Tangential Patents (Class 285/367)
  • Patent number: 11719368
    Abstract: A coupling assembly for pipe connection and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The coupling assembly for pipe connection is installable while a coupler is preassembled using a fastening member and is not deformed even in a fastening process so as to be stably fixed even after fastening. The coupling assembly is configured so that two or more couplers are disposed to face each other to connect pipes consecutively disposed in an axial direction and the pipes are connected while a fastening member is preassembled to the plurality of couplers, each of the couplers includes a locking part that is inserted into a fastening groove formed in the pipe, a portion of the locking part is inserted into the fastening groove, and the remaining portion of the locking part is disposed outside the fastening groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: NEW ASIAJOINT CO., LTD
    Inventors: Sang Heon Lee, Dong Il Han
  • Patent number: 11643723
    Abstract: The invention includes apparatus and methods for instantiating and quantum printing materials, such as elemental metals, in a nanoporous carbon powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: Quantum Elements Development Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Nagel, Chris Leo Brodeur
  • Patent number: 11624461
    Abstract: A pipe coupling has two segments with angularly oriented action surfaces in facing relationship. The action surfaces induce relative rotation between the segments when the segments are drawn together to engage the pipe elements being joined. Attachment elements on each segment, in the form of lugs, accommodate adjustable fasteners which draw the segments together when tightened. Angularly oriented support surfaces on the lugs engage one another and react the fastener force. Stop surfaces are positioned on the lugs adjacent to the support surfaces. Engagement between the stop surfaces limits the relative rotation between the segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Matthew A. Bowman, Thomas Nunnally
  • Patent number: 11506313
    Abstract: A multi-petaled oblique-plane hoop and a pipe connector are described. The hoop is divided into two groups, and the hoop petals in each group are connected by means of pins, and the pins are parallel to a connecting pipe shaft. The groups are connected by using bolts, and the bolts are vertical to a pipe shaft. Each hoop petal is in a shape of a partial ring stud, in which an arc-shaped groove is formed. The upper surface and the lower surface of the groove are symmetrical partial inner cone surfaces, and the hoop petals are connected to form a clamping chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Inventor: Shunli Yang
  • Patent number: 11402040
    Abstract: A clamp connector includes a first clamp ring component, wherein the first clamp ring component includes two end portions, where one end portion is provided with two stress structures, and a mounting space; a second clamp ring component, wherein the second clamp ring component includes additional two end portions, one end portion is provided with a fixing structure capable of being mounted in or dismounted from the mounting space, and the fixing structure fits with the two stress structures; and both the one end portion of the first clamp ring component and one end portion of the second clamp ring component are provided with mechanisms for locking. When the one end portion of the first clamp ring component and the one end portion of the second clamp ring component are tightly locked, the two stress structures and the fixing structure are in a squeezed and close fit state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: WEIFANG 100TONG CASTING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yan Tan, Yanjun Wang
  • Patent number: 11280435
    Abstract: A profile clamp includes a profile strip and an annular sealing element, the profile strip having two tensioning heads which are interconnected by a tensioning element. Furthermore, a corresponding sealing element and a conduit connection assembly include a profile clamp of this type. So that the sealing element is held so that it cannot rotate on the profile clamp, the sealing element has a retaining lug which extends radially outwards and is held on the tensioning element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: Norma Germany GmbH
    Inventor: Erkan Kayacik
  • Patent number: 11187358
    Abstract: A sealing system for establishing real time sealing between two flange members is provided. The sealing system includes a seal assembly disposed between the flange members. The seal assembly includes an o-ring seal component held between an outer seal component and an inner seal component. A clamp body including a first clamp arm and a second clamp arm receive the flange members and the seal assembly positioned between the flange members. A coupling device of the sealing system is used to apply torque to clamp arms to draw them each other resulting biasing the flange member toward each other to establish sealing. Each of the clamp arms includes at least one window opening to expose a portion of outer seal component that includes an indicator configured for displaying an identification feature of the o-ring seal component of the sealing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: APPLIED SEALS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick Lim, Shuai Zhao, Ray Wu, Dalia Vernikovsky, Malcolm Rollason
  • Patent number: 11021983
