Combined Inlet And Outlet Patents (Class 285/30)
  • Patent number: 10883665
    Abstract: A method consistent with the present disclosure may include: (a) equalizing pressure between a nozzle inner void and a receptacle main inner void by pressing a nozzle check against a receptacle check to open the nozzle check and the receptacle check; (b) extending the nozzle into the receptacle such that a receptacle main body surrounds at least a portion of the nozzle probe; (c) flowing fluid from the nozzle inner void into the receptacle main inner void.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Engineered Controls International, LLC
    Inventors: Chad Thomas, Howard M. Konishi, Jeffrey S. Howard
  • Patent number: 10228011
    Abstract: A lockout device configured to prevent access to a pipe flange connection comprises a bar, a pair of opposed cup sections, and an engagement mechanism. The pair of opposed cup sections may each include a main cup segment coupled to the bar and a hinged cup segment hingedly coupled to the main cup segment. One or more of the main cup segments can be slidably coupled to the bar and the engagement mechanism can be configured to selectively prevent the main cup segments(s) that is/are slidably coupled to the bar from sliding relative to the bar. This engagement mechanism or latch can be hinged on a side of the bar opposite a side of the bar on which the engagement mechanism includes openings for receiving one or more locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: Brady Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Sohail Anwar
  • Patent number: 10082229
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the present invention describes a system that attaches to an existing pipeline, pipe, valve or meter in order to prevent unwanted theft and tampering with fluids and gasses flowing through the pipeline, pipe, valve or meter. In one embodiment of the present invention, the inventive device has two locking halves that mechanically and releasably interact with each other and cover the metering device prior to being locked. In one embodiment of the present invention one housing frame connect with a rectangular base underneath the invention thereby allowing it to lock the meter. In one embodiment of the present invention the electronic signal devices are elevated from the meter thereby preventing accidental dislodging and tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Inventor: Ron R. Daniels
  • Patent number: 9982788
    Abstract: This bleeder guard is used for blinding pipe flanges in refineries, chemical plants, and other fluid processing plants joined in many places by flanged joints. The bleeder guard is an elongated rod, having a first end with a threaded surface and a second end with a smooth surface. The bleeder guard preferably is a smooth elongated rod of uniform diameter. The elongated rod typically has a cylindrical shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: Marathon Petroleum Company LP
    Inventor: Michael Maron
  • Patent number: 9726528
    Abstract: An ultrasonic consumption meter includes two ultrasonic transducers for emitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, a flow channel, an electronic circuit for operating the meter, and a housing for the ultrasonic transducers and the electronic circuit. The housing is locked in position relative to the flow channel by a locking mechanism, and the flow channel has two holes for allowing the housing to get into contact with a media flowing in the flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: APATOR MIITORS APS
    Inventor: Jens Drachmann
  • Patent number: 9494452
    Abstract: An ultrasonic consumption meter includes two ultrasonic transducers for emitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, a flow channel, an electronic circuit for operating the meter, and a housing for the ultrasonic transducers and the electronic circuit. The housing is locked in position relative to the flow channel by a locking mechanism, and the flow channel has two holes for allowing the housing to get into contact with a media flowing in the flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: APATOR MIITORS APS
    Inventor: Jens Drachmann
  • Publication number: 20140035272
    Abstract: A connector is provided for connecting an auxiliary device, such as a filter, to a fluid circulating system, such as a central heating system. The connector comprises a body with inlet and outlet ports, suitable for connection to the fluid circulating system, and an auxiliary port suitable for connection to the auxiliary device. The auxiliary port has a central axis and diverts fluid from the inlet to the auxiliary device and returns fluid therefrom to the outlet port. A collar surrounds the auxiliary port. First and second releasable locking means secure the collar to the auxiliary device. The locking means are arranged such that when both are locked relative movement between the connector and the auxiliary device is prevented. However, when the first locking means is released and the second locking means is locked, relative rotation between the connector and the auxiliary device about the central axis is permitted, and a predetermined amount of relative movement along the axis is also permitted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Wall
