the coupler while allowing the coupler to rotate, wherein the grounding member includes at least one resilient porti
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Corning Optical Communications RF LLC
    Inventors: Bruce D. Bence, Donald A. Burris, Brian L. Kisling, John A. Kooiman, William B. Lutz, William F. McDade, Thomas D. Miller, Lee Yung Chuan
  • Patent number: 10512218
    Abstract: A quick connect hose adapter connects a flexible transfer hose from a mower deck to an inlet tube on a container for storing debris. The adapter includes a first cylindrical portion fixed in the discharge end of the flexible hose, and a second portion with a clamp assembly that clamps to the inlet tube. The clamp assembly has first and second semi-cylindrical segments connected together on one side by a continuous hinge, and at least one latch for latching the other side of the semi-cylindrical segments together to cause the clamp assembly to be clamped to the inlet tube. When the latch is released, the second semi-cylindrical segment can be moved from a closed position to an open position. In the open position, the adapter is easily removable from the inlet tube. A seal ring provides a smooth inner surface and seal between the adapter and the inlet tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Inventor: Bruce Fullerton
  • Patent number: 9991684
    Abstract: A switchgear cabinet system, which is assembled from switchgear cabinet units strung together in a row, each switchgear cabinet unit comprising a rack which is made up of frame profiles, in which at least the vertical frame profiles have the following features: the frame profile is mirror symmetrical with respect to a cross-sectional diagonal; the frame profile has profile sides that form the outer sides of the rack; projecting outward from the profile sides are profile projections, each extending outward from one of the profile sides; when two racks are strung together, corresponding profile projections of two frame profiles are situated mirror symmetrically opposite one another in each case, leaving a gap between the end faces of the profile projections, which is closed by a seal, characterized in that the seal is a push-on seal that is seated on at least one of the opposing profile projections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: RITTAL GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Daniel Brueck, Wolfgang Reuter
  • Patent number: 9362666
    Abstract: A connector spring includes a ring and a plurality of protruding segments protruding radially out from the ring. Each protruding segment of the plurality of protruding segments includes a first spring finger extending out from the protruding segment and a second spring finger extending out from the protruding segment. The first spring finger and the second spring finger angularly extend away from each other on a first side of the ring. The connector spring further includes a plurality of dimples protruding out on a second side of the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventor: Patrick John Laughlin
  • Patent number: 8485228
    Abstract: A plug-in part in the form of a piece of tubing and having a sealing portion, the sealing portion comprising a sealing element enclosing the piece of tubing in a circumferential direction, and a locking portion with at least one undercut. The plug-in part is adapted to be plugged into the receptacle of a coupling part of the plug connector arrangement in order to produce a fluid-tight connection. At least one locking element of the coupling part engages behind the plug-in part in the region of the undercut. In order to develop the plug-in part so as to reduce the risk of the sealing element being adversely affected, the undercut is formed by a protrusion which projects from the outside of the piece of tubing and extends circumferentially merely over a sub-region of the piece of tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Juergen Binder, Joerg Schmid
  • Patent number: 8360477
    Abstract: A compliant conduit connector system for the sealed joining of two fluid conduits having two or more slip bearings to maintain mechanical connection between the two fluid conduits and a sealing o-ring to maintain a fluid seal between the two fluid conduits is disclosed. A socket having an inner surface including a sealing surface is formed on an end of a first fluid conduit. A plurality of slip bearings are held in position on the outer surface of a second fluid conduit by respective bearing channels attached to an outer surface of the second fluid conduit where the slip bearings are in mechanical contact with an inner surface of the socket formed in the first fluid conduit. The o-Ring makes sealing contact with a sealing surface defined as part of the inner surface of the first fluid conduit. To assure electrical conductivity a conductor assembly contacts both the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: William T. Flynn
  • Patent number: 8172274
