With Manipulator Patents (Class 285/308)
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Publication number: 20120119485Abstract: A plug-in connector for detachably connecting two lines has a first connector element, a second connector element, a carrier element to be fixed to the first connector element, and a latching element with at least one latching arm. The latching arm is disposed on the carrier element and when it is in a latching position, latches onto a matching latching element of the second connector element. The latching element is axially displaceable to assume a latching arm securing position and a latching arm release position relative to the carrier element. An operating element is provided on the carrier element for actuation in the latching arm release position to displace the latching arm into a separating position and which, when actuated in the latching arm securing position, retains the latching element in the latching arm securing position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2010Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicants: VOLKSWAGEN AG, AFT AUTOMOTIVE GMBH & CO. KGInventors: Hermann Cichorek, Dirk Kramer, Sevket Celovic, Alfons Laumann
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Patent number: 8172276Abstract: A fitting connectable to an end portion of a pipe generally includes a housing configured for receiving at least part of the end portion of the pipe into the housing, and an insert member disposed at least partly within the housing. The insert member is configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe when at least part of the end portion of the pipe is received into the housing. A retention member is movable relative to the housing for selectively connecting the fitting to the end portion of the pipe. The retention member is movable to press at least part of the end portion of the pipe against at least part of the insert member to help secure the fitting to the end portion of the pipe when the end portion of the pipe is received into the housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2007Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Blazing Products, Inc.Inventors: Thomas A. King, Duane K. Smith, Douglas L. Kirk
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Publication number: 20120068457Abstract: A latch assembly for connection of conduit, the assembly comprising a female portion and a male portion, wherein each of the female portion and the male portion have a shell and a connection device. The connection device of the female portion includes a connection assembly with a molded-in slot, a release button, and a raised rib or alternatively is a connection opening. The connection device of the male portion includes a cantilevered region with a ramped engagement feature or alternatively is a raised cantilevered release button. When connected the cantilevered region or button deflects to accommodate the female portion until the ramped engagement feature or button engages the molded-in slot or connection opening, thus releasing the deflection. Depressing the release button disengages the latch allowing separation of the assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2009Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: Value Plastics, Inc.Inventors: James D. Pisula, JR., Bruce A. Williams, Ravikumar Narayanan, Francis J. Lombardi, III, Robert J. Elshof, Marc Lalouette
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Publication number: 20120056420Abstract: A connector assembly that provides fluid communication between a first conduit and a second conduit. The connector assembly includes a first coupler, a retainer, and a second coupler. The retainer is carried by the first coupler. The second coupler has a groove. When the first and second couplers are brought together, they fluidly communicate with each other and the retainer is received with the groove so that the first and second couplers are prevented from unintentionally coming apart.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: NORMA U.S. HOLDING LLCInventor: Douglas Milton Fansler
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Patent number: 8113549Abstract: A coupling part (1) for a fluid line coupling is provided with a locking element for locking in place a plug-in part that is to be introduced into the coupling (1), and with a checking element (8) to verify proper locking of the plug-in part. The checking element (8) is equipped with axially flexible spring arms (11, 12), which comprise an engagement structure (14, 15) devised to engage with a latching structure (15), and which, in a first checking position, block the checking element (8) from shifting into a second checking position if the plug-in part is not properly locked. After the second checking position has been assumed, as a result of the actuation by the plug-in part of an actuating structure formed on each spring arm (11, 12), the checking element (8) is out of engagement with the plug-in part, and it is therefore possible to remove the plug-in part from the coupling part in the second checking position of the checking part (8), as well, by actuating the locking element (5).Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2007Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: A. Raymond et CieInventors: Sven Bokühn, Axel Feger, Bernd Grünmüller, Daniel Utz, Patrick Borderie, Jacques Boyer
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Patent number: 8113546Abstract: A latching female tubing coupler comprises an opening, a collet finger, and an actuation member. The opening is adapted to guide a male connector along a first line of action as the male connector passes into the opening to be received within the latching female tubing coupler. The collet finger includes an engagement feature adapted to engage a coupling feature of the male connector and displace along a second line of action generally normal to the first line of action. The actuator member is adapted to displace along a third line of action generally normal to the first and second lines of action in order to disengage the engagement feature from the coupling feature of the male connector. When the engagement feature is engaged with the coupling feature on a male connector, a fluid conduit of the male connector is held in fluid communication with a fluid conduit of the latching female tubing coupler.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2010Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Value Plastics, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey P. Jensen, James D. Pisula, Jr., Ralph E. Burns, Raymond Townsend, Richard W. Cairns
