With Packing-expanding Means Patents (Class 285/346)
  • Patent number: 9851048
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a utility platform assembly a having a utility platform, an insulative liner, and a liner retention system. The insulative liner presents a complementary shape to, and is disposed in, the utility platform. The insulative liner is secured in place and protected from damage by the liner retention system. The liner retention system is disposed atop and through the liner near the top edge or edges of the insulative liner. The edge or edges of the insulative liner are therefore disposed between the liner retention system and the lip of the sidewall of the utility platform. The liner retention system generally comprises at least one retaining bar with an associated plurality of fastener receptors and fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Altec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel J. Higgins
  • Patent number: 9139996
    Abstract: An improved locking floor sink drain screen for an enlarged drain is provided. The locking floor sink drain positively precludes passage of large objects, while permitting free passage of fluid and which can quickly and easily be removed for cleaning. Vertical separators provide spaces through which water can flow from the enlarged drain opening into a standard drain pipe. In some embodiments, a special, tamperproof locking key may be used to prevent unauthorized disassembly of the installed floor drain screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: TNT PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventor: Todd R. Cohen
  • Patent number: 8967245
    Abstract: A method and assembly for reducing a radial gap between radially proximate components including a setting member having a first dimension that partially defines the radial gap, the setting member including a circumferential groove extending radially from the first dimension, and a first toroid having a second dimension, the setting member operatively arranged to engage with the first toroid, wherein increasingly engaging the setting member with the first toroid enables a boundary dimension of the assembly to be extended toward the radial gap for reducing the radial gap, the circumferential groove operatively arranged to catch the first toroid when the setting member is fully engaged with the first toroid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Amy L. Farrar, Edward T. Wood, Gregory C. Badke, Robert O. Castillo, Anthony P. Foster
  • Patent number: 8894850
    Abstract: A drain cover with a locking mechanism which has a cylindrical body with a first end, a second end, an end wall at the first end and a peripheral sidewall that extends between the first end and the second end. The peripheral sidewall has an exterior surface and an interior surface which defines an interior bore. A wedge member positioned at the second end of the peripheral sidewall and is movable from a release position to a locking position. In the release position each wedge member is positioned at the second end of the peripheral sidewall. In the locking position each wedge member is moved up the exterior surface of the peripheral sidewall toward the first end. Means are provided for moving each wedge member from the release position to the locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Publication number: 20140070530
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fluidic plug unit for liquid-conducting components, in particular for high-performance liquid chromatography, with a plug housing that has a plug region with a front plug region and a rear plug region which is adjoined thereto in an axial direction. The rear plug region has a larger cross section than the front plug region. The plug unit is designed for connection to a bushing unit. In a connected state of the plug unit and bushing unit, an annular space, which is substantially closed on all sides, is formed for a sealing element of the plug unit, the annular space being bounded by an outer wall of the front plug region and an inner wall of the receiving recess of the bushing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: DIONEX SOFTRON GMBH
    Inventor: Michael HAECKEL
  • Patent number: 8628657
    Abstract: A strainer assembly for use with an indirect waste receptor comprising an internally threaded, expandable gasket member sized to be insertable into the indirect waste receptor discharge tube operatively connected to a building drain system drain pipe; a rigid support structure forming an externally threaded wall to operatively mate with the gasket member in a manner to expand the gasket member body into sealing contact with the discharge tube or drain pipe and having a spoke member extending across a rigid support structure passageway with a vertical opening in its center section; a strainer having a screw opening alignable with the spoke member center section opening; and a screw seatable in the screw opening and having a length to operative attach to the center section opening for affixing the strainer to the rigid support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Reliable Plumbing, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell Wayne Robillard, Fred Wayne Robillard
  • Publication number: 20120217738
    Abstract: A fitting connectable to an end portion of a pipe generally includes an insert member configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe, and a retention member coupled to the insert member and configured to be received at least partly within the end portion of the pipe. The retention member operates in conjunction with the insert member to engage the end portion of the pipe and impart an increased force against an inner wall of the pipe in response to an increase of internal pipe pressure, thereby frictionally securing the end portion of the pipe on the insert member as internal pipe pressure increases during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: BLAZING PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas A. King, Duane K. Smith, Douglas L. Kirk
