Guide And Support Patents (Class 285/24)
  • Patent number: 6106136
    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 in an orientation wherein the center of the retention collar aligns with center of the mounting bracket. 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: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Peter Lin
  • Patent number: 6085363
    Abstract: A water closet fitting comprising a removable test baffle allows a water closet drain system to be tested for fluid tight integrity after the fitting has been installed in a poured, permanently set floor such as concrete. The test baffle is removably attached to the fitting, preferably by interfering fit between the test baffle and the fitting, for efficient installation, and comprises means for removing the baffle entirely from the fitting and the drain system after the completed system has been permanently installed and successfully tested. A preferred embodiment of the baffle is flexible, has a diameter greater than that of the central drain system, and comprises a central dome to enhance its pressure resistant characteristics. The flexibility of the baffle allows it to be removed through the installed drain system after the system has been tested successfully.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Donald G. Huber
  • Patent number: 6073971
    Abstract: A clamping jaw arrangement for a clamp system includes several clamping jaws and a fitting arrangement. The clamping jaws are coupled to an actuating device and located in a radially spreadable manner in a casing around a spreader mandrel. The fitting arrangement is configured for the spreader mandrel and formed as a star-shaped fitting, which is mounted in the casing in a peripheral area of the clamping jaws and at an inner end of the spreader mandrel. The fitting includes at least three spokes, which are radially aligned between two respective clamping jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Weh GmbH Verbindungstechnik
    Inventors: Wolfgang Weh, Erwin Weh
  • Patent number: 6059321
    Abstract: A fitting is provided for joining to a smooth exterior periphery of a tubular conduit with a seal member sealing therebetween. The fitting has a tubular body with a central passage for receiving the tubular conduit. The central passage defines a central axis for the fitting and has a tapered opening, a threaded section, a seal section and a stop which circumferentially extend coaxially about the central axis. An annular shaped seal member extends from the seal section for sealingly engaging the exterior periphery of the tubular conduit. The tapered opening of the fitting provides an entrance to the central passage which is sized for receiving and end of the tubular conduit having an oval shaped periphery, and then rounding the exterior periphery such that annular shaped seal member will sealingly engage the exterior of the tubular conduit. The seal section is disposed between the tapered opening and the threaded section of the central passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Group Timerline, Inc.
    Inventor: Lucian H. Lyall, III
  • Patent number: 6059318
    Abstract: This invention relates to a coupling system for connecting one or more fluid conduits wherein the system is adapted for lateral entry of one pipe or conduit to the other. The coupling system is also suited for making a connection in an environment which is relatively inaccessible to personnel and may be remotely operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Tom Edward Estep, Ronald P. Hoffman, James R. Hunter, Jean Joseph Muller, Germain Schilz, Carl E. Vorhees, James M. Wiggins, Jean Francois Woll
  • Patent number: 6010327
    Abstract: A fuel control system, parts therefor, and methods of making are provided. The fuel control system includes a fuel control valve unit (FCU) and a fuel conduit having an end secured in a fuel outlet opening in a housing of the fuel control valve unit. The end of the conduit is disposed in a certain desired axial position in the fuel outlet opening relative to the housing, the housing has a movable part. In a first position of the movable part, the end of the conduit can be axially moved from a position outside the housing to the certain desired axial position. In a second position, the movable part cooperates with a securing device on the end of the conduit to secure the end in the certain desired axial position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Jay Katchka
  • Patent number: 5988690
    Abstract: A junction device for joining a tube (3) to the body of a part (2) including a cylindrical endpiece (1) belonging to the part and defining a end face (6), and a coupling sleeve (11) having a first section (12) including releasable fastener means (13) for co-operating with corresponding means (5) on the coupling endpiece (1) and having a second section (14) axially adjacent to the first section (12) and including means (15) for opposing extraction of an end of the tube (3) placed in the sleeve (11) and in abutment against the end face (6) of the endpiece (1), in which the sleeve (11) is internally fitted with a guide ring (19) for guiding the end of the tube (3), the inside diameter (D) of the ring being substantially equal to the outside diameter of the tube (3), the ring possessing a first portion (20) mounted to slide in the second section (14) of the sleeve (11) and a second portion (21) projecting axially into the first section (12) of the sleeve (11), and the endpiece (1) being provided with a groove (7)
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Legris S.A.
