Swivel Patents (Class 285/272)
  • Patent number: 11746943
    Abstract: A joint assembly configured to be connected to a tube and including a first joint, a second joint and an engagement sleeve. The first joint has a channel and an engagement recess. The engagement recess is located in the channel of the first joint. The second joint has a first end, a second end and a channel. The second end is opposite to the first end. The channel of the second joint extends from the first end to the second end. The first end of the second joint is inserted into the tube. The engagement sleeve is sleeved on the tube. The tube is at least partially clamped by the engagement sleeve and the first end of the second joint. The engagement sleeve has an engagement structure located at an end of the engagement sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: COOLER MASTER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ting-Jui Chang
  • Patent number: 11701534
    Abstract: A fire suppression sprinkler adapted to receive arcuate surfaces of a grooved coupling is retainable to the coupling in a pre-assembled state. The coupling joins the sprinkler in facing axial end to end relation directly to grooved pipe. The sprinkler has a monolithic body which defines a bore having an inlet and an outlet. A groove, positioned between the inlet and the outlet extends around the body. A projection, positioned between the groove and the outlet also extends around the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Philip W. Bancroft, Daniel Wake, Ahmed Saleh, Matthew A. Bowman, Craig Haney
  • Patent number: 11519536
    Abstract: A fluid conduit connector includes a monolithic body having a first opening at a first side and a second opening at a second side. A throughbore extends from the first opening to the second opening. A first array of holes in the first side is positioned around the first opening, each hole of the first array of holes terminating within the body. A second array of holes in the first side is positioned around the first array of holes, each hole of the second array of holes extending through the body to the second side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: SAFOCO, INC.
    Inventors: David Lymberopoulos, Andrew Allen Kadavy
  • Patent number: 11389610
    Abstract: Interfaces for positive pressure therapy having a mask assembly, a headgear assembly and a connection port assembly are disclosed herein. The connection port assembly has a ball joint connection with the mask assembly and includes a quick release button for easily disconnecting the gases source conduit from the mask assembly. The mask assembly may include a bias flow vent that is formed separately and attached to the mask assembly. The headgear assembly encircles the rear region of the user's head and may include at least some portions that are substantially non-stretchable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Jonathan David Harwood, Christopher Earl Nightingale, Gregory James Olsen, Craig Robert Prentice, Daniel John Smith, Brett John Huddart, Andrew Paul Maxwell Salmon, Olivia Marie Allan
  • Patent number: 11353151
    Abstract: A rotary union that includes rotating and non-rotating machine components, each having a sealing ring, which can together form a mechanical face seal. A rotor disposed on the rotating machine component includes one or more magnets. A sensor array disposed in the housing includes a plurality of sensing elements that are integrated with a control device, a communication device, and a power storage device. The sensor array further includes a magnetic pickup coil disposed to closely overlap the outer periphery of the rotor. When the rotating machine component rotates, the magnet creates a rotating magnetic field that cooperates with the magnetic pickup coil to produce electrical power to operate the sensor array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Deublin Company, LLC
    Inventors: Anton A. Petrou, Christoph Budzus, Sargon Guliana
  • Patent number: 11278996
    Abstract: A rotary union for use along an incompressible fluid path between a rotating machine component and a non-rotating machine component includes a non-rotating seal carrier including a non-rotating seal element, which together with the non-rotating seal carrier define a net hydraulic surface on an internal side and a net pneumatic surface on an external side. Contact of an incompressible fluid under pressure with the net hydraulic surface creates a closing force, and contact of a compressible fluid under pressure with the net pneumatic surface creates an opening force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: Deublin Company, LLC
    Inventors: Lisa Freed, Lauren Dahlke
  • Patent number: 11027160
