Frangible Element Patents (Class 285/3)
  • Patent number: 11808389
    Abstract: A connector system for medical fluid includes a male connector and a female connector that have a closed configuration when detached from one another. The first end of the male connector is configured to mate with a first end of the female connector. When the male connector is coupled with the female connector, complementary structures engage to move seals away from ports in the male connector and the female connector, opening a fluid pathway through the connectors. The mating ends of the connectors are not exposed to the medical fluid when the connectors are coupled so that when the connectors are disconnected, the mating ends are substantially free of residual medical fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: ICU Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Fangrow
  • Patent number: 11559811
    Abstract: A bioprocess system and a method for incubating, growing and harvesting cell cultures is described. Also disclosed is a bioprocess container that can be used with the system. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the bioprocess system includes bioprocess tubes and cell culture tubes having particular dimensions and being made from specific materials that allow the tubes to be welded together while preventing open connections and/or ruptures. In this manner, bioprocess containers can be connected and disconnected from a cell culture apparatus without having to perform the manipulation within a closed environment and without associated monitoring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: Lonza Ltd.
    Inventors: Jason Bishop, Steven Roberts
  • Patent number: 11415249
    Abstract: A ferrule for coupling a tube to a fitting body of a fitting assembly. The ferrule may include a reduced thickness portion near a nut end of the ferrule, the reduced thickness portion being thinner than adjacent portions of the ferrule and configured to flex when the fitting assembly is made up. The ferrule may include a thin section toward the bite end of the ferrule, and an axially middle portion, between the thin section and the reduced thickness portion, may be configured to bow radially outwardly during assembly. The reduced thickness portion may have a radial thickness less than any other portion of the ferrule between the nut end and a bite edge of the ferrule closest to the nut end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: James D. Gibson
  • Patent number: 11384619
    Abstract: A wellhead system includes a first position casing hanger and a second position casing hanger, arranged within a wellbore. The second position casing hanger is positioned axially higher and stacked on the first position casing hanger, and a weight of the second position casing hanger is supported, at least in part but less than entirely, by the first position casing hanger and, at least in part but less than entirely, by an actuated load shoulder transferring the force into a high pressure housing. The actuated load shoulder includes a load ring having a hanger side profile and a housing side profile, the load ring is adapted to engage a hanger profile formed in the second position casing hanger and a housing profile formed in the high pressure housing upon activation via the first position casing hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
    Inventors: Samuel H. Cheng, Joseph W. Pallini, Shakib Amini, Daryl Attaway
  • Patent number: 11353145
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid actuator has a housing and a seal member. The housing has a hydraulic hose port that is configured to receive a hydraulic hose. The seal member seals the hydraulic hose port. The seal member includes a frangible section configured to rupture upon attachment of the hydraulic hose into the hydraulic hose port with the seal member remaining between the hydraulic hose and the hydraulic hose port after attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Robson, Scott Warnecke
  • Patent number: 11280149
    Abstract: An adapter for coupling wellhead pressure control equipment to wellhead mounted equipment, includes a breech pin and a breech lock base assembly. The breech pin includes a tubular breech pin body and a rotating breech ring. The rotating breech ring is coupled to and rotatable relative to the breech pin body. The rotating breech ring includes a breech ring body and one or more breech pin teeth extending radially outward from the breech ring body. The breech lock base assembly includes a tubular base assembly body. An upper end of the bore of the base assembly body defines an upper receiver. The breech lock base assembly includes a fixed retaining ring including one or more fixed breech teeth. The fixed breech teeth extend radially inward into the upper receiver. The fixed breech teeth are positioned to correspond with the spaces between the breech pin teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: CACTUS WELLHEAD, LLC
    Inventor: Brenton J. Greska
  • Patent number: 11255065
    Abstract: A cover band has a cover band body provided with a cover band arch portion corresponding to the outer peripheral surface of a steel pipe strut and a plurality of cover band through holes formed on the cover band body in such a manner as to correspond to a plurality of strut coupling holes. The cover band through holes have shapes of long holes extended in one direction and the extended direction of at least one of the cover band through holes is made to cross the extended direction of the other cover band through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignees: HENCE CONSTRUCTION CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Gyeong Sik Seo, Seung Kwon Seo
  • Patent number: 11085199
