Pivoted Patents (Class 285/320)
  • Patent number: 11885451
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a low-spill coupling assembly including a female coupling device and a male coupling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventor: David J. Vranish
  • Patent number: 11480203
    Abstract: A watercraft includes a plurality of separable body sections (2101, 2102, 2103, 2104, 2105, 2106) configured for assembly into a single assembled structure (2100) having a first length, and for packing into a packed structure (3000) having a second length smaller than the first length. The single assembled structure may be held together using latching devices, one or more of the latching devices including a latch unit comprising a latch support, a spring mount and a band spring, the band spring having a first spring end and a second spring end, wherein the latch support includes a latch and a first shaft positioned in relationship to the latch, the first shaft configured for rotatably mounting the first spring end of the band spring, and the spring mount includes a second shaft configured for rotatably mounting the second spring end of the band spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: PAKAYAK LLC
    Inventor: Douglas V. Mackro
  • Patent number: 11459842
    Abstract: A connector system for use during hydraulic fracturing operations includes a first connector having a bore and an annular interface defined by a plurality of surfaces disposed at selected angles with respect to each other. A second connector has an annular interface defined by a plurality of surfaces disposed at selected angles to each other. The plurality of surfaces of the annular interface of the first connector are adapted to engage the plurality of surfaces of the annular interface of the second connector to form a seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2022
    Assignee: BLUECORE COMPLETIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Travis Harrel, Christian Leuchtenberg, Glen H. Cuiper, J. Chambers Hall
  • Patent number: 11359749
    Abstract: A conduit locking system includes a first cylindrical conduit having a male and female portion. The female portion includes an engagement protrusion that is radially disposed on an outer surface, and an inner surface that is configured to engage an outer surface of a male portion of a second cylindrical conduit to define a continuous fluid passageway. The conduit locking system comprises an annular band having a tensioner and is configured to engage the male portion of the second cylindrical conduit. The annular band may also comprise a plurality of fingers disposed radially about the annular band. The plurality of fingers may be configured to engage the engagement protrusion of the female portion of the first cylindrical conduit. The conduit locking system is manipulatable between an unclamped position to a clamped position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: DuraVent, Inc.
    Inventors: Luis Borges, Zhaojia Wang
  • Patent number: 10793416
    Abstract: A fuel vent connector includes a longitudinal axis and a flow path a long the longitudinal axis. The connector further includes a first portion pivotally supporting a plurality of fingers, each finger amongst the plurality of fingers having a latching head biased radially outwardly and configured to latch within a fuel vent opening. The connector further includes a second portion biased longitudinally away from the first portion with respect to the longitudinal axis. The flow path extends through the first and second portions, and longitudinal movement of the second portion towards the first portion moves the fingers radially inward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Conrad J. Dahm
  • Patent number: 10563801
    Abstract: A hydraulic tube connector for vehicle may include a connector body including a through hole into which a tube having a tube protrusion protruding outward is inserted, and a pair of guide grooves formed around the through hole and a coupling member configured to couple the tube with the through hole of the connector body, wherein the coupling member includes a tube coupling portion configured to surround the tube and a pair of coupling guides configured to be inserted into the pair of guide grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Eun Sik Kim
  • Patent number: 9919403
    Abstract: When a polishing pad is attached to a polishing table, the polishing pad can be easily positioned on and attached to the polishing table and air pockets are prevented from forming. As a position guide member 130 is inserted into a guide hole 109 with an attachment surface of a polishing pad 108 downward, the polishing pad 108 is positioned on and attached to a polishing table 110. At this time, the guide hole 109 of the polishing pad 108 is guided by the position guide member 130 and the polishing pad 108 is easily positioned so as to match the upper surface of the polishing table 110 with the outer periphery thereof. Then, as release paper is gradually peeled off from a rear surface of the polishing pad 108, the portion where the release paper is peeled off is attached to the polishing table 110.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Kaoru Hamaura, Takeshi Sakurai, Suguru Ogura
  • Patent number: 9795736
    Abstract: An infusion set (1) includes a first flow channel (10) constituted by a pliable tube (10a) and including a spike (11) provided at one end thereof, a second flow channel (20) constituted by a pliable tube (20a) and including a lock connector (50) provided at one end thereof, the lock connector (50) including a lock mechanism (60) that is brought into engagement with a female connector (200), a third flow channel (30) constituted by pliable tubes (30a, 30b and 30c) and including a male connector (31) provided at one end thereof, and a three-way stopcock (40) to which another end of the first flow channel, another end of the second flow channel and another end of the third flow channel are connected. The three-way stopcock includes a handle (41) that can be switched between a first position that brings the first flow channel and the third flow channel into communication with each other and a second position that brings the second flow channel and the third flow channel into communication with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: JMS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tadashi Okiyama
  • Patent number: 9739405
    Abstract: A safety coupling assembly can be used to connect segments of a conduit, such as a hose or a flexible pipe. The safety coupling assembly comprises a female member and a male member, which are held together by spring operated toggle latches. The force required for connecting the female member with the male member of the safety coupling assembly can be selected independent from the force required for disconnecting the male member form the female member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Plymovent Exhaust Extraction B.V.
