Abstract: High-strength, fatigue-resistant pipe connectors suitable for use in offshore risers, tendons and pipelines, such as may be connected to floating production systems (FPSs) principally used in the production of oil and gas. The present connectors include tubular pin and box components with mating frusto-conical, concentrically-grooved mating surfaces which threadingly interlock, and non-threaded (e.g., flat) mating surfaces that seal and preload (e.g., preload at least a portion of each component in compression), via axial advancement of the pin component into the box component. In such connectors, axial movement of the pin into the mating box results the in radial expansion of the box and radial contraction of the pin until the concentric thread patterns match and interlockingly snap into the connected position.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner suction tube, having an inner tube received in an outer tube, is provided with an actuating mechanism having a grip structure provides a minimized risk of blocking. A clamping element has a form-fit connection with a pair of clamping wedges, so that both of the clamping wedges can be simultaneously moved with one a single movement of a clamping element that is connected to the grip structure so that the clamping element is moved away from the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner suction tube by sliding the grip structure out of the locking position, and both clamping wedges are simultaneously lifted out of engagement with retaining recesses of the inner tube by moving the clamping element away from the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner suction tube, whereby sliding of the inner tube is enabled relative to the outer tube.

Abstract: A unique, integrated non-obvious pathway to convert biomass to biofuels using integration of chemical processes is described herein. The present invention is simple, direct, and provides for the shortest or minimum path between biomass and transportation fuels with alcohols as intermediates, while avoiding hydrogen use during processing. Furthermore, the present invention allows the manufacture of “drop-in” substitutable fuels to be used as-is without modifications instead of conventional petroleum based fuels. The processing described herein is done under mild conditions, under relatively low pressures and temperatures, and under non-corrosive conditions obviating use of special equipment or materials.

Abstract: A telescopic tube joint (1) is provided for vacuum cleaner suction tubes or for tripods having at least one outer tube (2) and at least one inner tube (3). The tube joint includes a catch recess (5) in the inner tube (3), a catch element (8) on the outer tube (2) which are lockable or unlockable via a manually actuated, rotably movable slider (11) which moves the catch element (8) through an opening (10) in the outer tube (2). The catch recess in the inner tube (3) consists of a tooth strip (6) provided with a plurality of teeth (5) , formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube (3). The catch element consists of a short toothed rack (8) having opposing teeth (7), which is pressed into force- and form-fit contact with the toothed strip (6) by the rotary slider (11) in a locked position when turned at a small angle (?).

Abstract: A connector that is designed with an integrated electric drive mechanism to actuate the connector to connect a first fluid system to a second fluid system. The connector includes a connector body, a connection mechanism connected to the connector body and configured to connect the connector to the second fluid system, and an electric motor connected to the connector body and to the connection mechanism to actuate the connection mechanism.