    Abstract: A fire suppression system in which side-discharge fire sprinklers are fitted to opposite sides of a supply line and aimed so that their coverage areas point in opposite directions. The fire sprinklers are alternated on left and right-hand sides of the supply line, and are spaced apart at a consistent interval. Each fire sprinkler includes a deflector configured to disperse the outflow of water over a non-circular coverage area. When two supply lines are installed next to each other so that half of the sprinklers on one supply line point toward the other supply line, and vise versa, the fire sprinklers are staggered so that their respective coverage areas are interlaced in the intermediate space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: Firebird Sprinkler Company LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Pigeon
  • Patent number: 10619775
    Abstract: A multi-axis rotatable coupling element for a hose or pipe comprising a rotation assembly coupled between a female fitting and a male fitting. The female fitting has a first female threaded end connector for attachment to a hose or spigot, and a second end connector. The male fitting has a third male threaded end for attachment to a hose or spigot, and a fourth end connector. The rotation assembly consists of a first and second rotation member and a single continuous internal channel. The first and second rotation member are rotatable about a first and second axis of rotation, respectively, and have a first and second longitudinal bore for conveying fluid, respectively. The first and second axes of rotation may be different. The single continuous internal channel comprises at least the first and second longitudinal bore and conveys a fluid between the female fitting and the male fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: Swan Products, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy O'Connor, Steven Lorraine
  • Patent number: 10393298
    Abstract: A rotary union includes a housing, a rotating machine component supported in the housing, a rotating seal member associated with the rotating machine component, a non-rotating seal member slidably and sealably disposed within the housing adjacent the rotating seal member, an expandable seal disposed between the non-rotating seal member and the housing, and an internal clamp disposed within an end portion of the expandable seal such that the end portion of the expandable seal is compressed between the internal clamp and the bore of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Deublin Company
    Inventors: Anton A. Petrou, Christoph Budzus, Sargon Guliana
  • Patent number: 10371297
    Abstract: A rotary union includes a housing having a fluid inlet, a rotating machine component rotatably supported in the housing, a rotating seal member associated with the rotating machine component, a non-rotating seal member slidably and sealably disposed within the housing adjacent the rotating seal member, and an expandable seal disposed between and sealably engaging each of the non-rotating seal member and the housing. The expandable seal includes two end portions, one of the two end portions engaged to the non-rotating seal member and the other of the two end portions engaged to the housing, and an expandable portion disposed axially between the two end portions, the expandable portion having an axial length that varies based on a pressure of a hydraulic fluid that is present at the fluid inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Deublin Company
    Inventors: Anton A. Petrou, Christoph Budzus, Sargon Guliana
  • Patent number: 10267441
    Abstract: According to one embodiment a pipe connection comprises a connection body produced from a plastic material, the connection body having at least one projecting periphery, arranged on the end side, and having a retaining region located axially downstream of said periphery. The pipe connection further comprises a union nut produced from a metal material, the union nut pushed over the connection body and having an annular depression in a region located opposite the retaining region of the connection body. The pipe connection further comprises a retaining ring arranged in the annular depression between the connection body and the union nut, securing the union nut in a rotatable manner on the connection body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation Ab
    Inventor: Mats Hallen
  • Patent number: 9708168
    Abstract: A distributor for distributing free-flowing media has a distributor shaft with a distributor head, which is rotatable relative to the distributor shaft with respect to a predetermined axis of rotation D. The distributor head has at least one inlet opening for delivering the free-flowing medium and a plurality of outlet openings for discharging the free-flowing medium. A flow connection exists between this inlet opening and the outlet openings. The distributor shaft has at least one first distributor shaft segment and a second distributor shaft segment. The second distributor shaft is releasably disposed on the first distributor shaft segment closer to the distributor head than the first distributor shaft segment, and has a surface facing the free-flowing medium. The first distributor shaft segment and the second distributor shaft segment differ with regard to their materials and/or their surface coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: KRONES AG