    Inventor: Stefan Berghuijs
  • Patent number: 9732894
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an improved safety cam lock fitting having cooperating double cam levers having outer and inner portions so that when the outer cam levers are opened and the inner cam lever remain closed, the male and female portions of the cam lock fitting only slightly separate from each other allowing the operator to quickly reclose the cam lock fitting if the operator observes that the cam lock fitting still contains pressurized material. This is accomplished by providing a larger cam lobe on the outer cam lever and a smaller cam lobe on a fork shaped inner cam lever so that when the smaller cam lobe is in a closed position and protrudes into a peripheral groove on the male portion the male and female ends have a small space therein between. An automatic lever latching mechanism prevents the cam levers from being inadvertently opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Inventors: Jeffrey Hartman, George L Williamson
  • Patent number: 9671052
    Abstract: A fluid line support system includes a fluid line and a collet having an insertion end and a thickened portion having a biased end. A fluid valve has a valve aperture that receives the insertion end of the collet. A collet securing device has a fluid line portion that engages the wall of the fluid line, wherein at least the fluid line portion encircles the wall and is slidably engaged with the wall to define a loose position and a securing position. A collet portion of the collet securing device engages the retaining portion of the fluid valve when in the securing position. When in the securing position, the fluid line portion engages the biased end of the collet, wherein the fluid line and collet portions bias the retaining portion and biased end toward one another such that the insertion end is positioned at a final insertion depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Melissa Marie Bippus, Manjur Tamboli
  • Patent number: 9429253
    Abstract: A mechanism for securing devices to various openings in tanks, vessels, walls, and the like. The system includes a fastening mechanism, a securing device, and a raised lip. The fastening mechanism functions to hold devices up against the vessel opening where the system is used while the securing device may function to secure hoses that may be utilized with fans or ventilators that are to be utilized with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventors: John F. Vicknair, Andrew Pregeant
  • Patent number: 9387429
    Abstract: A hydrocarbon trap assembly for use in an intake system of a motor vehicle engine includes a first duct having an interior recess adjacent an end thereof, the recess having a blind end; a second duct overlapping the first duct's end and closing off a second end of the recess; and a thermoformed hydrocarbon-adsorbing sleeve inside the recess and having a first edge adjacent the blind end and a second edge adjacent the second end of the recess. One or both ends of the sleeve may engage a hook formed on the respective first and/or second ducts. The second end of the sleeve may have a flange that fits into a gap between the ducts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David S. Moyer, Ha To Chung, Matthew J. Rimmel, Roger Khami, Andrew George Bellis
  • Patent number: 9328855
    Abstract: A grooved lock coupler for holding a tee to a flow line for forced air conveyance and unloading of dry bulk granular material from a storage container vehicle is disclosed which comprises a tee having a first end, a second end, an inlet end, and a circumferential groove provided on the first end and a coupler for interconnecting to a flow line from the tee, the coupler having a cam lock fastener pivotally mounted on the coupler, the cam lock fastener cooperating with an opening in the coupler proximate the fastener to allow for the cam lock to extend through the opening in the coupler and to engage within the groove to lock the flow line and coupler to the tee in preparation for an unloading process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Bulk Tank, Inc.