    Inventor: Olivier Bogard
  • Patent number: 5961154
    Abstract: A fume exhaust duct joint, a clamping collar for clamping two cylindrical dual-laminate duct sections joined by an internal slip collar, and a method for assembling the joint. A first embodiment of the clamping collar has two clamp portions each including a metal outer skin spot-welded to a metal inner skin. The inner skins have bifurcated protrusions whose bifurcations penetrate the duct section outer surfaces when the collar is tightened, and, optionally, two circumferential beads of fire retardant caulking. The inner skins and slip collar are bonded to duct section surfaces using a putty-like sealant including a settable admixture of curing agent and novolac epoxy resin. A second embodiment of the clamping collar, preferred for duct sections 3-inches in diameter or smaller, has a single circumferential clamp portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventors: Douglas Williams, Jeff Shea
  • Patent number: 5951059
    Abstract: A tube connector device for connecting at least one first tube which is disposed on one side of a panel and at least one second tube which is disposed on the other side of the panel, the tube connector device including (a) at least one tubular connector for connecting the first tube and the second tube, such that the first tube is attached to one open end of the connector while the second tube is attached to the other open end, (b) a connector holder for holding the connector such that the connector holder is fitted on an external circumferential surface of the above-indicated other open end of the connector, and (c) a fixture for attaching the connector holder to the panel such that the connector holder is fitted into a communication hole formed through the panel, and wherein the connector holder is made of a rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer, and includes a tubular body having an axial hole engaging the above-indicated other open end, and a flange portion extending outwardly from the tubular body in a rad
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Hirokazu Kitamura
  • Patent number: 5943461
    Abstract: An optical module is packaged using one or more internal fiber connections which are arranged to minimize the likelihood of internal connection damage when the module is installed on a circuit board. The module includes at least one external connector arranged on a side of the package, and a submount within the package for supporting a component such as an optical source or an optical detector. An optical fiber is connected within the package from the submount to a connector interface of the external connector. The end of the fiber at the connector interface has a preformed connector thereon which engages a ferrule associated with the interface. The other end of the fiber is attached to the submount for optimal coupling efficiency. The fiber may undergo a bend of about 90.degree. or 180.degree. from its first end to its second end. In order to accommodate the fiber bend, the component submount is positioned within the package in a location remote from the external connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc
    Inventor: Muhammed Afzal Shahid
  • Patent number: 5927759
    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. The first component is an annular sleeve which is constructed and arranged to assemble onto the vehicle tail pipe. A band clamp is used for this connection in order to establish a leak-free interface. 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. There is an offset portion intermediate the ends of the annular sleeve which serves as an abutment for the nozzle locator ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: William J. Hyslop
  • Patent number: 5915738
    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: July 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: John Derek Guest
  • Patent number: 5908210
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for securely fastening joints in pressure vessels, pipes, and other structures intended to isolate internal volumes from the external environment. It can join a blank cover to a pressure vessel or it can join tubular members. It may be used in any application currently utilizing standard bolted flanges. It provides a flange retaining clamp for remotely disconnecting and remotely connecting flange members disposed on a pressure vessel, in which one of the flange members is disposed on the pressure vessel and the second flange hub end is applied in a gasketed, sealing relationship thereto, in which the flange hub ends each have a outwardly extending flange hub, wherein, the clamp has at least two clamp segments which are moveable from a closed, sealing, flange member retaining position to an open, unsealed, flange member liberating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Kelly Fetzer
  • Patent number: 5906398
    Abstract: In a joint for joining a first and a second part so that these first and second parts maintain a predefined rotational position in relation to each other, where the joint comprises an internal thread (33) in the firs part (34), which internal thread has an inner end and an outer free end receiving an outer free end of a corresponding external thread (22) on the second part (21) which external thread has an inner end adjacent to the second part, the free end of the ridge and the inner end of the groove forming the threads are bounded by surfaces (27, 39) lying in a plane through the axis of the threads, and the length of the threads are so adapted that a plane end surface of the ridge of one thread engages the plane end surface of the groove of the other thread when the two parts are screwed together and occupy the predefined mutual rotational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Novo Nordisk A/S
    Inventors: Andre Larsen, S.o slashed.ren Mikkelsen
  • Patent number: 5901984
    Abstract: A coupling mechanism for removably connecting a fluid line to an apparatus such as a mass flow controller and includes a flange member for connection to the apparatus so that it is cantilevered from the apparatus and provides a fluid connection with a bore opening that is vertically aligned. A yoke member is dimensioned to extend over the flange member and have a corresponding fluid conduit and bore that can be aligned vertically with the bore opening on the flange member. A seal member can be positioned between the yoke member and the flange member. A spacer member is mounted in the yoke member and a fastener member can be aligned vertically to exert a force on the flange member to apply a sealing pressure to the seal member while locking the yoke member to the flange member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Stec Inc.