  • Patent number: 7942455
    Abstract: A device for connecting a fluid circulating line to a refractory element having a wall provided with a cylindrical bore comprises a gasket intended to be located into the bore and a first supporting element compressing the gasket from the outside of the bore. A second supporting element which can be introduced into the bore sandwiches the gasket together with the first Supporting element and a rod brings the two supporting elements closer so as to compress the gasket. Also, a refractory element, notably a nozzle or pouring shroud, is provided with a cylindrical bore size to receive two supporting elements and a tightening gasket sandwiched by these supporting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Vesuvius Crucible Company
    Inventors: François-Noël Richard, Aldo Ruffaldi
  • Patent number: 7931308
    Abstract: An adapter clamp for clamping an adapting tube. The adapter clamp includes: an adapter tube; a first resilient ring placed in the inner circumferential surface of the adapter tube and including elastic material for expanding inward and clamping to the outer surface of the adapting tube; a hollow adjustment ring configured to be threaded to the inner surface of the adapter tube to generate a displacement force; and a compression ring providing minimum friction resistant for translating the displacement force from the threading hollow adjustment ring to a longitudinal compressing displacement of the first resilient ring, causing an inner surface of the first resilient rings to fit to the outer surface of the adapting tube. The adapter clamp also includes a second resilient ring placed in the inner circumferential surface of the adapter tube; and a spacer placed on the inner circumferential surface of the adapter tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: David Gian-Teh Ho
  • Patent number: 7832773
    Abstract: An invention generally relates to an adjustable connector that acts as a coupling device to connect an object (such as pipe or tubing) having a range of diameters and thread styles to an item (such as a piece of equipment or another length of pipe or tubing). The device is generally comprised of a casing member and an internal member, which is further comprised of tab members positioned in tab openings in a core member. Preferably, a semi-flexible sheath covers the internal member and seals it to the casing member and the object, so that a chamber is formed between the internal member and the casing member. Mechanical compression members may be placed in the chamber. As pressure increases within the object, the chamber pressure may also increase, forcing the sheath against the tab members, which are forced against the object, holding the object in place by friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth P. Krohn
  • Publication number: 20100019492
    Abstract: An air intake conduit connecter having two components engaged by an annular ring engaging one component and biasing towards the engagement. A resilient band is engageable around the annular ring to allow hand tightening thereof and preventing vibration from loosening the threaded engagement of the ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy J. Richards
  • Patent number: 7520538
    Abstract: A purge gas introduction system for an orbital tube welding setup is provided, configured to inject high purity inert purge gas to the interior volume of a tube or tubular component. An o-ring is interposed between an annular base and an annular ring, their junction forming an annular o-ring groove, each part forming one sidewall, with the o-ring fully recessed within the groove, protecting the o-ring during the insertion and removal of a tube. The annular base and an annular ring are configured to receive a tube terminus. The sidewalls of the o-ring groove are divergent one to the other, wherein as the annular ring is drawn towards the annular base, the o-ring is forced partially out of the groove, forming a substantially leak tight seal between the tube and the o-ring. A purge gas from an external source is transmitted to the annular base through a purge connector, then, in turn, introduced to the interior volume of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Inventor: Kevin David McGushion
  • Patent number: 7441810
    Abstract: A sewer line coupling device to facilitate attachment of a recreational vehicle sewer line to a fixed waste pipe. The coupling device comprising a main body having a second end for insertion into the waste pipe. A movable member is movable relative to the main body and a sealing sleeve is supported by the main body adjacent the second end. One end of the sealing sleeve is affixed to the main body while the other end is coupled to the movable member. When the movable member is moved in a first direction, a minimum dimension of the sealing sleeve is achieved to facilitate insertion into the waste pipe and, when the movable member is moved in an opposite direction, a maximum dimension of the sealing sleeve is achieved to facilitate formation of a seal with the waste pipe. A flange is supported by the main body between the first end and the second end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Samuel Wayne Buff
  • Patent number: 7344165
