Clamped Patents (Class 285/364)
  • Patent number: 6832791
    Abstract: Connection elements for interconnecting two duct ends, the elements comprising a tubular connection member for uniting the duct ends, the tubular member comprising at least one pair of half-bodies which is arranged so as to be closed on at least one duct end and which is associated with elements for gripping the duct end when the pair of half-bodies is closed on the duct end, the gripping elements comprising at least one outwardly-directed projection formed by plastic deformation of the duct end in a position set back from an end face of the duct end, and two inner shoulders of at least one of the half-bodies, which shoulders are spaced apart axially so as to receive therebetween the outwardly-directed projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventors: Patrick Legeai, Olivier Guivar'ch
  • Publication number: 20040239117
    Abstract: A coupling for joining two pipes in end-to-end relationship includes flanges which are sealably secured to end sections of pipes to be connected. The flanges form front inclined faces and adjacent front flanges that are slidably received within opposite end openings of a cylindrical coupling. A groove or shoulder is formed at the rear end of the front flanges that cooperate with jaws extending from the ends of the cylindrical coupling to secure the received pipe end portions in the cylindrical coupling to thereby join the pipes together. One or more gaskets fit in the cylindrical coupling between the ends thereof with gasket arms that abut against the inclined surface so that fluid pressure in the pipes force the gasket arms against the inclined faces to provide a seal between the joined pipes. A stop may be provided to limit the sliding travel of the cylindrical coupling with respect to the flanges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Ajit Singh Gill
  • Patent number: 6758502
    Abstract: A flanged coupling ring for a duct element has a mounting section configured to be mounted or a connection portion of the duct element, and flange means extending outwards from the mounting section. The flange means has, along its periphery, flanged coupling portions for connecting two duct elements, each of which is provided with a coupling ring, by means of external coupling means configured to engage with the flanged coupling portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Lindab AB
    Inventors: Lars-Åke Mattsson, Kenneth Lennartsson, Sten Högman, Carl-Gustaf Sondén
  • Patent number: 6726254
    Abstract: A fuel container with a pipe, the fuel container having a pipe connecting piece with a conically widened rim and the pipe having an annular bead, on which a connecting member acts, and a sealing ring further being seated between the conically widened rim and the annular bead. In order to make the connection such that it can be produced simply and accurately, and to make it quite tightly, on the side of the annular bead facing the pipe connecting piece, the pipe forms a cylinder with two circumferential grooves, in each of which a sealing ring is seated, which rests in a sealing manner on the cylindrical inner surface of the pipe connecting piece. The annular bead has a cross section with two oblique flanks, the conically widened rim of the pipe connecting piece resting on the flank facing the pipe connecting piece, and the connecting member acting on the flank facing away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Tesma Motorne und Getriebetechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Feichtinger
  • Patent number: 6709028
    Abstract: Male and female components joined to respective pipes are coupled by an annular element (21) which embraces the male component and engages it in a transverse plane, and at least two coupling elements (30, 30′) for hooking the female component, each having two parallel hooking arms (31) in the form of plates which lie in planes parallel to the axial plane (P) passing through the longitudinal center line of the coupling elements (30, 30′). Flanges (41) for the coupling elements are joined to the annular element (21) in planes parallel to the planes defined by the hooking arms (31), and these carry a transverse pin (42) for securing the hooking arms (31) in an axial direction. Axial traction applied to the coupling elements (30, 30′) firmly join the male and female components together. The ball-and-socket joint obtained is able to better support high pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Dallai Ernesto Societa' a Responsabilita' Limitata
    Inventors: Fazio Dallai, Luca Lavagnini
  • Patent number: 6692042
    Abstract: A profiled clamp connecting two pipes has an articulated clamp strip having sidewalls and a transverse portion connecting the sidewalls and a tensioning closure around the clamp strip. A conical metal ring is arranged in the clamp strip and has a radially inner edge with teeth having free ends positioned on a circle with a diameter that is smaller than an inner diameter of the sidewalls. The conical ring has a radially outer edge resting in a bend between sidewall and transverse part. The first pipe has a widened end section with a conical transition and a radial flange engaging between the sidewalls. The second pipe has a smooth end section inserted into the widened end section. The outer flange diameter is greater than the inner sidewall diameter and smaller than the inner diameter of the transverse part. A seal rests between the smooth end section and the conical transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Barbett, Markus Krämer, Rainer Heise, Manfred Krüger
