Guide And Support Patents (Class 285/24)
  • Publication number: 20080277921
    Abstract: A method of joining at least two components (1, 2), such as tubes, where at least one of the components (1, 2) comprises, or is made of, a material which is difficult to weld, comprises the step of welding the components together and then thermally insulating the weld joint (3) using a sleeve (4) for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2006
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventors: Claes Ohngren, Roger Berglund, Thomas Lewin
  • Patent number: 7434851
    Abstract: A device is illustrated and described for connecting two ends of high-pressure pipelines for use in longwalls of underground mining, having a removable pipe coupling for tension-proof and tight connection of the two pipe ends whose constructions are tailored to one another. In order to counteract the catching as the pipeline is displaced in the longitudinal direction, so that damage or even destruction of the pipeline or pipe connections may be reliably prevented, each pipe end is reinforced using an essentially conical ring, whose outer surface expands from the external diameter of the pipe up to the external diameter of the pipe coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Karl Weinhold
  • Patent number: 7402000
    Abstract: A spool piece termination structure to be mounted to a spool piece so as to support a spool piece hub during the connection of the spool piece hub to a corresponding pipeline hub. The termination structure includes a clamping device for clamping together the spool piece hub and pipeline hub, and a base frame openly shaped downwards so as to allow the termination structure to receive a pipeline end section provided with the pipeline hub by lowering the termination structure downwards onto the pipeline end section. A connection arrangement includes such a spool piece termination structure and a method for subsea connection of a pipeline to a spool piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventors: Rolf Bastesen, Helge Ingebretsen, Fredrik Witting
  • Publication number: 20080136165
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing accidental flange closures is disclosed. A flange spacer having a central opening can be inserted into a gap between two opposing flanges. A shaft that has a thickness smaller than the width of the central opening of the flange spacer can be inserted through an opening on the first flange using a handle on the first end of the shaft. The shaft is subsequently inserted through the flange spacer and through an opening on the second flange. A removable safety pin can be inserted into the second end of the shaft to prevent the shaft from coming loose inadvertently. As such, the flange spacer prevents the opposing flanges from making contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Arthur W. Doty
  • Publication number: 20080136166
    Abstract: A tube coupling includes a coupling body having a stem with an end to engage in a tube and an encircling head spaced from said end. A cap is mounted on the head having an open end encircling the stem to receive a tube inserted into the cap over the stem, the cap having an internal tapered cam surface. A tube locking collet is located in the open end of the cap and includes an annular member having a plurality of resilient fingers which engage the tapered cam surface. The cap includes a sleeve having a cylindrical main portion which encircles and is mounted on the head of the coupling body. The main portion projects along the stem and a portion of reducing diameter which provides said internal tapered cam surface with which the collet engages and the cap has locking elements which engage the head of the coupling body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: John Guest International Limited
    Inventor: Timothy Steven Guest
  • Publication number: 20080129040
    Abstract: A double offset hanger and restrainer device for securely supporting a pipe or the like against undesirable sway and seismic disturbances is provided. The hanger and restrainer device includes a proximal portion mountable to a beam or the like and a specially contoured distal portion with an opening that can receive the pipe in a “snap-on” manner. The snap-on or press-fit feature also provides the advantage of retrofit installation, thereby permitting one or more of the devices to be added on without disassembly of an existing installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: NIBCO INC.