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to a seal between two components. The seal includes a plurality of seal sections including convolutions therein that are inter-engaged with one another to form flexible and resilient seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: RAYTHEON TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Timothy M. Davis, Michael S. Stevens
  • Patent number: 10746331
    Abstract: Method and assembly of a pair of pipe flanges, a sealing ring and tensioners for sealing between the pair of flanges. At least one flange face has a circular groove to at least partly receive a sealing ring which has its ring wall rectilinear as seen in a cross-section when front faces of the pipe flanges are spaced apart. The ring fits at least partly into the flange groove. The ring in side view exhibits a truncated cone shape. The pipe flanges are attached to each other such that the flanges in operative state are forcibly held in abutting and facial engagement, and that upon tensioning of the tensionersto create said operative state, compressive forces act onto the sealing ring to yield that its wall, viewed in cross-section, is bent radially to exhibit a curved configuration. The groove may in an embodiment exhibit an isosceles trapezoid cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: OTECHOS AS
    Inventor: Hilberg Inge Karoliussen
  • Patent number: 10634270
    Abstract: A system for connecting a first tube (1) and a second tube, the system comprising a clamping collar (10) suitable for being tightened around the abutted ends of the two tubes, and a washer (28) secured to the clamping collar by securing means. The washer (28) presents a blocking element (44) configured to co-operate with a corresponding positioning member (48) of the first tube (1) so as to block the washer (28) against turning relative to the first tube (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: Etablissements Caillau
    Inventor: Nicolas Rigollet
  • Patent number: 10371294
    Abstract: The adapter assembly extends outward from an inner structure such as an outer barrel or nipple base to attach the inner structure to a housing such as a bowl. Each sized inner structure fits a specified bowl for attachment of the inner structure to the bowl. The adapter assembly extends outward from the inner structure to fit one of the available sizes needed for attachment to the bowl. The adapter assembly is characterized by a first attachment body and a second attachment body. The adapter assembly attaches to the exterior of the inner structure to increase the surface exterior of the outer surface for attachment of the inner structure to the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: PRUITT TOOL & SUPPLY CO.
    Inventors: Grant Pruitt, Cris Braun
  • Patent number: 10344775
    Abstract: Realized is a water pump having improved readiness of maintenance. The water pump includes a first unit having a rotatably driven drive shaft and a second unit having a partition wall and configured to circulate cooling medium in association with rotation of the drive shaft. The first unit and the second unit are connectable to and detachable from each other. The partition wall defines an insertion hole for the drive shaft. In this arrangement, there is provided a closing member for closing the insertion hole of the partition wall when the first unit is detached from the second unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yojiro Koga, Yoshiaki Nakano, Kenichi Komai, Megumi Onozuka
  • Patent number: 10281076
    Abstract: A coupler device for coupling first and second pipe bodies and a method for using the coupler device are disclosed, the coupler device including—a first connector hub configured to be connected to the first pipe body; a second connector hub configured to be connected to the second pipe body; a clamp configured to clamp the first and second connector hubs together, the clamp comprising two or more clamping members; and two or more clamping rods, along which the clamping members are configured to be displaced, wherein the at least two clamping rods are rigidly connected to the first connector hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO NORWAY AS
    Inventor: Sigmund Askestad
  • Patent number: 10247332
    Abstract: A coupler for coupling together the end portions of two pipes having radial end flanges includes a single piece cylindrical base body having a receiving opening therethrough to receive and surround end portions of the pipes to be coupled and bridging over a gap between the pipes to be coupled. At least one arcuate coupling member having opposite end flanges extending axially inwardly from the ends of the arcuate coupling member with the length between opposite end flanges being greater than the length of the cylindrical base body is connectable to the cylindrical base body in a coupling position to prevent the passage of the radial pipe flanges to thereby secure the end portions of the pipes to be connected in the cylindrical base body in a connected condition. The arcuate coupling members can be pivotally connected to the cylindrical base body so can move between coupling and uncoupling positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Inventor: Ajit Singh Gill
  • Patent number: 10125792
    Abstract: A centrifugal pump includes a main body casing. The main body casing includes an upper main body casing, a lower main body casing fixed to the upper main body casing, and a blade casing. In the blade casing, an interior space S1 formed by the upper main body casing and the lower main body casing is partitioned, and a fluid introducing passage is formed on the upper portion and a rotating accommodating space S2 to accommodate the rotating blade member is formed on lower portion. A joint portion of the upper main body casing, the lower main body casing, and the blade casing is fixed on the state of sealing. A joint portion of the suction side coupling member and the main body casing and a joint portion of the discharge side coupling member and the main body casing 34 are fixed on the state of sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA SAGINOMIYA SEISAKUSHO