    Abstract: An engine exhaust system comprises duct pieces (201, 202) and a sealing joint (30) for interconnecting their adjoining ends. The sealing joint (30) comprises a one-piece tubular body (31) including a first axial end portion (331), a second axial end portion (332), and a bridge portion (34) extending therebetween. The first end portion (331) is at least partially positioned within a female recess (231) of the first duct piece (201) and the second end portion (332) is at least partially positioned within a female recess (232) of the second duct piece (202). Depending upon the thermal expansion-contraction conditions in the exhaust system, the bridge portion (34) can extend across a gap (24) and/or it can be positioned partially within female recesses (231) and (232).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Dominick G. More, Kenneth W. Cornett, Paul A. Dudzinski, Jeremy M. Payne
  • Patent number: 8025316
    Abstract: To connect a high-pressure line to a cylindrical accumulator tank, a fastener is fastened to one end of the high-pressure line, a connector has a first inside wall surface which defines a first hole for accommodating and fastening a portion of the cylindrical accumulator tank, a joining device effects a connection between the fastener and the connector, at the connection a contact surface of the high-pressure line is brought to engage with a contact surface of the accumulator tank. The first inside wall surface has in an axial direction relative to the cylindrical accumulator tank and a curved shape such that relative pivoting movements between the connector and the accumulator tank are enabled when the connection is effected and the contact surfaces are brought towards one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Scania CV AB (Publ)
    Inventors: Peter Sperle, Reijo Oilenius
  • Patent number: 7431321
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly includes a receiver portion including a cylindrically-shaped cavity, a bushing member received within the cavity of the receiver portion, and a hitch member that includes a shaft pivotally received within the bushing member. At least a selected one of the bushing member and the shaft is constructed of a material that substantially eliminates the need for using a separately applied lubricant during use of the trailer hitch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric M. Terpsma, David O. Roe, Richard T. Polanic, Rudolph A. Bahnsen
  • Patent number: 7390375
    Abstract: A method and a device for connecting a plastic line part in a plastic socket. A head end (9) of the line part (6) is heated contactlessly all the way round until the end curls over to a diameter that is greater than the inside diameter of the socket (5). The line part is then pushed into the socket without using a mandrel or insert, so that the head end (9) forms a liquid-tight fused connection of high tensile strength with molten wall material of the socket (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Heineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventors: Guido Petrus Johannes Van Der Klaauw, Harold Marcel Blom, Bart Jan Bax
  • Patent number: 7144047
    Abstract: A mechanical pipe coupling permitting relative axial, torsional and angular deflections between pipes joined together by the coupling is disclosed. Rings, each having a greater outer diameter than the pipe, are attached to each end of the pipes to be joined. Each ring has a circumferential groove that receives an O-ring seal. A band is positioned coaxially around the rings. The band has an inwardly facing surface that sealingly engages the O-rings. A housing is clamped around the rings and the band. The housing has rims radially extending in spaced relationship to the pipes but engage the pipes when they deflect to maintain a radial separation between the housing and the band, allowing the band to float on the O-rings and maintain a fluid tight seal. The housing has inwardly facing shoulders that engage the rings and limit the axial and angular displacement of the pipes within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventor: Douglas R. Dole
  • Patent number: 6709024
    Abstract: A coupling used to transfer fluid between two conduits includes a seal arrangement that permits an inner sleeve to move axially and angularly without fluid leaking from the coupling. The coupling also includes a pair of coupling members coupled to the inner sleeve, around each end of the inner sleeve. The inner sleeve includes tapered ends sized to receive a seal including a spherical lip. Each coupling member includes a tapered end that compresses each seal during assembly of the coupling. The seal spherical lips maintain sealable contact between the inner sleeve and the coupling first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mark Douglas Swinford, Antonio Salas Gonzalez, Mark Allen Rich, Michael Ralph Storage
  • Patent number: 6709023
    Abstract: A flexible slide joint is provided for accommodating axial, rotational and angular misalignments between two fluid conveying members. The flexible slide joint basically has first and second tube members with a sliding sealing member and a axially compressible element coupled therebetween. The sliding sealing member is configured and arranged to accommodate axial movement upon a first predetermined axial force occurring between the first and second tube members. The axially compressible element is configured and arranged to accommodate axial movement upon a second predetermined axial force occurring between the first and second tube members. The axially compressible element is force balanced relative to the sliding sealing member such that the second predetermined axial force is smaller than the first predetermined axial force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: PerkinElmer Inc.