    Inventor: Richard W. Heath
  • Patent number: 7380835
    Abstract: Described herein a single bore, high flow junction plate and flow line assembly adapted for use subsea. This junction plate may be adapted for use with a torque tool manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard McCoy, Michael Cunningham, C. Curtis Waters
  • Publication number: 20080018099
    Abstract: A radially expandable multiple tubular member apparatus includes a first tubular member and a second tubular member engaged with the first tubular member forming a joint. A sleeve overlaps and couples the first and second tubular members at the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Applicant: Enventure Global Technology
    Inventor: Scott Costa
  • 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: 7207602
    Abstract: A clamp assembly for connecting the end of a first pipe to the end of an axially aligned second pipe. The clamp assembly comprises a first semi-circular clamp arm, a second semi-circular clamp arm, a lever and a latch. The first clamp arm has a first end portion and a second end portion. The second clamp arm has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of the second clamp arm is pivotably attached to the first end portion of the first clamp arm. The lever is pivotably attached to the first end portion of the first clamp arm. The latch has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of the latch is pivotably attached the second end portion of the second clamp arm. The second end portion of the latch is attached to the lever upon the clamp assembly in a closed position. The distance between the attachment of the latch to the second clamp arm to the attachment of the latch to the lever is adjustable in the attachment of the latch to the second clamp arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Salco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: William F. Burian, Alex V. Degutis, Charles Lonnie Horne, James M. McLaughlin, Michael S. Ryan, Clayton Strand, Craig H. Leighton
  • Patent number: 7140646
    Abstract: A shield designed to be installed in exterior frame walls of buildings for the penetration of flexible tubing, cabling, or wiring. Comprised of a round, rectangular or square sleeve attached to mounting plate(s) or angle(s). The mounting plates or angles have holes to allow for the attachment of the shield to the framing of an exterior frame wall. The mounting plates or angles are attached to the sleeve at an angle sufficient to prevent the kinking of flexible tubing, cabling, or wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: Matthew K. Parker
  • Patent number: 7128038
    Abstract: An intake device for an internal combustion engine includes a throttle body (1) that forms an intake passage (1a). A throttle valve (2) is arranged within the intake passage. A pipe member (26) is connected to the throttle body, wherein the pipe member forms a communication passage (26a) communicating with the intake passage. An engagement device (53,63; 85,87; 92,63) is provided between the throttle body and the pipe member. The engagement device includes at least one engagement protrusion (53; 85; 92) and at least one engagement recess (63; 87M). When the engagement protrusion and the engagement recess are engaged with each other, detachment of the throttle body and the pipe member from each other is restricted. The assembly process is simplified by a lack of separate components such as clamps and bolts, relying instead upon a typical snap-fit connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Aisan Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinji Kawai, Hisashi Kino, Tomiharu Isogai, Hitoshi Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 7104881
    Abstract: A connection assembly for an exhaust extraction system which is designed to vent the exhaust from a vehicle tail pipe includes, in combination, three primary components. One component is an annular sleeve which is constructed and arranged to assemble onto the vehicle exhaust pipe. Next, there is a nozzle locator ring which slides onto the annular sleeve such that one end of the sleeve extends beyond one side of the nozzle locator ring and the opposite end of the sleeve extends beyond the opposite side of the nozzle locator ring. The third component is an exhaust nozzle assembly which includes a generally cylindrical nozzle and a pair of magnet packs located circumferentially 180 degrees apart. An extension sleeve inserted into the annular sleeve includes a series of baffles to deflect and direct vehicle exhaust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: William J. Hyslop
  • Patent number: 7093858
    Abstract: A clamp for attaching a pipeline tracer wire to a pipeline riser has an elongated riser grip which is resiliently flexible to snap onto the riser. An elongated conduit with a V-shaped groove extends integrally along the outer wall of the riser grip. The conduit receives the tracer wire therein. At least one tap screw is engagable in the groove and radially into the conduit to lock the tracer wire between the screw and the opposite inner wall of the conduit. Alternatively, a tap screw may be threadedly engaged in the upper end of the conduit to lock the tracer wire between the screw and the opposite inner wall of the conduit. Preferably, the clamp is made of non-metallic, fire retardant material such as a high density thermoplastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Jim L. Russell
  • Patent number: 7090254
    Abstract: In one aspect, an apparatus for aligning tubulars is provided, comprising at least one guide, a tong, and a backup unit, wherein the guide is arranged on or between the tong and the backup unit, and wherein the guide is, in use, movable towards and away from the tubular with respect to the backup unit. In another aspect, an apparatus for aligning tubulars is provided, comprising a tong, a backup unit, at least one torsion post arranged therebetween, and at least one guide, the guide mounted on the torsion post. In another aspect, a method for aligning tubulars using the apparatus of the invention is provided, comprising moving the guide towards and away from the tubular with respect to the backup unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventors: Bernd-Georg Pietras, Martin Liess
  • Patent number: 7017947
    Abstract: A pipe holder includes a body member and a support member connected to and extending away from the body member. The body member defines an opening proximate a first end of the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property Corporation
    Inventor: Frederick James Diggle, III
  • Patent number: 6921113
    Abstract: A connector assembly for allowing a free-flowing medium to pass through includes: a hollow female element with a transverse closure wall and passage openings which are formed in the side wall, a male element which can be inserted into the female element and can be coupled thereto, an adapter socket, inside which the female element can be displaced in the axial direction between a position in which it closes off the flow of medium and in which the passage openings are closed off by the adapter socket, and a position in which it allows medium to flow through and in which the passage openings are not closed off by the adapter socket. The female element is provided, at a distance from the transverse closure wall, with connecting elements which can form a connection with connecting elements arranged on the male element and/or a coupling piece which is coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Casparus PDS B.V.