  • Patent number: 8313607
    Abstract: An expansion repair coupling for interconnecting two facing ends of a cut pipe comprises a tubular body, a spigot slidably and rotatably received therein and a locking mechanism to selectively lock or unlock the rotation of the tubular body relative to the spigot. An end of the spigot extends outward from the tubular body to receive a coupling that connects to one end of the cut pipe. A radially enlarged section on the spigot has a sealing mechanism that sealably engages an interior surface of the tubular body. The locking mechanism, engaged by collapsing the spigot into the tubular body or disengaged by extending the spigot therefrom, facilitates a push and twist connection at both ends of the pipe to wipe the adhesive disposed therebetween and obtain a better seal. Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a socket having spigot engaging members that cooperatively engage socket engaging members on the spigot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: National Diversied Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory F. Quinn
  • Publication number: 20120126527
    Abstract: A quick coupler has a coolant supplier seat and a transmission seat that can be optionally connected or disconnected. When the coolant supplier seat is connected to the transmission seat, the coolant can flow automatically from the coolant supplier seat to the transmission seat, so as to cool down electronic components inside a rack. When the coolant supplier seat is disconnected from the transmission seat, the coolant instantly stops flowing into the transmission seat. Because of the quick coupler, the rack installed inside a narrow space is convenient to set up or disassemble.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: INVENTEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: CHIEN-AN CHEN, Wei-Ta Shih
  • Patent number: 8137098
    Abstract: A multiple gas pilot burner assembly for a household heating appliance. The pilot burner includes an injector having a first conduit for receiving a flow of a first combustible fluid, a second conduit for receiving a flow of a second combustible fluid and a third conduit connected to and in fluid communication with the first and second conduits which is configured to receive the flow of the first combustible fluid from the first conduit or the flow of the second combustible fluid from the second conduit. A single nozzle at the outlet of the third conduit is provided for supplying a pilot flame. The assembly also includes a single flame igniter positioned to cause an ignition of the pilot flame at the nozzle and also a single thermocouple positioned to be heated by the pilot flame and to generate an electrical current when heated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.
    Inventors: José Joaquín Antxia Uribetxebarria, Ruben Mateos Martin
  • Publication number: 20110209785
    Abstract: Disconnectable connector assemblies, sets including the assemblies, and methods of using the assemblies, are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: PALL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Darren ELTON, Richard Martin
  • Publication number: 20100102547
    Abstract: A water meter pit assembly includes a plastic frame and a plastic cover. The plastic frame is to be supported on a water meter column that extends upwardly from a water meter pit. The plastic cover is releasably secured to the plastic frame so that the plastic cover can be detached when needed to provide access to water meter components that are located within the water meter pit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Nathan Manuel
  • Patent number: 7584765
    Abstract: Potential leakage points are avoided, mishandling or loss of loose, unattached parts minimized and installation in tight places facilitated by a meter bar of elongated cast metal structure having a central bar, an outlet conduit section and an inlet conduit section, both integral with the meter bar. The inlet and outlet sections may include integral tail pieces and an upstream end of the inlet section includes an elongated, downwardly curved conduit to eliminate the need for the use of elbows, pipes or nipples, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Jon Gohde
  • Publication number: 20090146415
    Abstract: A pipe-joint structure according to the present invention is advantageously used in an air-conditioner system mounted on an automotive vehicle. A compressor including an expansion valve is connected to an evaporator through the pipe-joint structure. The pipe-joint structure includes an inserting portion of a pipe connected to the compressor and a socket connected to the evaporator. The inserting portion is inserted into a hole formed in the socket. A front end of the inserting portion is positioned not to extend into an enlarged portion of the socket to thereby avoid formation of a dead-end small space between the inserting portion of the pipe and the enlarged portion of the socket. Refrigerant entering the socket from the evaporator smoothly flows without stagnation, and thereby noises caused by the refrigerant flow are suppressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jun Abei, Yoshiki Katoh, Norimasa Baba, Takayuki Hirose