    Inventor: Seiichi Nakano
  • Patent number: 9568130
    Abstract: Profiled clamp that includes a clamping element, a sealing element having elastically deformable spacers on a radial outside, and a profile band on which the sealing element is held secured against loss. The elastically deformable spacers bear against an inside of the profile band in a non-positive manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: NORMA GERMANY GMBH
    Inventors: Detlef Henrich, Mathias Krauss, Manfred Krueger
  • Patent number: 9556985
    Abstract: A coupling for coupling pipe segments (2,4). The coupling includes a first housing component (12), a second housing component (14), and a fastener coupling the first and second components together. The fastener (22) has an aligned configuration defining an axis of alignment such that first and second housing components are in a closed configuration to define a central axis of the coupling. The fastener has a skewed configuration to define a pivot axis of the fastener such that the first and second housing components are in an open configuration. The pivot axis is substantially parallel to the central axis and substantially perpendicular to the axis of alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Michael W. Horgan
  • Patent number: 9494265
    Abstract: Profile clamp and method of connecting two flanged pipes or lines. The profile clamp includes a clamping band having two flanks; and a pre-positioner having at least one attachment section and being connected to the clamping band. The at least one attachment section runs axially beyond one of the flanks and radially inside the two flanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: NORMA GERMANY GMBH
    Inventors: Fabio Ghirardi, Erkan Kayacik, Mathias Krauss
  • Patent number: 9440200
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to an apparatus comprising a proximal end adapter, a distal end adapter, a support tube, and a flexible diffuser membrane. The support tube is disposed between the proximal end adapter and the distal end adapter, and comprises an outward facing surface that defines a series of ridges thereon. The diffuser membrane, in turn, defines a plurality of perforations, and surrounds at least a respective portion of each of the proximal end adapter, the distal end adapter, and the support tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas E. Frankel, Seoungil Kang, Todd D. Ritter
  • Patent number: 9239123
    Abstract: Couplings and gaskets are disclosed. Couplings may include an upper housing, a lower housing, at least one fastening device coupling the upper housing to the lower housing, and a gasket positioned within the upper and lower housings, the gasket including two primary seals and a rib protruding from an inner surface of the gasket and between the two primary seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Inventors: Peter Joseph Vandal, Douglas Compton
  • Patent number: 9169029
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for conducting an electrical current between a first transport member and a second transport member. In one illustrative embodiment, a coupling assembly comprises a first fitting associated with a first end of a first transport member, a second fitting associated with a second end of a second transport member, and a seal. The seal is configured for placement around the first fitting and the second fitting when the first end of the first transport member is positioned relative to the second end of the second transport member. The seal is further configured to seal an interface between the first transport member and the second transport member. The seal is comprised of a material configured such that the seal has a level of conductivity within a selected range and such that a conductive pathway is formed between the first transport member and the second transport member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Kevin O'Brien Gaw, Nathan Michael Kelley, John Thomas Axtell, James Patrick Irwin, David William Minteer, Diego A. Velasco
  • Patent number: 9145785
    Abstract: The present application provides an aerodynamic seal assembly for use with a turbo-machine. The aerodynamic seal assembly may include a number of springs, a shoe connected to the springs, and a secondary seal positioned about the springs and the shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Rahul Anil Bidkar, Christopher Wolfe, Biao Fang
  • Patent number: 9039046
    Abstract: A coupling includes an annular gasket, the annular gasket including at least one sealing surface directed radially inwardly and an outer surface directed radially outwardly; at least one segment, each segment being approximately semi-circular and including at least one inner surface, at least one outer surface, and at least two ends, each segment including a fastener pad protruding proximate to each end, each fastener pad defining a fastener hole, each end including at least one of a tongue and a groove, each tongue protruding circumferentially from at least one end, each groove defined circumferentially in at least one end; and at least one fastener, wherein at least one portion of a shaft portion of the fastener is sized to engage at least one fastener hole in at least one segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph William Beagen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9032592