    Inventor: Casparus Vlasblom
  • Patent number: 6889660
    Abstract: A fuel rail assembly for supplying fuel to a plurality of fuel injectors in an engine is provided. This assembly comprises an elongated conduit having a longitudinal fuel passage therein, a fuel inlet pipe fixed to an end or a side of the conduit, and a plurality of branch pipes. The basal end of each branch pipe is adapted to communicate with the fuel passage. The distal end of each branch pipe is provide with a connecting member for connecting to a tip of a fuel injector. The wall of the conduit is provided with holes for receiving the basal ends of the branch pipes. Around each hole an inner collar and an outer collar are integrally formed with the conduit wall, and each branch pipe is fixed to the collars by brazing or welding. The drilling work is performed by a special drilling tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayoshi Usui, Toshikazu Watanabe
  • Patent number: 6857662
    Abstract: An adapter device includes a bracket having a wall and a fence extended from a base panel, the fence includes an opening formed by two arms for receiving a pipe, a tube is threaded to the wall and has one end movable toward and away from the fence. One or more plugs are selectively engaged between the tube and the pipe for making a tight seal between the tube and the pipe. One or more of the plugs may include a blind structure to block the tube and the pipe, or may include an orifice for communicating the tube and the pipe with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Chun-Chung Chu
  • Patent number: 6729802
    Abstract: A method of abandoning a pipeline (2) being laid by a vessel having an A/R system, wherein a sealine (2, 11, 13) is initially held by a pipe laying and tensioning arrangement. The method includes a step of reducing tension at sea level of the sealine (2, 11, 13), by connecting one or more buoyant members (13) to the end of the pipeline (2). The members (13) are then lowered into the sea, using a line (16). At least one member (13) is connected to the pipeline (2) through a connection (12) which allows pivoting of the member (13) so that the end of the member (13) at the end of the pipeline (2) projects upwardly from the seabed (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Saipem, S.p.A.
    Inventors: Umberto Giovannini, Vincenzo Penzo
  • Patent number: 6682105
    Abstract: A remotely operable coupling device is disclosed. The device is suitable for coupling misaligned first and second conduits. The device includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is attached to the first conduit and includes a first flange with a ball end extending therefrom. The second connector is attached to the second conduit and receives the first connector. The second connector includes a first mechanism operable to position a second flange adjacent the first flange and to dispose the ball end into a socket member. The second connector also includes a second mechanism disposed about the adjacent first and second flanges and operable to hold the flanges adjacent one another and maintain the ball end disposed within the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Reflange, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond E. Latham, Gyula Pasztor
  • Patent number: 6595553
    Abstract: An accessory component for piping, such as a valve, filter or the like, comprising a hollow body that can be connected to sections of piping and is provided with elements for coupling the component to a supporting structure, the coupling elements being formed on at least one outer wall of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: ARAG S.r.l. Con Socio Unico
    Inventors: Daniele Medici, Alberto Garuti
  • Patent number: 6595552
    Abstract: A device for coupling multiple connectors, comprising two connector supporting plates, one fixed and one movable, and two threaded members which are supported by the two plates; one of the members has a combined rotary and translatory motion for the coupling and uncoupling of the plates; the member provided with combined rotary and translatory motion is associated with a fluid-actuated actuator for the approach and spacing of the threaded members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Idra Presse S.p.A.