    Abstract: An instantaneous connection device includes a tubular body, a tight element used to hold the end of a line in the body and includes an elastically deformable annular sealing element and a holding element that are arranged to receive the end of the line, a cam member for moving the holding element from a free state into a state wherein it grips the end of the line when it is axially displaced in the tubular body from a first position to a second position, and an elastic member for bringing the holding element back towards its second position. The sealing element is mounted between a radial shoulder of the body and a radial face of the holding element. The radial shoulder and the radial face are provided with reciprocal reliefs for laterally coming into contact with the annular sealing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventors: Philippe Le Quere, Nicolas Le Bars
  • Publication number: 20030146625
    Abstract: Sealing socket (1) and method for arranging a sealing socket to a tube (2). A sealing socket (1) comprises a sleeve (3) having an outer dimension somewhat larger than the tube (2) to be sealed, defining an annular compartment (4) between the tube (2) and the sleeve (3), in which a gasket (6) is introduced. The gasket material is pressurised by a pressure ring (7) which is permanently connected by welding (8) to the sleeve (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Frans Rusting, Petrus Paulus Antonius Catharina Pex, Jacobus Anna Josephus Peters
  • Patent number: 6561720
    Abstract: An open end of a hollow cylindrical body receives part of a cylindrical component, where the hollow cylindrical body and the cylindrical component each having a groove, the grooves being aligned when the cylindrical component is in its intended final position with respect to the hollow cylindrical body, so that a locking ring is captured by the two grooves. The cylindrical component works together with the hollow cylindrical body to form a ring-shaped space, which extends from one of the two grooves toward the open end of the hollow cylindrical body, thus offering access for a tool to move the locking ring into its intended final position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Mannesmann Sachs AG
    Inventors: Alfred Wirth, Andreas Keidel, Steffen Heyn
  • Publication number: 20030080562
    Abstract: A leak-free, biocompatible connection assembly for lab-on-a-chip applications is provided. In one embodiment, a tube is located through a nut, through at least one ferrule of an inert material, and through a port. The port is attached to the “lab chip” so that the end of the tube is in fluid communication with a reservoir or channel in the chip. In another embodiment, a multiport manifold is used to connect a plurality of tubes to the lab chip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: Michael L. Bailey, Thomas C. Dykas
  • Patent number: 6524032
    Abstract: A connector is provided for removably attaching a space frame to the hull of a floating offshore platform. The connector comprises a socket attached to the hull of the platform. The socket has an open bore therein. A stabbing member is attached to the space frame. The stabbing member has a lower end insertable into the socket. An expandable locking ring is carried by the lower end of the stabbing member. The locking ring comprises a plurality of ring segments for removably seating within the socket bore. A backup ring is slidable along the stabbing member. The backup ring removably mates to the locking ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: CSO Aker Maritime, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry R. Russell, Phillip A. Abbott
  • Patent number: 6471254
    Abstract: An elastomeric gripping element is supported and mounted by a housing and is configured to have an interference fit under normal conditions with the surface of the object to be gripped. The housing and the surface to be gripped are separated by a gap. For gripping mating with the surface, the elastomeric gripping element is initially stretched by operative means in the housing element in an axial direction parallel to the generating element of the comating surface to be gripped, with an attendant reduction in its cross-sectional thickness perpendicular to the direction of stretch. In this manner, the gripping element interference with the comating surface of the object to be gripped is minimized or eliminated for installation. When positioning for the installation mating is accomplished, the gripping element tension is selectively released, permitting the gripping element to attempt to return to an unstretched position and thereby to assume a preloaded position against the comating surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Larry R. Russell
  • Patent number: 6406216
    Abstract: A storm sewer overflow control device for controlling runoff surge flows from a generally vertically oriented storm drain into a generally horizontally oriented storm sewer pipe includes an engagement portion configured for insertion into the storm sewer pipe, a flow control portion attachable to the engagement portion and configured for receiving runoff surge flow flowing down the storm drain and slowing the flow for entry into the storm sewer through the engagement portion. The engagement portion is radially expandable to tightly and frictionally engage an interior surface of the storm sewer pipe, and preferably is configured to expand radially as it is shortened axially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Jason J. Raasch
  • Patent number: 6273478