    Inventor: Hugh N. French
  • Publication number: 20040032123
    Abstract: An angle-adjustable connector is constructed to include two coupling members connectable to a tool and an air compressor/hydraulic press respectively, a connecting tube connected between the coupling members, the connecting tube having two spherical end portions respectively coupled to the coupling members and secured thereto by steel balls for enabling the coupling members to be turned relative to the connecting tube in different directions to different angles, and a bellows sleeve connected between the coupling members around the connecting tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Li-Yun Chu
  • Publication number: 20030127855
    Abstract: Integrated quick connect tubing that includes a quick connect retainer that is integrated as a cuff into corrugated tubing, most preferably corrugated tubing fabricated from a rigid plastic. The quick connect retainer is preferably fabricated from polypropylene and is most preferably spin welded to the interior of a sleeve at one or both ends of the corrugated tubing to attach the quick connect stepped body or retainer to one or both ends of the corrugated tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: Holm Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne T. Heverly
  • Patent number: 6581978
    Abstract: A tubular connector adapted to extend between two tubular components comprising a tubular body having an internal diameter, a first free end including an annular radial flange having a tapered surface adapted to engage a complementary seating surface on a first of the two tubular components, the internal diameter remaining constant through the first free end; and a second free end having an annular bulbous shape adapted to seat within a cylindrical end of a second of the two tubular components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Ming Cheng Li
  • Patent number: 6527304
    Abstract: A connector (10) for sealing an elongated tube (14) to a body (22) comprises a nut (12) concentrically about the tube (14) proximate the flared end (16). The nut (12) has a threaded exterior portion (34) and an abutting face (42) proximate to and concentric with the exterior face (32) of the flared end (16). A non-linear spring (44) between the exterior face (32) of the flared end (16) and the abutting face(42) of the nut (12), and is displaced upon tightening of the nut (12) to the body (22) to generate a substantially constant restorative force over a portion of the displacement to urge the interior face (30) of the flared end (16) into sealing engagement with and against the shoulder (38) of the body (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanislav Ivanovitch Pliassounov
  • Patent number: 6499770
    Abstract: A flexible duct for fluidly communicating between first and second components includes a first duct section with an intake end and an exhaust end. A first joint pivotally couples the intake end to the first component for pivotal movement about a first axis. The flexible duct also includes a second duct section with a first end and a second end. The first end is pivotally coupled to the exhaust end by a second joint, and a third joint pivotally couples the second end to the second component. The second joint is pivotable about a second axis that is generally parallel to the first axis, and the third joint is pivotable about a third axis that is generally perpendicular to the first and second axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Energy Systems Corporation
    Inventors: David G. Glista, Andrew J. Olsen
  • Patent number: 6173994
    Abstract: A coupling assembly comprising a female connector body, a male member, a retainer and a dust barrier. The female connector body defines a bore extending axially inward into the connector body from an entrance. A radial face is defined in the bore axially inward of the entrance. The male member is received within said bore. The male member is formed at the end of a tube and includes a projection extending radially from the tube. The retainer has at least two locking beams extending between the radially extending projection and the radial face to retain the male member in the bore. The locking beams defines a slot between the locking beams. The dust barrier is slidably mounted on the tube. The dust barrier has at least one extension insertable within the slot so as to prevent inadvertent radially inward movement of the locking beams. Wherein upon sliding the dust barrier toward the female connector body, the dust barrier encloses the bore so as to prevent foreign material from entering the coupling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems Corp.
    Inventor: Mark G. Ketcham
  • Patent number: 6073977
    Abstract: A device for coupling two pipe sections comprises a clamping band of U-shaped cross-section with two inwardly directed flanges for encompassing end beads of the pipe sections which are to be coupled. The ends of the clamping band have cylindrical pockets each accommodating a cylindrical element which is rotatable about its own axis in the pocket. The clamping band is clamped by means of a threaded screw which is passed through an unthreaded hole in one cylindrical element and unthreaded holes in the ends of the clamping band, whereupon the screw is in threaded engagement with the other cylindrical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Lindab AB
    Inventors: Hans Schmidt-Hansen, Werner J. Andresen
  • Patent number: 6068303
    Abstract: A tube (34) is characterized by having an end disposed in a socket member (12) and presenting a radially extending U-shaped projection (38) defined by legs (39) in mating engagement with one another, and presenting an enlarged end (40) extending radially outwardly with the projection (38) from the remainder of the tube (34) and spaced from the projection (38) to define a saddle between the enlarged end (40) and the projection (38) for receiving a seal (42). The enlarged end (40) of the tube (34) is seated against a tube seat (24) of the socket member (12) and the enlarged end (40) and the projection (38) fit snugly within the socket member (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Harold E. Hollnagle
  • Patent number: 6042154
    Abstract: In an arrangement for joining tubular duct sections, especially the end sections of pipes of a motor vehicle exhaust system, wherein the end sections are received in one another such that one end section extends around the other in spaced relationship with a seal structure disposed therebetween, the one end section has slots and a spring structure is inserted through the slots into the space between the pipe end sections and has spring legs disposed in the space between the pipe end sections in engagement with the pipe end sections for holding them in firm axial engagement with each other and with the seal structure disposed between the pipe end sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignees: DaimlerChrysler AG, Leistritz AG & Co.