    Abstract: A ground spike with an attachable mounting bracket. The ground spike has an angled tip adapted to be driven into the ground. The top of the spike has a mounting plate configured to be substantially flat with the ground surface when installed. The mounting plate can be of any suitable size or shape. A plurality of slots are located around the perimeter, and extend towards the center for a distance. An upper post fastening section with an open upper end receives and secures a post, such as a mailbox post. Holes in the sides of the fastening section allow for securely fastening the mounting bracket to the post, such as through screws or similar fastening means. The lower end of the post fastening section includes a second mounting plate, or flanges that extend outward at a right angle. The second mounting plate or flanges comprise a plurality of slots that are configured to align with the slots in the mounting plate attached to the spike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Inventor: Mike Writesman
  • Patent number: 11066883
    Abstract: A hydraulic disconnect tool that includes a lug retaining sleeve, the lug retaining sleeve having an upper portion, a base portion and a lower portion. The tool also includes at least one primary prong for engaging at least one primary prong receiver disposed in a latch housing. Furthermore, the hydraulic disconnect tool can includes at least one secondary prong for selectively engaging at least one secondary prong receive disposed in the latch housing when the at least one primary prong fails to properly engage the at least one primary prong receiver and a prop slidably disposed in the lug retaining sleeve, preload sleeve and the latch housing. Fluid can be pumped into and through the hydraulic disconnect tool and the latch housing can be disengaged from the lug retaining sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Aaron Holmberg
  • Patent number: 10989000
    Abstract: A tool for use in a wellbore includes a first tubular having an outer surface and an inner surface defining a first conduit. The inner surface includes a dog engagement zone. A second tubular includes an outer surface portion and an inner surface portion defining a second conduit. The second tubular extends into the first conduit and including a dog opening having a dog support. A dog is arranged in the dog opening. The dog includes an outer surface contour that engages with the dog engagement zone and an inner surface including a recess that engages with the one or more dog supports. The dog is moveably retained between the first tubular and the second tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Chee Kong Yee
  • Patent number: 10897834
    Abstract: Coupling assemblies for connecting fluid-carrying components are provided. The coupling assemblies include, for instance: a socket fitting with a first opening and a second opening in fluid communication through the fitting, the first opening being sized to accommodate a first fluid-carrying component, and the second opening being sized to accommodate a second fluid-carrying component; a sleeve, the sleeve encircling the socket fitting and being rotatable relative to the fitting, and the sleeve including a first locking feature; and a second locking feature associated with one of the fluid-carrying components. The second locking feature is positioned and sized to engage the first locking feature of the sleeve when the one fluid-carrying component is inserted into the socket fitting. Once engaged, rotating of the sleeve locks the first and second locking features together to secure the one fluid-carrying component to the socket fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Amilcar R. Arvelo, Alan F. Benner, Michael J. Ellsworth, Jr., Eric J. McKeever
  • Patent number: 10738924
    Abstract: A valve or other device is attached to the end of a garden hose by means of an adapter that is first attached by swaging to an end of the hose. The adapter has a prong end that is pushed into the bore of the valve and is held there irreversibly by a retaining ring that is carried in a groove of the prong end, to mate with a groove in the bore. An O-ring seal prevents leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Alpha Hose LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Viggiano
  • Patent number: 10655742
    Abstract: A fluid injection device (10) for injecting a dispensible fluid such as a liquid sealant (24) into an air conditioning or refrigeration system or the like, includes a tube (12, 12?, 12?) containing the fluid sealant in a storage chamber (26, 26?, 26?). Outlet valves conventionally used at the tube outlet are replaced with a rupturable membrane (28, 28?, 66). Means to rupture the membrane may comprise a puncture tool (32, 50), or the membrane may be designed to burst under pressure imposed on it in use. Use of membrane (28, 28?, 66) at the outlet of device 10 avoids problems caused by even very slight leakage of fluid sealant past an outlet valve. The fluid injection device (10) is used by connecting the tube inlet to a high pressure zone of the system and connecting the tube outlet to a low pressure zone of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: ZYNON TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Jay S. Tourigny
  • Patent number: 10406341
    Abstract: A connector (10) for connecting a syringe to a gastrostomy tube (12), the connector (10) comprises a bayonet style locking member (16) with a locking projection (40) for locking the connector (10) to the gastrostomy tube (12). The locking projection (40) forms a receiving recess (42) for receiving and locking at least one wing (70) of an end portion (56) of the gastrostomy tube (12). Further, the invention relates to a connector assembly having such a connector (10) and to a method for connecting a syringe to a gastrostomy tube (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: KPR U.S., LLC
    Inventors: Alan Fitzgerald, Ciara Deighan, Paul J. Daly
  • Patent number: 10173018