    Abstract: A miniature connector for introducing microliter quantities of solutions into microfabricated fluidic devices, and which incorporates a molded ring or seal set into a ferrule cartridge, with or without a compression screw. The fluidic connector, for example, joins standard high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) tubing to 1 mm diameter holes in silicon or glass, enabling ml-sized volumes of sample solutions to be merged with &mgr;l-sized devices. The connector has many features, including ease of connect and disconnect; a small footprint which enables numerous connectors to be located in a small area; low dead volume; helium leak-tight; and tubing does not twist during connection. Thus the connector enables easy and effective change of microfluidic devices and introduction of different solutions in the devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: William J. Benett, Peter A. Krulevitch
  • Patent number: 6234539
    Abstract: A quick connect sealing and clamping apparatus and method having a pair of oppositely positioned sleeves (12) interconnected by a flexible coupling (14). The pair of oppositely positioned sleeves (12) includes a locking device (16) for locking the oppositely positioned sleeves (12) together when in position. The oppositely positioned sleeves (12) in conjunction with flexible coupling (14), form a passageway (18) into which one free end (20) of device (22) is placed from one side of oppositely positioned sleeve (12). The other free end (24) of device (22), or free end (24) of another device (26), is placed into passageway (18) in the other oppositely positioned sleeve (12). Oppositely positioned sleeves (12) are then rotated in opposite directions so as to wind, twist, and torque flexible coupling (14) around device (22) (device 26) thereby sealing them against contaminants and joining them to quick connect sealing and clamping device (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Allen Foster
  • Patent number: 6105451
    Abstract: A hollow cylinder is fastened at its outer circumference when the cylindrical interior jacket is to be utilized for a treatment process. To produce this fastening, provision is made according to the invention for surrounding the end of the hollow cylinder by an elastic ring, said ring being pressed against the outer circumference of the hollow cylinder by a clamping disk that is annular and surrounds the hollow cylinder, said disk in turn being nonrotatably connected with the drive unit. The drive unit can then consist exclusively of a bearing ring connected by a gear at its outer circumference with a drive pinion of a motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Fleissner GmbH & Co., Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Gerold Fleissner
  • Patent number: 6102063
    Abstract: The valve head of the present invention is designed for engaging both a Schrader and a Presta valve. It includes a housing having generally cylindrical sidewalls and a base wall. A collet is disposed within the housing. The collet has generally cylindrical sidewalls and a plurality of upwardly extending collet fingers. A generally cylindrical gasket member is disposed within the collet. The gasket is composed of a resilient material and has a valve insertion bore formed centrally therethrough. A camming lever is operably engaged to the collet and functions to pull the collet downwardly into the housing. The downward movement of the collet causes the collet fingers to move inwardly, thereby creating an inwardly directed force upon the resilient gasket such that the diameter of the gasket bore is reduced. When a Schrader valve is disposed within the gasket bore, a valve pin depression tip acts to depress the Schrader valve pin, thus permitting pumped air to flow through the Schrader valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan E. Pierce, John A. Gunther
  • Patent number: 5992899
    Abstract: An adapter for attaching a fluid handling device to a catheter tubing includes a body with a proximal end, a distal end and a passageway therethrough. The body has a proximal end that has a fitting for attaching a fluid handling device. The distal end of the body includes an elongate receptacle with an inside surface that has least one engagement lug. There is an elongate resilient member disposed within the receptacle with a first end and a second end and a coaxial passage therethrough. The passage has an inside diameter to accept and form a releasable substantially fluid tight connection to a preselected catheter tube. The resilient member has a first conjugate engagement to the receptacle engagement lug at the first end and a second engagement at the second end. The adapter also has a latch member disposed over the receptacle to contain the resilient member that has a distal axial access port therein to receive the catheter tube into the resilient member passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Strowe
  • Patent number: 5983920
    Abstract: A pump head includes a main body defining a chamber and having a top end and a bottom end, a first force transmitting member slidably positioned in the chamber adjacent the top end of the main body, and a second force transmitting member slidably positioned in the chamber adjacent the first force transmitting member and the top end of the main body. A camming device is pivotally mounted at the top end of the main body, the camming device having first, second third and fourth engagement surfaces, the first, second, and third engagement surfaces in selective engagement with the first force transmitting member, and the first, second and fourth engagement surfaces in selective engagement with the second force transmitting member. A resilient collar stationarily positioned in the chamber between the bottom end and the first force-transmitting member, and defining an axial cavity having an inner wall and an inside diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Schwinn Fitness & Cycling Inc.