    Inventor: Masami Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 5890745
    Abstract: A method for producing a microfluidic coupler includes the step of producing a first mask on a top surface of a wafer. The first mask defines an insertion channel pattern selected to correspond to the cross sectional shape of a capillary. The wafer is etched through the first mask to form an insertion channel. A second mask is produced on a bottom surface of the wafer. The second mask defines a subchannel pattern selected to match the diameter of the bore of the capillary. The wafer is etched through the second mask to form a subchannel connected to the insertion channel. The capillary is inserted into the insertion channel such that the capillary is in fluid communication with the subchannel. In one embodiment, a capillary guide is secured to the wafer to facilitate insertion of the capillary into the insertion channel. The capillary guide has a tapered guide channel aligned with the insertion channel for guiding the capillary into the insertion channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventor: Gregory T. A. Kovacs
  • Patent number: 5879030
    Abstract: A coupling assembly for leak proof connection of the ends of two lengths of pipe or tubing. One end of a first pipe is coupled to a coupling box which is connected to or integrally formed on the end of a second pipe. The coupling box has threads for engaging a nut for securing the coupling. The coupling box has a bore for receiving the end of the first pipe. The end of the first pipe has an outer tapered surface for engaging an inner tapered surface of the coupling box to form a metal to metal seal between the first pipe and the coupling box. The bore also contains an engager for coupling the nut to the first pipe. The engager includes a split ring which has a longitudinal slot. The split ring has internal circumferential projections or gripping teeth which are aligned with external circumferential projections or gripping teeth on the end of the first pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Wyman-Gordon Company
    Inventors: Andrew Clayson, Robert G. Wilkie
  • Patent number: 5876069
    Abstract: To restrict a fitting length of an inserting side tubular member such as a corrugate tube into a receiving side tubular member having a flexible portion such as a rubber boot when the inserting and receiving side tubular members are connected. Projections 16 are formed on the inner surface of a fitting end portion 13. When a corrugate tube 20 is fitted into the fitting end portion 13, a leading end 20A thereof comes into contact with the projections 16, thereby restricting any further insertion of the corrugate tube 20. This prevents the entry of the corrugate tube 20 into the flexible portion 12. Accordingly, there is no likelihood that the smooth deformation of the flexible portion 12 is hindered by the entry of the corrugate tube 20 into the flexible portion 12. Further, since there is no need for a consideration as to an excessive insertion of the corrugate tube 20, the connection can easily be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaaki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 5863078
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for coupling together two lengths of pipe comprising first and second collars or flanges secured to the ends of the lengths of pipe and having joining surfaces thereon which abut one another on securing the lengths of pipe together,radially aligned grooves are formed in the joining surfaces for receiving a seal which includes a rigid first seal component and a flexible second seal component bonded to the first seal component,the seal extending partially into both grooves to seal between the joining surfaces of the collars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Daniel Graham Ball
  • Patent number: 5860676
    Abstract: A modular block assembly is provided for interconnecting fluid components of a fluid system in a reduced area. The system includes a base block having angularly disposed passages that receive fasteners in opposite, parallel end faces of the block. The fasteners allow adjacent base blocks to be connected in end-to-end fashion. The first passage extends through one of the end faces and communicates with an upper face of the block. Fluid components are selectively secured to the upper face of the base block to control or regulate fluid flow through the system as desired. Additional angle openings and fasteners, as well as additional fluid passages, may be provided in side wall faces of the base blocks. These additional passages permit transfer of fluid from one adjacent flow line to another. Each fluid passage end includes face seals allowing abutting engagement between the modular components to provide a sealed, continuous flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Swagelok Marketing Co.