    Abstract: A system and method for deterring potential illicit use of extended-installations of catheters associated with patient care. A pair of legs are moveably associated together to collectively define a needle-defeating pathway between a pair of scissoring, offset, pinching surfaces disposed on mating surfaces of the legs when the legs are closed and clamped to an indwelling catheter. A single-use tamper evident locking system both maintains the legs closed and provides tamper evidence when opened, such as by disabling the locking system from further locking operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventor: Hal Rucker
  • Patent number: 10154808
    Abstract: A blood separation device that is adapted to receive a multi-component blood sample is disclosed. After collecting the blood sample, the blood separation device is able to separate a plasma portion from a cellular portion. After separation, the blood separation device is able to transfer the plasma portion of the blood sample to a point-of-care testing device. The blood separation device also provides a closed sampling and transfer system that reduces the exposure of a blood sample and provides fast mixing of a blood sample with a sample stabilizer. The blood separation device is engageable with a blood testing device for closed transfer of a portion of the plasma portion from the blood separation device to the blood testing device. The blood testing device is adapted to receive the plasma portion to analyze the blood sample and obtain test results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Gary D. Fletcher, Daniel J. Marchiarullo, Jamieson W. Crawford
  • Patent number: 10113680
    Abstract: A covering spacer interposed between two facing ends of two pipes connected to each other through a joining element includes: a first annular element with its external surface with constant diameter and a second annular element with its internal surface with constant diameter. The external surface of the second annular element and the internal surface of the first annular element are configured so as to allow them to be coupled with each other through interference. Yielding connection points are suited to maintain the first and the second annular element joined together at the level of their two first ends. The yielding connection points are configured so that they break when the first annular element and the second annular element are thrust against each other through the application of a predefined minimum pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: MPR S.R.L.
    Inventors: Alessandro Condini, Alexey Zhuravlev
  • Patent number: 10107432
    Abstract: Provided is a connecting arrangement (2) for connecting a tube member to an article (8) that prevents the connector from being re-used once it has been disconnected so that the user may be prevented from disconnecting and reconnecting the tube member once again. A lock member (12) for engaging an engagement portion (72, 94) of the tube member (6, 86) is positioned inside the inner circumferential surface of the connector main body (10) so as not to be accessible from outside. The connector main body is provided with a frangible part (62, 78) that is destroyed when a force exceeding a prescribed level is applied to the connector main body. Once the connector main body is destroyed at the frangible part, the lock member is exposed to the outside so that the engagement portion can be disengaged. In order to disconnect the tube member, the connector main body is required to be destroyed so that the connector cannot be re-used once it has been disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: NIFCO INC.
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Okazaki
  • Patent number: 10080869
    Abstract: Embodiments of a catheter insertion device are discussed comprising: an approximately hollow cylindrical catheter sleeve, at whose distal end a catheter is attached; a needle sleeve with a hollow needle, which is attached thereto and which, when ready for use, extends through the catheter sleeve and the catheter, and; a needle protective element that is arranged inside the catheter sleeve while being able to move on the needle. Said needle protective element has an engaging section that engages with an engaging device, which is formed in the vicinity of the needle tip, when the hollow needle is withdrawn from the catheter sleeve. A check valve is placed inside the catheter sleeve between the catheter and the needle protective element. The hollow needle, when ready for use, extends through said check valve, and the check valve automatically closes once the needle is withdrawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: B. Braun Melsungen AG
    Inventors: Kevin Woehr, Kenneth C. Raines
  • Patent number: 10044177
    Abstract: An electrical box includes an integral conduit receiving port, a weatherproof fitting displaced in the integral conduit receiving port, a conduit retention device displaced in the integral conduit receiving port and a cap device for retaining the weatherproof fitting and the conduit retention device in the integral conduit receiving port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jason Peter Thomas, Agus Suryana The, Jeffrey Ryan Hlade
  • Patent number: 10041617
    Abstract: Provided is a hose connector that is protected from inadvertent disconnection, and permits any problem with the hose connection to be readily detected. The hose connector (10) includes a connector main body (12), and a lock member (14) fitted on the connector main body. When the lock member (14) is displaced to a locked position, an annular reduced diameter portion (42) of the lock member (14) approaches an annular enlarged diameter portion (24) of the connector main body (12) so that these two portions clamp the wall of the hose. The lock member (12) is held in the locked position by a second engagement portion (38) formed in the inner circumferential surface of the lock member (12) engaging the connector main body (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: NIFCO INC.