  • Publication number: 20030197381
    Abstract: A coupling arrangement for permitting fluid-tight, pressurized fluid flow therethrough includes a pair of conduit members located in end-to-end alignment, each of the conduit members having a flared end. An encircling coupling unit surrounds the ends of the conduit members and has structure to tighten the coupling unit around the flared ends of the conduit members, the coupling unit having inner lateral surfaces partially defining a coupling cavity. An encircling, deformable gasket is disposed in the cavity of the coupling unit. The gasket has exterior lateral surfaces spaced from the inner lateral surfaces of the coupling unit, and interior surfaces defining an annular recess therein. A rigid ring liner is retained within the annular recess of the deformable gasket to reinforce the gasket. The flared ends of the conduit members are engaged in wedging and sealing relationship between the inner lateral surfaces of the coupling unit and the exterior lateral surfaces of the deformable gasket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Gary D. Lehnhardt
  • Patent number: 6626466
    Abstract: The present assembly relates to a series of successively sized segmented pipe couplings in which an anti-mismatch is provided to prevent the inadvertent connection of two different, but closely, sized arcuate coupling segments together. The anti-mismatch is provided by members on the ends of the arcuate coupling segments which (a) will nest when the proper coupling segments are brought together, but (b) will be in an interference non-nested relationship when a mismatch is attempted. This will prevent the fully bolt tightened connection of the size mismatched coupling segments, as well as a visual indication to the workman that a size mismatch is being attempted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Victaulic Company of America
    Inventor: Douglas R. Dole
  • Publication number: 20030116967
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-aligning coupling for mating a pair of corresponding flanged fittings. The self-aligning coupling comprises a first arm, a second arm, and a rotational assist mechanism adapted to mechanically synchronize the closing of the first and second arms relative to the flanged fittings to be connected. The rotational assist mechanism is further adapted to provide motion between the first arm and the second arm to receive and secure the flanged fittings in axial alignment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Joshua R. Kornau, James E. Kesterman
  • Publication number: 20030116968
    Abstract: The joint comprises two components to be coupled together, namely a male component and a female component joined to respective pipes. These two components are coupled together by a third component which comprises: an annular element (21) which embraces the male component and engages it in a transverse plane, and at least two coupling means (30, 30′) for hooking the female component, each comprising two parallel hooking arms (31) in the form of plates which lie in planes parallel to the axial plane (P) passing through the longitudinal centre line of the coupling means (30, 30′). In addition there is provided a pair of flanges (41) for each coupling means (30, 30′) in the form of plates firmly joined to the annular element (21) and lying in planes parallel to the planes defined by the hooking arms (31), said pair carrying a transverse pin (42) for securing the hooking arms (31) in an axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Applicant: DALLAI ERNESTO SOCIETA' A RESPONSABILITA' LIMITATA
    Inventors: Fazio Dallai, Luca Lavagnini
  • Patent number: 6547287
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved system for connecting the ends of sheet metal ducts wherein each duct end is provided with an integral frame. Corner connectors defining perpendicularly extending arms are associated with each frame, and bolts or other fasteners are utilized for connecting the connectors and integral frames. The sections include an upturned portion extending perpendicularly outwardly from the duct wall, a second portion bent rearwardly from the outer end of the first portion, a third portion extending from the outer end of the second portion and forming an L-shaped double wall portion. When the frame is formed in this fashion, it is adapted to receive the side edges of respected arms of corner connectors whereby the ducts may be efficiently assembled by locating corner connectors in place and thereafter applying the fasteners used for maintaining the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Met-Coil Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Ashok Shah, Richard Blum
  • Patent number: 6536811