    Inventor: David E. Sisk
  • Patent number: 9194520
    Abstract: A releasable plug connection for inserting a nozzle tube into a jack includes a hollow cylinder and a sleeve displaceably mounted on the cylinder. A nozzle tube, forming the hollow cylinder, is provided with radially spring-loaded lugs, the free ends of which are in contact with a locking surface. The locking surface is formed on a flange of the sleeve, which can slide relative to the hollow cylinder against the force of a spring. To release the connection, the sleeve is pushed back so that the lugs are pushed inwardly, and ends of the lugs slide from the locking surface. As soon as the lug ends have left the locking surface, the nozzle tube shoots from the jack under the action of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Mirage Health Group Ltd.
    Inventor: Alfred Schuetz
  • Patent number: 9022433
    Abstract: A quick connector includes a female adapter and two retainers. The female adapter has a joint portion and an axial hole being adapted for a male adapter inserting therein. The joint portion has two openings and two pairs of engaging portions. Each retainer includes a pair of pivot members positioned in one of two pairs of engaging portions, so that the retainers can pivot between a clamping position and a spreading position. The retainers are positioned in the engaging portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Tsai-Chen Yang
  • Patent number: 9010814
    Abstract: A fluid connector having a longitudinal axis and selective open and closed conditions, the connector only in its closed condition adapted to threadedly engage a mating fluid fitting. The fluid connector includes an elongate conduit member extending along the longitudinal axis, an annular collar disposed about and having axial movement relative to the conduit member between the connector open and closed conditions, and a plurality of split nut members circumferentially distributed about the conduit member and having axial movement relative to the collar between the connector open and closed conditions. The plurality of split nut members and the collar are jointly rotatably about the longitudinal axis, and each split nut member has a distal end defining a threaded nut segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Co.
    Inventors: Frederick W. Blanchard, James C. Zuck
  • Publication number: 20150084334
    Abstract: A bushing for insertion into a cylindrical opening is disclosed having a first radius, the bushing comprising a cylindrical base having a top surface, an axial bore through the base, a plurality of walls extending axially from the top surface of the base to a first axial extent and circumscribing the bore, a plurality of locking fingers extending axially from the base and circumscribing the bore alternatingly with the plurality of walls, the plurality of locking fingers extending axially to a second axial extent less than the first axial extent and each locking finger having a tapered outer surface tapering outward from the base, wherein the plurality of locking fingers compress toward the bore when a force is applied to the tapered outer surface. A collar assembly is also disclosed utilizing the bushing to permanently lock the collar to a container such as an aerosol container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: The GPM Group, LLC
    Inventor: Albert P. Caruso
  • Patent number: 8955885
    Abstract: A locking clip for use with a hose coupling is provided that includes a first member and a second member that grasp and maintain a locking arm of a locking mechanism commonly used in conjunction with hose couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventor: Randy J. Dixon
  • Patent number: 8925974
    Abstract: A connector has a pivot shaft extending axially between a pair of flanges of a connector body. The retainer includes a bearing portion at one end, with an expandable insertion slot engageable with the pivot shaft such that the retainer pivots about the pivot shaft. The retainer has a temporary engagement position where a pipe can be inserted and removed and a regular engagement position where a bulge portion of the pipe is engaged preventing the pipe from being removed. A stopper claw formed on an opening edge of the insertion slot contacts with a contact surface, preventing the connector body from pivoting beyond the temporary engagement position. This prevents a condition where the retainer further pivots past the temporary engagement position which can cause the insertion slot to expand and the retainer separating from the pivot shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Togo Seisakusyo Corporation
    Inventors: Takanori Nagaya, Kenji Tozaki, Morio Narita
  • Patent number: 8827320
    Abstract: A connector system for use with a fire engine that includes quick disconnect connectors for connecting a water supply such as a fire hydrant to an inlet on the fire engine. Quick disconnect connectors are attached to existing inlets on the fire engine or onto existing fitting on a fire hydrant or on both. The fittings include valves positioned such that a fire hose may be charged with water from the hydrant and connected or disconnected from the fire engine inlet without first draining the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Eric Topacio
  • Patent number: 8789854