    Inventors: Heiko Gensert, Horst Schneider, Arndt Peters, Helmut Wierzba
  • Patent number: 6030005
    Abstract: In a method of coupling a first pipe with a second pipe having a circumferential bead, use is made of an annular clamping band which is applied on the outside of the end beads and is tightened around the end beads when the pipes are placed end to end. The clamping band has on its inside a sealing ring, which is arranged against the end beads. A first recess of the sealing ring is formed on and held on the outside of the end bead of the first pipe in such a manner that a second recess of the sealing ring is arranged axially outside this end bead. The second recess of the sealing ring is then formed on the end bead of the second pipe, and finally the clamping band is tightened around the end beads with the sealing ring placed between the clamping band and the end beads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Lindab AB
    Inventors: Pontus Andersson, Werner Andresen
  • Patent number: 5774982
    Abstract: A method of attaching and sealing a fluid conduit to a refrigerant receiver drier of the type formed of an aluminum canister with a welded header in which is formed the inlet and outlet ports. An annular rib is formed in the header about the inlet port. An annular convolution is formed about the conduit to be attached adjacent the end and a resilient seal ring assembled over the tube conduit end and registers against the face or side of the convolution. The end of the tube conduit is then inserted in the port and the annular rib deformed over the convolution to retain the tube conduit in the port and sealed against the seal ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne K. Hutchison, William N. Eybergen
  • Patent number: 5772254
    Abstract: A fluid-tight modular joint is disclosed having various replaceable parts for refurbishing the joint after certain parts wear out. Specifically, the modular joint has a pair of sealing assemblies interconnected by a tubular sealing member which permits angular misalignment, axial movement and rotational movement between conduits. Each of the sealing assemblies includes a tubular housing with a replaceable sealing sleeve which is positively retained therein by a split retaining ring. Typically, the housings are welded to conduits, and thus, can only be removed by cutting them from their respective conduits. However, the housings are provided with access openings for inserting a camming tool therein to remove the sealing sleeves without cutting the housings away from their respective conduits. Therefore, in refurbishing the modular joint, the housings are reusable, while the sealing sleeves and tubular sealing members are replaceable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: EG&G Pressure Science, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin R. Felber, Robert A. Barrett, Jeffrey E. Swensen
  • Patent number: 5460416
    Abstract: A pipe for extracting gases from a landfill well comprises a series longitudinal windings of fiber reinforced resin windings wound for providing longitudinal strength. The longitudinal windings are wound in directions opposite to and intersecting with each other, forming a interlocking network of windings and openings. A number of reinforcing ribs extend circumferentially around the surface of the right and left hand windings at equidistant positions along the surface and at each end of the pipe for providing radial stiffness. The reinforcing rib at each end of the pipe comprises a groove extending circumferentially around the outside surface of the rib for facilitating interconnection with adjacent pipes. A helical winding is wound around the surface of longitudinal windings between adjacent reinforcing ribs for providing longitudinal strength and radial stiffness to the pipe. The pipe comprises a plurality of perforations in its surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Ameron, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph S. Freidrich, Ronald G. Ulrich, Ronald D. Johnson, Robert E. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 5338071
    Abstract: One end portion of a pipe, which has a circumferentially extending external bead at the one end portion, is insertable into the internal sockets of an array of arms which are axially movably received in one end portion of a sleeve. The arms have external surfaces which cooperate with an internal surface of the sleeve to permit limited axial movements of the arms between first and second positions. When in the first positions, the arms can be flexed radially outwardly to thus permit insertion of the bead into or its extraction from the sockets. The internal surface of the sleeve and/or the external surfaces of the arms can but need not be conical, either entirely or in part. The sleeve can be inserted into a bore or hole of a nipple on a radiator or carburetor in a motor vehicle. One or more O-rings or other suitable sealing elements are installed between the sleeve and the external surface of the one end portion of the properly installed pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Hohmann, Bernd Kleinhens, Olaf Kohlhaus, Stephan Mann, Ralf Spors
  • Patent number: 5314214