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Publication number: 20120013120Abstract: The present invention relates to a compact cartridge coupling of the type adapted to connect a pressurized fluid line between a vehicle or apparatus and a user, which coupling is of the type comprising a female semi-coupling adapted to receive a male semi-coupling. The cartridge coupling according to the present invention is characterized in that it comprises decompression means adapted to moderate the pressure inside the female semi-coupling thus allowing a male under pressure to be coupled and allowing the male to be disconnected while leaving pressure in the user line. Moreover, the cartridge coupling is characterized by a 3:1 hydraulic unbalancing system between the pressure force acting on the female valve assembly and that acting on the male valve assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventors: Paolo Rusconi, Rocco Ferrara
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Publication number: 20120007352Abstract: Coupling arrangements and connectors for establishing a substantially fluid-tight removable connection between a plurality of fluid ports or channels in a medical device such as, an endoscope. Various embodiments of the connectors may be coupled to a plurality of fluid conduits that may be attached to a decontamination or reprocessing device used to flow fluid through corresponding channels in the medical device during the decontamination process.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2009Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventors: Nick N. Nguyen, Walter Francovich, Philippe Conseil
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Patent number: 8087426Abstract: Various embodiments of a toilet fill valve lock and method for adjusting the fill water level in a toilet are provided. In one embodiment a toilet fill valve includes a riser that extends along an axis and an inner shaft that is disposed along the axis between the axis and the riser. The toilet fill valve further includes a lock that is moveable toward and away from the axis and which can limit the movement of the riser relative to the inner shaft about the axis when in a locked position.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2009Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: MJSI, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Schuster, Larry Schneider
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Patent number: 8028392Abstract: A quick to connect and quick to disconnect fluid coupling has a clip, a male portion having an annular groove adapted to receive the clip, a female portion, and a sealing element. The female portion has a dual function frustoconical portion adapted to compress the sealing element during joinder of the male portion with the female portion as well as to compress the clip into the annular groove in preparation of separating the male portion from the female portion. Further, a sleeve with a shoulder is slideably placed about the male portion which has a debris barrier and adapted to capture the clip compressed within the annular groove sleeve by wedging the shoulder apart from said debris barrier.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2010Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventors: Jonathan Clark Swift, Geoffrey Richard Keast
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Publication number: 20110220238Abstract: The invention describes easily attachable and detachable joints for use in pipe systems carrying pressured fluids. The pipes used for the purpose are made using thermoplastics, preferably polyolefin and provided with integrally formed male spigot end (1) and a female socket end (2). The invention also discloses a method of forming tubes along with their male spigot (1) and the female sockets (2). Joints made using the pipes provided with integral male (1) and female ends (2) are constructed using a push-fit principle. A sealing ring (10) is inserted in the sealing groove (3) of the female socket (2), making the joint leak proof. Plastic or metal clamps (6) are provided to sustain the longitudinal forces imposed on the joint exerted by the pressured fluid. The male spigot (1) is provided with an integrally formed collar (4) that serves as the holding surface to clamp resisting longitudinal forces. The joint is simple in its construction, easy to assemble in field, robust and cost effective.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: JAIN IRRIGATION SYSTEMS LTD.Inventors: Helmuth Schnallinger, Christian Schnallinger, Jayprakash Jagannath Kulkarni, Kishor Lalchand Nemade
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Patent number: 8006713Abstract: A hydrant coupling assembly includes a hydrant valve and a hydrant coupler, including a coupler body and a coupler actuating collar assembly having an actuating collar movable axially relative to the coupler body. The actuating collar includes at least one movable latching lug that is selectively moved into place around a mating feature on the hydrant valve adapter by lifting or lowering the actuating collar. A locking mechanism is installed within the coupler actuating collar and includes a coupler plunger, a collar plunger, a coupler plunger check ball, and a collar plunger cheek ball. The coupler plunger and the coupler plunger check ball are adapted to lock the actuating collar in a disconnected state and the collar plunger and the collar plunger check ball are adapted to lock the actuating collar in a connected state. A hydrant coupler for use in a hydrant coupling assembly is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Tak-Yiu Wong