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Okazaki
  • Patent number: 9926750
    Abstract: A pressure responsive downhole tool comprises a threaded shearable retaining mechanism which performs the tension sleeve or shear pin function. The threaded shearable retaining mechanism comprises a pin and box thread that shears upon application of a predetermined pressure which may be adjusted based upon the amount of thread engagement. The pin thread may comprise indicators to indicate which thread engagement corresponds to what shear value. A keystone thread design may be utilized such that the thread would be retained along the threaded connection and not become lost in the well. Thus, the present invention allows for each pressure responsive tool to be custom tailored for a specific job.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul David Ringgenberg
  • Patent number: 9895524
    Abstract: Bypass elements for medical valves and methods of using the same are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include an insert having a tip that is adapted to displace a valve element without penetrating it, and a lumen that fluidly communicates with a lumen of a valve housing distal to the valve element when the bypass element is engaged. Bypass elements are used, in certain embodiments, to facilitate fluid pressure and ECG signal measurements through implanted medical devices including catheters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: AngioDynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond J Lareau
  • Patent number: 9849012
    Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a tubular first and second catheters in fluid communication with each other, wherein the second catheter includes a port fitting and can be elastically longitudinally strained to cinch the first and second catheters together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew S. Beard, David A. Herrin, Joseph N. Kennelly Ullman, Martin J. Sector, Justin W. Sokel, Jared L. Van Cleave
  • Patent number: 9823690
    Abstract: Techniques and apparatus for securing a structure to a support are described. A mounting device may releasably secure a structure to a support. The mounting device may include a first plate, a second plate proximate the first plate, and at least one frangible connection securing the first plate to the second plate. The frangible connection(s) may be adapted to break in response to application of a shear force or other loading above a predetermined value. The mounting device may further include a retention member connecting the first plate to the second plate. The retention member may be adapted to maintain coupling of the first plate and the second plate after breakage of the frangible connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Civiq Smartscapes, LLC
    Inventors: Kyle R. Bowers, Benjamin P. Lee, Parag N. Shah, Kenneth J. Gray
  • Patent number: 9816658
    Abstract: A lock member is provided in a housing movably between a standby position and a connected position. In a state wherein the lock member is locked in the standby position, when a pipe is inserted into an opening portion of the housing, the lock member is unlocked so as to be movable into the connected position; however, a tip portion of a detection stopper abuts against a flange portion of the pipe so as to prevent the lock member from moving into the connected position. Next, when the pipe is inserted further, and the flange portion passes the position of the detection stopper, the detection stopper moves into the connected position together with the lock member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: NIFCO INC.
    Inventors: Taiichi Ishizaka, Hideaki Takahashi
  • Patent number: 9751085
    Abstract: A single-piece ferrule for a fitting for coupling a capillary to another component of a fluidic device, wherein the ferrule comprises a ferrule body, wherein the ferrule body has a lumen configured for receiving at least a part of the capillary, wherein the ferrule body has a tapering front part configured for forming a sealed connection with a housing of the fitting, wherein a back side of the tapering front part has an annular undercut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Ponna Peter Pa
  • Patent number: 9707558
    Abstract: A fluidic coupler assembly (10) for use in a light-guided flow cell comprises a coupler body (12) having a sealing face (10a), a tubular insert such as an optical fiber (16) passing through a through bore (14) of the coupler body and through a ferrule (18) located adjacent the sealing face of the coupler body. A backing plug (20) holds the ferrule in position within the coupler body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: Waters Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony C. Jeannotte, John A. Leason, Charles T. Murphy
  • Patent number: 9518761
    Abstract: The present subject matter provides a heat pump water heater appliance with a mounting assembly for coupling a compressor to a plate within a casing of the heat pump water heater appliance. The mounting assembly includes a post that extends through a foot of the compressor and a fastener that extends through the bracket and the plate into the post in order to secure the bracket and the post together. A nut is threaded onto the post in order to secure the post and the foot of the compressor together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Bryan Rissler, Jonathan D. Nelson, Noel Gabriel Aguilar, Alan George Constance
  • Patent number: 9453374