    Abstract: A flexible joint for the connecting and sealing of tubular sections that includes a flexible pad having inner and outer surfaces. A contoured portion extends around the inner surface of the pad. The flexible joint further includes a first tubular section having a raised portion. The raised portion engages the contoured portion on the inner surface of the pad. A second tubular section includes a housing. The housing has exterior and interior surfaces. The interior surface of the housing engages the outer surface of the pad for retaining the pad in a sealing relationship with the first tubular section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: John L. Highlen, Alan K. Clark
  • Patent number: 5248168
    Abstract: A vibration absorbing, noise attenuating connector utilizing threadless coupling connecting means including a quick disconnect feature for use in hydraulic, pneumatic and refrigeration conduit systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis B. Chichester, Roger A. Cassell
  • Patent number: 5188400
    Abstract: A spring-loaded coupling device for releasably interconnecting confronting ends of first and second fluid carrying conduits is provided. A pair of symmetrical arcuate coupling halves are pivotally jointed together at first adjacent ends for circumferentially surrounding the conduit ends. A latch is mounted adjacent the opposite end of one of the halves. This latch includes a flange having a slot opening outwardly and an outwardly extending flat spring lock terminating in an end surface. A toggle is provided which has a first end pivotally mounted adjacent the opposite end of the other of the halves, and has a second end extendable longitudinally beyond the opposite end of the first of the halves. The toggle includes a locking pin adjacent the second end of the toggle and engageable with the slot when the coupling halves are closed around the sleeve and has a spring urging the toggle to pivot in a direction to move the locking pin into the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: Stanley Aviation Corporation
    Inventors: John J. Riley, Jerome E. Opila
  • Patent number: 5131689
    Abstract: A flexible non-metallic coupling comprising an outer ring member having an internal bore with a pair of `O` rings carrying internal inserts slidable and rotatable within the bore, each insert being secured to a pipe end by a shape memory alloy ferrule and being retained in the bore by a nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: Marston Palmer Limited
    Inventor: James I. Bates
  • Patent number: 5106129
    Abstract: A flexible coupling for transferring a fluid between two fluid conduits and for providing an effective fluid seal is disclosed. The device includes a body portion containing a hollow interior open on opposite ends thereof and having a raised cylindrically shaped end collar formed around at least one of the open ends. The end collar defines an outwardly opening, endlessly extending groove in which a seal ring assembly is removably disposed and which projects out of the groove to provide an effective fluid seal against a cylindrically shaped bearing surface of a hollow conduit collar, the latter being attachable to one of the fluid conduits. A pair of stop members disposed in the conduit collar confines the end collar for both rotatable and translatable sliding movement therebetween. The body portion is also angularly adjustable relative to a centerline of the hollow interior of the conduit collar. Various removable seal ring and biasing spring configurations for use in the end collars are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Luis A. Camacho, David A. Jackson, Donald F. York
  • Patent number: 5039139
    Abstract: A coupling (10) is disclosed for joining together a first tube (12) and a second tube (14) to form a continuous fluid passageway. The first tube (12) has a mount (20) a predetermined distance from its end (18) and the second tube (14) has a return bend on its end (36). Second tube (14) telescopically fits over first tube (12). A cage (22) having inclined locking tabs (30) is mounted by mount (20) externally of first tube (12). Locking tabs (30) cam to allow the return bend (36) of second tube (14) to pass the locking tabs (30). Tabs (30) return to their at rest inclination after the return bend (36) passes, to trap the return bend (36) between the locking tabs (30) and mount (18), thereby locking the first and second tubes (12,14) against disconnection and providing a visible connection to allow verification of the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Donald J. McElroy, Harry W. Zarvos
  • Patent number: 5013072
    Abstract: The connection has two inserted tubes, one of which, the outer tube (6), is enlarged in order to form a casing (8) for housing two support pads (10) which are held tightly between the two tubes and a radial projection (12) of the inner tube. A gasket (14, 15) with a section in the shape of a recumbent V and which has a cylindrical flange for bearing against the inner tube and a convex flange for bearing against the outer tube, is mounted on each of the ends of the casing (8). The two gaskets face in opposite directions and are fitted onto the pads which hold them tightly. The convex flange (18) is preferably spherical only for a part of its length. This spherical part forms the surface for rubbing against the casing and enables a relative displacement of these two members with no risk of the tightness failing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: ECIA-Equipements et Composants Pour L'Industrie Automobile