    Inventors: Erwin Knieling, Ludwig Berner, Markus Schoenfelder
  • Patent number: 9322429
    Abstract: A hose reel bearing arrangement supports a rotatable swivel shaft on a stationary hose reel frame. The bearing arrangement comprises a stationary bearing race, a rotating bearing race and a bearing. The stationary bearing race is anchored to the stationary hose reel frame, and has a stationary arcuate land for bearing an axial load, a stationary cylindrical land for bearing a radial load, and a stationary frustoconical intervening portion. The rotating bearing race is anchored to the rotatable swivel shaft, and has a rotating arcuate land for bearing the axial load, a rotating cylindrical land for bearing the radial load, and a rotating frustoconical intervening portion. The bearing is bracketed axially by the stationary arcuate land and the rotating arcuate land, and radially by the stationary cylindrical land and the rotating cylindrical land.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Mark L. Bauck, Michael E. Bloom, Daniel L. Medina
  • Publication number: 20150091297
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for the description of rotary unions. The described rotary unions are provided with a non-rotating union part and a rotating union part affixable to a rotating device. An exemplary rotary union can be positioned relative to a bearing supporting the rotating device and the rotating device or can be incorporated into a bearing supporting the rotating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Mark Stephen Conroy, Thomas Timothy Byrne, Haibin CHEN
  • Patent number: 8991731
    Abstract: A swivel fitting used to connect to various components in a fluid handling system is provided. The swivel fitting incorporates an annular chamfer surface to reduce the affect that the fitting has on the flow properties of the fluid when the fluid is caused to flow through the fitting. The use of the swivel fitting in a paint supply line is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Hosco Fittings, LLC
    Inventors: Jan Pitzer, Bill Bertakis, Jerry Verhoven, Randall Sandifur
  • Patent number: 8985484
    Abstract: A spray gun attachment is provided for fluid supply lines in a fluid handling system. A fluid input portion of a gun body is coupled wife a swivel connector, which includes a rotor that is rotatably coupled with a housing stem. In various embodiments, a bearing cup is rotatably coupled at one end with an exterior surface of the housing stem and anchored at an opposite end with the rotor. An O-ring seal is positioned between the rotor and the exterior surface of the housing stem. A bearing assembly residing within a raceway that is defined by flat surfaces on each of: the rotor, the housing stem, and ah interior bearing wall within the bearing cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Eley Corporation
    Inventors: Craig D. Eley, Darin Schollmeyer
  • Publication number: 20150079216
    Abstract: This specification describes connectors for tubes, pipes and poles, such as can be used in laser marking systems. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a body having a hole formed to receive a tube to connect an interior of the tube with an interior of the body, the tube having a circular groove formed in an exterior surface of the tube; and a clamp including a tab sized to fit within the circular groove of the tube; wherein the clamp is configured and arranged to attach to the body in a first state and in a second state, the first state being where the tube is held to the body axially by the tab and is freely rotatable, and the second state being where the tube is held in a fixed position relative to the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: Markem-Imaje Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. Brooks, Lawrence Edward Drew, II
  • Publication number: 20150069751
    Abstract: A rotatable joint to carry high-pressure and low-pressure liquids to a workstation can include a housing, two connecting heads, a first connecting member, a second connecting member, and a rotation member. The housing defines a first connecting hole positioned along a center housing axis and a second connecting member spaced from the first connecting member and parallel to the housing axis axis. The first connecting member, the second connecting member, and the rotation member can be installed in the housing in that order. One connecting head communicates with the first connecting member, the second connecting member, and the rotation member in that order via the first connecting hole, and the other connecting head communicates with the first connecting member, the second connecting member, and the rotation member in that order, via the second connecting hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: ZHENG-YUE XI, XUE-WEN LI, DE-BING LIU
  • Patent number: 8950786