    Inventor: Graziano Mortari
  • Patent number: 6579110
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connection assembly for conduits (3, 4; 7, 8) which are arranged coaxially inside one another and which accommodate the supply flow and return flow of a cryogenic medium. Said assembly comprises a first and a second coupling half (1, 2) which can be connected to one another in a sealed manner, whereby an inner conduit (4; 8) in each coupling half (1, 2) ends in a first conical sealing surface (9; 10) and an external conduit (3; 7) in each coupling half (1, 2), which encompasses the inner conduit (4; 8), ends in an additional conical sealing surface (11; 12) that is positioned outside the first conical sealing surface (9; 10) in the radial direction. In order to establish an electrical connection simply and reliably, at least one electrical contact (18, 20) is provided within the additional conical sealing surface (11; 12) in each coupling half (1, 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventors: Nikolai Korpan, Jaroslav Zharkov, Gerhard Hochwarter
  • Patent number: 6568712
    Abstract: An alignment tool configured to be coupled to a first flange, the alignment tool having an alignment guide extending outward from the periphery of the first flange at an angle of between 0 and 90 degrees from the axis of the first flange. A plurality of such alignment guides are coupled to the first flange so that a second flange which is positioned off-axis from the first flange, but between the alignment guides of the alignment tools will be constrained to move toward an on-axis position as the second flange approaches the first flange. In one embodiment, one or more of the alignment tools includes at least one alignment pin which extends through a bolt hole of the first flange and beyond the face of the flange so that the alignment pin can engage one of the bolt holes of the second flange and thereby maintain rotational alignment of the flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: John W. Aaron, III
  • Patent number: 6565124
    Abstract: A gasket 17 for a demountable pipe joint 1 of an hygienic food processing system, the gasket 17 comprising a first part 19 defining a surface 27 for providing a smooth transition from a first pipe end 3 to a second pipe end 5 at a pipe joint 1, the sides of the gasket 17 each defining a plateau 25 adjacent the surface 27 for abutting the pipe ends 3, 5, in use, to produce an hygienic seal, wherein the first part 19 of the gasket 17 is made from a plastics material having sufficient structural strength when not fully supported to withstand pressures within the pipes 3, 5, during use, without damaging or separating from the pipe ends. Such a gasket has been found to be extremely efficient and appropriate in hygienic food processing systems, which in the past have relied heavily on elastomeric gaskets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Beckswift Limited
    Inventor: Richard Wolfgang Emil Mosse
  • Patent number: 6527305
    Abstract: A fuel line coupling system for coupling a fluid fuel transportation tanker to a fuel supply tank and subsequently to a fuel destination depot tank, the system including a supply tank fuel transfer coupling component; a tanker fuel transfer coupling component to couple with the supply tank's coupling component for transfer of fuel to the tanker; and a depot fuel transfer coupling component to couple to the tanker fuel transfer coupling component for delivery of fuel from the tanker to the destination depot tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth Robert Smith
  • Patent number: 6513498
    Abstract: A connection stub and a housing, in particular a high-pressure fuel reservoir, for fuel injection system for internal combustion engines with a welded connection stub, are proposed, in which sealing faces between the housing and the connection stub are provided, spatially separately from the weld seam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Kurt Frank
  • Patent number: 6508490
    Abstract: A universal holding tank connector fitting is provided which is formed from thermoplastic material and has a pass-though hub that enters the holding tank wall and is retained thereto by a sealing collar and a threaded nut engaging the sealing collar within the tank. Conformal seals are disposed between the hub and collar and the tank wall, with the hub and collar themselves keyed to the particular tank wall configuration. The hub includes an internal passageway into the tank which is dimensioned to closely receive the particular pipe, which is to be connected via a solvent weld, and, in certain embodiments, an end stop to limit and positively locate the pipe penetration into the tank. The conformal seals are keyed to fit at predetermined locations on the hub and collar, and load concentrating configurations are formed along the sealing surfaces that facilitate even and reliable seal pressure when the fitting elements are compressed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: John Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6471250
    Abstract: An apparatus for moving together simultaneously male and female coupling members attached to manifold or junction plates is disclosed. The apparatus includes a sloped cam surface on the first or lower junction plate, and a central shaft having a cam follower that moves up the sloped cam surface to urge the two junction plates together, and thereby connect male and female coupling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: National Coupling Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 6454310