  • Patent number: 6832623
    Abstract: Disclosed is a gas meter valve for connection to an outlet of a gas meter and a method for its use. The gas meter valve comprises a valve inlet coupleable to the meter outlet, a valve outlet coupleable to piping for supplying gas to a customer and a valve body coupled to the valve inlet and the valve outlet. The valve body includes a chamber for communicating gas from the valve inlet to the valve outlet and a valve assembly disposed in the chamber and adapted to prevent the communication of gas through the chamber when the valve assembly is in a first position and permit the communication of gas through the chamber when the valve assembly is in a second position. The gas meter valve further includes an actuating mechanism coupled to the valve assembly for positioning the valve assembly in the first position and the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Basic Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Danny A. Johnson, James S. Powell
  • Publication number: 20040200234
    Abstract: onents, improve the assembling work and decrease the costs.equipped with a heat exchanger main bodz 10, a receiver/tank 3 and a block flange 4. The flange 4 includes a main body 41, an embedding portion 42 to be attached to one of headers 11 in an embedded state, an inlet flow passage 4a with an inlet side end portion disposed at an upper end of the embedding portion 42, the inlet flow passage 4a communicating with a condensing portion 2 of the heat exchanger main body 10, and an outlet flow passage 4b with an outlet side end portion disposed at a side surface of the embedding portion 42, and the outlet flow passage communicating with a subcooling portion 3. A flange/like partition piece 50 is formed at an upper end periphery of the embedding portion of the flange 4, and the peripheral edge of the partition piece 50 is joined to the inner peripheral surface of one of the headers. Thus, the partition piece constitutes a partition for dividing the inside of the header.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Seno, Osamu Kamoshida, Keiji Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6588800
    Abstract: A pipe loop (10) for fitting a water meter (12) to a plumbing installation includes a pipe coupling having an adapter (20) with an inlet (22) and an outlet (24) and being adapted to be connected in a straight length of pipe (14) in the plumbing installation, the adapter (20) defines a seat formation (26) between the inlet (22) and outlet (24), the seat formation (26) having an axis perpendicular to the axis of the inlet (22) and outlet (24). A body portion (32) is screw threadedly connected to the adapter (20), the body portion defining a pair of coaxially radially separated tubular members (36, 42), the inner tubular member (42) extending beyond the outer tubular member (36) into sealing engagement with the seat formulation (26). The outer tubular member (36) has radial apertures (48) and an outer water jacket (50) is mounted around the outer tubular member (36), so that it is rotatable with respect thereto, the water jacket (50) being sealed between the body member (32) and the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Oswald Peter John Meli
  • Patent number: 6560985
    Abstract: A universal accumulator device for an auto air conditioning system includes a housing having an inlet opening, one or more outlet openings, one or more inlet fittings selectively engaged with the inlet opening of the housing, and one or more outlet fittings selectively engaged with the outlet opening of the housing. The inlet and outlet fittings may include a metric or a British thread for coupling to the metric or British pipings or lock nuts. A tubing may be selectively secured to the fittings with one or more sealing rings and with an additional barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Henry C. Chu
  • Patent number: 6547285
    Abstract: An arrangement for installing a sanitary fitting contains a concealed tank with passage openings to be fitted in a wall and within which can be fitted a fitting body. The connection between the fitting body and the concealed tank takes place exclusively with the aid of connecting elements made from a soundproofing material and through which pass the passage openings of the concealed tank. There is no direct contact between the concealed tank and the fitting body. Different fittings can be screwed to the fitting body. The connecting elements can be simultaneously used for the passage of water pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Hansgrohe AG
    Inventors: Alois Schoenweger, Bernd Kronenbitter
  • Patent number: 6386029
    Abstract: A multiple pipeline orientation water meter that includes a water meter arrangement having a water meter and a pipe connector. The water meter body coacts with the pipe connector to permit proper installation of the water meter in various piping orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Arad Dalia, Ltd.