    Inventors: Joseph M. Brzezicki, Thomas E. DiBiase, Michael J. Mohlenkamp, Benjamin J. Olechnowicz, Richard T. Papa, Brian K. Sprafka, Daniel E. Zeiler
  • Patent number: 5836286
    Abstract: An eccentric member for coupling a fuel injector to an internal combustion engine cylinder head. The apparatus includes eccentric members that are rotatable to align fuel coupling components to compensate for gross accumulated component dimension tolerances, thereby allowing the use of economical and reliable O-rings to compensate for remaining tolerances. Embodiments of the apparatus include an eccentric, a coupling member and adapters having off-center fuel passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Diesel Technology Company
    Inventors: Robert C. Timmer, Robert D. Straub
  • Patent number: 5826918
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connector for connecting a fuel filler pipe (3) to a fuel tank (1), particularly in a motor vehicle. The connector has a tubular sealing housing (2) attached to the fuel tank (1) and a retention collar (4) retained by a pair of flanges (7,8) on the pipe (3) and which may be press-fitted to the housing (2). The collar (4) has a ring (5) from which four lugs (6) extend axially towards the housing (2). Each lug (6) has: a radially outward projecting detent (13) which engages with a lip (39) within the housing (2); and a radially inward projecting detent (14) which retains the filler pipe (3) in one axial direction, the filler pipe (3) being retained in the other axial direction by the ring (5). The housing (2) has a grommet (60) seal with the filler pipe (3) and also a number of crenellations (9,10,11) and detent guide channels (38) which receive and guide outwardly projecting detents (13) to the lips (39).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David T. Bowles, Ronald P. Pardy
  • Patent number: 5825519
    Abstract: An optical demultiplexer includes a first optical path that includes a first nonlinear optical element (NLE) which responds to a control pulse to induce a 180.degree. phase shift in an optical data signal propagating therethrough. The NLE responds rapidly to the control pulse but slowly reverts to a non-phase shift state. A second optical path is provided which includes a second NLE. An optical output coupler is connected to the first and second optical paths and responds to in-phase data pulses therefrom to output a data pulse on a first output. The optical output coupler is responsive to 180.degree. phase shifted data pulses to output a corresponding data pulse on a second output. An input data source concurrently couples a train of optical data pulses of wavelength .lambda. onto the first optical path and the second optical path. A control input induces a first control pulse of wavelength .lambda. onto the first optical path and a second control pulse of wavelength .lambda.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Princeton University
    Inventor: Paul R. Prucnal
  • Patent number: 5806896
    Abstract: A joint for a fluid transport pipe is provided for use in e.g. connecting and communicating a fluid piping device such as a branch pipe or a sluice valve to a through bore defined in a fluid transport pipe. The joint includes a joint body, to be connected to a fluid transport pipe. This joint body has a cylindrical connecting portion projecting therefrom. The cylindrical connecting portion includes a fixed cylindrical member formed integrally with the joint body and a movable cylindrical member fluid-tightly connectable to the fixed cylindrical member to be pivotable three-dimensionally relative thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Sato et al.