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Patent number: 7984931Abstract: A fluid line of thermoplastic material includes a first end section integral with a principal part of the fluid line which is at least partially undulated. A first holding rib engages behind at least one locking projection of a connecting ring. The ring engages behind a second holding rib on a second end section of the pipe. The first end section has an essentially conical initial section located adjacent the principal part of the fluid line. The initial section has an outer diameter which increases in a direction toward the free end of the first end section. The initial section is adjacent to an intermediate section whose outer diameter decreases from the greatest diameter of the initial section to the smallest diameter of a locking groove for the engagement of a first locking projection.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Norma Germany GmbHInventors: Janos Kertesz, Jerome Chateau, Uwe Wickel
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Patent number: 7985068Abstract: A coupling for attaching a canister to an appliance comprises a first connector on the canister comprising screw threads and a groove and a second connector on the appliance that comprises a slip ring. The slip ring retains the canister on the appliance. An appliance comprises a canister having screw threads. A coupling connects the canister to the appliance separate from the screw threads where the coupling locks the appliance to the canister without rotating the appliance relative to the canister. The coupling locks the appliance to the canister when the canister is moved axially relative to the appliance. A canister is provided that has a connector comprising a set of screw threads for attaching the canister to a first type of appliance, and a groove for attaching the canister to a second type of appliance. A method of connecting a canister to an appliance is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2008Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventors: Thomas A. Burdsall, Michael R. Johnston
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Patent number: 7976071Abstract: A fluid connector assembly 10 for a fuel pipe of a motor vehicle comprises a plug 12 and a housing 11. The housing 11 has an end opening 23 and the plug 12 has a free end 26 for insertion through the end opening 23. The housing 11 also includes a seal housing portion 16 for receiving the free end 26 of the plug 12 and a coupling portion 17. The plug 12 includes first and second annular ribs 27, 28 spaced apart from each other and offset from the free end 26. The annular ribs 27, 28 are arranged to successively be held by a pair of grips 24 located inside the coupling portion when the plug 12 is inserted into the housing 11 in such a way that when the first annular rib 27 is retained by the grips 24 the plug 12 is sealed by seal means 18 in the seal housing portion 16 and when the second annular rib 28 is retained by the grips 24 the first annular rib 27 is housed between the coupling portion 17 and the seal housing portion 16.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2006Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Land RoverInventor: Christopher Bibby
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Patent number: 7976072Abstract: A connector for a high amperage, AC or DC connection comprises a plug and a receptacle configured to a securely mate and lock with each other. Connector receptacles comprise a locking mechanism having a bottom latch bracket having two slots, a top latch bracket having arcuate grooves and being pivotally coupled to the bottom latch bracket, and a latching rod configured to engage a plug and having guide pins extending through the slots and arcuate grooves. When the top latch bracket is in an unlocked position, the distance between the guide pins is at a maximum. Upon turning the top latch bracket, the guide pins move cooperatively within the arcuate grooves and the distance between the guide pins is minimized and the latching rod securely engages the plug.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventor: Joseph Edward Parrish
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Publication number: 20110148101Abstract: A pipe coupling has a housing has a receiving recess for a pipe, the housing having a through hole extending from a first aperture in an external surface of the housing through to a second aperture in the inner wall of the receiving recess. A fixing element is arranged to slidingly mate with the through hole in the housing to give a mated configuration, and when in the mated configuration, an engagement part of the fixing element is adapted to project through the second aperture to lockingly engage with the outer surface of the pipe. The through note is also provided with a locking means adapted to be configured in an open configuration, in which the fixing element can be slidingly mated with or removed from the through hole through the first aperture, and a locked configuration, in which the locking means holds the fixing element in the mated configuration in the through hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: John Manning
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Patent number: 7963570Abstract: A quick to connect and quick to disconnect fluid coupling includes a clip, a male stem having an annular clip groove adapted to receive the clip, a female port having a step groove adapted to receive the clip upon insertion of the stem into the port, and a sleeve slideably disposed about the stem adapted to abut the clip and minimize shuttling of the stem within the port. The sleeve may be biased toward the clip by a dust seal abutting a shoulder of the sleeve distal from a lead-in end of the sleeve abutting the clip. Also, the sleeve may radially retain the clip, compressed in an annular groove of the stem, and/or the sleeve abutting the clip may stabilize the clip and axially align the clip with the stem, for insertion of the stem into the port.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2006Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventors: Jonathan Clark Swift, Paul Leggott