    Abstract: A band clamp includes an elongated band having a base portion which in cross section extends in a plane and first and second side portions. The first and second side portions of the band protrude away from the plane. A first housing is attached to the band and a second housing is attached to the band in a spaced manner from the first housing. A fastener is attached to one of the first and second housings in an adjustable manner. The fastener selectively engages with another of the first and second housings in a quick connect manner, such that the first and second housings can be brought closer to each other for tensioning the clamp around an associated object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Voss Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Fritskey, Nicola A. Antonelli
  • Patent number: 8979137
    Abstract: A coupling ring is provided, including a series of unit members with adjacent unit members rotatably coupled to each other, and a fastener coupling unit members on both ends to each other. A concave groove provided to extend circumferentially is externally fitted into an outer circumference of each of two opposing flanges. The unit members on the both ends are coupled to each other by the fastener to be turned into an annular state. The fastener is fastened to thereby press an inclined surface. The flanges are pressure-bonded to each other by forces generated during pressing. A stopper member is provided to restrict a separation angle between the unit member on one end and an adjacent unit member to fall within a certain angle in an open state in which the unit members on the both ends are not coupled to each other provided on at least one of the unit members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignees: Ihara Science Corporation, Horiba Stec, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Miyoshi Kimura, Tatsuya Hayashi, Yuji Yamaguchi, Toshiyuki Himi, Kazuhiro Oya
  • Patent number: 8979138
    Abstract: A coupling for securing pipe elements together in end-to-end relation has segments joined end-to-end by adjustable connection members. The segments surround a central space which receives the pipe elements. One or more gripping bodies are captured between the segments. The gripping bodies are arranged opposite to each other. When the segments are drawn toward each other by the connection members, interaction between the reaction surfaces and the contact surfaces forces the gripping bodies radially inwardly. Inwardly facing arcuate surfaces on the segments and the gripping bodies engage and retain the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Douglas R Dole, Michael V Porter, Torrey G Sipos
  • Publication number: 20150021910
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for coupling adjacent ends of a pair of pipes includes a sleeve, a split-ring gland positioned around one of the ends of the sleeve, and at least one annular gasket positioned within the split-ring gland and configured to be compressed by the split-ring gland for sealing one pipe end to the sleeve. The split-ring gland includes two partially circular gland members with spaced ends defining a gap. The pipe coupling includes an armor positioned to span the gap between the spaced ends to provide a generally closed annular periphery about the gasket. The armor includes a corrugated portion having a plurality of corrugations engaging the split-ring gland and the gasket during compression of the gasket. The armor is cold formed to improve structural strength and durability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Edwin A. Bird, George D. Gabert
  • Publication number: 20150004024
    Abstract: A clamping ring (11) for the connection of two flanges includes an open ring section (17) which is designed for receiving the flanges (9, 10) to be connected. The flanges (9, 10) have ends connected by way of a clamping device (21-27) which is attached on the ring section (17). With the clamping device (21-27), the ends of the ring section (17) can be moved onto one another and thus the clamping ring (11) can be clamped amid the integration of the flanges (9, 10). The clamping device (21-27) includes a clamping force limitation device (27), in order to prevent an unintended failure of the clamping device (21-27) on assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Knud Jørgen Saaby Mikkelsen
  • Patent number: 8905440
    Abstract: A grooved-ended resilient expansion joint is disclosed. The expansion joint has a resilient expansion member with a central resilient portion and two resilient axially disposed cylindrical ends. Each cylindrical end has a radially outwardly raised distal cylindrical gasket portion with at least one inside shoulder having an inner diameter sized substantially the same as an outer diameter of a pipe to be joined. Each cylindrical end also has a neck portion between the central portion and the gasket portion that is sized to receive a grooved-ended pipe nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Howard Hagiya
  • Patent number: 8864181
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for coupling adjacent ends of a pair of pipes includes a sleeve, a split-ring gland positioned around one of the ends of the sleeve, and at least one annular gasket positioned within the split-ring gland and configured to be compressed by the split-ring gland for sealing one pipe end to the sleeve. The split-ring gland includes two partially circular gland members with spaced ends defining a gap. The pipe coupling includes an armor positioned to span the gap between the spaced ends to provide a generally closed annular periphery about the gasket. The armor includes a corrugated portion having a plurality of corrugations engaging the split-ring gland and the gasket during compression of the gasket. The armor is cold formed to improve structural strength and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum, LLC