    Abstract: A coupling device for transferring a medium from a stationary part to a rotating part, including a stationary first ring, which is fixed in place on a stationary part, a second, rotatable ring, which is fixed in place on a rotatable part and rotates along with the rotatable part, a bearing, which is situated between the first ring and the second ring, an annular gap, which is situated between the first ring and the second ring, a supply line, which is disposed at the first ring for the supply of the medium, a discharge line, which is situated at the second ring for the conveying of the medium, the discharge line rotating along with the second ring, an inner sealing element, which seals the annular gap at a radially inner side, and an outer sealing element, which seals the annular gap at a radially outer side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Kochendoerfer, Tobias Gnausch
  • Publication number: 20140367962
    Abstract: A vacuum coupling applies vacuum from a vacuum source to a rotating tool attached to a rotating end of a robotic arm. The vacuum coupling includes a rotating portion attaching the rotating tool to the rotating end of the robotic arm. The rotating portion communicates vacuum with the rotating tool. A fixed portion is positioned around the rotating portion such that the rotating portion is rotatable relative to the fixed portion. The fixed portion communicates vacuum to the rotating portion. At least one rotating vacuum seal is positioned between the fixed portion and the rotating portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Girtman
  • Publication number: 20140360961
    Abstract: A fully articulated and continuous rotation jib crane system includes a first crane arm connected to a crane post by a first pivot joint and a second crane arm connected to the first crane arm by a second pivot joint, each pivot joint including a shaft having a plurality of apertures in fluid communication with the pivot joints and internal bores of the crane arms to transfer a vacuum system pressure, the pivot joints facilitating continuous rotation of each of the first and the second crane arms for any degree of rotation while maintaining the vacuum system pressure through the first and the second pivot joints and the first and the second crane arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Eric Jacob Steffes
  • Publication number: 20140339817
    Abstract: Please replace the Abstract of the present application with the following: A selectably engaged rotary union includes a stator body, and a rotor configured to rotate relative to the stator body, the stator body surrounding a portion of the rotor and configured to transfer a fluidic medium between the stator body and the rotor. The selectably engaged rotary union further includes a plurality of sealing elements affixed to the stator body and disposed between the stator body and the rotor, a gap being present between the plurality of sealing elements and the rotor, where the plurality of sealing elements are configured to selectably close the gap so as to produce a temporary seal between the stator body and the rotor enabling a transfer of the fluidic medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventor: Norman S. Fink
  • Publication number: 20140325894
    Abstract: Devices and method for the extermination of pests are described. These devices and methods may be used to inject gases, which may be inert gases, underground to inject the gas into burrows of pests. In one embodiment, the device is an earth penetrator with hole for injecting gas through discharge holes at the distal end. The discharge holes maybe covered during penetration to prevent dirt from entering into the device. A device for covering and uncovering the hole are provided. The device includes a valve to controllably deliver the gas to the discharge ports. The method includes covering the discharge ports, inserting the device into the ground, uncovering the discharge ports, and then injecting the gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: Inert Gas Injection, LLC
    Inventors: Alfred J. Dentone, Claude Edward Brown
  • Patent number: 8857744
    Abstract: In a sprinkler head hose adapter, a swivel adapter is rotatably coupled to a head adapter. The swivel adapter defines a bore that extends therethrough and that is in fluid communication with a conduit coupled to the swivel adapter. A coupler is positioned in an end of the conduit and includes a bore in fluid communication with the conduit. A portion of the coupler extends outwardly from the coupler and can be attached to a hose or other apparatus forming part of a sprinkler system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Kochek Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Kozey
  • Publication number: 20140261837
    Abstract: A hose joint for a pool cleaner or other apparatus that includes at least two swivels. The first swivel is configured to rotate about a first axis and the second swivel is configured to rotate about a second axis that is different from the first axis. In some embodiments, one of the swivels is configured to rotate approximately 360 degrees about its axis of rotation. In this way, the hose joint has at least two directions of freedom in at least two different planes that help the cleaner move independently from a hose attached to the hose joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Hendrikus Johannes van der Meijden, Michael Edward Moore