    Abstract: A flow regulated quick-connect fitting has a polymeric first connector and a polymeric second connector, the first connector being either a male fitting or a female fitting, and the other of the male fitting or the female fitting being the second connector. The female fitting has a longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein, and the male fitting has a generally cylindrical body having an end opening. The cylindrical body of the male fitting is positionable within the cylindrical cavity of the female fitting forming the connection. A clip is pivotably connected to the second connector moving between a first position connecting the female fitting to the male fitting when the male fitting is positioned within the female fitting and a second position in which the male fitting is removable from the female fitting. A replaceable flow regulator in the male fitting end opening regulates flow through the quick-connect fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignees: Mercury Plastics, Inc., Masco Corporation
    Inventors: Earl Christian, Jr., William Blue, Scott R. Gardner, William Shane Hochstetler, Matthew L. Kemp, DeWayne Davis
  • Publication number: 20140159362
    Abstract: A hose nut for coupling a fluid delivery device to a fluid conduit is provided. In one embodiment, the hose nut includes a pawl configured to rotate about a hinge between a locked position and an unlocked position. The hose nut is configured to rotate in a first tightening direction relative to the fluid delivery device and a second loosening direction opposite the first tightening direction when the pawl is in the unlocked position, and the pawl is configured to radially engage the fluid delivery device to move the pawl to the unlocked position during rotation in the first tightening direction and the pawl is configured to engage the fluid delivery device to resist rotating in the second loosening direction when the pawl is in the locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: MASCO CORPORATION OF INDIANA
    Inventors: Steven Kyle Meehan, Yilin Tang, Sishen Luo
  • Patent number: 8665100
    Abstract: The performance of a PCA unit associated with an airport gate is monitored by a temperature sensor in the stream of output air leaving the PCA unit, to produce a signal indicative of the temperature of the output air that may be compared to an acceptable range of values, or to the temperature of air input to the PCA unit (as measured by a second temperature sensor). An alert is generated to a human operator if the temperature measured does not compare favorably with the desired range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Twist, Inc.
    Inventors: Joe W. Wright, James Dillon, Dave McIntire
  • Patent number: 8662540
    Abstract: Systems for coupling tubes, pipes, conduits, ducts, and the like. In at least some embodiments, a coupling assembly includes a sleeve, a retaining member having an angled end surface, and a locking member. A tube is positioned through the locking member, the retaining member, and into the sleeve. In a first position, a first portion of the locking member contacts an angled end surface of the retaining member, and a second portion of the locking member is spaced apart from the angled end surface. The locking member is then tilted into a second position wherein the second portion is relatively closer to the angled end surface to securely engage the locking member with the tube, and the locking member is then secured in the tilted (or second) position relative to the sleeve, thereby securing the tube within the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Philip C. Whitener
  • Publication number: 20140049043
    Abstract: A connector including a first member having a cylindrical portion and a second member having a cylindrical portion that is frictionally engageable with the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: DEFLECTO, LLC
    Inventors: John Frederick Hamman, JR., Mitchell Ross Schlatter, Patrick Jon Foley, Richard Lee Ballard
  • Patent number: 8596691
    Abstract: 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 radially 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: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Blazing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. King, Duane K. Smith, Douglas L. Kirk
  • Publication number: 20130249211
    Abstract: A quick connector includes a female adapter and two retainers. The female adapter has a joint portion and an axial hole being adapted for a male adapter inserting therein. The joint portion has two openings and two pairs of engaging portions. Each retainer includes a pair of pivot members positioned in one of two pairs of engaging portions, so that the retainers can pivot between a clamping position and a spreading position. The present invention can engage and disengage from the male adapter quickly with the retainers by pivoting means. The retainers are positioned in the engaging portions so as to be installed and dismantled easily. One of the retainers pivots in a clockwise direction, the other one of the retainers pivots in a counterclockwise direction. Users can easily operate the retainers to pivot, and the retainers would not be obstructed by the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Tsai-Chen YANG
  • Patent number: 8484816
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for securing devices to various openings in tanks, vessels, walls, and the like. The system includes a fastening mechanism, a securing device, and a raised lip. The fastening mechanism functions to hold devices up against the vessel opening where the system is used while the securing device may function to secure hoses that may be utilized with fans or ventilators that are to be utilized with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventors: John Vicknair, Andrew Pregeant
  • Patent number: 8474878
    Abstract: A securing device for axially connecting a sleeve-shaped end section of a first fluid line part to an end section, which is designed as a pointed end, of a second fluid line part includes a clamping body which is of annular design and has a passage opening for insertion of the second fluid line part, at least one retaining element of a hook-shaped design, and at least one spacer of web-shaped design, wherein the at least one retaining element and the at least one spacer are both integrally formed with the clamping body and extend in the same axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Centrotherm Systemtechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Jurgen Richter