    Inventors: Edwin A. Bird, George D. Gabert
  • Patent number: 8820795
    Abstract: A fitting for joining pipe elements together includes housing portions held preassembled in spaced apart relation to permit pipe elements to be inserted without disassembly of the fitting. Elbow and tee fittings include sealing elements which support the housing portions in spaced relation. Angled surfaces on each housing portion interact with one another to rotate the housing portions in opposite directions to form a rigid joint between the fitting and the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Douglas R. Dole, John Gibb
  • Patent number: 8777277
    Abstract: A pipe element has a circumferential shoulder at one end. The shoulder has an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the pipe element. A groove is positioned adjacent to the shoulder. The groove has a floor surface with an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the pipe element. A bead is positioned contiguous with the groove. The bead has an apex with an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the pipe element. A combination of roller tools is used to cold work pipe elements and impart a desired shape to the sidewall in one method of manufacture. In another method, a spin forming tool is revolved in an orbit of increasing diameter within the pipe element captured within a die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Douglas R. Dole, Charles E. Wilk, Jr., Scott D. Madara, Anthony J. Cuvo
  • Patent number: 8776351
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for coupling adjacent ends of a pair of pipes includes a sleeve, a split-ring gland positioned around one of the ends of the sleeve, and at least one annular gasket positioned within the split-ring gland and configured to be compressed by the split-ring gland for sealing one pipe end to the sleeve. The split-ring gland includes two partially circular gland members with spaced ends defining a gap. The pipe coupling includes an armor positioned to span the gap between the spaced ends to provide a generally closed annular periphery about the gasket. The armor includes a corrugated portion having a plurality of corrugations engaging the split-ring gland and the gasket during compression of the gasket. The armor is cold formed to improve structural strength and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Smith-Blair, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin A. Bird, George D. Gabert
  • Patent number: 8733799
    Abstract: A sealing member is disclosed having an outer surface that supports segments of a pipe coupling for joining pipe elements in end to end relation. The segments are supported in spaced relation to permit the pipe elements to be inserted into the coupling without disassembly. The sealing member is a flexible ring that has conical lips around its inner circumference to engage and guide the pipe elements into the coupling. A tongue extends radially inwardly between the lips, the tongue having conical shoulders which engage and guide the pipe ends. The tongue locates the coupling segments relatively to the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: John Gibb, Douglas R. Dole, Michael V. Porter
  • Publication number: 20140117665
    Abstract: A pipe coupling includes a sleeve and a clamping ring. The sleeve includes a flange at least one end. The clamping ring is mounted to the flange. The clamping ring carries a seal and includes two spaced apart bolt engagement portions. The clamping ring further includes two separate clamping ring portions that are removably connected together at a coupling portion of each respective separate clamping ring portion so that each clamping ring portion is separable from the other one. The two separate clamping ring portions function as a unitary ring when the coupling portions are brought into abutting contact such that the coupling portions are fixed relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Romac Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Romac Industries, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8662544
    Abstract: Each of two exhaust pipes has a flared flange with the flange on one pipe spaced from the pipe's end edge forming a corner with the pipe's end segment. A triangular seal between the two flanges abuts the pipe segment and corner. One flange has an outer convex spherical surface and a concave inner spherical surface which engages the outer convex spherical surface of the seal at a contact point. Two depending conical legs of a U shaped in section band clamp engage and force the flanges and pipe corner and end segment against the seal. A clamp leg engages the outer convex spherical surface of the one flange at a tangential contact point. The one clamp leg, the one flange and the seal exhibit two tangential respective contact points defining a plane normal to that flange providing enhanced stress concentration on the seal and flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Metal Textiles Corporation
    Inventors: Ryan Broderick, Kurry Emmons
  • Patent number: 8632105