    Inventors: Oded Katzman, Moshe Dror
  • Patent number: 6382679
    Abstract: A meter loop frame assembly for connecting a gas meter to a gas supply line and a gas service line. The meter loop frame assembly includes a gas inlet conduit, a gas outlet conduit, and a brace. The gas inlet conduit is shaped and oriented such that the gas supply line is connectable to a second end of the gas inlet conduit at a location on the rear side of the gas meter and substantially vertically aligned with the centerline of the gas meter so that a pressure regulator of the gas supply line is substantially obstructed from view from a position on the front side of the gas meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Uponor Aldyl Company
    Inventor: Howard W. Hall
  • Patent number: 6279969
    Abstract: A mounting adaptor for coupling a gas pressure regulator outlet to a gas meter inlet includes a plate having through-bores alignable with internally threaded blind holes which surround the meter inlet in the meter wall. The plate has a planar surface surrounding the outlet opening of the regulator and is adapted for contact engagement with a planar surface on the meter exterior wall surrounding the inlet opening. A groove in the planar surface of the plate holds a sealing ring to effect a seal. In an alternate construction, a tube extends from the plate into the meter inlet opening and an annular groove on the tube exterior holds a sealing ring for engagement with a cylindrical wall extending into the meter from the inlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: American Meter Company
    Inventors: Wayne L. DeKock, Timothy J. Stewart
  • Patent number: 6178816
    Abstract: A multiple pipeline orientation water meter that includes a water meter arrangement having a water meter and a pipe connector. The water meter body coacts with the pipe connector to permit proper installation of the water meter in various piping orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Arad Dalia, Ltd.
    Inventors: Oded Katzman, Moshe Dror
  • Patent number: 5992439
    Abstract: A gas flow valve is adapted to mimic an existing plumbing arrangement between the gas flow meter 10 and inlet and outlet plumbing at a point of use. By providing a similar arrangement of mating parts and union nuts, the gas flow valve 20 can be easily and quickly installed between the inlet and outlet plumbing and the gas flow meter without having to replumb the plumbing. The gas flow valve 20 can either directly connect between both the inlet and outlet plumbing and the gas flow meter, or could connect between either the inlet or the outlet plumbing and the gas flow meter 10, with the other connection being provided either by the original connection between the gas flow meter and the plumbing or by an additional inserted pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: James C. McGill
  • Patent number: 5934304
    Abstract: A gas meter bypass apparatus and method for removing a gas meter from operation for service or replacement and placing the meter back into service without interrupting the flow of gas to the user. The apparatus connects to a standard tee which is utilized on the customer side of most residential or commercial meter installations. The bypass apparatus includes a clamp assembly, a seal fitting, an isolation valve, an extraction fitting, an isolation fitting, and a flexible tube connector. The clamp assembly is used to attach the bypass apparatus to the tee. The seal fitting connects to the clamp assembly and seals between the bypass apparatus and the port of the tee where the plug is installed. The isolation valve attaches to the seal fitting. The extraction fitting attaches to the isolation valve and is used to extract and re-install the plug through the isolation valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventors: Michael H. Peterson, Joe Palmer
  • Patent number: 5918618
    Abstract: A system for turning off the flow of natural gas into a structure is used where the control is used on the exterior of the structure. The control is operated pneumatically and is connected by an air flow conduit to a valve that is located on a natural gas feed line in the interior of a structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp.
    Inventor: Mark A. Neupert
  • Patent number: 5823577
    Abstract: A water meter box bottom is disclosed for fastening a meter setter upright and centered within a water meter box. The water meter box bottom has a raised, contoured base, and vertical legs affixed to each side of the base. Nuts and bolts extending between the legs, pull the vertical legs together to secure the meter setter in a vise like grip. Inlet and outlet pipes may be supported by additional vertical legs positioned at outer perimeters of the meter box bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Sammie "J" Johnston
  • Patent number: 5654505
    Abstract: A gas meter cabinet is adapted for mounting within a wall of a building. The cabinet has a body partially recessed within the building wall. A perforation at the top of the cabinet accommodates a gas line. A door is coupled to the body. A manifold connects a gas meter to a building gas system. The manifold has a downward facing inlet port, an upward facing outlet port, and a forward facing surface port, above the inlet port. A mounting flange is provided on the manifold for mounting the manifold to a base surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Southern California Gas Company
    Inventor: Stephen L. Jiles
  • Patent number: 5568945