  • Publication number: 20130161945
    Abstract: Quick connect apparatuses and methods of operating a quick connect apparatus are provided. Embodiments include a first tubular element to house a portion of a second tubular element inserted into the first tubular element; a quick connect coupling to lock the first tubular element to the second tubular element, the quick connect coupling including: a locking collar; a semicircular wedge; a rocker arm, the rocker arm to change a radial distance of the semicircular wedge relative to center of the first tubular element in response to a movement of the locking collar in a direction parallel to direction of insertion of the second tubular element into the first tubular element; a beveled washer surrounding the first tubular element; and a spring to apply a preload force to the beveled washer, the parallel movement of the beveled washer changing an amount of the preload force applied by the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael A. Boraas, Eric A. Eckberg, Scott A. Shurson
  • Patent number: 8469407
    Abstract: A bottom loading coupler includes a coupler body and a plurality of interlocks. Each interlock is positioned in a slot in the body sidewall and pivotally coupled to the coupler body such that each interlock has an engaged position and a disengaged position with each interlock biased to the disengaged position. A coupler sleeve is slidably positioned around the coupler body and comprises a first, retracted position relative to the coupler body and a second, extended position relative to the coupler body. A biasing element is positioned between the coupler sleeve and the coupler body and biases the coupler sleeve to the second, extended position relative to the coupler body. The interlocks are in the disengaged position when the coupler sleeve is in the first, retracted position and in the engaged position when the coupler sleeve is in the second, extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Tausch, Jeffrey W. Reichert
  • Publication number: 20130147188
    Abstract: A quick-connect fitting includes a polymeric first connector in fluid communication with a first component, and a polymeric second connector in fluid communication with a second component. The first connector is either a male fitting or a female fitting, and the other of the male fitting and female fitting is the second connector. The female fitting includes a longitudinal cylindrical cavity having therein a retaining ring retaining an o-ring, and the male fitting includes a cylindrical body and a tubular sealing element extending longitudinally therefrom positionable within the polymeric female fitting and o-ring in sealing engagement. The quick connect fitting includes a clip pivotably connected to the second connector moving between a first position connecting the female fitting to the male fitting when the male fitting is positioned within the female fitting and a second position in which the male fitting is removable from the female fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Earl Christian, JR., William Blue, Scott R. Gardner, William Shane Hochstetler
  • Publication number: 20130125377
    Abstract: A threaded coupling wherein external threads of the male body of the male coupling half are in mating engagement with internal threads of the female sleeve of the female coupling half. The female sleeve includes an interior hook and the male body includes a locking lever receptacle recessed therein as well as first and second slots for receiving first and second pins of the locking lever. The locking lever pivotally resides in the receptacle and interlocks with the hook of the female sleeve uniting the male and female. A tensioning O-ring secures the locking lever to the male body. A locking sleeve extends circumferentially about the male body and prohibits the release of the hook of the female sleeve from a recess in the locking lever unless a window is aligned with the locking lever. A process for locking the threaded coupling is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: SNAP-TITE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: LEONARD J. NICK, DENNIS ZEIBER
  • Patent number: 8434735
    Abstract: A bottom loading coupler may include a coupler body and a plurality of interlocks. Each interlock may be positioned in a corresponding slot in the body sidewall and have an engaged position and a disengaged position with respect to the coupler body. A coupler sleeve formed from a first material may be slidably positioned around the body sidewall of the coupler body. A wear ring formed from a second material may be disposed on the inner circumference of the coupler sleeve. The wear ring and the coupler sleeve may form an interlock retaining seat. The coupler sleeve may have a first, retracted position relative to the coupler body, wherein the interlocks are biased to the disengaged position and retained in the interlock retaining seat. The coupler sleeve may also have a second, extended position relative to the coupler body, wherein the wear ring biases the interlocks to the engaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Tausch, Jeffrey W. Reichert, Krzysztof Wejdman
  • Patent number: 8397756