    Inventor: Robert Roth
  • Patent number: 4900070
    Abstract: A coupling assembly for connecting adjacent ends of conduits, primarily used for aircraft fuel lines having redundant locking features is provided. This coupling can be manipulated with one hand and includes laterally spaced locking tines which engage raised elements for locking the coupling in secured relationship. The coupling assembly can be manipulated with one hand and has viewing ports to be sure that all parts are in place. Also, the tines and guide members are configured to create a force between the two with a longitudinal component tending to open the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1990
    Assignee: Stanley Aviation Corporation
    Inventors: Richard R. Runkles, John A. Dyer
  • Patent number: 4813713
    Abstract: A fluid coupling accommodates misalignments of ducts to be connected in any one or any combination of three basic directions, these being axial, angular and radial. The coupling also provides for duct flexibility while minimizing the number of necessary sealing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1989
    Assignee: Lockheed Corporation
    Inventor: Bertram A. Peaster
  • Patent number: 4807913
    Abstract: A junction adapted to transport fluid between hot and cold bodies is disclosed. The bodies include an inlet or an outlet having a mechanism to attach the junction. The attachment mechanisms include a retaining portion and a sealing portion. The junction includes a sleeve having an overall cylindrical tubular shape with two ends. Inwardly projecting peripheral flanges are positioned on each of the sleeve ends. Seals, adapted to be received by the sealing portion of the attachment members seal the sleeve with the body inlet and outlet. The sleeve peripheral flanges are adapted to be mechanically received by the attachment retaining portions such that the flanges contact the retaining portions along a peripheral line to minimize the heat transfer from the sleeve between the two bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1989
    Assignee: Proprietary Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald D. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 4781405
    Abstract: A fluid coupling accommodates misalignments of ducts to be connected in any one or any combination of three basic directions, these being axial, angular and radial. The coupling also provides for duct flexibiity while minimizing the number of necessary sealing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1988
    Assignee: Lockheed Corporation
    Inventor: Bertram A. Peaster
  • Patent number: 4738476
    Abstract: A fluid coupling accommodates misalignments of ducts to be connected in any one or any combination of three basic directions, these being axial, angular and radial. The coupling also provides for duct flexibility while minimizing the number of necessary sealing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1988
    Assignee: Lockheed Corporation
    Inventor: Bertram A. Peaster
  • Patent number: 4706998
    Abstract: A flexible connector for effecting fluid-tight flexible joints between fluid conduits which comprises a housing with a central bore, a pair of movable flanges extending one from each end of the central bore and means interposed between the flanges and the inner surfaces of the central bore so that a fluid tight seal is achieved therebetween and the flanges can undergo angular motion; additional means are also interposed between the flanges and the inner surfaces of the central bore which accommodates linear motion of the flanges along the axis of the housing while maintaining a fluid-tight seal therebetween; and means for holding the elements of the coupling in a functional relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1987
    Assignee: Lockheed Corporation
    Inventors: George W. Peppel, Paul E. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 4699403
    Abstract: Fully integrated self-contained connectors for standard tubes include a first annular member having an axial bore preferably of a continuously hollow-cylindrical configuration for receiving ferrules of those standard tubes. A locking arrangement peripheral of the first annular member carries locking members extending through openings in that first annular member for retaining a ferrule at a tube retention shoulder in a locking position. At least one further annular member is axially slidable on the first annular member and houses the locking arrangement outside that first annular member. The locking members are actuated to a locking position upon axial sliding of the further annular member in one direction. Conversely, the locking members are actuated to a release position upon axial sliding movement of the further annular member in another direction. The further annular member may define one or more internal ramps for that purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Assignee: Imo Delaval Inc.