    Abstract: A pipe coupling includes mating hub sections engaged by outer split clamp elements that are compressed together against mating tapered surfaces of the hub sections to draw the hub sections together into tight fitting relationship. The clamp elements are driven into a compressed condition by an outer locking ring that fits over the split clamp elements to draw the hub sections together and to retain the hub sections against axial separation. The clamp elements have locking surfaces engageable by the locking ring and axial movement of the locking ring is limited by appropriate stop surfaces and retainers. A locking sleeve installation and removal tool utilizing an actuator system is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Progressive Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Ranson, Jr., William C. Campbell
  • Patent number: 6508491
    Abstract: A vibration-decoupling flange connection in an exhaust gas pipeline of motor vehicles includes flanges pretensioned by means of a tensioning device with springy means so as at least to swivel and to seal on a position, corresponding to a precalculated position of pipe members to be connected. The tensioning device is mounted when the exhaust gas pipe is closed and forms a clamp. The clamp legs of the clamp overlap under pretension the opposite flange sides with clamp curves of the clamp legs and extend over a circumferential angle of more than 180 degrees. The clamp curves exhibit supports, spaced in the circumferential direction. The clamp legs are separate components, which, when fitted together, can be fixed in position relative to each other by locking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventors: Guenther Ebinger, Alexander Roser
  • Patent number: 6505864
    Abstract: A fabricated connector for oval shaped cross section ducts is provided. The fabricated connector has two oval shaped connector elements, each of which are formed from two semi-circular rings to which universal connectors are permanently affixed on each end of the semi-circular rings by the manufacturer. The semi-circular rings with universal connectors attached are then shipped to the field where angle pieces are inserted and fixed between the universal connectors of the two semi-circular rings to form the precise shape of oval connector desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Ductmate Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan B. Shuey
  • Publication number: 20030006611
    Abstract: A fabricated connector for oval shaped cross section ducts is provided. The fabricated connector has two oval shaped connector elements, each of which are formed from two semi-circular rings to which universal connectors are permanently affixed on each end of the semi-circular rings by the manufacturer. The semi-circular rings with universal connectors attached are then shipped to the field where angle pieces are inserted and fixed between the universal connectors of the two semi-circular rings to form the precise shape of oval connector desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Alan B. Shuey
  • Patent number: 6481762
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for attachment to a pipe includes a sleeve. One end of the sleeve is configured to receive a pipe end. The pipe coupling also includes an annular gasket disposed within the end of the sleeve for encircling the pipe end. The coupling includes a flanged assembly for compressing the annular gasket to form a seal between the pipe and the sleeve. The sleeve and the gasket are configured so as to define a leak path between an axially inner portion of the gasket and the inner surface of the sleeve, whereby pressurized fluid from the pipe may pass along the leak path so as to pressurize a radially outer surface of the gasket and urge the gasket against the compression flange to enhance the seal between the gasket and the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Glynwed Pipe Systems Limited
    Inventors: Brian Rex, Brian Harper
  • Patent number: 6460894
    Abstract: A fluid line with a filter insert. The fluid line is adapted for efficient, safe transfer of fluids for fueling of vehicles. The fluid line includes a tubular housing with a filter element positioned therein. The fluid line also includes a slide-over or threaded sleeve arranged on a housing of the fluid line. The sleeve is mounted such that it can be readily moved for exchanging the filter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventors: Wolfgang Weh, Erwin Weh
  • Patent number: 6435565
    Abstract: A band clamp is provided making a joint in each of two pairs of closely spaced pipes wherein the pipes in each pair are aligned with each other. The clamp has a single closed loop clamp band for connecting adjoining ends of the first pair to make a sealed joint and connecting the adjoining ends of the second pair of pipes to make a sealed joint. The clamp band encircles both pairs of pipes and overlaps a portion of the adjoining ends of both pairs of pipes. The closed loop of the clamp band has oppositely disposed concave lobe portions spanning the gap between the pipes and a clamping mechanism is provided for drawing the lobe portions toward each other for tightening the band around the adjoining ends of the pipes to provide a mechanical connection and a sealed joint in each pair of pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: BKS Company LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Potts, Michael E. Amedure
  • Patent number: 6382343