    Abstract: A fluid conduit coupling assembly has a depressible latch mechanism that secures a first fluid conduit to a second fluid conduit via a first coupler and a second coupler. The first coupler connects to the first fluid conduit and the second coupler connects to the second fluid conduit. The depressible latch mechanism is formed by a pair of cantilevered buttons disposed in symmetrically opposed positions on one of the couplers. The cantilevered buttons have engagement lips that extend distally with catches that extend radially outward to engage a ridge formed on an interior wall of the opposing coupler. Fluid ports within the couplers interface when the couplers connect to provide fluid flow between the first and second conduits. Valves may be disposed in each of the couplers to arrest fluid flow when the couplers are detached and automatically open to allow fluid to flow when the couplers are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Trent Turner Packham, Francis J. Lombardi, Leonard L. Hofheins, Gregg D. Niven, Robert J. Elshof, Raymond L. Townsend, Richard W. Cairns
  • Patent number: 8371620
    Abstract: A quick connector includes a female adapter and at least a retainer. The female adapter has a joint portion and an axial hole. The axial hole is adapted for a male adapter inserting therein. The joint portion has an opening and at least a pair of engaging recesses. The opening communicates with the axial hole. The engaging recess has a narrow section and a broad section. The retainer includes a pair of pivot members positioned in a predetermined position of the broad section of the engaging recess so that the retainer may pivot between a clamping position and a spreading position. The present invention can accomplish the purpose of engaging the male adapter or dismantling fast with the pivoting retainer. The retainer is selectively positioned in the predetermined position of the engaging recess so that the retainer may be installed or detached easily, and be prevented from missing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Tsai-Chen Yang
  • Patent number: 8342481
    Abstract: Coupler bodies with pivot rings for use in bottom loading couplers and bottom loading couplers comprising the same are disclosed. The coupler body for a bottom loading coupler may include a body sidewall having a fluid channel extending between an adapter end and a supply end. A plurality of slots may extend through the body sidewall of the coupler body. A pivot ring may extend substantially around the outer circumference of the coupler body. A plurality of interlocks may be positioned in corresponding slots in the body sidewall and pivotally engaged with the pivot ring. The interlocks are pivotable about the pivot ring between an engaged position and a disengaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Tausch, Jeffrey W. Reichert
  • Patent number: 8292330
    Abstract: An insertable tube system for a vacuum cleaner, with at least one first tube, a second tube and a coupling for detachable connection of the first tube to the second tube, the coupling having a guide element and a lever button, the guide element being located on the outside of the wall of the first tube, the lever button in the guide element being supported to be able to move around a pivot axis, the lever button being movable by the force of at least a first spring element into a catch position, and the lever button having a catch projection on the bottom, the wall of the first tube having an opening for the catch projection of the lever button, and a mechanical connection between the first tube and the second tube being producible by engagement of the catch projection with a catch recess of the second tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Fischer Rohrtechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Cordes, Stephan Cordes
  • Patent number: 8240718
    Abstract: A quick-connect sanitary fluid connector system provides for connection of a sanitary fluid system to an industry standard, flanged sanitary fitting. The standard fitting is placed in abutting relation to a sanitary gasket and to a first fitting of the quick connector, and at least two eccentric cams operated by cam levers press against the back surface of the standard connector flange, thereby applying pressure to the juncture and forming an abutted sanitary seal which avoids fluid entrapment within the connector. The joining pressure can adjustable by threaded rotation of the first fitting within a connector body. The cam levers can include locking holes and pins for locking the levers in their locking positions. Insertion of the standard fitting can automatically open the cams, and springs can automatically return the cam levers to their locking positions. Spring retracted telescoping cam levers can be automatically latched in their locking positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: HITCO, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Morton, George Carmichael
  • Patent number: 8172276
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Blazing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. King, Duane K. Smith, Douglas L. Kirk
  • Patent number: 8174396
    Abstract: An apparatus for visually communicating to a pilot in the cockpit of a parked aircraft the status of a preconditioned air (PCA) unit associated with the gate has an electrically controlled PCA indicator box positioned so that it is visible to the pilot in the cockpit. The PCA indicator box has a first appearance when the preconditioned air unit is not operating and a second appearance when the preconditioned air unit is operating. A method of assisting aircraft operators to reduce fuel costs and emissions of an aircraft parked at a gate includes mounting to the gate an electrical PCA indicator and electrically coupling it to a preconditioned air unit at the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Twist, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott E. Schrinner, David K. McIntire, James Dillon
  • Patent number: 8172271
    Abstract: A locking clip for use with a hose coupling is provided that includes a first member and a second member that grasp and maintain a locking arm of a locking mechanism commonly used in conjunction with hose couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Randy J. Dixon