  • Patent number: 8827319
    Abstract: A gas tube structure includes a flexible tube. The end of the flexible tube is connected with a fixed connector. A sleeve is fitted on the fixed connector. The fixed connector and the sleeve are connected to a movable connector. The fixed connector has a connection section extending from an outer end thereof. The connection section has an annular seal groove and an annular buckle groove thereon. The sleeve has a sleeve hole therein, a stop flange at one end thereof and an engaging groove formed on in inner wall thereof. One end of the movable connector has a receiving hole and a C-shaped groove formed on an outer wall of the receiving hole. The C-shaped groove is adapted to receive a C-shaped buckle. The present invention has a stable connection, is safe for use, can lower the cost and enhances assembly efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Chiu-Chih Chung
  • Publication number: 20140238203
    Abstract: A hydraulic torque wrench system has a power head and interchangeable link cartridge drives, insertable into the power head. A power head to cartridge drive connection system secures the cartridge drives into the power head forming a single unit having a torque line extending through the center line of the power head, in order to eliminate adverse reactive forces. A hydraulic hose coupler allows 360° by 360° coupler rotation. The link cartridge drives include a reaction pawl which controls the movement of the ratchet within the cartridge drive, a clam shell drive plate for an internal ratchet tooth cassette, a locking system to maintain a ratchet square drive in opposed lateral positions, and a reaction arm adjustment system for locking the reaction arm in a plurality of configurations in relation to the cartridge drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: Steven Spirer
  • Patent number: 8814222
    Abstract: A self-sealing and self-centering tube made of metal, having a tube axis, and configured to form part of a secondary system in a gas turbine engine is disclosed herein. The self-sealing and self-centering tube includes a tube having a tube wall, an inward end, an outward end, a first seal section located towards the inward end, a second seal section towards the outward end, and an extension section located between the second seal section and the outward end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Solar Turbines Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Carl Brill
  • Patent number: 8794942
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vacuum pump comprising a cup-shaped housing, a rotor eccentrically mounted for rotation in the housing, and a housing cover closing the cup-shaped housing, wherein the rotor has a rotor shaft that passes through the cup-shaped housing and by which the rotor is driven, wherein the rotor shaft is provided with a bore for delivering a lubricant, and a connection nipple is seated in the free end section of the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Joma-Polytec GmbH
    Inventors: Willi Schneider, Bernd Hess
  • Patent number: 8746305
    Abstract: A connector for a tire inflation system includes a body with an air inlet receiving pressurized air from an air supply and an air outlet to communicate the pressurized air to at least one tire. The body is to be connected to a rotating wheel component and includes an internal cavity connecting the air inlet to the air outlet. A seal assembly is positioned within the internal cavity. A tube has a first end supported by the seal assembly and a second end that is to be coupled to a non-rotating axle component. The seal assembly and tube are rotatable relative to each other and seal assembly is rotatable relative to the body. The tube communicates pressurized air from the non-rotating axle component to the air inlet to inflate the tire as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Arvinmeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Lloyd
  • Publication number: 20140091568
    Abstract: A device for connecting a rotatable element to a stationary element allows a flowable material to pass from the stationary element to the rotatable element, or vice versa. The device (1) comprises a stator body (2) suitable for being connected to the stationary element and a rotor body (4) suitable for being connected to the rotatable element, a conduit (5) being formed in the stator body (2) to communicate with a further conduit (6) formed in the rotor body (4). The device (1) comprises furthermore a sealing device (7) to prevent leakages of the flowable material, the sealing arrangement (7) comprising a first sealing surface (18) and a second sealing surface (19), the first sealing surface (18) being formed on a deformable sealing portion (15), so that the flowable material deforms the sealing portion (15), thereby pushing the first sealing surface (18) against the second sealing surface (19).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: DEUBLIN ITALIANA S.R.L.