    Abstract: A power steering apparatus (10) includes a conduit (50) through which a flow of power steering fluid is conducted and a housing (22) having a chamber (25) which holds power steering fluid. A connector assembly (60) connects the conduit (50) with the housing (22). The connector assembly (60) includes a base (64) which is fixedly connected with the housing (22) and a clip (66) which interconnects the base and the conduit (50). The clip (66) has a pilot portion (76) with cam surfaces (88 and 90) which engage a projection (68) on the conduit (50) to press the conduit into an opening (78) in the base (64) during connection of the conduit with the base. The clip (66) has a retainer portion (74) which cooperates with the base (64) and the projection (68) on the conduit (50) to compress a seal (70) between the projection on the conduit and the base when the conduit is connected with the housing (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard W. Engler
  • Patent number: 6375228
    Abstract: A concrete flow line made up of a plurality of end to end pipe sections with pipes connected to each other by a coupling assembly provides for carrying abrasive fluid concrete to a deposit site. The coupling assembly includes an insulating thin sleeve slid over the connecting end of the pipe and spaced from the pipe to form a heat insulating air space therebetween. The thin sleeve is welded to the pipe prior to the hardening of the pipe. After the sleeve is welded in place the inner wall of the pipe is hardened using an induction coil for concentrating of the heat within the inner wall portion in combination with a quenching unit to affect the desired hardening while maintaining an outer ductile wall portion to which the sleeve has been actually welded. A clamping collar or coupler is welded to the sleeve after hardening and forms a connecting end for receiving of a clamp unit which interconnects the adjacent pipe and pipe sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Construction Forms, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Klemm, Gary D. Lehnhardt
  • Publication number: 20020041099
    Abstract: The invention proposes a releasable pipe-connecting arrangement for connecting pipelines, comprising two matching plastic pipeline end regions designed in a flange-like manner, at least one sleeve which matches the pipeline end region and is made of stainless steel, a flexible seal arranged between the pipeline end regions, and a clamp for the releasable fastening of the pipeline end regions, the seal and the sleeve, the sleeve being arranged displaceable on the flange-like end region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Publication date: April 11, 2002
    Inventor: Harald Grun
  • Publication number: 20010054820
    Abstract: Corrugated plastic pipe sections having a flanged end formed by a circumferential portion of an end corrugation or section of the pipe liner and a method and kit for joining flanged end corrugated plastic pipe sections are described in a system in which a portion of the end corrugation or pipe liner forms a flange and a peripheral flange clamp straddles flanges and draws the flanges together to provide a structurally sound joint. A gasket may be interposed between flanges or the flange periphery and the clamp. The invention achieves a cost effective tight joint, allows field cuts of the corrugated plastic pipe and the fabrication of fittings from corrugated pipe sections and provides a selectable pipe size reducer coupling for corrugated plastic pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph M. Starita
  • Patent number: 6267419
    Abstract: A clamping connector that can be remotely actuated and locked which is particularly useful in subsea applications for attaching subsea Christmas trees to marine wellheads. The clamping connector includes clamp halves linked by a locking stem. The locking stem is forced into a pre-stressed state by moving the locking stem from a first relaxed to a second pre-stressed position and retained in the second pre-stressed position by a locking collet. A locking collet through which the locking stem extends is moved from a first unlocked position to a second locked position wedged between the locking stem and one or the other of the clamp halves. When the locking collet is in the second locked position, it resists movement of the locking stem from the second pre-stressed position to the first relaxed position. The locking collet is then locked in the second locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Cooper Cameron Corporation
    Inventors: Gerald S. Baker, William M. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6250693
    Abstract: A device for connecting two tubular pipe sections. A sealing device is arranged between the pipe sections. At their ends, the pipe sections in each case have a flange-type end piece. The pipe sections are held together by a spring device using a pre-tensioning force, the spring device having a mid-section extending at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the pipe sections. The spring device has a spring element, from whose transverse sides of the mid-section, which extend at right angles to the longitudinal axes of the pipe sections, spring limbs extend. Forming an at least approximate U-shape with the mid-section, the spring limbs extend at least partially over the periphery of the pipe sections, the spring limps each having a centrical cut-out that is adapted to the outside diameter of the pipe sections and in which a pipe section is accommodated in each case in the mounted state of the spring element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignees: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft, Leistritz AG & Co. Abgastechnik, Fa. Muhr und Bender