  • Publication number: 20120037247
    Abstract: A rapid-connect gas coupler is shown and described herein. In an embodiment, the rapid-connect gas coupler includes a spring-loaded probe within a probe cavity, which is defined by a housing and one or more latch segment. The probe can engage with a gas connector, which causes the latch segment to engage and couple with the gas connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: MACRO TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Howard M. Konishi
  • Publication number: 20110148097
    Abstract: This invention relates to the field of connectors used to connect gas sources to apparatus for the administration or other use of gas or mixtures of gases, and more specifically to connectors used for gas administration for respiratory support of a user or patient. The connectors according to the present invention are shaped to be specifically compatible only with like connectors for each specific type gas or gas mixture used in the application, thus reducing or eliminating the chance for user error in connecting the wrong distribution connector to a particular supply connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Ping
  • Publication number: 20110140415
    Abstract: A clamping system and method for use in a fluid coupling assembly may include redundant locking features for connecting adjacent ends of fluid conduits such as aircraft fuel lines. The exemplary clamping system may make use of two draw latch mechanisms that each separately apply a spring loaded clamping force to a flex band assembly through corresponding draw springs which oppose one another. Thus, either latch mechanism may provide a draw latch function by providing a clamping force to the flex band assembly, which in turn holds the end flanges of the fluid conduits together, thereby providing a sealing connection to facilitate the transfer of a fluid there between. Using two opposed draw latch mechanisms provides for redundant clamping forces such that the failure of one of the mechanisms does not result in an inadvertent disconnection of the fluid conduits one from the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: William T. Flynn, Jason C. Gauss
  • Patent number: 7959189
    Abstract: A tube interface (53) includes a first tube (28) and a second tube (34). The first tube (28) has an oblong opening (54) exhibiting a first major dimension (58), and the second tube (34) has an oblong end (52) exhibiting a second major dimension (72). The oblong end (52) of the second tube (34) is inserted into the oblong opening (54) so that the second major dimension (72) is aligned with the first major dimension (58). The second tube (34) is turned in the oblong opening (54) to move the second major dimension (72) out of alignment with the first major dimension (58) of the oblong opening (54) to secure the second tube (34) to the first tube (28) prior to brazing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Calsonickansei North America, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Snow, Tyler W. McCamey
  • Publication number: 20110062705
    Abstract: A pipe end connecting structure has a floater received in the end of a pipe with a head of the floater against the end of the pipe. A locking device connectable to another structure includes a portion inserted into the floater and locked thereto. The locking device restricts withdrawal of the floater from the pipe, and the floater restricts withdrawal of the locking device from the floater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: Chong B. Wong, Michael W. Davis
  • Publication number: 20100207384
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a PCA connector has a nylon body, wherein the nylon is durable, corrosion resistant, and exhibits excellent strength over a large range of temperature and moisture conditions. The nylon body may be described as a single structure with integral features, such as a bearing portion, a latch housing portion, a latch guide portion, and so forth. Thus, the number of parts is significantly reduced by the one-piece design of the body. In addition, the PCA connector may include a latching mechanism configured to secure the PCA connector to an aircraft. For example, the latching mechanism may include a pair of levers, which engage a pair of latches on opposite sides of the nylon body. In some embodiments, the levers may be rotated in opposite directions relative to one another to impart movement of the latches in the same direction, e.g., an axial direction. Also, some embodiments of the latching mechanism include a cam between the levers and the latches, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Janis, Folkert Fred Koch, Wolfgang Ott, Christopher Robin Drake, Brian Michael Piety, Mark David Resendes
  • Patent number: RE42552
    Abstract: A dry break coupling assembly for interconnecting components of a fluid handling system. The coupling assembly includes first and second valves, each includes a rotatable valve element for opening and closing a fluid passageway within a valve body. The over-center clamp mechanism is for interlocking the first and the second valves when the valves are in a connected arrangement, allowing the valves to be easily disconnected when the valves are in a closed position, having a pair of projecting bars disposed on an outer surface of a body of a first valve and a pair of clamp assemblies disposed on a body of the second valve. Each clamp assembly includes a clamp arm having a hook end for engaging one of the projecting bars, and a clamp lever for actuating the hook end to engage or disengage the projecting bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Banjo Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron Reid