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Publication number: 20110101682Abstract: Arrangement in a hose connector of a riser (2) provided between a wellhead and a floating surface installation (1). One or more hoses (3) form a flexible fluid communicating connection between an upper portion of the riser (2) and the floating surface instalation (1). The first end portion (211) of at least one fluid conduit (21) is fixed to the riser (2) by an upwardly directed, first pipe muzzle (212) and is provided with a rotatable connecting sleeve (213a, 213c). Each of one or more flexible hoses (3) is connected to a conduit spool (41) of a connecting assembly (4) provided with a second and pipe muzzle (42) that is arranged for releasable mating with the first end portion (211) of the fluid conduit (21). A lifting yoke (43) is connected to the connecting assembly (4) and forms an actuator (431) which is able to effect rotary motion to the connecting sleeve (213a, 213b, 213e) to enable engagement.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2009Publication date: May 5, 2011Applicant: WELLQUIP ASInventor: Per A. Vatne
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Publication number: 20110074148Abstract: A connector assembly includes a first connector having an outer tube and an inner tube, the outer tube being equipped with a pin having a first flow path, the inner tube being equipped with a first valve element opening and closing the first flow path; a second connector having a second flow path and a second valve element for opening and closing the second flow path; a locking device interconnecting, in an assembled state in which the first and second connectors are assembled together, the inner tube and the second connector; and an unlocking device for unlocking the connection between the inner tube and the second connector effected by the locking device. The first and second flow paths are interconnected in the assembled state. In this interconnected state, the connection between the inner tube and the second connector by the locking device cannot be unlocked by the unlocking device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2009Publication date: March 31, 2011Applicant: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Masaomi Imai
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Publication number: 20110062704Abstract: In a pipe joint, a release bush includes a cylindrical portion and a flange portion for pressing, provided along an outer edge of the cylindrical portion. A movable portion including a part of the flange portion and a part of the cylindrical portion is formed to move with respect to a main portion including the remaining part of the flange portion and the remaining part of the cylindrical portion, via an elastically deformable portion. The cylindrical portion of the movable portion can be moved to be aligned with the cylindrical portion of the main portion along the same circumference, by an external operating force exerted on the movable portion, while the movable portion remains in a position opposing a main body of the pipe joint when an operating force is not applied, thereby inhibiting the release bush from being pressed into a chuck despite the flange portion being pressed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2008Publication date: March 17, 2011Applicant: SMC CorporationInventors: Masaaki Muto, Hiroshi Hanne, Kouichirou Ishibashi
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Publication number: 20110042943Abstract: Push-fit pipe fitting device assemblies designed to connect and seal pipes, in a pressurized water pipe system, for either cold or hot water. The push-fit pipe fitting device can be designed to connect and seal one or more pipes. The pipes for which the push-fit pipe fitting device of the present invention is designed to connect and seal are typically plastic pipes.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2009Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventors: Yefim Gershkovich, Evgeny Nayman, Tanyana Kogan
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Publication number: 20110042942Abstract: An apparatus for connecting two devices with a quick disconnect feature. A male plug is insertable into a female receiver and latched into position with a latch. The male plug is disconnected from the receiver by pulling the male plug out of the receiver with a force greater than an operating force. The male plug has a groove that engages a latch in the female receiver. The interface of the groove and the latch includes a bevel engaging a corner joining a surface perpendicular to a longitudinal axis and a surface parallel to the longitudinal axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2010Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventor: Clifford E. Gammons
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Patent number: 7887102Abstract: The coupling comprises a male plug (3) and a female element (2). A retaining latch (20) for retaining the plug (5) in the female element (7) is movable between a first position in which said latch (20) is capable of retaining the plug (5) engaged to a first depth in the female element (7) in which it is connected in leaktight manner to said female element, and a second position in which said latch (20) is suitable for retaining the male plug (5) engaged to a second depth that is smaller than the first depth. The latch (20) is configured in such a manner as to be returned (F3) towards the second position at least in part by positive pressure in a passage (4, 17, 26, 34) for purging the downstream pipe when the plug is at the second depth. In a variant embodiment, the coupling includes an adapter that the latch is suitable for retaining.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2006Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Staubli FavergesInventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud, Olivier Pastore
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Patent number: 7887097Abstract: Coupling device for a fluid circuit in a motor vehicle, the device including: a functional member of a plastic material that is provided with two or more types of connection, at least one of which includes a manually-accessible member projecting from the outside surface of the functional member; and a protective metal housing formed by two shells joined by a seam around the functional member, the housing being provided with a window giving access to the manually-accessible member.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Legris SASInventor: Philippe Blivet