    Inventors: Taichi Sato, Masaru Ueno, Mitsuhiro Shiozaki, Naoki Kaido, Atsushi Sakai
  • Patent number: 5782500
    Abstract: FIG. 2A shows an alignment and sealing arrangement for connecting two non-gender opposed conduit parts (20) and (20'). Seal (22) is captured by two opposed seal protrusions (20C) and (20C') residing on conduit part's end. Bore (18A) of alignment element (18) closely receives opposed alignment protrusions located on conduit parts' end. The alignment protrusions are substantially referenced to their respective passageways. Axial force is applied to displace opposed conduit parts toward one another to cause seal protrusions to compress seal, drawing conduit parts' passageways (20E) and (20E') into an aligned relation, and reducing adjacent mating faces into approximate flush relation with one intersection (30). This coupling has one seal removed from direct contact with media, eliminates any appreciable media entrapment space, and desirably reduces flow disturbance along passageways of conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Robert James Mate
  • Patent number: 5769460
    Abstract: In order to connect two tubular guide rails, a connector is used. Each tubular guide rail is formed with an elongate rounded recess which extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubular guide rail. A seal member of elastic material is to be put between terminal ends of the two tubular guide rails. A joint plate has two parallel elongate rounded recesses formed therein. The joint plate is connectable to the two tubular guide rails in such a manner that each of the parallel elongate rounded recesses mates with the elongate rounded recess of the corresponding tubular guide rail to define a substantially cylindrical pin receiving space. Two cylindrical positioning pins are employed each being to be received in the substantially cylindrical pin receiving space. A securing device is employed which, when actuated, gradually presses the joint plate against the tubular guide rails and finally secures the joint plate to the tubular guide rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: I. Tech Inc.
    Inventor: Kazuhisa Imai
  • Patent number: 5692782
    Abstract: A telescopable vacuum cleaner suction pipe has an outer pipe, an inner pipe having arresting depressions, and arresting element coupled with the outer pipe and engaging in the arresting depressions, a manually actuatable slider unblocking the arresting element, a pressure-loaded blocking spring which when the slider is not actuated holds the arresting element in a locking position and when the slider is actuated the arresting element is movable against the blocking spring to unlocking position for a relative displacement of the inner pipe and the outer pipe, the arresting element being formed as two clamping bodies engaging in separate arresting depressions and inclined at acute angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the out pipe, a guiding body form-lockingly received in the outer pipe and having inclined sliding planes on which the clamping body are displaced, one of the blocking bodies which blocks a relative movement of the inner pipe and the outer pipe is displaceable for releasing its blocking positi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: Fischer-Rohtechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Fischer
  • Patent number: 5685573
    Abstract: An anti-rotation device to be mounted on standard glad hands for rail cars for preventing unintended uncoupling of coupled glad hands. The device comprises a band assembly and a wire form. The band assembly is generally comparable to a hose clamp. As disclosed, the band assembly includes orienting features so that it will be circumferentially and axially oriented in an optimum position wherein damage to the band assembly due to a glad hand whipping against a car coupler upon uncoupling is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Ireco, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudolph E. Nadherny, Mark Kampf
  • Patent number: 5683117
    Abstract: A clip for retaining a conduit trapped in an end of a connector has a pair of resilient legs extending from an arcuate-shaped end member which occupies a relatively small amount of space around the periphery of the connector when the clip is connected thereto. Each of the legs includes an end finger which forms an acute angle with an outside edge of the leg and which locks around the outside of the connector housing when the clip is inserted in one of a pair of opposed slots or apertures formed in the housing. A guide tab extends from the end member and slides into a channel formed in the connector housing to insure that the clip faces the correct direction when inserted into the connector. The legs have chamfered inner front surfaces which slidably engage a front end of the conduit to allow the conduit to deflect the legs apart and slidably move between the legs. A flat back surface of the clip legs cooperates with an enlarged annular collar of the conduit to retain the conduit within the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: Flex Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher H. Corbett, Thomas L. Welsh
  • Patent number: 5632632
    Abstract: A flowmeter alignment device comprises an alignment ring affixed to an end of a flowmeter flowtube and having spring fingers to engage the circumference of a pipe flange raised face. In another embodiment a flowmeter alignment device comprises a semicircular or other arcuate body affixed to the flowtube end, the arcuate body adapted to mate with the circumference of a pipe flange raised face. The arcuate body is shaped to permit lateral installation and removal of the flowtube from a mating pipe flange. In still another embodiment an alignment ring is adapted also for use as an electrical grounding ring for electromagnetic flowmeters, or as an orifice plate for differential pressure-based flowmeters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventor: Wendell G. Huotari
  • Patent number: 5630628