    Inventors: Heiko Gensert, Arndt Peters, Horst Schneider, Helmut Wierzba, Rüdiger Scharioth
  • Patent number: 6234545
    Abstract: A clamped flange pipe or tube fitting assembly includes a resilient seal ring compressed in a chamber formed by cooperating recesses in opposed flanges. The chamber and seal ring are dimensionally related in a manner to produce circumferentially continuous, radially spaced primary and secondary seal areas and to assure a continuous interior surface between the connected pipes or tubes with no recesses to entrap process fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Swagelok Company
    Inventors: Gerald A. Babuder, Ronald K. Fisher, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6179344
    Abstract: An adapter for interconnecting a compartment of a railroad hopper car to a product off-loading system provides a positive fluid, mechanical and electrical interface thereby preventing an accidental mechanical disconnect (or loosening) in the off-loading collar of a hopper car, even during the off-loading process. The adapter is all metal and, with flexible metal and embedded metal spiral wire hoses, provides a continuous electrical connection between the hopper car and the storage facility. The adapter also greatly reduces or eliminates the possibility of product blow-by which would create environmental contamination and product loss. The introduction of oxygen into the system is also greatly reduced or eliminated thereby reducing the risk of an explosion or fire. The adapter is made from a single piece of metal, one end of which is adapted to be attached to the standard fixed collar of the outlet fitting of a hopper car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventor: Glynn Charles Marsden
  • Patent number: 6125888
    Abstract: A a quick acting closure has two flanges. One of the two flanges has a groove for a flexible seal and the other has spaced cogs. The goal is to provide a quick acting closure in such a form that it can be used for the connection/closure of boiler or pipeline elements which can either have a round or a non-round cross section. In accordance with the invention, the two flanges are therefore connected to each other by individual clamps which are arranged at the circumference of the flanges and the number of which is equal to the number and the spacing of the cogs in the flange whereby the clamps are connected to each other two sheet rings, i.e. one lower and one upper sheet ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Ivaylo Popov
  • Patent number: 6123363
    Abstract: The assembly of a connection that uses cooperating grooved surfaces to provide an easily disassembled and assembled connection is improved by the use of a centered lip and cooperating groove on the contact faces of the connection halves that engage the faces of complementary connection ends to prevent lateral misalignment while the pipe ends are brought together for axial alignment. The lip extends into the groove to trap a gasket retained within the groove and inhibit extrusion of the gasket between the contact faces under high pressure conditions. The centering device may be used with a clamping mechanism to provide single person assembly of this type of connection despite normal field misalignments. The trapping cavity formed by the faces of the connection ends particularly enhances the pressure capacity of elastomeric gasket applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey E. Burgard, Gary A. Schulz
  • Patent number: 6114631
    Abstract: A swivel fitting including a first tubular member and a second tubular member each of said first and said second tubular members having a first and a second end, a first annular flange having radiused corners about said first end of said first tubular member, a recess having radiused corners in a second annular flange about said second end of said second tubular member, said first annular flange and said recess mating upon assembly of said first and second tubular members, an annular threaded portion about said second annular flange, and a coupling nut having an annular ring flange which engages the first annular flange when the coupling nut is tightened upon said threads of the annular threaded portion about the second annular flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 6109590
    Abstract: Disclosed is a control slide valve for control of product flow through it in which the valve internals are maintained in position by the clamping action of a split clamp and may be released and removed and replaced through the bonnet quickly and easily by release and reclamping the split clamp rather than by utilizing bolts which often gall, break, and are difficult to remove and replace. The slide valve is particularly suited for high temperature abrasive flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Tapco International, Inc.