    Abstract: A stabilizing bracket for an adjustable water meter setter is cruciform in shape to fit within a subterranean housing enclosing the setter and meter. The two arms are mutually orthogonal and extend to near the housing sidewall. One of the arms has openings through which pass the two vertical water pipes. The two arms are foldable to make the bracket more compact to facilitate delivery to the installation site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Mitchell Hunt
  • Patent number: 5567875
    Abstract: A gas meter installation comprises a gas meter and a regulator which are attached to a manifold. The manifold connects to a utility pipe for supplying gas and includes an orifice and various passageways for routing the gas from the utility pipe to the regulator, from the regulator to the meter, and from the meter to a house or other type of consumer. The manifold preferably has a shut-off valve integrated into the body of the manifold so that the manifold may be connected directly to the ground pipe without requiring a separate connection to a shut-off valve. The manifold greatly simplifies the installation by eliminating a number of pipes and fittings that were previously used to mount the shut-off valve, regulator, and meter together. The manifold also permits attachment and detachment of the meter or regulator independently of each other so that these components may be individually serviced or replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: Schlumberger Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Adams
  • Patent number: 5491983
    Abstract: A simple connector assembly for an A/D canister that can accommodate a wide range of possible inlet and outlet line orientations and angles, both in terms of basic design and in terms of tolerance type variations within a design. An assortment of four possible independent block fittings, two straight and two ninety degree fittings, are used, one of each chosen depending on the inlet and outlet line orientation. Each pair is designated an outlet or an inlet fitting, and will fit only the proper depth socket in a canister end cap. The block fittings are basically cylindrical, and clamped in place by a standard clamp that has close fitting bearing surfaces on its side which allow any ninety degree fittings used to self align, in terms of angular orientation, as the clamp is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Lynn R. Hamilton, Scott A. Gerstung
  • Patent number: 5392803
    Abstract: Alignment and spacing apparatus for use in installing valves such as backflow preventer valves is provided. First and second couplers such as 90 degree elbow joints are each provided with alignment arms extending therefrom. The alignment arms have portions which permit the arms to be coupled to one another. The alignment arms provide for configuring the elbows in a predetermined relationship with one another, such as for providing for seating the alignment arms with respect to each other in a predetermined relationship. In one embodiment, each alignment arm has a flange portion which is seated against a shoulder portion of the other alignment arm in such a way that the elbow joints are connected such that the center line of the inlet and outlet of the elbow joints are substantially parallel and spaced apart a predetermined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: CMB Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Bruce
  • Patent number: 5354101
    Abstract: An evaporator connection assembly in an automobile refrigerant system interconnects the inlet and outlet pipes or lines of an evaporator to supply and suction lines for connection to the condenser and compressor. The assembly utilizes a connection block comprising two halves, namely a plate and block. The block is fixedly connected to the evaporator pipes and the plate is connected to the supply and suction lines. The two halves are thereafter secured to one another. Planar seal surfaces are provided between the block and plate for receiving a sealing washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Russell C. Anderson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5315869
    Abstract: A gas meter assembly having a universal type connector subassembly. This gas meter assembly includes a gas meter, inlet piping, outlet piping, and a connector unit which has a U-shaped inlet pipe, a Z-shaped outlet pipe, and a strut fixedly connected to the U-shaped inlet pipe and connected to the Z-shaped outlet pipe. The strut has a first hole with a first axis receiving the inlet pipe and has a second hole with a second axis receiving an upper portion of the Z-shaped outlet pipe for rotating through a selective angle a lower portion of the Z-shaped outlet pipe with a third axis, so that the spacing between the first and third axes can be made either more or less than the spacing between the first and second axis, in order to match the spacing between inlet and outlet connections of the meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: Richards Manufacturing Company, Sales Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Bier, Richard Fox
  • Patent number: 5236228
    Abstract: An annular disk-shaped pipe adaptor permits a small water meter to be connected to a large diameter water pipe. The adaptor has a first side which is adapted to attach to the large flange of the large diameter pipe. The opposing side of the adaptor includes a plurality of outwardly extending threaded studs which are adapted for extending through holes provided in the flange of the inlet pipe of the water meter. A tapered central aperture gradually reduces the flow of water as it passes from the large diameter pipe to the water meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Assignee: Ghelton, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Lawton
  • Patent number: 5145214