    Abstract: A connecting coupling has a hose nozzle and a coupling piece, for joining hose lines, and in particular for pressure-tight connection of the hose line of a dishwashing sprayer to a single-lever pillar mixer by means of plug-in connection. To further reduce manufacture costs and at the same time achieve a rapid and easily detachable connecting union, in the connecting coupling a retaining element is a disk-shaped body, split on one side, with a reinforced outer rim and with segment-like holding and blocking tongues that define a rectangular opening cross-section when the retaining element is closed. A coupling piece has a middle tube section with an end section, which can be inserted into the mixer, and the hose nozzle carries an O-ring on its end, secured by a bushing, and the bushing is locked by a retaining ring, to which is connected a plastic part with a retaining groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Ideal-Standard GmbH
    Inventor: Heiner M onch
  • Patent number: 5603152
    Abstract: A secondary connector block of the type that is used to reinforce a port through a thin wall so that a mating primary connector block which has a bolt hole offset to the side of a refrigerant line can be used to connect the line concentrically to the port. The secondary connector block consists of a completely cylindrical base with an intermediate annular groove circling its outer surface. The base can be turned on a lathe, since it is completely symmetrical about its axis. The base is first welded concentrically to the port, which is easily done, since no part of the base overhangs the surface of the wall. The side lobe which contains the bolt hole that aligns with the primary block is attached later by a pair of bendable legs that are formed around and into the groove. The legs may be wide enough to fit very tightly into the groove, in which case the side lobe is first turned to the orientation that aligns the bolt holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Anh Le, Richard L. Marker, Richard J. Raterman
  • Patent number: 5601315
    Abstract: A molded connector for producing a branch connection for a pipeline has two heating windings which are connected to each other and by means of which the weld connection between the pipeline and the molded connector as well as the inserted molded branch part or a pipe is produced simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventors: Lars Bunger, Helmut Hilger
  • Patent number: 5597184
    Abstract: A clamp for quick release of a generally rectangular bonnet to the flange of valve body is disclosed. The upper side of the edge of the rectangular bonnet is formed with a bevel of about 20 degrees and the lower side of the edge of the body flange is formed with a similar bevel. The clamp consists of semi-circular ends and straight sides hinged together. One side is split and connected by a toggle latch. In cross-section, each clamp section is generally C-shaped, with the top and bottom arms of the C being beveled so that as the clamp sections are drawn inward the bevels wedge the bonnet against the flange. Locating pins fitting into holes in the plate and flange locate the parts and resist implosion when the valve body is subjected to vacuum. To maintain uniform clamping force around the circumference of the bonnet the bevels at the middles of the sides may be less wide than at the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: High Vacuum Apparatus Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur J. Brenes, Fabian M. Van De Graff
  • Patent number: 5577775
    Abstract: A unitary, fully-assembled bearingless coolant union which transfers cooling fluid from a fluid source to an axial bore of a rotating spindle on a stationary machine. The union includes a main housing which holds in position both a rotor assembly and a stator assembly such that a rotating seal on the rotor assembly remains in fluid-tight contacting relation with a non-rotating seal on the stator assembly. Means are provided to allow the seal members to move axially with respect to the spindle's axis of rotation in response to axial movement by the spindle itself and to allow the inclination of the seal members from a plane transverse to this axis of rotation in response to minor misalignment of the rotor assembly from concentric relation with this axis of rotation. The two-step process for installing the union includes (1) attaching the end of the rotor assembly to a spindle, and (2) mounting the union's housing assembly upon the stationary machine within the allowable set-up tolerance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Barco, A Division of Marison Industries
    Inventors: Dennis G. Pearson, Dean E. Wanders
  • Patent number: 5570911
    Abstract: A connector for connecting two pipes into abutment with each other uses mateable hub members with external flanges. One of the hub members has a concentric recess with a gross tapered surface and a fine tapered surface. The gross tapered surface is inclined at a greater angle relative to the axis than the fine tapered surface. The other hub member has a protruding guide member which will contact the gross and fine tapered surfaces when the hub members are brought together. First the gross tapered surface will decrease misalignment, then the fine tapered surface will complete the alignment of the hub members. A seal is located on seal seats in the hub members. The seal is metal and is carried in a position prior to connection so as to avoid damaging contact of the other hub member when the hub members are brought together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Galle
  • Patent number: 5562121
    Abstract: A gas outlet system that includes a first indexing structure mating with a first adaptor for releasably connecting the first adaptor to the outlet, and a second indexing structure mating with a second adaptor for releasably connecting the second adaptor to the outlet. The gas outlet system includes an engaging member for engaging the adaptor to the outlet and includes first and second urging members each independently operable to disengage the engaging member to release the adaptor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Allied Healthcare Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven M. Hodges, Dennis A. Dohogne