    Inventor: Andre F. Koerner
  • Patent number: 6090190
    Abstract: A device for establishing a flange connection, having a bearing which can act on a first flange, a counter-bearing which can act on a second flange, and a connecting lever between the two bearings is described. The invention is distinguished by the fact that the connecting lever is a lever with a drawing element. The drawing element and the lever each have a first and second end. The drawing element's first end engages the bearing and its second end jointedly mounts in between the first and second ends of the lever. The counter-bearing has at least one contact location for the first end of the lever and a recess for the drawing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Hoechst Marion Roussel Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Alfons Enhsen, Ralf Watkowiak
  • Patent number: 6070911
    Abstract: A clamp-type isolating pipe joint is disclosed, which can connect pipes by providing insulation between them, is easy to assemble and disassemble, has high reliability and allows easy replacement of parts and is inexpensive to manufacture and install. The joint comprises hubs weldable to connectable pipes, a seal ring interposed between butted surfaces of the hubs and a clamp disposed around the circumferences of the hubs for clamping itself with bolts in the radial direction of the hubs to be fixed as insulated from each other. The clamp and hubs are insulated by interposing between them a metal plate with an insulating resin coat formed thereon. Insulation layers are also provided between the seal ring and the hubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: JGC Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuo Namikawa, Toshikazu Nakamura, Keizo Hosoya, Muneyasu Ichimura
  • Patent number: 6039358
    Abstract: A connecting means for two parts in a fluid conducting assembly. The connecting means comprises coupling means located on joint sides opposite to one another on the parts, such means rendering possible a displaceable attachment together of the parts with an interlocking effect in the assembly direction. Furthermore connecting members are provided to act on opposite sides of the parts, of which at least one connecting member, is able to be locked using holding and securing means on the pushed together parts in order to set the relative position of same. Simultaneously the setting in place of a clamping means acting on the connecting members is facilitated. The connecting means renders possible a simple, secure and rapid coupling of the parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Kurt Stoll, Rolf Berger, Gunter Gebauer
  • Patent number: 6003548
    Abstract: A clamping assembly for connecting and disconnecting aligned hubs of a first and a second pressure vessel is provided. The clamping assembly includes a pair of clamp segments and at least one cam in operable engagement with the clamp segments. The clamp segments are movable between a closed position to engage the hubs and an open position to disengage from the hubs. The movement of the clamp segments from the closed position to the open position operates the cam to separate the hubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Hydril Company
    Inventor: John Daniel Muchow
  • Patent number: 5951066
    Abstract: A system for connecting wellhead components that are abutted in axial alignment in which each component has an increased external diameter circumferential hub portion at an end thereof, the system including a toroidal connector surrounding adjacently positioned hub portions, a plurality of C-segments retained by the toroidal connector and positioning bolts received in spaced apart threaded opening in the connector, each bolt having an inner end in engagement with a C-segment and an outer end extending radially of and exteriorly of the connector by which each C-segment may be inwardly radially advanced to engage opposed sides of the hubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: ERC Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: F. Jeffery Lane, Heinrich H. Lang
  • Patent number: 5947533
    Abstract: A pipe joint assembly comprises a pair of cylindrical pipe ends of the same internal diameter in axially contiguous aligned relationship. Connecting flanges extend radially outward of each of the pipe end and have opposed faces defining a circumferentially continuous packing groove including a first axially narrow portion opening to the cylindrical interior of the pipe ends and a second axially wider portion radially outward of the first portion. An elastomeric gasket positioned in the packing groove. The gasket is sized and dimensioned to completely fill the first axially narrow portion and extend to within the second portion. The radial inner extent of the gasket provides a smooth continuation of the cylindrical interior surfaces of said pipe ends when the flange faces are at their limit of movement toward one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventors: Ronald K. Fisher, Gerald A. Babuder
  • Patent number: 5794989
    Abstract: A construction capable of easily coupling or disassembling two tubes. The construction has a first annular flange of an enclosing tube protruding radially outward, a telescoped tube inserted in the enclosing tube, a first seal member inserted between an outer surface of the telescoped tube and an outside cylindrical inner surface of the enclosing tube, a second seal member inserted between the outer surface of the telescoped tube and the outside cylindrical inner surface of the enclosing tube after the first seal member is inserted, and a coupler for coupling the enclosing tube and the second seal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kyu-Bok Ryu, Bong-Hee Park
  • Patent number: 5752724
    Abstract: A coupling device for ducts comprises locking elements movably mounted in a circumferential succession on an end flange of a first duct having a longitudinal axis, moving member for moving said locking elements from a first position to a second position where said locking elements are engaged with an end flange of a second duct to keep it against the end flange of the first duct, elastically stressed floating ring seal members housed in a sliding and oscillating manner in a respective seat provided in the end flange of the first duct. Each locking element comprises a jaw rotatable around a rotation axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first duct. The moving member comprises a ring rotatably mounted on said first duct, said ring having a plurality of toothed sectors each engaged with a respective pinion fixedly mounted on a respective locking element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Giorgio Bormioli
  • Patent number: 5673947
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for butt joining of ducts for carrying gaseous medium, the ducts having a rectangular or square cross section, wherein a profile is fixed along the free end edges of a duct, which profile comprises: an end wall standing perpendicularly on the duct wall; a flange for fixing the duct wall, a hook-shaped member the legs of which extend along the rear side of the end wall of the profile, such that at least the mutually facing front sides of two mutually opposite hook-shaped members of ducts to be connected can be fixed to each other, and wherein a deformable sealing means is arranged on the rear side of the hook-shaped member facing toward the duct wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: De Waal Staal B.V.