    Abstract: A work string assembly for an oil or gas well has a first and second tubulars, and a torque limiting device connected in the work string. The torque limiting device has a body with an axial bore and two interconnected members that can disconnect to be relatively rotatable. The interconnected members can be repeatedly re-engageable when the torque levels drop below a torque threshold value, or can be connected by a frangible member that is broken when the interconnected members disconnect. A selectively actuable circulation port provided in the string adjacent to and above the torque limiting device allows the annulus between the work string and the casing to be flushed with fluid from the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: Weatherford UK Limited
    Inventors: Michael Keith Sullivan, Shane Paul Hart, Mark Christopher Glaser, Ruairidh Cooper
  • Patent number: 9399301
    Abstract: Joint seal structure of robot, includes fitting end portion provided on an end portion of second member and fittingly inserted into tubular end portion of first member; a peripheral groove provided on an inner peripheral surface of tubular end portion to extend over an entire periphery; and an annular seal member accommodated into peripheral groove and in sealing contact with outer peripheral surface of fitting end portion. Fitting end portion has smaller diameter than body of second member, a stepped surface between body and fitting end portion faces an end surface of tubular end portion and located close to end surface of tubular end portion in an axial direction, and a gap is provided between stepped surface and end surface of tubular end portion such that gap extends over entire periphery, is opened to outside of first member and second member, and is expanded as gap extends radially outward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Tetsuya Nakanishi
  • Patent number: 9364653
    Abstract: An aseptic coupling arrangement includes a first coupling device and a second aseptic coupling device. In one example, the first and second coupling devices are substantially similar, each having a main body having a front face and a fluid passageway therethrough. A first connecting feature on the main body of each coupling device may be provided for aligning and coupling the aseptic devices together. Each coupling device may also include a sealing member received in the main body and a membrane removably coupled to the main body front face to cover the sealing member. The first aseptic coupling device may also include a rotatable protective cover that is removably attached to the main body and connected to the membrane. In one example, the removal of the protective covers away from two coupled main bodies, in a direction parallel to the front faces, causes removal of the membranes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventors: Randall Scott Williams, Loi Truong, Blair Plackner, Jeremy Henry Nichols
  • Patent number: 9347291
    Abstract: A seal assembly (30) and a running tool (20) are provided for sealing a casing annulus in a wellhead (14). A casing hanger (12) includes a radially external groove therein, and wellhead has a radially internal groove therein. A locking ring (36) may be actuated by the running tool to move into the internal recess in the wellhead and thereby axially connect the seal assembly and the wellhead. Another locking ring (40) is radially movable to connect the seal assembly to the casing hanger. The seal assembly seals the casing annulus while being interconnected with the wellhead and the casing hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Dril-Quip, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel A. Marroquin, Flavio Nisenbaum, Denise A. M. Antunes
  • Patent number: 9309798
    Abstract: The present invention provides an exhaust system for use on a motorcycle having an internal combustion engine with at least one exhaust port, the exhaust system including a first tubular member having a first end removeably coupled to the exhaust port of the internal combustion engine, and a second end, opposite the first end, forming a first connector. Where the first tubular member also includes a catalytic element positioned within the first tubular member between the first end and the second end, and where the first tubular member is gas-tight such that all exhaust gas entering the first end must pass through the catalytic element before exiting the second end. The exhaust system also includes a second member removeably coupled to the first connector of the first member, the second member having one or more baffles positioned therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, LLC
    Inventors: Stacy L. Smith, Michael Protasiewicz
  • Patent number: 9267338
    Abstract: A disconnect tool includes a bottom housing having a central longitudinal axis, a top housing, a release piston, and a shear sleeve. The bottom housing includes an internal torque transmission portion and an internal locking portion. The top housing includes a lower portion positioned within the bottom housing, where the outer surface includes an external locking portion to engage the internal locking portion of the bottom housing and an external torque transmission portion to engage the internal torque transmission portion of the bottom housing. The release piston translates longitudinally within the top housing along the central longitudinal axis from a locked position to an unlocked position. The shear sleeve secures the release piston in the locked position and disconnects from the release piston at a threshold force on the release piston to allow the release piston to translate along the central longitudinal axis to the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Coiled Tubing Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall C. LeBlanc, Carl S. LeBlanc, Jerry Ray Werlla
  • Patent number: 9206663