  • Patent number: 5553894
    Abstract: A conduit connector is provided so that a heat medium source, a drain and/or a vacuum pressure source are in fluid communication with a cassette containing rotatable cylinders for producing corrugated paperboard. The cassette is insertable in a frame. At least one plug and associated socket are mounted in a first plate and a second plate, respectively. Each plug is secured to an end of a conduit, and the conduit has another end in communication with the cassette. Each socket is in communication with the source. The first plate is fixed relative to the cassette, and the second plate is fixed relative to the source. The plug and the socket are configured to engage each other upon an insertion of the cassette into the frame so that the conduit is in fluid communication with the source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: Peters Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Gerhard Klaassen
  • Patent number: 5538293
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for installing a secondary duct to a main duct in a forced air ventilation system utilizes a gasket having a central opening which functions as a template for cutting an opening into the main duct after the gasket is secured to a flat surface of the main duct. The secondary duct is then inserted through the openings of the gasket and the main duct and is secured to the main duct and the gasket so as to seal the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Thinking Vents, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley Kolt
  • Patent number: 5520419
    Abstract: A method of and rounding devices for inserting an out-of-round pipe spigot into a pipe bell by installing the rounding devices on the open end of the pipe bell. The rounding devices have cam surfaces for engaging the end of the out-of-round spigot and have sufficient strength and stiffness to deform the out-of-round into a substantially circular cross sectional configuration upon application of insertion force between the bell and spigot. The rounding devices may be removed and reused after the bell and spigot joint is assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: American Cast Iron Pipe Company
    Inventors: Stephen L. DeBoalt, Randall C. Conner, Howard H. O'Daniel
  • Patent number: 5513966
    Abstract: A liquid manifold for connecting to adjacent pumps, wherein the manifold has two sections. Each section is independently connected to a liquid pump and threadably secured to the pump at a position which provides the most precise alignment of the respective manifold sections. The manifold sections are then affixed together by fasteners through openings in one manifold section which are larger than threaded openings in the other manifold section. The larger openings permit a predetermined amount of misalignment to be present while still permitting a tight sealable connection to be made by the two manifold sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventor: Duane Krohn
  • Patent number: 5487569
    Abstract: An easily-assembled, heat resistant connector for releasably joining end portions of three capillary tubes for use in chromatography without interrupting flow or interfering with chromatographic results comprises a main body, and a glass insert which has first, second and third hollow legs that are connected together at a central portion, and a connector that connects each leg of the glass insert to a capillary tube. Each leg of the glass insert extends outwardly from the central portion towards an open end portion, and each leg has an inboard bore with a taper that receives and end portion of one of the capillary tubes. The taper is wider near the open end portion of the leg and narrower near the central portion. The connectors are mounted on the main body and a sealing ferrule is provided in each connector for making a seal between the capillary tubes and the legs of the glass insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Restek Corporation
    Inventors: Paul H. Silvis, Bradley R. Rightnour
  • Patent number: 5470112
    Abstract: A coupling ring for joining circular sheet metal ducts has oppositely opening grooves for receiving meeting ends of the ducts, and is diametrically adjustable to accommodate variations in the duct diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Keating Koupling, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry M. Keating
  • Patent number: 5468023
    Abstract: A flowline connector will remotely connect subsea flowlines without the assistance of a diver. The flowline connector has a frame which supports a seal carrier plate assembly. Springs allow axial movement of the carrier plate assembly during engagement of mating hubs of flowlines. A metal seal carried by the carrier plate assembly engages conical seats in the hubs of the two flowlines. An elastomeric test seal located radially outward of the metal seal seals between flat faces of the hubs of the flowlines. The test seals elongate radially to wipe the sealing surfaces clean during the makeup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Abb Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Galle, Frank C. Adamek
  • Patent number: 5462315
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a tubular connection having a stabilized center-shoulder seal. The stabilization of the center-shoulder seal is achieved using at least one run-out section of thread adjacent to the center-shoulder seal configuration of each connection member. The run-out section of thread is typically used in combination with a run-in section of thread on the corresponding connection member.Preferably, the center shoulder seal configuration of each connection member is positioned between a run-out thread section and a run-in thread section. (The corresponding connection member will comprise the corresponding sections of run-in and run-out threads, respectively, so there is an interengaging set of run-in and run-out threads).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Marubeni Tubulars, Inc.