    Inventors: Fabio FORNI, Andrea TONEATTI
  • Publication number: 20140076420
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shell coupling (40) for coupling pairs of pipes, having two half-shells (46, 48?) which, in the coupling state, bound a circular opening (60) for through-passage of the pipes and, at their one end, can be pivoted in relation to one another, via an outer articulation (44), about an articulation axis-parallel to the circular opening (60) and, at their other end, can be connected to one another in a releasable manner via a clamping mechanism (51), with the pipes which are to be coupled being clamped in in the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: PUTZMEISTER ENGINEERING GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Westermann
  • Publication number: 20140077492
    Abstract: A plug and pump system for routing pressurized fluid from a fluid source is disclosed. The system includes a platform and a docking station interface mounted on the platform and including multiple points of articulation. A wellhead interface is mounted on the platform and includes multiple points of articulation. The docking station interface and the wellhead interface are configured to route pressurized fluid from a fluid source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: William D. Kendrick
  • Publication number: 20140054885
    Abstract: A rotary joint for a fluid is in the form of a hollow ring having an upper half and a lower half that are rotatable relative to one another in an X-Y plane around a C-axis. An inlet tube admits fluid to the ring and an outlet tube exhausts fluid from the ring. Both the inlet tube and the outlet tube are displaced from the C-axis. An inlet elbow is positioned in the hollow ring and has a rounded bend in the interior of the ring that directs fluid around the circumference of the ring. An outlet manifold that is tangential to the outer surface of the ring is coupled to the outlet tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: FIVES MACHINING SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Peter L. Mischler, Robert G. Mansfield
  • Publication number: 20140035277
    Abstract: A bearing structure for a pivoting irrigation system apparatus having a rotatable vertical section with a plurality of annular assemblies mounted thereon. The assemblies include a plurality of components that are rotatable and non-rotatable with the rotatable vertical section so as to facilitate movement with decreased friction therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Lindsay Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Korus
  • Patent number: 8616587
    Abstract: A joint includes a housing and a refrigerant tube connected to a refrigerant source and communicated with a target part in a rotating machine. A rotating member is loosely fitted inside with the refrigerant tube and fixed to a rotary part of the rotating machine. A relatively rotating member has a fixed-side member and rotating-side member. The fixed-side member is connected to the refrigerant tube via a refrigerant tube extension section. The rotating-side member is connected to the rotating member via a rotating member extension section. A refrigerant zone is formed by spaces defined between the refrigerant tube and the rotating member, and between the refrigerant tube and rotating member extension sections. A sealing member is installed between the fixed-side and rotating-side members. A vacuum chamber and pressure chamber are defined within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignees: National University Corporation Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Kitano Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Izumi, Motohiro Miki, Masahiro Kitano
  • Publication number: 20130341908
    Abstract: A fluid system includes a loading arm connected to a swivel joint. A counterbalance mechanism is connected between the loading arm and the swivel joint. An adjustment mechanism adjusts the counterbalance force applied by the counterbalance mechanism to the loading arm. The adjustment mechanism includes a guide plate connected to the swivel joint and includes a guide slot and a straight bore guide. A bracket is movably connected to the guide plate and has one or more apertures and a threaded bore guide. Fasteners extend through the guide slot and the one or more apertures to selectively secure the bracket to the guide plate. A lead screw is disposed at least partially within the straight bore guide and the threaded bore guide. Rotation of the lead screw causes the bracket to move along a length of the lead screw and thereby adjust the counterbalance force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Crum, Krzysztof Wejdman
  • Publication number: 20130341912
    Abstract: A bearing plate assembly for a turbine engine fuel injector includes a bearing plate 30, with an opening 80 bordered by a race 82. A swivel ball 90 nests inside the race and is rotatable relative thereto. A lock, which may be a tip bushing 108 resists disengagement of the swivel ball from the race. A fuel injector nozzle 38 extends through an opening 98 in the swivel ball. During engine operation, the ball can swivel inside the race to accommodate rotational movement of the nozzle about lateral and radial axes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: Keith M. Tanner, Philip J. Kirsopp
  • Patent number: 8608208
    Abstract: A pipe coupling assembly, including a first portion having a first channel therethrough and a second channel substantially coaxial with and separated from the first channel, and a second portion rotatably connected to the first portion, wherein the second portion has a first channel substantially aligned with the first channel of the first portion and a second channel substantially aligned with the second channel of the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Heliofocus Ltd.