Abstract: An insertion coupling which can be used for example for a vacuum line consists of an insertion part and a sleeve part (1), wherein a locking element (5), which can be brought into engagement with a retaining rib of the insertion part, and an actuation element (10) are integrally formed on a housing tab (9) which extends in an arc-shaped manner around a longitudinal axis of the sleeve part (1) and can be elastically deflected radially. A movement of the locking element (5) in a radially outward direction and thus a release of the engaged state between the sleeve part (1) and the insertion part is possible by moving the actuation element (10) in an actuation direction (13). A construction which is particularly simple in design is produced owing to the small number of parts. The sleeve part (1) is provided with a window, by means of which a correct engaged state of the locking element with the retaining rib can be visually checked.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A fluid quick connector includes a retainer mounted in a housing which lockingly couples a first endform to the housing. Latch arms bendably extend from the housing for latching engagement with a second endform. An inner diameter of the latch arms are proximate the outer diameter of the first endform inserted through the housing to prevent substantial movement of the latch arms in a direction which would disengage the latch arms from the second endform. In another aspect, the retainer has inner arms which engage a recessed surface engagement feature in the first endform to lock the other endform to the housing. A portion of a spherical surface is formed on the ends of the inner arms to reduce the push in force required to insert the first endform through the housing and past the retainer.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A coupling device comprising a tubular body defining a channel and axially subdivided into an anchor section provided on the outside with an anchor member associated with a cover mounted on the body to have both an actuator end for actuating the anchor member and a drive end, and so as to be movable between an inactivation position and an activation position, a resilient return member urging the cover towards the activation position being mounted in a chamber defined by the cover and the body, the cover having holder means for holding it in the inactivation position, which holder means are arranged to be declutchable when the cover is moved into a declutching position beyond its inactivation position in a direction away from the activation position, and the device including communication means for putting the chamber into communication with the well, the cover presenting a section beside the chamber that is greater than its section beside the well.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A remotely actuated quick-release coupling having a male assembly and a female assembly. The female assembly has an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, with the male assembly being removably insertable into the inner sleeve. A spring-loaded latching mechanism is located in the female coupling and is automatically engaged when the male assembly is inserted into the female assembly, connecting the coupling. The cylinder defined by the inner and outer sleeve can be pressurized through an external port using either air pressure or hydraulics. When the cylinder is pressurized, the latching mechanism is disengaged, allowing the male assembly to be removed from the female assembly, disconnecting the coupling.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pipe coupling, which can connect pipes in a sealed condition. The pipe coupling includes: a connector body having pipe locking jaws having the same diameter as the inner diameter of a pipe inserted into the pipe coupling, and a taper part gradually reducing the inside space toward a free end of the pipe coupling and opened at a portion of the outer circumference in which a snap ring insertion hole is formed; a packing member inserted and mounted at the lower end of the taper part; a jaw coupling inserted and mounted into the taper part, and having a number of coupling holes for coupling fixing jaws and a seating hole formed in the upper portion thereof; a snap ring located in the seating hole of the jaw coupling, the outer circumference of the snap ring being compressed and inserted into the snap ring insertion hole, both ends of the snap ring being bended in a separated condition and exposed to the outside; and an elastic member interposed between the packing member and the jaw coupling.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pipe coupling, which enables pipes to be assembled with the pipe coupling by an one-touch operation while maintaining the liquid-tightness at jointing portions. In the pipe coupling, a connection tube has holding shoulders formed at opposite predetermined inner portions of the connection tube and maximum diameter portions formed at both side portions of the connection tube outside of the holding shoulders. The connection tube has an inner diameter decreasing in a direction toward both mouths of the connection tube from the maximum diameter portions. Snap rings is inserted inside of the mouths of the connection tube in a compressed state. Each of packing members is tightly disposed in each of the maximum diameter portions. Jaw couplings are inserted in the mouths of the connection tube and each of the jaw couplings is assembled with a plurality of fixing jaws and having engaging protuberances. The fixing jaws are arranged in a circumferential direction of each of the jaw couplings.

Abstract: There is provided a new and useful fluid conduit coupling apparatus which allows quick connection and disconnection with substantially no introduction of ambient fluids or air into the process fluid. In one aspect of the invention there is provided a quick connect/disconnect coupling for a fluid conduit, the coupling comprising assemblies for attaching to the ends of a conduit to be connected and for subsequently mating together, each assembly comprising a normally closed channel; means for expelling fluid from between the assemblies when the assemblies are to be connected to each other; means for preventing fluid from entering the assemblies from outside when the assemblies are being connected; means for opening the normally closed channels, means operable by the connecting of the assemblies to each other; latch means for securing the assemblies together, the latch means disconnectable by means of a hand operated unlatching means or by the application of a predetermined tensile force.

Abstract: A socket pipe joint includes a male part and a female part in telescopic overlapping position in the joint. An interlocking sleeve member is provided between the male and female parts. Locking elements including the interlocking sleeve member are provided to releasably lock the male part and female part to one another. A locking sleeve is positioned on the male part and extends from a position inside the female part to a position outside an end opening of the female part. A drive assembly is coupled to the locking sleeve on the outside of the joint and is operable to displace the locking sleeve axially between inner and outer positions. A positioning and interlocking element includes a pawl. By axial displacement of the locking sleeve, the pawl is displaced radially, positioning and interlocking the two pipe parts with simultaneous permanent compression of a seal between the pipe parts.

Abstract: A snap-fastenable coupling for a fluid duct, in particular for a motor vehicle, the coupling comprising a cylindrical bushing secured to one end of a duct for coupling to a tubular endpiece which is designed to be inserted into the bushing and which has a peripheral projection in the vicinity of its free end, and a cylindrical locking member fitted around the bushing and designed to co-operate with a portion of the bushing and with the peripheral projection on the endpiece to hold the endpiece engaged in the bushing, wherein the locking member has at least one longitudinal slot and is formed with two side tabs organized on respective opposite sides of said slot to enable the locking member to be opened for disconnection of the duct from the endpiece by applying thrust in two opposite directions on the tabs. The invention applies in particular to circuits for fluids under relatively high pressure in motor vehicles.

Abstract: Patent of invention for pressurizing and sealing device and process for hermetic systems, provided with a gas feeding conduit (1), comprising: a tubular body (10) defining an internal chamber (13) between a first end (11) which can be tightly seated against an open external end (2) of the gas feeding conduit (1) and a second open end (12), and a pressurized gas inlet nozzle (14) opened into the internal chamber (13); an elastomeric plug (30) which can be positioned inside the tubular body (10) in such a way that it can be selectively displaced from a pressurizing condition, sealing the second end (12) of the tubular body (10) when the internal chamber (13) and the hermetic system are pressurized through the pressurized gas inlet nozzle (14), to a plugging condition, in which it is sealingly fitted and maintained in the external end (2) of the gas feeding conduit (1) after said pressurization has ended; and an impelling means (40), which is coupled to the tubular body (10) and which can be selectively activate

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a quick release cam locking joint for connecting adjacent ducts for a track switch snow melter. The invention also includes a track duct support bracket for holding track switch snow melter track ducts.