    Inventors: Albert G. Gapinski, Charles W. Schwimmer
  • Patent number: 5784798
    Abstract: An implement (10) for supporting selectively each of at least two roller sleeves of different internal diameters for rotation about their axes comprises an elongate support (11) adapted to extend through each sleeve and carrying two supports (15, 21) for supporting the smaller-diameter sleeve (20) adjacent its ends, a mount (16) for supporting one end of the larger-diameter sleeve and adapter means (30) engageable with a support (21) for the smaller-diameter sleeve for supporting the opposite end of the larger-diameter sleeve, the adapter means and one support (21, 30) for the smaller sleeve being a resilient force fit in the respective sleeve to connect the sleeve for rotation with the elongate support (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: David Brian Taylor
  • Patent number: 5697194
    Abstract: A modular seal assembly for sealing a circular opening through a wall, usually with one or more conduits (i.e., telecommunication cables) extending through the seal. The assembly includes an outer pressure annulus and a thick inner pressure disc, both of natural or synthetic rubber, EPDM, urethane, or other elastomer. In the outer annulus the elastomer is an annular series of interconnected blocks of length L1 having a central opening of radius R2; a series of pressure bolts compress the blocks axially, expanding the annulus both outwardly and inwardly. The inner disc, which has an outer radius of about R2 and is interlocked with the elastomer blocks of the outer annulus, has a multiplicity of circular layers, much like an onion; the layers are concentric about an opening through which a conduit usually extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: PSI Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Gignac, Edward L. Kwiatkowski, Carl R. Griffiths
  • Patent number: 5695222
    Abstract: A ratchet type closet flange for replacing broken cast iron closet flanges in old buildings or in new construction in place of conventional cast iron closet flanges. The patented invention comprising a flange body, a cup, a rubber seal, and a means for applying pressure. After removing the broken closet flange, the ratchet type closet flange is inserted into the existing pipe. A compression seal is formed between the flange body and the inside of the pipe by applying pressure to the flange body and the cup, forcing a compression seal between the rubber seal and the pipe. The ratchet type closet flange may slide up and down inside the pipe to achieve the desired height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: James Bruno
    Inventor: B. Eugene Hodges
  • Patent number: 5660206
    Abstract: A filler neck of a fuel tank extends from the gas cap to the interior of a fuel tank, and a fill valve insert is positioned adjacent the tank-interior end of the filler neck in a tank/neck coupler construction. The insert carries a flexible valve to close the interior end of the filler neck, and the valve is designed and mounted both to flex open and bodily move downstream to both open and rapidly enlarge the valve opened passageway in response to rapid inflow of fuel to the tank, and to return and revert to a closed position upon cessation of fuel inflow. The fill valve insert is positively positioned and held in the interior of a threaded spout on the fuel tank and is retained and sealed against the filler pipe by a threaded collar screwed onto the threaded spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Walbro Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy P. Neal, Mark R. Johansen
  • Patent number: 5507537
    Abstract: A fluid connector (40) for gripping and sealing on an external surface of a fluid conductor (61). The fluid connector (40) includes a seal (62) which is forced into a bore (70) of a piston (66) having a smaller diameter than the seal, so that the seal (62) is radially squeezed to seal the external surface of the fluid conductor (61). A collet assembly (50) of the fluid connector (61) is forced to reduce the diameter to grip the external surface of the fluid conductor (61). A spring (68) which is disposed in the piston (66) compensates seal preload mechanism for variations in fluid conductor size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: FasTest, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanlee W. Meisinger, Daniel J. Cornish
  • Patent number: 5433487
    Abstract: A wall penetration sleeve for extending a conduit or pipe through a solid concrete, brick or other wall or connecting a first pipe provided on one side of the wall with a second pipe provided on the opposite side of the wall. The wall penetration sleeve is characterized by a cylindrical sleeve extending through the wall and internally threaded on each end to receive a corresponding pressure nut. Each pressure nut seals an o-ring or gasket in the corresponding end of the sleeve to form a moisture-tight seal between the sleeve interior and the interior of the wall such that liquid or gas cannot leak from the sleeve and accumulate in the interior of the wall as the liquid or gas flows through the pipe. An annular lock collar is either eccentrically mounted on the sleeve or includes a flat segment shaped in the collar edge to prevent the sleeve from rotating or moving transversely in the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventors: Mark A. Kuhn, Shirley A. Kuhn