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Patent number: 7878551Abstract: A connection for sub-sea use employs locking dogs that are isolated from seawater and a backup system for operating the backup sleeve to the dogs. The normal actuation system for the backup sleeve is also isolated from seawater exposure. The set position of the backup sleeve is positively retained against the prospect of axial movement that could be triggered by transmitted vibration into the connection.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Edmund McHugh, Finbarr Evans, Declan Elliott
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Patent number: 7878552Abstract: An insert coupling more preferably intended for use with fuel lines consists of a sleeve-like coupling body (2) and a tubular insert part (1) carrying a retaining rib (3) on the outside. Via a coupling element (22) axially fixed in the coupling body (2) on to which engagement hooks (4, 4?) are molded which are intended for engagement with the retaining rib (3), a ring shoulder (23) is formed at the same time which together with a ring shoulder (24) of the housing (8) of the coupling body (2) axially spaced from said ring shoulder and the radially spaced cylindrical faces of the housing (8) facing each other and the insert part (1) define a ring space (11) in which a sealing arrangement consisting of two sealing rings (5, 7) and a support ring (6) arranged in-between are accommodated.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: A. KAYSER Automotive Systems GmbHInventor: Heiko Freter
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Publication number: 20110018258Abstract: The female quick coupling element is fitted with at least one locking member (40) movable in a housing (27) between a first position in which a fraction (46) of the locking member projects out from the housing (27) and a second position in which the fraction (46) of the locking member is disengaged from a groove in a male element endpiece (11) engaged in the female element. A control ring that is slidable relative to the body of the female element parallel to its central longitudinal axis (XA-X?A) is suitable for moving the locking member between its first and second positions. The locking member (40) is provided with at least one surface (42, 43) in the form of a portion of a sphere. The locking member moves between its first and second positions by pivoting about a fixed axis passing through the center of curvature (C40) of the surface (42, 43) in the form of a portion of a sphere of the locking member (40) and perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis (XA-X?A) of the female element.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2010Publication date: January 27, 2011Applicant: STAUBLI FAVERGESInventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Olivier Pastore
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Patent number: 7866711Abstract: A quick connector coupling assembly comprising a conductive connector body, a tubular male member with an upset, and a primary retainer. The primary retainer releasably secures the male member within the connector body. The primary retainer body includes a pair of spaced legs connected by a cross member. The retainer body includes a conductive insert with contact surfaces exposed at the retainer legs to contact the male member and at the cross member to contact the connector body.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems, LLCInventors: Jim Kerin, Richard M. Pepe
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Patent number: 7857359Abstract: A quick-action closure coupling for connecting a supply or discharge line to a wall of a collecting tank of a heat exchanger. The coupling can include a first coupling part and a second coupling part dimensioned to mate together. At least one sealing ring can be positioned between the first and second coupling parts. A latch can be provided in order to lock the coupling parts together. In order to simplify the quick-action closure coupling, the terminal end of the one coupling part can have a mitered cutout into which is received a portion of the other coupling part.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Modine Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Jürgen Zeitlinger, Klaus Kalbacher, Thomas Bräuning
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Patent number: 7854450Abstract: In a tube fixing structure, a tube is fixed to a joint by means of a fixing member. The joint comprises a pipe whose one end is fitted into the tube, whose outside diameter is larger than an inside diameter of the tube, and whose outer surface is flattened with respect to the axial direction; and a main body that is connected with the other end of the pipe. The fixing member comprises a cylindrical holder made of a flexible material, which holds a portion of the tube having the pipe fitted therein by cramping the portion from its outer periphery, the holder having a through hole into which the tube is coaxially disposed and a slit formed to reach the through hole.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Osamu Takagi
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Publication number: 20100314868Abstract: A lock for a cam-and-groove coupler comprises a collar member positionable around the cam-and-groove coupler. The collar member comprises at least first and second wall portions. The first wall portion is positionable adjacent the first lever arm of the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent movement of the first lever arm to an unsecured position. The second wall portion is positionable adjacent a second lever arm of the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent movement of the second lever arm to the unsecured position. The lock further comprises at least one projection extending inwardly from the collar member and configured to engage the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent the collar member from sliding off of the cam-and-groove coupler. At least one securing member is coupled to the collar member and configured to releasably secure the collar member around the cam-and-groove-coupler.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2008Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventors: Paul Brian Fahie, Blair John Pike, Michael Stanley Parsons, Paul Maxwell Smith, Scott Maxwell Pike