Abstract: A fluid handling installation for selectively connecting any one of a plurality of inlet conduits to any one of a plurality of outlet conduits includes a frame supported manifold configuration of a plurality of perpendicular conduits and corresponding connection modules that can be selectively operated to connect inlet and outlet conduits.

Abstract: An improved breakaway hose coupling (10) for releasably joining the hose ends of two fluid communicating hoses. The coupling (10) comprises first and second valve assemblies (12 and 14) for being secured on the hose ends and for selectively sealing the hose ends when the coupling (10) is disengaged. The first valve assembly (12) includes a first valve housing (18) having a forward end portion (22), and the second valve assembly (14) includes a second valve housing (20), also defining a forward end portion (22). The coupling (10) also comprises a latch housing (48) which circumscribes and extends outwardly from the forward end portion (22) of the second valve housing (20) so as to define a receptor for closely receiving the forward end portion (22) of the first valve housing (18). A ball latch mechanism is mounted within the latch housing (48) which secures the first valve housing (18) in the receptor in absence of disengaging force in excess of a preselected value.

Abstract: A swivel connector in the form of a ball and socket joint is used to connect flexible hoses that are used in a medical treatment, such as an oxygen hose, to prevent such hoses becoming kinked when an ambulant patient moves about. The connector can be formed of autoclavable material, and several such connectors can be included in one fluid system. The connector includes a ball member assembly and a socket member assembly, with a gland in the socket member assembly for engaging one of the hoses in a fluid-tight manner forming a fluid-tight chamber in the connector.

Abstract: Ball and socket members having cooperating fluid flow passages therethrough are connected for universal pivotal movement by a connection located entirely interiorly of the members within the fluid flow passages therein. A brake band interposed between the ball and socket members is selectively operable to releasably secure the ball and socket members against movement relative to one another.

Abstract: An improved form of articulated, segmented ring structure for an axially restrained pipe joint has an articulated, segmented ring formed from articularly interconnected ring segments and a ring adjustment mechanism operable from the exterior of the pipe joint for radially contracting the ring onto the spigot end of one pipe received within the bell end of another pipe. The segmented ring structure provides improved flexiblity in joint assembly and enhanced deflection characteristics for accommodating axial misalignment of the pipes. A ring adjustment mechanism is disclosed which is particularly suitable for use in many cases, including underwater and other limited visibility applications.

Abstract: A pipe coupling, suitable for manufacture entirely of plastics material, for any diameter of pipe and internal pressure, has a gripping ring housed in a socket with projections extending through apertures in the socket and terminating in camming portions, which cooperate with camming portions inside a sleeve rotatable on the socket to cause the gripping ring to be urged inwards into gripping contact with a pipe inserted into the socket, which also houses a sealing ring for effecting sealing between the inserted pipe and the socket.

Abstract: A coupling apparatus is provided for connection to a cylindrical member. The coupling apparatus includes a body member and an annular seal between the body member and the cylindrical member. A plurality of collet sections are disposed about the body member, and each collet section has a first end connected to the body member and a second end adapted for engagement with a downward facing surface of a shoulder of the cylindrical member. An outer sleeve is slidable relative to the collet sections between an open position wherein the second ends of the collet sections are held in a relatively radially expanded position and a closed position. A release device is operably associated with the plurality of collet sections and the outer sleeve for moving the second ends of the collet sections to their relatively radially expanded position upon sliding of the outer sleeve from its closed position to its open position.

Abstract: A pipe joint has a pair of latching hooks pivotal on opposite sides of a tubular coupling member, which hooks engage into slots in an annular plate and, when pivoted, lock over the slot ends. The hooks are simultaneously actuated by levers having free ends connected to a ring which surrounds the tubular member and is manually rotatable in the circumferential direction thereof so as to pivot the hooks to or from locking engagement with the annular plate at the ends of the slots.