    Abstract: The invention provides a bore protector for a tubing hanger, the bore protector is to be arranged in a tubing hanger in a spool in a subsea production Xmas tree for through tubing rotary drilling (TTRD) in an existing production well. The bore protector is distinctive in that it comprises a means to be releasably fastened in at least one of: the spool in the Xmas tree and the tubing hanger, and a wear sleeve extending down into the tubing hanger, covering the tubing hanger sealing surfaces for the tubing hanger plugs, the wear sleeve comprises a shoulder at or near an upper end, the shoulder is arranged on a below positioned seat of a main part of the bore protector, in which position the wear sleeve is releasably fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Aker Subsea AS
    Inventors: André M. Smith, Roar Eide, Bengt Dahlborg, Magnus Fjørtoft Urke, Per Bostedt, Joachim Vilhelmsson
  • Publication number: 20150101790
    Abstract: Certain aspects and features of the present invention are directed to a safety joint that can be disposed in a wellbore through a fluid-producing formation. The safety joint can include a body configured to be disposed in the wellbore, a primary retention mechanism, a secondary retention mechanism, and a time delay mechanism. The primary retention mechanism can be coupled to the body and can prevent the actuation of the safety joint. The secondary retention mechanism can be coupled to the body and can prevent the actuation of the safety joint in response to the primary retention mechanism allowing the actuation of the safety joint. The time delay mechanism can generate a time delay between the primary retention mechanism allowing the actuation of the safety joint and the secondary retention mechanism preventing the actuation of the safety joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Reid Elliott Zevenbergen, Paul David Ringgenberg, Russell S. Haake
  • Publication number: 20150069749
    Abstract: A coupler is described that precludes fluid communication between the first and second pipes attached on either side of the coupler. The coupler may be used in installations where a line branches off from a sewer main for future connection to a home or other building. The coupler includes a barrier wall located between first and second portions of the coupler, and the barrier wall precludes fluid communication between the first and second ends of the coupler. Moreover, the second portion defines an area of weakness that is designed to fail (e.g., flex or crack) when a failure force is applied near the second end, such as when an exposed (above-ground) portion of piping connected to the coupler is struck. In this way, the barrier wall and the first portion of the main wall can remain intact and continue to protect against entry of fluids into the sewer system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Bennie W. Smith
  • Patent number: 8702129
    Abstract: A system for forming a fluid connection includes a first connector and a second connector. Both connectors include a tubular body having a membrane mounted on a distal end thereof. A support member facilitates the coupling of the connectors together so that the membranes are abutted together. Radiant energy is applied to the abutted membranes so as to first sterilize the membranes and then melt the membranes so that a passage is formed therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: HyClone Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold C. Bilstad, Bradley H. Buchanan, T. Michael Dennehey, Michael E. Goodwin, Jeremy K. Larsen, Whitt F. Woods, David V. Bacehowski
  • Patent number: 8668229
    Abstract: A contamination resistant connecting system includes, a first conduit, a first connector in operable communication with the first conduit, a first seal configured to seal at least part of the first connector from an environment, a second conduit operationally connectable with the first conduit, a second connector in operable communication with the second conduit that is operationally connectable with the first connector and a second seal configured to seal at least part of the second connector from an environment. Additionally, at least one piercing device is configured to pierce through the first seal and the second seal to allow operational connection of the first conduit with the second conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Carl W. Stoesz, Luis E. Mendez
  • Publication number: 20130320662
    Abstract: A process pressure measurement system includes a remote seal assembly configured to couple to a process. The system has a remote seal diaphragm with a first side adapted to contact a process fluid and a second side adapted to contact a fill fluid. A first capillary conduit has a first coupling and is coupled to the remote seal and is filled with the fill fluid. A second capillary conduit is coupled to a process fluid pressure transmitter. The second capillary conduit is filled with the fill fluid. A second coupling is coupled to the second capillary conduit and to the first coupling to provide fluidic communication from the remote seal diaphragm to the pressure inlet of the process fluid pressure transmitter. At least one of the first and second couplings is sized to pass through a penetration in a process containment barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel A. Norberg, Nathan L. Wiater
  • Patent number: 8505633
    Abstract: A coupling to serve as a logging head or other downhole weakpoint assembly. The coupling is configured with a variety of internal tensile members. The individual members and load bearing capacities of each may be selectively engaged in a variety of combinations so as to provide a host of different load bearing capacities to the weakpoint coupling. Such selectable engagement is achieved through the dialing of a key by the user without the need to add or remove any load bearing features from the coupling. Thus, the user-friendly nature of the coupling is enhanced and the possibility of the user leaving behind supplemental load bearing tensile members for change-out is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: L. Michael McKee