  • Patent number: 5372391
    Abstract: An attachment mechanism for repairing or extending fluid carrying pipes, casings, conduits, etc. utilizing one-way motion of spring tempered fingers to provide a mechanical connection between the attachment mechanism and the pipe. The spring tempered fingers flex to permit insertion into a pipe to a desired insertion depth. The mechanical connection is accomplished by reversing the insertion motion and the mechanical leverage in the fingers forces them outwardly against the inner wall of the pipe. A seal is generated by crushing a sealing assembly by the action of setting the mechanical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Richard M. Bast, Dwayne A. Chesnut, Carl D. Henning, Joseph P. Lennon, John W. Pastrnak, Joseph A. Smith
  • Patent number: 5308124
    Abstract: A pipe joint thrust ring to be interposed between a joint member of a pipe joint and a connecting threaded member rotatably fitted to the joint member. The thrust ring comprises a C-shaped body in the form of a circle partly cut away and having spring elasticity. The inner width between opposed ends of the C-shaped body is maller than the outside diameter of the joint member and can be increased to a value equal to the outside diameter of the joint member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Michio Yamaji, Nobukazu Ikeda, Naoya Masuda, Tetsuya Kojima
  • Patent number: 5267759
    Abstract: A connector assembly for resiliently actuated coupling of a first component of cylindrical configuration to a second component with a cylindrical recess utilizes a pair of interfitting inner and outer annular ring elements having first and second axial ends and axially extending overlying body portions. The first ends extend inwardly of the recess and the second ends are in surface contact with the circumferential surface of the cylindrical component. Each ring elements has a radially extending flange on one of its ends which extends along the ends of the other ring element into close surface relationship with one of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Assignee: Trumpf Lasertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Heinz J. Prokop, Michael Hacker
  • Patent number: 5141633
    Abstract: A drain insert having an insert pipe of smaller diameter than the standing drainpipe into which the insert fits, and an elastomeric, tubular sleeve surrounding and seal-bonded to the outside of one end of the insert pipe so that a portion of the sleeve extends axially beyond that end of the insert pipe. A rigid, conical frustum is provided, the smaller end of which frustum is of lesser diameter than the internal diameter of the sleeve, the larger end of which has a diameter greater than the internal diameter of the sleeve but less than the internal diameter of the drainpipe. Coupled to the frustum and extending axially therefrom are a pair of elongated rods adapted to be inserted axially along the insert pipe. The rods are long enough so that when the frustum is adjacent the sleeve, the other ends of the rods, which are threaded, extend outside of the inlet end of the insert pipe and through holes in a bridge to tabs extending across the pipe inlet end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Assignee: Roof Accessories Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas W. Walczak, Robert M. Bennette
  • Patent number: 5102150
    Abstract: An airtight, flexible joint is disclosed for the interfacing of two pressure vessels such as between the Space Station docking tunnel and the Space Shuttle Orbiter's bulkhead adapter. The joint provides for flexibility while still retaining a structural link between the two vessels required due to the loading created by the internal/external pressure differential. The joint design provides for limiting the axial load carried across the joint to a specific value, a function required in the Orbiter/Station tunnel interface. The flex joint comprises a floating structural segment which is permanently attached to one of the pressure vessels through the use of an inflatable seal. The geometric configuration of the joint causes the tension between the vessels created by the internal gas pressure to compress the inflatable seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventor: Jon B. Kahn
  • Patent number: 5088558
    Abstract: An operational package comprising either a pump/driver package (1; 100) or a valve package (250) is retrievably installed at a subsea station by a receptacle (10; 110; 251). Co-operating connection means on the package and the receptacle establish fluid and/or electrical connection between the package and the receptacle on reception of the package within the receptacle. Seal means (14) carried by the package are moved into a condition to seal any such fluid connections. Installation is effected by establishing a running loop extending from a surface vessel downwardly through the receptacle (10; 110) and upwardly to the surface vessel outside the receptacle, the package (1; 100) being moved on and guided by the wire loop from the surface vessel into the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Inventor: Frank Mohn