Abstract: A reclosable remote control pipe joint particularly suitable for use in fusion reactors and in other radioactive environments employs a spring to maintain sealing force between a sealing ring and a sealing face. The spring permits the pipe joint to remain intact despite mechanical disturbances of the pipes. A backup ring partially encloses the sealing ring to control thermal strain of the sealing ring. A closure system employs a plurality of pivoting arms and a movable roller assembly to clamp together the end fittings to seal the joint.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for coupling a body member to a cylindrical member having a radially outward extending shoulder thereon. A coupling includes the body member and an annular seal for sealing between the body member and the cylindrical member. A plurality of collet sections are disposed around the body member, each of the collet sections having an upper end connected to the body member and having a lower end adapted for engagement with a lower end surface of the shoulder of the cylindrical member. An outer sleeve is slidably disposed about the plurality of collet sections and is slidable relative to the collet sections between an open position wherein the lower ends of the collet sections may receive the shoulder of the cylindrical member therebetween, and a closed position wherein the body member is sealingly coupled to the cylindrical member.

Abstract: A plural fluid coupling comprising a plurality of fluid connectors each of which has a male and female part which are movable with respect to each other between a fluidly connected and an unconnected position. The male parts of the fluid connectors are attached to a first plate while the female parts are attached to a second plate so that, with the plates positioned adjacent each other, the male and female parts of the fluid connectors are aligned with each other. A clamping assembly is pivotally connected to one plate and, upon actuation, moves the plates together and the fluid connector part to their fluidly connected positions.

Abstract: A nozzle for an aerial refueling boom is disclosed in which the locking latches on the nozzle housing are operated by a solenoid which allows the latches to be moved to an unlocked position by the operator in the aerial refueling tanker. The nozzle embodies an inlet fitting at its forward end which is adapted to be fixed to the boom. A nondestructive detent arrangement releasably couples the nozzle housing to the inlet fitting so that if the housing is deflected at an excessive angle, it will break away from the fitting and thus the boom without damaging the boom.

Abstract: Apparatus for making up underwater fluid connections comprising first and second connector assemblies each comprising at least one conduit connector member, the connector members of the two assemblies being matably connectable by movement of the assemblies toward each other. A pair of levers carried by the first assembly are pivotable about a first axis transverse to the direction of movement in connecting the two assemblies, the two levers further being generally parallel and spaced apart along said first axis. The levers have force transmitting arms engageable with the second assembly to urge it toward the first assembly, and are interconnected for joint pivotal movement. The levers have a terminal position engaged with the second assembly when the connector members are connected, and lock bars carried by the first assembly retain the levers in the terminal position.

Abstract: The invention relates to multiple unions of the type comprising two plates which carry elementary unions and which are brought close together or spaced apart, by force, with the aid of at least one maneuvering device of the rack and pinion type. Initial latching of the two plates is ensured by a bolt-pillar mechanism, the pinions having on the shaft an angular clearance enabling them to remain immobile and to allow unlocking when the handle begins its movement for the separation of the two plates. With this handle are associated locking means which ensure retention thereof in locked position.

Abstract: A marine riser including a uniquely designed three element connection structure and associated connecting and releasing means for the inhibiting of fatigue failure caused by moments and axial loads resulting from relative motion between the fixed ocean bottom and a floating drilling platform or ship, such as a semisubmersible rig. The system includes a preloaded connection including a female member and a male member coaxially aligned and held in compression by a nut placed in tension. The connection holds riser pipe sections together. The connection is preloaded through a tool to a degree such that when a load equal to the yield strength of the pipe section material is applied to the pipe sections joined by the connector, the compressed faces of the male and female members do not separate from each other. The degree of preload would be sufficient to maintain the contact between the compressed faces under expected working loads of the pipe sections.

Abstract: A marine riser including a uniquely designed three element connection structure and associated connecting and releasing means for the inhibiting of fatigue failure caused by moments and axial loads resulting from relative motion between the fixed ocean bottom and a floating drilling platform or ship, such as a semisubmersible rig. The system includes a preloaded connection including a female member and a male member coaxially aligned and held in compression by a nut placed in tension. The connection holds riser pipe sections together. The connection is preloaded through a tool to a degree such that when a load equal to the yield strength of the pipe section material is applied to the pipe sections joined by the connector, the compressed faces of the male and female members do not separate from each other. The degree of preload would be sufficient to maintain the contact between the compressed faces under expected working loads of the pipe sections.

Abstract: The viewing window at the front of a breathing mask is held in a groove in a flexible frame that is clamped in a ring formed from two channel-shape half rings engaging each other at their ends and having on the outside of their end portions pairs of laterally projecting vertical flanges so that those end portions are H-shaped in cross section. Each pair of the engaging ends of the half rings is provided with a guide member projecting vertically from one of the half rings into the space between the flanges of the other half ring, and a bolt is rotatably disposed in a cross member between the flanges of the other half ring. The bolt extends through the adjacent guide member and has a nut on its end so that the ends of each half ring can be drawn into contact with the ends of the other half ring to hold the half rings together. The inner surfaces of the side walls of the half rings beside the bolts may diverge toward the ends of the rings.