  • Publication number: 20130134699
    Abstract: A hose connection arrangement for inseparably connecting media-conducting hoses in particular, having a first connection element and a second connection element. The first connection element has an annular lug that surrounds an annular end region. A sealing element is arranged therebetween. For inseparable connection of the two connection elements, said elements have at least one latching element pair. The two latching elements latch into one another by plugging the two connection elements together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Helen Esders, Heiko Bock
  • Patent number: 8448992
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for forming a sealed communication between conduits or conduit subassemblies, each of which has a wall with an exterior surface, and at least one of the walls includes an electrically conductive portion. The exterior surfaces may be brought into a facing relationship, and each conductive portion is heated sufficiently to sterilize the exterior surfaces of the walls by generating electrical current in the conductive portion, such as by application of a voltage or by induction. An aperture is then provided, as by an aperture-forming member, through the facing walls to provide communication between the conduits or conduit subassemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Fenwal, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, William H. Cork
  • Patent number: 8397711
    Abstract: A solar collector has a polygonal top panel forming a top face and having at least three edges, a similarly polygonal bottom panel forming a bottom face directed away from the top face and fitted congruently to the top panel to form a flow passage extending between the faces, and at least four connectors projecting from at least three of the edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Global Plastic, S.A.
    Inventors: Robert Jung, Javier Otano, Jürgen Weigel, Michael Schröder
  • Publication number: 20130043671
    Abstract: The apparatus disclosed herein serves as a termination point for a connection of metal pipe, plastic pipe, flexible pipe, or duct elbows to a diffuser through a wall, ceiling, or similar surface structure. The projection portion of the apparatus into which the diffuser is installed is substantially rigid, and thus generally prohibits deformation and damage as the apparatus and surrounding surface/structure is installed. For modification, break points and tear-away markers may be provided to aid in removal of portions for specific applications such as low internal clearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Rodney James Harman
  • Patent number: 8371622
    Abstract: A sealing ring and a method of preventing or stopping a joint leak between a pipe and a pipe fitting to minimize property damage as well as clean up costs occurring from property damage due to joint leaks by securing a sealing ring to the pipe and the pipe fitting to form a secondary joint that inhibits or prevent leakage between the primary joint between the pipe and the pipe fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: The Patent Store LLC
    Inventors: Lloyd Herbert King, Jr., David Kreutz, Mathew Walters, Steven Rhea, James C. Keeven
  • Publication number: 20120313366
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connector for containers (2) containing a medicinal active substance. The connector (1, 1?) according to the invention comprises a first connection region (3a, 3a?) for connecting a first container (2), a piercing element (4, 4?) and a break-open element (5), wherein the piercing element (4, 4?) has a first end section (6a, 6a?) and a second end section (6b, 6b?) and a channel (7), running from the first end section (6a, 6a?) to the second end section (6b, 6b?), for transporting a medicinal active substance, wherein the first end section (6a, 6a?) is formed for piercing a membrane (8) of the first container (2) connected in the first connection region, and, at the second end section (6b, 6b?), the break-open element (5) is attached such that it can be broken open and/or broken off, wherein, in the attached state, the break-open element (5) seals the channel (7) of the piercing element (4, 4?) in liquid-tight fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: Fresenius Kabi Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Ismael Rahimy, Torsten Brandenburger
  • Patent number: 8262135
    Abstract: A duplex pipe fitting includes a fitting main body 1 and a pair of coupling members 2 which are threaded to both ends of the fitting main body 1. The coupling members 2 are threaded to the fitting main body 1, so that two pipes P are connected to each other with the fitting main body 1. Each coupling member 2 includes a holding portion 24 including a holding surface consisting of a pair of or a plurality of pairs of planes facing each other so that it can be held with a general fastening tool. When a rotational torque for tightening the coupling member 2 to the fitting main body 1 reaches a value indicating the completion of fastening, at least a part of the holding portion including the holding surface is separated and the pipe connecting is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Haruo Nakata
  • Patent number: 8257663
    Abstract: A vascular access device for communicating with the vascular system of a patient may include a status indicator. The status indicator may detect and signal that a period of time has elapsed in relation to the use of the vascular access device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Crawford, Marty L. Stout, Weston F. Harding