  • Patent number: 5052726
    Abstract: A desirable seal structure for use in forming a seal around the exterior of a pipe or the like can be constructed so as to use a retainer member, a compression member, a sealing member located generally within the retainer member and generally between the compression and retainer members and bolts for compressing the retainer and compression members against the sealing member. The compression and retainer members are provided with beveled surfaces which are complementary to corresponding tapered surfaces on the sealing member. The sealing member is shaped so that it will move inwardly when compressed between the compression and retainer members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Logsdon Foundation
    Inventor: Duane D. Logsdon
  • Patent number: 5003146
    Abstract: A universal fitting for electrodes for use with electric arc metal disintegrator apparatus. The fitting accommodates all sizes of electrodes used with metal disintegrator apparatus and enables electrodes as short as one inch to be used. The universal fitting connects two electrodes, such as two electrodes having different diameters and/or materials, respectively. Smaller diameter electrodes may be carried within larger diameter electrodes and only a short length of the smaller diameter electrode need be exposed to the workpiece. The universal fitting is composed of collets, a central double-ended connector for connecting a collet at each end, seals to form a water-tight connection between the collets and the double-ended connector, and retainers to secure the electrodes to the collets and the collets to the middle connector. The universal fitting may be axially aligned, or in another embodiment, form a right angle for offset work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Inventor: Rayburn G. Alexander
  • Patent number: 4974879
    Abstract: A pass-through tube for use in conveying intravenous fluid to a patient in a pressurized chamber, the tube including a tubular body having an outer surface shaped and sized to sealably mate with the interior surface of a connector passing through the wall of a pressurized chamber, a first end having a first generally cylindrical surface adapted to sealably engage a similarly shaped surface of a mating first connector and first locking members for locking with mating locking members on the first connector, a second end having a second generally cylindrical surface adapted to sealably engage a similarly shaped surface of a mating second connector and second locking members for locking with mating locking members on the second connector. Also disclosed is a kit including a pass-through tube, a flexible internal tube, and a valve connected to the external end for connection to an intravenous supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Assignee: Cobe Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen W. Berch, Leslie M. Baines
  • Patent number: 4858963
    Abstract: This invention relates, generally, to a sealing apparatus which seals the space between an outer surface of an inner carrying pipe and the inner surface of an outer casing pipe. It consists of a plurality of plates having a compressible material between the plates. The plates and the compressible material are assembled around the carrying pipe so as to fill the space between the outer surface of the carrying pipe and the inner surface of the casing pipe. When it is desired to seal the space between the outer surface of the carrying pipe and the inner surface of the casing pipe, one plate is drawn toward the other plate thereby compressing the compressible material so as to fill that space and insure a perfect seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Inventor: Earl P. Kimbrough
  • Patent number: 4842107
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in the bleeding of fluid systems, especially the hydraulic brake system of a motor vehicle, comprises fluid pumping equipment (1) for pumping fluid to a main fluid reservoir (8) of the fluid system via a supply conduit (24). The pumping equipment (1) includes a fluid container (6) and an air pump (2) serving to discharge fluid from the container (6) into the supply conduit (24). The pump (2) is driven through an electric circuit (C1.C2) including a fluid pressure control (14) and a fluid level control (15A) of the container (6). The delivery end of the supply conduit (24) passes through an opening (26) of the reservoir (8) which opening (26) is sealed by an elastomeric plug (18) laterally expandable by a compression device. The above apparatus considerably conveniences the bleeding of motor vehicle brake systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: Nigel Buchanan
    Inventors: Nigel Buchanan, John Brodie
  • Patent number: 4776618
    Abstract: A high-pressure coupling for small-diameter pipe is obtained with standard male and female pipe connectors, three ferrules, an O-ring and a flat metallic washer disposed around the pipe and designed such that when the connectors are hand tightened, the coupling compresses the ferrules, O-ring and flat washer to obtain a coupling that will withstand pressures up to 10,000 psi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1988