    Abstract: A pipe joint including a first pipe segment having a belled end and an annular gasket carried within the belled end, a second pipe segment having an end inserted into the belled end, passing through the annular gasket, and a beveled insert carried by the end of the second pipe segment for facilitating the insertion of the end of the second pipe segment into the belled end of the first pipe segment passing through the annular gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Steven K. Wolff
  • Patent number: 6431609
    Abstract: A pipe connection for use in a ventilating duct system having ducts with circular cross-section is adapted to be inserted with a close fit into an outer pipe and be connected therewith. The pipe connection has a circumferential groove, in which a circumferential seal sealing against the inside of the outer pipe is arranged. A terminal edge portion of the pipe connection comprises an outer conical portion which has a diameter decreasing towards the end of the pipe connection, and a circumferential guide surface having such a diameter that said close fit is obtained. The axial length (L3) of the terminal edge portion constitutes about 1.5-5.5% of the diameter of the guide surface. The outer conical portion at its end has a diameter which constitutes about 97-99.9% of the diameter of the guide surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Lindab AB
    Inventor: Pontus Andersson
  • Patent number: 6428053
    Abstract: A micromachined coupler for coupling a capillary having a first size to an orifice having a shape and a second size, has a body which has a shape conforming the shape of the cavity into which the body must fit. A through hole is defined through the body. The through hole has a size conforming to the first size of the capillary. The capillary is disposable into the through hole so that the capillary is communicated to the orifice without the first and second sizes necessarily being the same. The cavity and the body have conforming slanting surfaces, and in particular the cavity and the body define truncated pyramidal shapes. The cavity and the body each have a truncated pyramidal shape. The pyramidal shape may be square, triangular, or conical. A method of fabricating the micromachined coupler is achieved either by micromaching or micromolding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Shuyun Wu
  • Patent number: 6371522
    Abstract: A pipe joint including a first pipe segment having a belled end and an annular gasket carried within the belled end, a second pipe segment having an end inserted into the belled end, passing through the annular gasket, and a beveled insert carried by the end of the second pipe segment for facilitating the insertion of the end of the second pipe segment into the belled end of the first pipe segment passing through the annular gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Steven K. Wolff
  • Patent number: 6367843
    Abstract: At least one fastener and its method of use to securely fasten joints, preferably in pressure vessels, pipes, and other structures, intended to isolate internal volumes from the external environment, or in structural joints. The fastener preferably comprises at least one force reacting or force producing element capable of maintaining a gap between the end of at least one clamp segment of a clamp connector used on flanged structures to isolate a structure's internal environment from its external environment to provide controlled contact with the flange members wherein uniform seal integrity is secured and contact surface wear is dispelled. In a preferred method of use, each fastener is used in conjunction with delayed cokers, wherein extremely high temperature and relatively low pressures are generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Automated Connectors Holdings, L.B.
    Inventor: Kelly Fetzer
  • Patent number: 6367846
    Abstract: A coupling for two pipe sections having integral buoyancy cans, wherein the coupling includes two coupling flanges, each having an inner flange portion configured to couple the pipe stems of the pipe sections and an outer flange portion configured to brace or secure the buoyancy cans of the pipe sections against each other and thereby stabilize the pipe sections. In one embodiment, the inner and outer flange portions of each coupling flange are connected by a plurality of connecting plates. Each coupling flange also includes a plurality of reinforcing plates between the inner and outer flange portions. Each of the inner flange portions is configured as a female box flange. In one embodiment, a pin flange is positioned between the inner flange portions in the assembled coupling to form pin-and-box connections with the inner flange portions. The outer flange portions are bolted together to secure the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Specialty Piping Components, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Aaron, III
  • Publication number: 20020038952
    Abstract: A pipe joint including a first pipe segment having a belled end and an annular gasket carried within the belled end, a second pipe segment having an end inserted into the belled end, passing through the annular gasket, and a beveled insert carried by the end of the second pipe segment for facilitating the insertion of the end of the second pipe segment into the belled end of the first pipe segment passing through the annular gasket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: April 4, 2002
    Inventor: Steven K. Wolff
  • Patent number: 6290369