    Abstract: Tension clamp and a method of clamping with the tension clamp. The tension clamp includes a clamping band formed in an annular manner with two ends adjacent to one another, and a clamping fixture, structured and arranged to connect the two ends to one another, comprising a tightening screw with a screw head and a mounting section and a mating thread element into which the tightening screw is screwable. The mounting section includes at least one flexible region along its length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Norma Germany GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Krueger
  • Publication number: 20140015248
    Abstract: A coupling for securing pipe elements together in end-to-end relation has segments joined at one end by a pivot attachment and at an opposite end by an adjustable connection member. The segments surround a central space which receives the pipe elements. A gripping body is captured between the segments. The segments have angularly oriented reaction surfaces. The gripping body has angularly oriented contact surfaces which interface with the reaction surfaces. When the segments are drawn toward each other by the connection members, interaction between the reaction surfaces and the contact surfaces forces the gripping body radially inwardly. Inwardly facing arcuate surfaces on the segments and the gripping body engage and retain the pipe elements. A method of inserting pipe elements into the coupling while the segments and the gripping body are supported on a seal is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas R. Dole
  • Patent number: 8590944
    Abstract: A band type clamp for securing together first and second pipe sections each having outwardly projecting flanges with opposing flange faces that extend about the circumference thereof is described. The band type clamp includes a conforming material disposed between the band type clamp and the outwardly projecting flanges and is configured to engage the outwardly projecting flanges and to exert an inwardly directed radial force thereon when the band type clamp is tightened from a first un-tightened position to a second tightened position and to radially pilot the outer surfaces and the first and second pipe sections relative to each other and the corresponding centerlines thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Timothy J. Johnson, Marc Friedrich
  • Publication number: 20130300113
    Abstract: A coupling for securing pipe elements together in end-to-end relation is disclosed. The coupling has segments joined end-to-end by adjustable connection members. The segments surround a central space which receives the pipe elements. One or more gripping bodies are captured between the segments. The gripping bodies are arranged opposite to each other. When the segments are drawn toward each other by the connection members, interaction between the reaction surfaces and the contact surfaces forces the gripping bodies radially inwardly. Inwardly facing arcuate surfaces on the segments and the gripping bodies engage and retain the pipe elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Douglas R. Dole, Michael V. Porter, Torrey G. Sipos
  • Patent number: 8556302
    Abstract: A coupling for securing pipe elements together in end-to-end relation has segments joined at one end by a pivot attachment and at an opposite end by an adjustable connection member. The segments surround a central space which receives the pipe elements. A gripping body is captured between the segments. The segments have angularly oriented reaction surfaces. The gripping body has angularly oriented contact surfaces which interface with the reaction surfaces. When the segments are drawn toward each other by the connection members, interaction between the reaction surfaces and the contact surfaces forces the gripping body radially inwardly. Inwardly facing arcuate surfaces on the segments and the gripping body engage and retain the pipe elements. A method of inserting pipe elements into the coupling while the segments and the gripping body are supported on a seal is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventor: Douglas R. Dole
  • Patent number: 8550502
    Abstract: Couplings and gaskets are disclosed. Couplings may include an upper housing, a lower housing, at least one fastening device coupling the upper housing to the lower housing, and a gasket positioned within the upper and lower housings, the gasket including two primary seals and a rib protruding from an inner surface of the gasket and between the two primary seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Joseph Vandal, Douglas Compton
  • Publication number: 20130241198
    Abstract: A fitting includes a hollow body, a sealing member, and a draw mechanism. The fitting mechanism includes a primary actuation element coupled with the body at a first end, and a plurality of secondary actuation elements coupled to the sealing member. The plurality of secondary actuation elements are positioned in an interior of the hollow body and circumferentially spaced from each other. The plurality of secondary actuation elements are also engaged with the primary actuation element such that actuation of the primary actuation element draws the plurality of secondary actuation elements axially towards the opening at the first end of the hollow body thereby translating the sealing member from an open position to a sealing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: ROMAC INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Delbert Eaton, Lee Getzewich, David R. Albin
  • Patent number: 8517430