    Inventor: Hagay Cafri
  • Publication number: 20130320670
    Abstract: A fluid system swivel joint includes a body and a tail rotatably connected together and which partially define a fluid passageway. The tail has an integrally formed flange for connecting to other fluid conduits. A counterbalancing mechanism is disposed within the fluid passageway. The counterbalancing mechanism has a selectively adjustable level of tension that adjusts the amount of force required to rotate the tail relative to the body. At least a portion of the counterbalancing mechanism can be selectively inserted into or removed from the fluid passageway through an opening in the body. The opening in the body can be closed off with an end plate. A swivel assembly rotatably connects the body to a fluid conduit so that the body can rotate relative to the fluid conduit. The swivel assembly includes a collar fixedly and selectively connectable to the body, and a flange body rotatably connected to the collar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: HILTAP FITTINGS, LTD.
    Inventors: David Am, Mark J. Tausch, David K. Morrow
  • Patent number: 8596686
    Abstract: A moveable shower joint adapted to give a user the ability to adjust a showerhead in any direction. The moveable shower joint has upper and lower rotating circular members that may be turned clockwise or counterclockwise to any position. A water inlet is incorporated into the exterior of the upper circular member, and a water outlet is incorporated into the exterior of the lower circular member. A circular seal is retained in a groove in the inner rim of a circular member. Annular tooth rings in the inner rims of the circular members work together to hold the moveable shower joint in place when the desired position is reached. A floating annular tooth ring in the lower member engages a fixed annular tooth ring in the lower member. Springs press the floating tooth ring into the fixed ring, creating the friction needed to hold the joint in place. The water inlet may incorporate a ball joint with a set screw to provide additional adjustability, and a showerhead may be attached to the water outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Haresh S. Desai
  • Patent number: 8517288
    Abstract: A swivel fitting used to connect to various components in a fluid handling system is provided. The swivel fitting incorporates an annular chamfer surface to reduce the affect that the fitting has on the flow properties of the fluid when the fluid is caused to flow through the fitting. The use of the swivel fitting in a paint supply line is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hosco Fittings LLC
    Inventors: Jan Pitzer, Bill Bertakis, Jerry VerHoven, Randall Sandifur
  • Publication number: 20130187377
    Abstract: A female connector includes a body, a mediate member and a rotary member. The rotary member has a stepped cylindrical portion which is rotatably inserted in the inner hole of the mediate member. The other end of the mediate member is threadedly connected to the body. The rotary member is threadedly connected to the connector of a hose. The hose can be freely rotatable relative to the female connector to prevent being twisted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: WAN PAO CHEN
  • Patent number: 8491013
    Abstract: A cementing swivel includes an outer stationary member having a cement port, an inner rotating member with a bore therethrough, and a torque indicating member coupled to the outer stationary member and configured to provide a visual indication that a predetermined torque load has been reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Peer, Robert J. Costo, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130088008
    Abstract: Method for replacing an outer annular ring a fluid swivel (1), the fluid swivel being adapted to allow fluid transfer across a rotary interface between the end of a fluid line connected to the seabed and product piping on a vessel for gas and oil production, wherein the swivel (1) comprises an inner annular ring (3) and an outer annular ring, the rings being located with their adjacent cylindrical surfaces in close proximity for defining a chamber (2), for receiving a fluid, between the peripheral opposing faces of the inner annular ring and the outer annular ring, wherein the inner annular ring (3) is adapted to be connected to the end of the fluid line and wherein the outer annular ring is adapted to be connected to the product piping on the vessel, wherein the method comprises the steps of: removing the outer annular ring, replacing the outer annular ring by means of a first semi-circular element (10) and a second semi-circular element (20), and fixing the first semi-circular element (10) to the second sem
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Cyril Evrard
  • Patent number: 8371618
    Abstract: A water supply attachment is a spherically-shaped pivot attachment having a hollow passage extending between its opposing ends that includes a threaded portion for coupling to water supplies. The water supply attachment can be a hidden pivot attachment usable in various shower assemblies. The hidden pivot attachment may be used in combination with a seal cup and an attachment nut, such that the hidden pivot attachment closely fits within the void spaces of the seal cup and attachment nut, enabling the hidden pivot attachment to form a seal with the seal cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Water Pik, Inc.