    Abstract: A setter for a water meter comprises a pair of L-shaped pipes which are positioned in reversed relationship with their horizontal legs connected between a water supply line and a water distribution line. The horizontal legs are clamped in side by side relationship to vary the distance between the vertical legs. Adjustment of the clamp permits the setter to accept meters of different size. All joints are threaded, thereby avoiding the use of solder and the consequent danger of lead contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Inventor: Mitchell Hunt
  • Patent number: 5052721
    Abstract: A water meter service coupling facilitates removal and/or replacement of a water meter by allowing for expansion of the water service line upon disconnection of the water meter. One embodiment of the water meter service coupling includes a housing having first and second ends, an expansion piston having one end thereof slidably inserted into the first end of said housing for being slidably moved into and out of said housing, a retaining insert disposed at the outer end of said expansion piston, and a nut disposed about said retaining insert for coupling said expansion piston to a water meter, wherein the second end of said housing is coupled to a water service line and the water meter service coupling is installed in an expanded state so that upon disconnection from the water meter, the water meter service coupling may be retracted so as to allow for easy removal of the water meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Inventor: Philip P. Gorman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4995643
    Abstract: Contact surfaces of a water meter (1) and a base (2) of a meter support (3) comprising a water inlet duct (4) and a water outlet duct (5) are each bordered by an annular shoulder (6, 7). An assembly ring (8) is provided so as to keep the two annular shoulders (6, 7) in contact, this ring (8) comprising slits (9) separating a series of elastic fingers (10). The ring (8) comprises moreover on its inner face an annular groove (11) complementing the two annular shoulders (6, 7). A rigid collar (15) force-fitted onto the elastic fingers (10) and bearing against outwardly projecting lugs (12) at the ends thereof keeps the annular groove (11) against the annular shoulders (6, 7) which are in contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignees: Manufacture d'Appareillage Electriquie de Cahors, Lyonnaise des Eaux, Persohn S.A.
    Inventors: Alain Rappart, Henri Loosdregt, Paul Pershon, Philippe Persohn
  • Patent number: 4967788
    Abstract: A resetter device is for described use in a water supply system having a meter box and, extending therewithin, a system outlet from a water supply system and a system inlet to a water consumer system aligned on a main water supply axis and spaced apart by a predetermined distance selected to receive a water flow meter in connection therebetween. The resetter has a body defining first and second conduits, and first and second horns. The first conduit has a inlet for connection to the system outlet and an outlet connected to the first horn. The first horn defines a flow path from first conduit to a horn outlet. The second conduit has an inlet at which there is connected, via a joint, the second horn which defines a flow path from horn inlet to the second conduit. The horn inlet and outlet are opposed to each other and disposed along a water meter axis spaced from and lying at an acute angle to the main water flow axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Company
    Inventor: Louis M. Miller
  • Patent number: 4962784
    Abstract: A valve device for use in a gas flow system which has a gas meter connected to a supply line. The valve device is especially made to break the threads of a riser pipe nipple that is screwed into the top outlet end. The valve device has an annular shoulder at the inlet and outlet ends and a passageway extends through the valve device and through the shoulders. A length of the outlet end of the passageway has internal threads at the outlet end that terminate at the shoulder. A smooth cylindrical marginal length of the inlet length of the passageway is spaced from a threaded portion of its length located intermediate the smooth part of the passageway and the valve element. The smooth cylindrical length has an inside diameter slightly greater than the outside diameter of the supply line so that a lateral load placed on the supply line is transferred into the valve device through the smooth part of the passageway and avoids breaking the supply line threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Inventor: Kirk C. Collins
  • Patent number: 4809548
    Abstract: A meter box including a bottom tray having a floor, side walls, a collar releasably connected to the top of said tray, and a lid releasably connected to the top of the collar. All of the parts fit together and are releasably secured in this position without the need for nuts and bolts or the like. Also, except for removal of the lid, the parts may be connected and disconnected without the need for tools. The inlet valve is also releasably secured in place and may be assembled and disassembled from the remainder of the meter box without the use of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1989
    Inventor: Jose M. Rivero-Olmedo
  • Patent number: 4711470
    Abstract: A utility connection bar (30) dimensioned to extend between a gas supply line (42) and a customer gas line (44) of a conventional gas connection (41) is formed of molded plastic and has a bar (36) extending between threaded ends (32) and (34). The plastic bar (36) and the ends (32) and (34) have a plurality of channels (38) which extend the length of the connection bar. A pair of 1/4 inch diameter holes (40) extend through the plastic bar (36) near the threaded ends (32) and (34). The combination of the channels (38) and the holes (40) makes it very difficult to form a gas flow path between the threaded ends (32) and (34) without altering the external appearance of the connection bar (30). In a utility connection bar (70), channels (86, 92) extend vertically between bottom (88) and top (90) of plastic bar (72).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Steven Scahill