    Inventor: Casparus Wilhelmus De Waal
  • Patent number: 5570911
    Abstract: A connector for connecting two pipes into abutment with each other uses mateable hub members with external flanges. One of the hub members has a concentric recess with a gross tapered surface and a fine tapered surface. The gross tapered surface is inclined at a greater angle relative to the axis than the fine tapered surface. The other hub member has a protruding guide member which will contact the gross and fine tapered surfaces when the hub members are brought together. First the gross tapered surface will decrease misalignment, then the fine tapered surface will complete the alignment of the hub members. A seal is located on seal seats in the hub members. The seal is metal and is carried in a position prior to connection so as to avoid damaging contact of the other hub member when the hub members are brought together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Galle
  • Patent number: 5505503
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a conduit system comprising a plurality of conduit elements wherein adjacent conduit elements may be connected together by a coupling means in flexible yet fluid tight fashion. This coupling means may provide a fluid-tight joint despite variations of temperature to which the conduit elements may be subjected. The conduit system may be conveniently used for joining conduits used for feeding water to the turbines of hydro-electric plants. The coupling means may comprise annular rings or flanges fixed on the periphery of each of the pipe ends to be joined together, the annular rings having upwardly and inwardly extending side walls. An annular-type gasket formed of a resilient material may be positioned around the periphery of the rings (e.g. in a bridging relation with same), the annular gasket being positioned in a substantially co-axial alignment with the longitudinal axis of the conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Sylvain Boivin
  • Patent number: 5468030
    Abstract: A coupling assembly is disclosed for connecting a tube to a housing member. Preferably, the coupling assembly includes a tube end having a pair of spaced apart annular beads defining a groove for receiving a resilient seal ring seated therein and a housing member defining a bore for receiving the tube end. Also, a guide ring preferably centers the tube end in the bore. A clamping assembly is provided according to the present invention which includes symmetric clamping members, each defining a tube engaging portion between a seat portion and a seat engaging portion. The clamping members assemble axially and resiliently flex relative one another to clamp onto the tube as the seat portions axially engage the seat engaging portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis R. Walling
  • Patent number: 5443581
    Abstract: A clamp assembly is for connecting the two hubs of a hub connector with each hub in sealing engagement with a seal ring, the hubs having flat opposing surfaces with ring grooves and tapered annular surfaces on the opposite side of the hubs from the ring grooves. The clamp assembly includes a flat sided, adapter ring for positioning between the opposing faces of the hubs, the adapter having a ring groove on each side for engaging seal rings located in the ring grooves in the faces of the hubs, a plurality of tapped holes in the outside wall of the adapter ring, a plurality of clamp segments positioned around the adapter ring, studs connected to the tapped holes in the adapter ring and extending through openings in the clamp segments and nuts on the studs outside the clamp segments for moving the clamp segments toward the hubs to cause the inclined surfaces on the clamp segments to force the hubs into sealing engagement with the seal rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: Wood George & Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Tommy W. Malone
  • Patent number: 5383689
    Abstract: A modular connector (20) for separably joining two modular pressure fluid components (21, 22) such as filters, regulators, lubricators, dryers, drains, manifolds, unions, and the like. The connector (20) utilizes a modular arrangement of a joining block (24) and mounting slides (25) on each pressure fluid component (21, 22), with tracks or guide rails (44) on the block (24) engagable in grooves (48) on the mounting slides (25) to provide a slide fit between the connector (20) and the components (21, 22) with mating wedge or cam elements providing a tight sealing engagement therebetween. The components can be positioned from either side, left or right-handed, of the connector. Adjoining sealing surfaces (26, 28) on the components and connector are clamped tightly together in sealed relation by the wedge or cam members, and O-ring seals (29) are utilized to provide a fluid tight seal between the sealing surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Wilkerson Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Wolfe, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5383691
    Abstract: Connector connects two annular objects face-to-face. It may be used as a hose end coupling that connects two flanged hose ends end-to-end. It includes two components of the same configuration that connect directly to one another. Each a hose end flange preferably has a tapered back face and an O-ring seal fitted in a groove in the end face to engage an O-ring seal on the end face on the mating component. To hold the two end flanges together, two connector components of the same configuration are mounted on the respective end flanges. Each includes two part annular retainers that engage over the hose end flanges and urge them together. The web joining the two retainers has an offset section with teeth that engage similar teeth on the other connector component. The coupling is intended for use in breathing gas supply systems such as are used in medical applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Inventor: Geoffrey P. Anthony