    Abstract: An illumination device for vessels that have access ports terminated with pipe flanges. The illumination device includes a retention collar that is adapted to receive a flashlight at its first end. The opposite second end of the retention collar terminates with a flange. A conduit extends through the retention collar from the first end to the second end. A mounting element is provided for attaching the retention collar and the flashlight to the access port of the vessel. The mounting element includes an annular base plate. A coupling mechanism is attached to the annular base plate. The coupling mechanism selectively receives the flange of the retention collar. The annular base plate of the mounting bracket clamps to the pipe flange of the vessel over an inspection window. This provides an unobstructed passage through which light from the flashlight can enter the access port of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventor: Peter Lin
  • Patent number: 6267414
    Abstract: A gasket for a demountable joint of an hygienic food processing system, the gasket comprising a surface for providing a smooth transition from a first joint part to a second joint part at a joint. The sides of a preferred embodiment gasket each define a plateau adjacent the surface for abutting the joint parts which, in use, produce a hygienic seal. The gasket of the present invention in preferably made from a plastics material having sufficient structural strength(i.e. engineering plastics) which, even when not fully supported to withstand pressures and/or temperatures, during use maintain the hygienic performance of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Beckswift Limited
    Inventor: Richard Wolfgang Emil Mosse
  • Patent number: 6203072
    Abstract: A rotary joint for a heat transfer drum using a stationary syphon pipe system. The syphon pipe is supported on a syphon tube adjustably mounted upon the rotary joint body whereby the distance between the syphon pipe intake and the drum shelf can be very accurately adjusted and maintained. Also, the syphon pipe is mounted upon the syphon tube in a pivotal manner to permit ready installation of the syphon system and employs a locking threaded sleeve arrangement assuring accurate location of the syphon pipe relative to the syphon tube upon the syphon pipe pivoting to its operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: The Johnson Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond R. Berghuis, Edmund Kozlowski, Jennifer J. Baker, Timothy N. L. Henry, James A. Medsker
  • Patent number: 6199913
    Abstract: A fast hose connector comprises a guide tube and an arresting tube movably fitted over the guide tube. The arresting tube is provided in the inner wall thereof with two elastic retaining bodies capable of releasably arrest a tube that is inserted into the guide tube via the arresting tube. As the arresting tube is pressed to slide downward along the guide tube, the elastic retaining bodies become disengaged with the tube so as to enable the tube to be pulled out of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Hsin-Fa Wang
  • Patent number: 6186556
    Abstract: A compression element located inside an enclosed compressor is disclosed for receiving a connection pipe from outside the compressor. The compressor has an opening one in one of its walls. The compression element has a bore running through it. An inlet end of the compression element is joined to the wall of the compressor at the opening. The inlet end of said bore is tapered in the form of a curved shape that spreads smoothly toward the opening. A guide pipe has one of its ends installed into the opening from outside the compressor. A connection pipe having a cooper plated exterior surface is inserted through the guide pipe, press-fitted into the inlet end of the compression element and joined to the compression element. The connection pipe has another end connected to a suction pipe for circulating a refrigerant within the compressor via the compression element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryoko Masuyama, Akiko Mori, Shigeru Muramatsu, Hiroyuki Masunaga
  • Patent number: 6183019
    Abstract: A coupling device can connect two cryogenic fluid conduits in fluid communication without creating a temperature change. The coupling device includes a fluid flow path extending therethrough having a substantially constant cross-sectional area. The coupling device is designed to be easy to connect and disconnect and to provide a secure connection, in particular at low temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Life Science Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. Owen
  • Patent number: 6176523
    Abstract: An improved joint for a variable wall thickness conduit is disclosed. The joint includes a female joint section and a male joint section. The female joint section has a body portion which terminates in a first support surface and a sealing sleeve which extends beyond the first support surface. The sleeve has a first sealing surface and a thickness. The male joint section has a body portion that terminates in a wall and a sealing nose that extends beyond the wall. The wall has a width greater than the thickness of the sleeve. The nose includes a load bearing surface, a second sealing surface and a recess in the second sealing surface. The female joint section aligns and joins to the male joint section, the load bearing surface being in force transmittal relationship with the first support surface, whereby a gap is formed between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.