    Assignee: Marathon Oil Company
    Inventor: Robert D. Barree
  • Patent number: 4759572
    Abstract: A tube connector used to connect conduits for fluid pressure to pressure testing equipment, the tube connector including a piston slidably disposed within a housing, the piston defining a chamber for containment of a seal which engages the outer periphery of the tube to be tested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Assignee: Tuthill Corporation
    Inventor: William D. Richardson
  • Patent number: 4749215
    Abstract: A split case expansion coupling for steel pipe conduit that is made in two identical half sections that fit over any given commercial steel pipe size with one pipe end fixed and with the other pipe end being free to expand or contract. The free end has a bolted split cup containing a packing seal. The casing body at the fixed end fits the outside diameter of the connecting pipe and is clamped tightly in place by means of bolted mating flanges containing a compressible gasket. The expansion coupling can be installed or removed without disturbing the contents of a pipe conduit and without any torch-cutting or welding being required on the pipe conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1988
    Inventor: Grady L. Martin
  • Patent number: 4730856
    Abstract: A pipe joint for connecting a pipe having a relatively small diameter includes a generally cylindrical main body having an axial bore in which an end portion of the pipe and a plurality of seal rings surrounding the end portion of the pipe can be fitted. The main body has a tubular extension defining a connector for another tubular member to be connected to the pipe by the joint and having an axial bore which can be connected with that of the pipe. The main body also has a plurality of pawl projections or a shoulder on its outer peripheral surface. The pipe has a radially outwardly projecting wall portion near its end portion. A generally cylindrical cap has an end wall portion provided therethrough with a central opening through which the pipe can extend into the main body, and a plurality of resilient arms projecting from its end wall portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kabushika Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsushi Washizu
  • Patent number: 4720125
    Abstract: An expansion and length adjustment joint for use with a double walled metal chimney, the chimney having an inner flue wall and an outer casing wall, the adjustment joint having an inner sliding sleeve with a flange at one end thereof. An upper flue wall connecting band is sealingly disposed around the inner sliding sleeve flange and a flange of the inner flue wall. A gasket retaining collar is secured against the inner sliding sleeve, thus retaining a flue gas seal therealong with thermal expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Assignee: Metal-Fab, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Ream, William J. Blalock
  • Patent number: 4669763
    Abstract: A gripping saddle and O-ring apparatus comprising a hub structure having a central aperture therethrough, resilient flanges extending from each end of said hub structure and integral therewith, and thus providing a central groove therebetween for reception of a resilient O-ring therewith. Depending upon the size of the O-ring, the flanges will be only slightly deformed outwardly or greatly deformed outwardly. When this structure is used with laboratory apparatus containing corrosive liquids, the embodiment with slightly expanded flanges is preferred, while when the apparatus is used for stop cock securing functions, the greatly deformed flange apparatus is preferred.Preferably, the saddle hub structure is made of Teflon or other fairly slippery and non-frictional plastic material, while any type of rubber or rubber composition may be employed for the O-ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1987
    Inventor: Edwin D. Phillips
  • Patent number: 4541537
    Abstract: A seal for a container having a straight cylindrical neck with an opening in the neck includes an upper sealing member which fits over the top of the neck and down a portion of the cylindrical surface of the neck. The top sealing member has a tapered edge on its bottom which accepts an indentically tapered edge of an intermediate sealing member which engages it. The intermediate sealing member also has a further tapered edge which accepts a tapered edge of a bottom sealing member which mates with it. A lower locking member goes around the cylindrical neck of the bottle and is shaped such that a portion of it is spaced away from the cylindrical neck of the bottle to form a cavity in which fits the intermediate and lower sealing members. A top locking member goes over the top sealing member and both a skirt on the top sealing member and the top locking member also fit within the cavity of the lower locking member. Threads between the upper and lower locking member hold the structure together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1985
    Assignee: City of Hope National Medical Center
    Inventor: Clifford L. Sailor