    Abstract: A coupling for securing pipe elements together in end-to-end relation is disclosed. The coupling has segments joined end-to-end by adjustable connection members. The segments surround a central space which receives the pipe elements. One or more gripping bodies are captured between the segments. The gripping bodies are arranged opposite to each other. When the segments are drawn toward each other by the connection members, interaction between the reaction surfaces and the contact surfaces forces the gripping bodies radially inwardly. Inwardly facing arcuate surfaces on the segments and the gripping bodies engage and retain the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Douglas R. Dole, Michael V. Porter, Torrey G. Sipos
  • Patent number: 8500174
    Abstract: A coupling for joining pipe elements in end to end relationship is disclosed. The coupling includes a sealing member having an inner diameter and an outer surface. A plurality of segments are supported on the sealing member's outer surface. Each segment has a pair of arcuate surfaces positioned in space relation on either side of the sealing member. A compression band surrounds the outer perimeter of the segments, the segments being captured between the band and the sealing member. The pipe elements are inserted into the inner diameter between the segments. A tensioning member is mounted on the band. Tightening of the tensioning member causes the compression band to force the segments radially inwardly into engagement with outer surfaces of the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventor: John Gibb
  • Patent number: 8495801
    Abstract: A clamping device includes a holding member including a space for allowing an item to be disposed therein, and a tightening mechanism operable to make the holding member clamp the item in the holding member. The space is varied in size depending upon the external diameter of the clamped item. Additionally, the tightening mechanism is provided for enabling a satisfactory securing condition for any size of items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Dennis H. Wang
  • Patent number: 8491017
    Abstract: An engagement section of a holder is engaged with a metal gasket, the gasket is received in a tubular section, and the tubular section is fitted in a step of a connection pipe. Another connection pipe is placed close to and facing the connection pipe that holds the gasket through the holder, and a center ring is installed surrounding the outer peripheries of the flanges. While a trapezoidal section having slopes which define both sides is inserted into a groove, center ring segments are closed to form a ring shape. A bolt which penetrates through a cutout of a segment is screwed into a threaded hole of the segment. The screwing of the bolt causes the amount of insertion of the trapezoidal section, which has slopes which define both sides, into the groove to be increased. As a result, the distance between flanges is reduced and the contact pressure of projections against both sides of the gasket is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Ihara Science Corporation
    Inventors: Miyoshi Kimura, Yusuke Nagase, Yoshiki Adachi
  • Patent number: 8464986
    Abstract: A clamp for a tubular hose or cable is disclosed. The clamp comprises a first clamp half, a second clamp half, and a hinge pin. The first clamp half has a first end and a second end and defines a first concave semi-cylindrical face. The first end of the first clamp half carries means for mounting the clamp. The second clamp half has a first end and a second end and defines a second concave semi-cylindrical face. The first clamp half and the second clamp half come together along a parting line and are retained together by a hinge pin. The clamp halves are provided with snap-in liners for easy use. Alternative mounts for mounting the clamp on subsea wire line or tubulars is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: International Clamps, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence M. McClure
  • Patent number: 8453784
    Abstract: An exhaust system protection device is described that can be installed on the exhaust pipe of a vehicle. The device is designed to protect valuable components of the exhaust system from unauthorized removal. The device has a first locking collar that is configured to be removably positioned around the exhaust system of the vehicle. The first locking collar is positioned adjacent to the first end of the component that is to be protected. A second locking collar is removably positioned around the exhaust system adjacent the second end of the component that is to be protected. An elongated member extends from the first locking collar to the second locking collar. The elongated member is positioned around the component in a manner whereby the component cannot be removed from the exhaust system between the elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: James R. Dusa, II
  • Patent number: RE45304
    Abstract: A coupling for securing pipe elements together in end-to-end relation has segments joined end-to-end by adjustable connection members. The segments surround a central space which receives the pipe elements. One or more gripping bodies are captured between the segments. The gripping bodies are arranged opposite to each other. The segments have angularly oriented reaction surfaces on the connection members. The gripping bodies have angularly oriented contact surfaces which interface with the reaction surfaces. When the segments are drawn toward each other by the connection members, interaction between the reaction surfaces and the contact surfaces forces the gripping bodies radially inwardly. Inwardly facing arcuate surfaces on the segments and the gripping bodies engage and retain the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Douglas R. Dole, Michael V. Porter, Torrey G. Sipos