    Inventor: Brian Winslett
  • Patent number: 6161875
    Abstract: Each of coupling members 5, 12 is formed with a retainer accommodating recessed portion 45, 46 in an butting end face thereof, the recessed portion 45, 46 being formed on a bottom face thereof with a gasket holding annular ridge 47, 48 having an annular projection 47a, 48a. A retainer 42 comprises a retainer body 43 holding the outer periphery of a gasket 41 and attached to the outer periphery of the annular ridge 47 of one of the coupling members, 5, and a guide ring portion 44 for guiding a peripheral surface of the recessed portion 46 of the other coupling member 12 when the two coupling members 5, 12 are butted against each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Michio Yamaji, Tsutomu Shinohara, Kosuke Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 6142165
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for installing a branch connector on a buried pipe for transporting a fluid, and to do so by means of a multi-purpose long handle from the top of an excavation. The apparatus comprises a bottom saddle positioner having a support structure on which there are disposed firstly clamping connection means adapted to the diameter of the pipe together with a support adaptor for supporting a bottom saddle, and secondly means for releasably fixing the positioner to the end of the multi-purpose long handle and situated on the side of the support structure opposite from its side on which the clamping connection means are situated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Gaz de France
    Inventors: Christian Wartel, Dominique Pfeiffer, Patrick Le Cointe
  • Patent number: 6142708
    Abstract: A pipeline connection assembly includes a landing platform and rotary or swivel connection hub which may be attached to a pipeline branch, termination, or manifold. The landing platform is mounted so that it may be rotated about the connection hub. This permits the installation of a subsea connection on a near level platform and allows the pipeline to be laid subsea with greater roll angles than would be acceptable otherwise. Orientation of the landing porch horizontally removes the requirement to manufacture the connection jumper to compensate for the roll differences in the hubs. In the preferred construction, the elevation of the platform can be adjusted by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and locked into place once the adjustment is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignees: Oil States Industries Inc., Pegasus International, Inc.
    Inventors: Oran D. Tarlton, Brian L. Bauers, Bart H. Heijermans, Henry Hang-Sun Chang
  • Patent number: 6123363
    Abstract: The assembly of a connection that uses cooperating grooved surfaces to provide an easily disassembled and assembled connection is improved by the use of a centered lip and cooperating groove on the contact faces of the connection halves that engage the faces of complementary connection ends to prevent lateral misalignment while the pipe ends are brought together for axial alignment. The lip extends into the groove to trap a gasket retained within the groove and inhibit extrusion of the gasket between the contact faces under high pressure conditions. The centering device may be used with a clamping mechanism to provide single person assembly of this type of connection despite normal field misalignments. The trapping cavity formed by the faces of the connection ends particularly enhances the pressure capacity of elastomeric gasket applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey E. Burgard, Gary A. Schulz
  • Patent number: 6109662
    Abstract: A flexible pipe joint for use with pipes installed on the ocean bottom comprising two pipes having adjacent ends shaped in the form of a ball wherein each ball-shaped end includes a tubular round pipe and a convex-shaped ring with a spherical cross-section fixed to the outer surface of the pipe end. The ring has a watertight welded seal between the rings edges and the round pipe outer surface. The flexible pipe joint further comprises a dual coupling including an upper and a lower part, the parts have inner surfaces of spherical-cross sections which conform to the outer surface of the rings. The dual coupling is fastened with eyebolts to complete the make-up of the flexible pipe joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Misener Marine Construction, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric van Zuthem, Meije DeBoer, Steve A. Walton
  • Patent number: RE38786
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a tube coupling comprising a coupling body having a throughway open at one end of the body to receive a tube. A collet is located in the throughway having an annular element and at least one radially resilient finger extending axially from the element toward said open end of the throughway. The coupling body has a stop face directed along the throughway axis away from said open end and the distal end of the finger has on its inner side a projection to engage a feature on the tube and on its outer side a first, axially facing abutment directed towards the open end of the throughway to engage with the stop face and a further, radially facing abutment engageable with the coupling body when the axially facing abutment engages the stop face to constrain the distal end of the finger against radial outward movement and thereby to prevent release of the projection on the finger from the feature on the tube and release of the tube from the coupling body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: John Guest International Limited
    Inventor: John D. Guest