    Inventor: Tak-Yiu Wong
  • Patent number: 4643464
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for connecting two pipe ends, having a socket, a spigot and an annular seal therebetween. These parts are clamped together by flanges of a clamp in order to close the device. While prior art sockets and spigots have been made of massive material and shaped by expensive machining processes, the invention provides the spigot which is formed as a generally U-shaped profiled ring having a front and a rear annular flange and holding the sealing element between the flanges. The outside diameter of the front flange is smaller than that of the rear flange. The socket may also be a profiled ring in order to further reduce the manufacturing costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Inventor: Karl Weinhold
  • Patent number: 4621840
    Abstract: A retention for male and female structural members, including a self-locking selectively releasable locking spring wire or clip received in opposing grooves on the male and female members for locking the two members together, and interengaged threaded formations on the two members for absorbing a major portion of any force tending to axially separate the two members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1986
    Assignee: Stanley Aviation Corporation
    Inventor: Frank L. Foster
  • Patent number: 4613170
    Abstract: An adaptor for connecting tubular members in an exhaust system. The adaptor comprises a tube having opposite ends that are curled outwardly in a generally circular configuration. The curled ends of the adaptor are press fitted within the ends of the tubular members of the exhaust system and each curled end is disposed adjacent an internal shoulder in the respective tubular member. Exhaust gases passing through the adaptor will heat the adaptor causing it to expand axially to bring the curled ends into firm contact with the respective shoulders, and the outer surfaces of the curled ends will flatten against the walls of the respective tubular members to provide a tight seal between the adaptor and the tubular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1986
    Assignee: Nelson Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Darrel Kersting
  • Patent number: 4606559
    Abstract: A sleeve connector for connecting the ends of two tubes together, in particular socket tubes, comprises a socket formed with or connected to one of the tubes. The socket has an inner annular recess which is bounded by a conical surface which tapers radially inwardly toward an end of the socket. A retaining collar is secured around the spigot end of another tube to be connected to the first mentioned tube. At least one locking member is disposed around the spigot and is positioned in the annular recess so that it can bear against the conical surface. The locking member has an inner cylindrical contact surface which engages on the spigot and an outer contact surface which has a sectional toroidal shape wherein all normals to the toroidal shape pass through the cylindrical contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1986
    Assignee: Thyssen Industrie AG
    Inventor: Jurgen Rammelsberg
  • Patent number: 4597596
    Abstract: For sealing the joint between a pipe end (2) and a pipe or housing (3) into which it is to be inserted, a metal sleeve (1) has a part (a) which is secured, such as by welding, to the pipe end (2), a first annular corrugation (b) and a second annular corrugation (c) which is of greater diameter than the first annular corrugation (b) and resiliently deformable into sealing engagement with the pipe or housing (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1986
    Assignee: Heat Transfer Technology Limited
    Inventor: Michael J. C. Tozer
  • Patent number: 4522433
    Abstract: Flexible fluid couplings incorporating spherical seats which permit the interconnected pipe section to move axially and/or articulate relative to each other. O-ring seals in the coupling are protected against pressure induced extrusion. The center of articulation is located in a plane which passes close to the O-ring seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1985
    Assignee: Stanley Aviation Corporation
    Inventors: Gordon A. Valentine, Edwin J. Gale
  • Patent number: 4503680
    Abstract: An attachment for an exhaust pipe. A rolled bead of the exhaust pipe is formed on its outer periphery providing a seal with a turbo-charger outlet flange and a clamp ring bolted around the bead. The exhaust pipe is adapted for supporting the muffler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1985
    Assignee: Allis-Chalmers Corp.
    Inventor: Terry G. Wood
  • Patent number: 4465330
    Abstract: A split coupling of clam-shell configuration applied laterally over abutted ends of confronting tube sections with bead-over-wire reinforcement engaged with opposed shoulders of separable body members, and having depressible ring and abutment seals molded into the separable body members hinged for abutment on a diametrical axially disposed plane coincidental with the axis of the body members when closed over said confronting tube sections by link and latch means, all basic structural members operating in tension and shear connections multiplied for greater strength and for uniform load distribution, said ring seals being scarfed for circumferential continuity, and there being an electrical bond between the coupling and said confronting tube sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Inventor: Herbert A. De Cenzo
  • Patent number: 4436326
    Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide a coupling for fluid conveying ducts which has built in capability to allow for radial and/or angular misalignment of the ducts which it is coupling and also retain axial flexibility. Such coupling includes a pair of interconnectable coupling half assemblies each with eccentric openings (17) for passage of one of the tube ends (10) therethrough with their associated ends in spaced relation. These coupling half assemblies also may include abutting faces disposed in a plane (P) oblique to their longitudinal centerline (C). Relative adjustment of the eccentric openings (17) provides radial adjustment of the tubes (10) while relative adjustment of the coupling half assembly faces along the plane (P) provides angular adjustment of the tubes (10). Any combination of axial, radial, and/or angular misalignment of the tubes (10) within the dimensional envelope of the coupling can be accommodated by manipulation of the parts relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1984
    Assignee: Lockheed Corporation
    Inventor: Bertram A. Peaster