  • Patent number: 5380052
    Abstract: A manually releasable, toggle-type fastener is provided for use, in place of the conventional bolt-and-nut fastener that is normally used to secure together the adjacent, aligned, bolt lugs formed on the ends of curved segments which form a circular pipe coupling. The fastener includes a first pin part fitted into the bolt hole of a first lug, and a second pin part fitted into the bolt hole of the second lug. A lever is pivotally connected to the first pin part for swinging into a locked position adjacent its segment and for swinging into an unlocked position away from its segment. The lever has an end to which a clamp member is releasibly secured. The clamp extends along the lugs and has an end which engages the second lug and which carries the second pin part for securing the lugs together. The fastener may be made in different sizes to fit different size bolt lugs on different size couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Quikcoup, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Hendrickson
  • Patent number: 5372392
    Abstract: A connecting device for sealingly connecting together a pair of modular compressed air conditioning units, for example a filter and a lubricator, comprises a generally rectangular clamp adapted to engage a pair of ported flanges formed respectively on the units to be connected so as to urge the units into fluid-tight communication with one another via an intermediate ported spacer retaining O-ring seals. One side of the rectangular clamp is pivotally mounted so that it can be pivoted out of its operative position to permit reception of the flanges into the clamp and then pivoted back into its operative position in which it can be releasably locked by tightening a bolt. The device may be unitary in nature, i.e. has no separate parts that might otherwise get lost, and is simple to manufacture and manipulate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: Norgren Co.
    Inventors: Myron Dunn, Kevin T. Dickson, Urs T. Moeker
  • Patent number: 5366263
    Abstract: A manually releasable, toggle-type fastener is provided for use, in place of the conventional bolt and nut fastener, used to secure together the adjacent bolt lugs formed on the ends of curved segments which form a circular pipe coupling. The fastener includes a pin of a shape and size to fit into the aligned bolt holes of the lugs, in place of a conventional bolt, and a lever pivotally connected to one end of the pin for swinging into a locked position adjacent its segment and into an unlocked position away from its segment. The lever has a hook-like formation on its end to which a wire-like loop is secured. The loop extends around the sides of the pin and the sides of the bolt lugs to be fastened together and has an opposite end engaging both the pin and the adjacent surface of the segment for securing the lugs together and for being restrained from release by the pin itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Quikcoup, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Hendrickson
  • Patent number: 5359148
    Abstract: A heat-treating apparatus has a reaction vessel being adapted for performing a heat process for a workpiece to be treated and having a joint pipe portion and an outer pipe jointed to the joint pipe portion and of the reaction vessel. A sealing member is disposed between the outer pipe and the joint pipe portion. The sealing member has a relatively soft core member and a film harder than the core member. The film is disposed on the surface of the core member and has a heat resistance and a chemical resistance. Since the core member of the sealing portion has flexibility, it easily deforms corresponding to the shape of the sealing portion. The film provided on the core member prevents the sealing member from thermally adhering to the sealing portion and from thermally deteriorating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Assignees: Tokyo Electron Kabushiki Kaisha, Tokyo Electron Tohoku Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Wataru Okase, Takashi Tanahashi, Takenobu Matsuo
  • Patent number: 5275449
    Abstract: An apparatus for joining flanged, abutting duct ends or for reinforcing ducts comprises an elongated coupling member including a V-shaped portion made up of two slanting walls approaching an apex and having lower portions spaced apart a given distance. It also includes inwardly turned edges on the slanting walls spaced from the apex, extensions of the slanting walls diverging from one another as the slanting walls approach the apex extending from the slanting walls a distance about equal to the given distance, and a joining portion extending from the extensions doubling back over the apex. The extensions and the joining portions have substantial parallel segments with a curved connection between the parallel segments. The edges, slanting walls, extensions and joining portion being integrally formed of sheet metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignee: Industrial Air, Inc.
    Inventor: A. Reese Hunter