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Patent number: 7850210Abstract: The invention relates to a plug-in coupling for fluid systems having two coupling parts connectable to one another, which each have coordinated catches for connecting them together, one of the coupling parts having an end union section, by means of which it can be plugged into the other coupling part, and one of the coupling parts having at least one end retaining section carrying its catches, by means of which section it grips over an outer peripheral contour of the other coupling part, on which the coordinated complementary catches are formed. In order to achieve a simplified means of detachment whilst ensuring ease of assembly and a highly stable connection of such a plug-in coupling, it is proposed to provide a separate release part, which in the assembled state is held on the first coupling part and/or the second coupling part and which serves for separating the locking connection between the catches of the first coupling part and the catches of the second coupling part.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2003Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Voss Automotive GmbHInventors: Josef Brandt, Volker Kaminski, Rozália Bilstein
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Publication number: 20100301599Abstract: A latching female tubing coupler comprises an opening, a collet finger, and an actuation member. The opening is adapted to guide a male connector along a first line of action as the male connector passes into the opening to be received within the female connector. The collet finger includes an engagement feature adapted to engage a coupling feature of the male connector and displace along a second line of action generally normal to the first line of action. The actuation member is adapted to displace along a third line of action generally normal to the first and second lines of action in order to disengage the engagement feature from the coupling feature of the male connector. When the engagement feature is engaged with the coupling feature on a male connector, the fluid conduit of the male connector is held in fluid communication with a fluid conduit of the female connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2010Publication date: December 2, 2010Applicant: Value Plastics, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey P. Jensen, James D. Pisula, JR., Ralph E. Burns, Raymond Townsend, Richard W. Cairns
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Publication number: 20100295295Abstract: A coupling apparatus having coupling body with a mechanical latch assembly. The mechanical latch assembly includes a modified latch plate. The latch plate defines a main portion having a top end and a bottom end and includes an annular aperture disposed between the top and bottom ends. A lever portion is disposed proximate the top end. The lever portion enables the latch plate to move within a coupling body, so as to operate the mechanical latch assembly in a released position and a latched position. A raised edge is disposed about a portion of the annular aperture. The raised edge is disposed proximate the bottom end and extends radially inward of the inner edge defined by the annular aperture. A pin opening is disposed proximate the bottom end opposite of the lever portion. The pin opening is positioned radially outward from the annular aperture, and defines a separate enclosed edge.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2010Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: COLDER PRODUCTS COMPANYInventor: Mark F. Schmidt
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Publication number: 20100288503Abstract: A subsea connector that includes a connector capable of selectively connecting to a spool body to form a connector assembly. The subsea connector may include an adapter ring that is capable of connecting the spool body to the connector. The connector assembly may be lowered onto a wellhead member and locked into place by a movable piston and split lock ring. While the connector assembly is in the unlocked state, the adapter ring may be rotated moving the connector up or down with respect to the spool body, which lands on the wellhead member. The movement of the connector may be used to vary the alignment of the connector locking means with respect to the locking profile of the wellhead member. This change in position may be used to modify the preload force applied to the connector when locked onto the wellhead member.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventors: Glen H. Cuiper, Paulo C.S. Paulo
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Patent number: 7832774Abstract: A coupling assembly is disclosed that includes a first member and a second member having a receiving portion sized to receive the first member. A retaining formation is provided on one of the first and second members. The retaining formation includes a ramp and two or more grooves, wherein each groove is at least partially defined by converging surfaces. A locking member is moveably secured in a cavity in the other of the first and second members. The locking member is configured to be moved in a first radial direction by the ramp upon movement of the first member into the second member.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2003Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: David S. Densel, Matthew M. Persohn
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Patent number: 7828336Abstract: An apparatus for connecting two hoses with a quick disconnect feature. A male plug is insertable into a female receiver and latched into position with a latch operator. The male plug is disconnected from the receiver by operating the latch operator or by pulling the male plug out of the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2005Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Adroit Development, Inc.Inventor: Clifford Eugene Gammons