    Inventor: Leland C. Leber
  • Publication number: 20120318422
    Abstract: A connector for a tire inflation system includes a body with an air inlet receiving pressurized air from an air supply and an air outlet to communicate the pressurized air to at least one tire. The body is to be connected to a rotating wheel component and includes an internal cavity connecting the air inlet to the air outlet. A seal assembly is positioned within the internal cavity. A tube has a first end supported by the seal assembly and a second end that is to be coupled to a non-rotating axle component. The seal assembly and tube are rotatable relative to each other and seal assembly is rotatable relative to the body. The tube communicates pressurized air from the non-rotating axle component to the air inlet to inflate the tire as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Jefffrey M. Lloyd
  • Publication number: 20120228870
    Abstract: A bush of a radial rotary union joint including a hollow-cylindrical main body whose inner cylindrical surface forms a sliding sealing surface divided by a peripherally extending inner groove into a first and a second sliding sealing surface and having a cylindrical outside surface which is divided by a peripherally extending outer groove into a first and a second outside surface. The wall portion separating the inner and the outer grooves has at least one bore connecting the two grooves. The first and the second outside surface can be sealed off by a stationary sealing ring in relation to a housing embracing the bush. The side surfaces of the inner groove are of the same size within a tolerance threshold of +20% and ?35% as the side surfaces of the outer groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: GAT Gesellschaft fur Antriebstechnik mbH
    Inventors: Stephan Ott, Dennis Hoff
  • Publication number: 20120187675
    Abstract: A fluid handling swivel joint and fluid conveyance equipment incorporating the same includes a first flanged portion, a tail portion that form a conduit. The fluid handling swivel joint also includes a body secured to the first flanged portion and at least partially surrounding the tail portion, where the body and the tail portion form a raceway. The fluid handling swivel joint further includes a primary seal positioned between the first flanged portion and the tail portion, and a secondary seal positioned between the first flanged portion and the tail portion and radially outward of the primary seal. The fluid handling swivel joint also includes a first environmental seal and a second environmental seal positioned two contact two of the first flanged portion, the tail portion, and the body to form an isolated volume around the plurality of roller elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: DELAWARE CAPITAL FORMATION, INC.
    Inventor: Mark J. Tausch
  • Publication number: 20120160328
    Abstract: A hydraulic swivel has a case defining a substantially cylindrical interior and a first access port defined in a side thereof, the first access port providing a path for fluid communication between an interior and an exterior of the case. A spool occupies the interior of the case, the spool and the case together defining a first circumferential channel such that the access port is in fluid communication with the channel regardless of the rotational relationship between the case and the spool, and wherein the spool defines a first interior passageway, the first interior passageway having a port connecting to the first circumferential channel. An actuator occupies at least a portion of the first interior channel selectively blocking and enabling fluid communication between the first circumferential channel and the first interior passageway and therefore selectively blocking and enabling fluid communication between the access port and the first interior passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: REED VIVATSON, MARK BERGSTROM, ROBERT DEVONSHIRE