  • Patent number: 4691727
    Abstract: An assembly is described for securing a flow conditioning device such as a water meter between fittings of a fluid conduit along with another conditioning device such as a backflow preventer. The assembly includes a manifold including two fluid passageways pivotably connected to return bends that facilitate mounting of the meter along an axis parallel to the axis of the conduit. Fittings along the manifold enable one end of the manifold to be mounted to the conduit while the remaining end mounts the backflow preventer. The manifold ends are spaced such that the one manifold end and the remote end of the mounted backflow preventer are spaced by a distance substantially equal to the distance between mounting fittings on the meter. Additional provision is supplied for mounting of an accessory such as a pressure relief valve on the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1987
    Assignee: A. Y. McDonald Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Larry D. Zorb, L. Harvey Wicklund
  • Patent number: 4669305
    Abstract: A meter box including a bottom dish having a floor, side walls, an inlet valve at one end and an outlet valve at another end passing through the sidewall. The inlet and outlet valves are integrally formed as one rigid piece with the floor and the side walls and constructed so that they are in precise alignment with each other so that a fluid meter and expansion mechanism can be installed therebetween. An upwardly extending collar is connected to the dish and a lid is secured to the upper end of the collar. A snap-fast connection releasably connects the collar to the dish and is formed as part of the collar and the dish. The inlet and outlet valves have connecting mechanisms at their outer external ends for connecting the meter box to external pipings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1987
    Inventor: Jose M. Rivero-Olmedo
  • Patent number: 4549751
    Abstract: The invention is an improved support for meters, in particular for water meters. The invention can be used as a universal application because it is adjustable. Meter supports of the prior art are usually of a common yoke type and each meter configuration requires a meter support of its own because of its variation in dimensions. The present adjustable feature is easily adaptable to any size or configuration of meters. The universal and adjustable meter support consists of two adapters to fit the inlet and outlet ports of the meter being installed, two end members, and a spacer member. The spacer member is easily fabricated from commonly available stock. The simple assembly of the five simple components to the meter to be supported indicates its adjustability and universal application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1985
    Inventor: Leslie W. Grove, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4516794
    Abstract: A holder releasably mounts a water flow control device to a water supply line to enable installation and removal of the device from a meter "pit". The holder includes a clamping linkage that can be selectively operated from above ground to release or clamp the device in position between saddle members of the holder relative to the water line. Gasket sleeves are mountable over pipe connectors of the water control device and are releasably received in saddle members of the holder. The sleeves are removable with the flow control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1985
    Assignee: Zorwick Corp.
    Inventors: Larry D. Zorb, L. Harvey Wicklund
  • Patent number: 4497332
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for working on a section of gas main while it is in service comprising a work chamber formable around a section of the gas main and having means for admitting a tool thereto in a manner that it can be manipulated from outside the work chamber; means for removing the tool from the work chamber while maintaining the work chamber under gas pressure and means for safely evacuating the work chamber of gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1985
    Assignee: Union Gas Limited
    Inventors: John S. Sewell, Frederick A. McColl, Peter M. Petkoff
  • Patent number: 4422674
    Abstract: Disclosed is a gas meter provided with means for preventing unauthorized disconnection from the gas pipeline and unauthorized access to the interior of the meter housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1983
    Assignee: Rockwell International Corporation
    Inventor: Richard L. Steuernagle
  • Patent number: 4327760
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for exchanging a gas meter without interrupting customer service. The apparatus preferably comprises a rigid frame for temporarily securing a meter to be exchanged independently of its mounting nuts, and an isolating enclosure adapted to be selectively removeably coupled about a portion of the meter loop terminal to provide a fluid flow bypass around the meter. A rigid conduit is adapted to be positioned within the enclosure means until the meter is removed, at which point it will be inserted in the meter loop to bypass the meter to facilitate enclosure removal. Purging apparatus is included to remove air from the enclosing volume and the replacement meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1982
    Inventor: James W. Lancaster
  • Patent number: D306200
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Assignee: John J. Bednar
    Inventor: John Bednar