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Patent number: 7819438Abstract: A quick to connect and quick to disconnect fluid coupling has a clip, a male portion having an annular groove adapted to receive the clip, a female portion, and a sealing element. The female portion has a dual function frustoconical portion adapted to compress the sealing element during joinder of the male portion with the female portion as well as to compress the clip into the annular groove in preparation of separating the male portion from the female portion. Further, a sleeve is slideably placed about the male portion and adapted to capture the clip compressed within the annular groove.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2008Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventors: Jonathan Clark Swift, Geoffrey Richard Keast
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Publication number: 20100201123Abstract: A pipe coupling including a female pipe coupling member (3) and a male pipe coupling member (5). The female pipe coupling member (3) includes a female member body (11), a locking element hole (13), a locking element (15), and an outer cylindrical member (17) for preventing the locking element from being dislodged from the locking element hole (13). The male pipe coupling member (5) includes a male member body (21), a displacement preventing portion (23), an engaging groove (25), and a sleeve (27). A sleeve receiving portion (19) is formed between an outer peripheral surface (12) of the female member body (11) and the outer cylindrical member (17). The sleeve receiving portion (19) has a jam preventing portion (20) on the radially outer side of an opening edge (13b) of the locking element hole opening at the outer peripheral surface (12) of the female member body (11), whereby the locking element pushed by the sleeve (27) is prevented from being jammed between the opening edge (13b) and the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2008Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventor: Hiroyuki Kitagawa
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Patent number: 7770940Abstract: A coupling part for a plug connector arrangement is provided. The coupling part having a coupling body comprising a receptacle into which a plug-in part can be plugged into in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the receptacle, in order to produce a fluid-tight connection. The coupling part has two spaced-apart locking elements which, in a locking position, penetrate laterally, opposite one another, into the receptacle in order to engage behind the plug-in part and which can be moved into a release position in order to release the plug-in part. A spring element is integrally formed with and connects the locking elements together. In order to develop the coupling part so that it is easier to handle, the coupling part is provided with an actuating element which is adapted to be moved relative to the coupling body.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Juergen Binder, Joerg Schmid
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Patent number: 7770938Abstract: A quick coupling for joining two fluid lines includes a first part which has a projection with a. sloping surface directed towards one axial end and a stop face directed towards the other axial end, and a second part which has at least one bracket with a catch that engages behind the stop face in a locked position. An assembly indicator is arranged next to the catch. In the locked position, the indicator projects outward beyond a catch segment of the bracket on which the catch is located, but, in the unlocked position, the indicator projects outward at most as far as the catch segment.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Norma Germany GmbHInventor: Andreas Bauer
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Patent number: 7770939Abstract: A fluid connector system may include a female connector for releasable coupling with a male connector. The male connector defines a fluid conduit and includes a male end adapted to be received within the female connector. The male end includes a coupling feature. The female connector comprises an opening, a collet finger, and an actuation element. The opening is adapted to guide the male connector along a first line of action as the male connector passes into the opening to be received within the female connector. The collet finger includes an engagement feature adapted to engage the coupling feature of the male end and displace along a second line of action generally normal to the first line of action. The actuation element is adapted to displace along a third line of action generally normal to the first and second lines of action in order to disengage the engagement feature from the coupling feature of the male end.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Value Plastics, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey P. Jensen, James D. Pisula, Jr., Ralph E. Burns, Raymond Townsend, Richard W. Cairns
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Patent number: 7753415Abstract: This connection comprises two elements, male and female, adapted to fit axially in each other, the body of the female element being equipped with a lock mounted to slide and pierced with at least one opening for the fit of the male element. The wall of this opening is equipped with at least one element in relief adapted to cooperate with a corresponding element in relief of the male element in order to retain these elements in fitted configuration. The lock is in two parts and comprises a first part on which may be exerted, from outside the body, an effort of displacement, as well as a second part mobile with respect to the first part and bearing the aforementioned element in relief. A safety member is adapted to block the first part against the effort of displacement, without preventing the displacement of the element in relief with respect to the first part of the connection.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2008Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Staubli FavergesInventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud
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Patent number: 7722089Abstract: Fluid coupling for connecting pressurised conduits. The coupling includes a spigot having a first circumferential groove disposed on an outer surface thereof and a socket having a second circumferential groove on an inner surface thereof. The spigot and the socket are adapted for axial engagement whereby the conduits are sealingly connected for fluid communication through the coupling and whereby the circumferential grooves are substantially in radial alignment. A releasable retaining member is moveable between a locked configuration, wherein the retaining member extends radially into both grooves to prevent axial disengagement of the spigot and the socket, and a release configuration wherein the retaining member is disposed substantially within one of the grooves and is substantially clear of the other to permit axial disengagement. The coupling further may include a release mechanism for moving the retaining member from the locked configuration to the release configuration.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2007Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Parker Hannifin Pty LimitedInventor: Gary Nauer
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Patent number: 7708320Abstract: A plug-in part for a plug connector arrangement is provided. The plug-in part being in the form of a piece of tubing and having a sealing portion, comprising a sealing element enclosing the piece of tubing in a circumferential direction, and a locking portion with at least one undercut, and it being possible for the plug-in part to be plugged into the receptacle of a coupling part of the plug connector arrangement in order to produce a fluid-tight connection, and for at least one locking element of the coupling part to engage behind the plug-in part in the region of the undercut. In order to develop the plug-in part so as to reduce the risk of the sealing element being adversely affected, the undercut is formed by a protrusion which projects from the outside of the piece of tubing and extends circumferentially merely over a sub-region of the piece of tubing.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2008Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Juergen Binder, Joerg Schmid
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Patent number: 7695020Abstract: A coupling apparatus having coupling body with a mechanical latch assembly. The mechanical latch assembly includes a modified latch plate. The latch plate defines a main portion having a top end and a bottom end and includes an annular aperture disposed between the top and bottom ends. A lever portion is disposed proximate the top end. The lever portion enables the latch plate to move within a coupling body, so as to operate the mechanical latch assembly in a released position and a latched position. A raised edge is disposed about a portion of the annular aperture. The raised edge is disposed proximate the bottom end and extends radially inward of the inner edge defined by the annular aperture. A pin opening is disposed proximate the bottom end opposite of the lever portion. The pin opening is positioned radially outward from the annular aperture, and defines a separate enclosed edge.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2009Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Colder Products CompanyInventor: Mark F. Schmidt
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Patent number: 7695024Abstract: Coupling for connecting of pipe shaped sections comprising a first pipe section and a coupling device arranged to connect the first pipe section with a second pipe section. When joined together, the first pipe section is arranged to receive the second pipe section in such a way that the first pipe section and the second pipe section forms an overlapping region. The wall of the first pipe section is provided with a through hole in the overlapping region and the coupling device is adapted to protrude through the hole. The coupling device is at least at one of its ends slidably attached in such a way that a rotational displacement around, and essentially perpendicular to, the axial direction of the pipe section will give rise to a change between a first position for locking, wherein said coupling device is protruding on the inner side of the first pipe section, and a second position for release wherein the coupling device essentially not is protruding.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: ITW Sverige ABInventors: Kristian Ostergren, Akemi Conradsson
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Patent number: 7690694Abstract: A quick coupling device comprising a body (5) axially subdivided into a link section (6) for linking to a first duct (1), and a connection section (7) arranged to receive in leaktight manner one end of a second duct (2), the body being associated with a retaining member (22) possessing tabs (24) that are elastically deformable between a state of gripping an outer bead (4) on the end of the second duct, and a state of releasing the bead, the retaining member being mounted on the body to turn between a free deformation position in which the tabs can deform between their two states, and at least one holding position in which the tabs cooperate with a surface (20, 21) that is secured to the body and that holds the tabs in one of their two states.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Legris SASInventor: Philippe Poder
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Publication number: 20100052313Abstract: In a quick connection device for piping installed with a checker 40, a connector housing 20 of a quick connector 10 is formed with opening portions 74 for inserting resilient legs 58 therein through the opening portions 74 in a direction perpendicular to an axis from leading ends of the resilient legs, and inserted portions of the resilient legs 58 are held inside the connector housing 20. And, the resilient legs 58 are resiliently deformed in an axially inward direction by an annular projecting portion on an outer peripheral surface of a mating pipe at insertion of the mating pipe, to unlatch latching pawls 64 of the resilient legs 58 from corresponding latch portions of the connector housing 20, whereby the checker 40 is allowed to be removed out of the connector housing 20.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2006Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventors: Yoshimitsu Ishida, Yasuki Takenaka