    Inventor: Erich F. Klementich
  • Patent number: 5462311
    Abstract: A telescoping assembly especially suited for vacuum cleaner wands includes a first tube having an outer diameter and a second tube having an inner diameter which is larger than the outer diameter of the first tube. In this way, the first tube fits within the second tube in an axially sliding manner. A collet is positioned within the second tube and encircles the first tube. The collet includes a locking element for selectively securing the first tube in relation to the second tube, the locking element cooperating with a portion of the second tube upon a rotation of the collet to prevent a telescoping movement of the first tube in relation to the second tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Royal Appliance Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Mark E. Cipolla
  • Patent number: 5447337
    Abstract: A tube-type coupling or clamping joint is formed of plastic and comprises two cylindrical cartridge-shaped body portions 2, 3 having end regions 8, 9 which interfittingly overlap and mate with each other in a detachably connected manner. At least one locking part 10 is arranged for joining the elements 2, 3. One end region of one of the cartridge-shaped elements carries at its outer circumference at least two stop elements 11, 11' which extend at right angles to the longitudinal axis L--L. Axially behind the stops 11, 11' there is arranged to be inserted as a portion of the locking part 10 a stop arm 12, 12' that can rotate at right angles vis-a-vis the longitudinal axis of the coupling. Located in the other end region 9 of the mating cartridge-shaped element is a resilient ring element 14 and a locating flange 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: TRW United-Carr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hans-Werner Ruckwardt
  • Patent number: 5415435
    Abstract: A pipe support clamp includes a pair of like outer hinged rigid metal wire rings spaced apart for mounting about the ends of two pipe sections to be joined together. The rings include two pivotable semicircular sections joined at the lower ends by a hinge. Inner semicircular rings are secured to the outer rings by radial spacers. The inner rings are adapted to fit closely about and hold the ends of the two pipe sections. A pair of turnbuckles at the other ends of the outer rings secure the pivotable semicircular sections together when the clamp is moved from an open to a closed position. A coupling device for permanently securing and sealing the pipe ends can then be mounted around the ends within the spaced apart rings. The support clamp is then removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Patrick F. Colbert
  • Patent number: 5407236
    Abstract: In a housing (3) of an attachment piece (1), at least one hollow core space (5) for receiving one end of a corrugated tube (2) is available. In this hollow core space (5) between the corrugated tube (2) and the housing (3), a sleeve (4) is disposed into which the end of the corrugated tube (2) is inserted. On this sleeve (4) elastic elements (15, 16) are present which are pressed toward an axis (29) of the attachment piece (1), through an outer ring (23) on the housing (3). At least one of the elastic elements (15, 16) is equipped with one positioning element (20) and a locking element (24), with these elements (20, 24) engaging an aperture (21) in the housing (3). The connection between corrugated tube (2) and housing (3) can only be broken with an auxiliary tool and is therefore protected against unintentional detachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Assignee: PMA Elektro AG
    Inventors: Ernst Schwarz, Ulrich Fastenrath
  • Patent number: 5401062
    Abstract: A pipe coupling comprises a pair of flanges adapted to be secured together in face to face relation to form a fluid-tight coupling. Each flange incorporates at least one coding device formed to provide a key and a keyway, which coding devices are so disposed and arranged on the flanges that the two flanges can only be secured together to form the fluid-tight coupling if the coding devices on the respective flanges correspond with one another, and each of the pair of coding devices comprising, secured within a hole in a flange, a bar member whose cross section is partly cut away to provide the keyway and key, and the bar member being secured in the hole in one of a predetermined number of relative orientations, selectively achieved by adjusting, by rotation, the bar member in the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Seetru Limited
    Inventor: John C. Vowles