Abstract: Couplers are described herein. A coupler includes a coupler body, a plurality of first retaining fingers, and a plurality of second retaining fingers. The coupler body includes a first end and a second end, and defining a cavity, the cavity configured to receive a first connector and a second connector. The plurality of first retaining fingers are configured to engage against a collar of the first connector to prevent axial motion of the first connector relative to the coupler. The plurality of second retaining fingers are configured to engage against a shoulder of the second connector with a retention force, and release the second connector by radially expanding in response to a pullout force exerted on the second connector exceeding the retention force.

Abstract: A coupling assembly (10) may include a first member (20) and a second member (40), a release sleeve (110) movably connected to the first member, a retainer sleeve (70), and a spring (100). The second member includes a second member flange (50). The spring may be configured to apply a spring force to the retainer sleeve. The spring force may biases the retainer sleeve into a positive engagement with the second member flange.

Abstract: A gladhand coupling that prevents inadvertent separation of the coupling halves. Each half is equipped with a lug having a ramped pad and a flange defining a channel having a corresponding ramped pad. When two halves are positioned together then rotated into the locked position, the ramped pad of the lug is positioned proximately to the ramped pad of the flange to prevent inadvertent lateral compression of the two halves that could cause unintentional uncoupling. The coupling may be disconnected by simple rotation of one coupling half relative to the other and by pulling the coupling apart as done by current rail car decoupling procedures.

Abstract: Described is a reusable fitting for attaching a conduit to a port. The fitting includes a housing, a spring, a retainer and cap. The retainer is capable of locking and unlocking a conduit in the fitting. The fitting provides a high pressure fluid-tight seal and a substantially zero void volume at the junction of two fluidic conduits. The fitting is removable, reusable and replaceable, and allows a user to make and remake connections of a capillary to a fluidic port without permanently binding a ferrule to a specific capillary and thus to a specific port. The fitting can be replaced if part or all of the fitting is damaged during use.

Abstract: A mechanical coupling for joining pipe elements has segments joined end to end, each segment having projections with surface portions oriented angularly with respect to other surface portions to serve as a guide for the insertion of pipe elements between the segments when arranged in spaced apart relation around a ring gasket. A method of assembling a pipe joint includes engaging the surfaces with ends of the pipe elements and rotating the segments relative to one another to permit insertion.

Abstract: A pipe joint comprising a pressing nut into which a flexible pipe is inserted, a joint body into which the pressing nut is partially inserted, a resilient means unlocked when pushed by a tip end of the flexible pipe, a sealing member, a retainer engaging the flexible pipe, and an engaging mechanism keeping the pressing nut at a predetermined position in the joint body; the engaging mechanism comprising a stop ring, an annular groove formed on an outer surface of the pressing nut for receiving the stop ring, pluralities of engaging grooves formed on an inner surface of the joint body for receiving the stop ring and communicating with each other; the stop ring engaging both of the annular groove and the first engaging groove before the connection of the flexible pipe is completed; and when the flexible pipe is pulled after completing the connection, the stop ring moving from the first engaging groove to the second engaging groove to draw the pressing nut from the joint body, so that the normal connection of the

Abstract: A device for the sealing connection of a pressure hose with a grip element of a surgical instrument. The device comprising at least one sealing element that, in an assembled state, is interposed between the grip element and the pressure hose in a connecting region to create a seal. A support element is provided and arranged in the connecting region in the interior of the pressure hose such that the sealing element is clamped, or can be clamped, between the support element and the pressure hose on one side and the grip element on the other side. In addition, a handle for a surgical device, in particular a cryogenic surgical instrument, comprising a grip element for holding the surgical instrument and comprising at least one pressure hose that is connected, or can be connected, with the grip element via the device for the sealing connection.

Abstract: An RFID tag and an RFID access card configured to reduce detuning effects from a typical RFID environment. The present invention provides an RFID tag that is specifically configured to reduce the detuning effects caused by initiating communication between an RFID tag and an RFID tag reader in the presence of materials such as metal, liquid, and the human body. In one embodiment, the present invention provides an RFID tag comprising an electronic circuit portion attached to a main antenna body portion, the main antenna body portion having two opposite side portions, which are substantially symmetrical with respect to one another, wherein each side portion extends outwardly to form a generally side-oriented v-shape.

Abstract: Two gas conduits of different sizes are connected in a sliding arrangement using a combination of a seal and a bushing, each independently made from knitted wire mesh or wound wire. If a mesh is used, it can be impregnated with a filler, such as mica or graphite, for increased density. Especially useful for vehicle exhaust systems, the arrangement facilitates the use of after-market parts that may have different dimensions than OEM parts. This design slidably connects two gas conduits of different sizes and/or geometries.

Abstract: A novel concentric pipe joint restraint is disclosed. The restraint is specifically designed to resist axial movement of an inner spigot pipe relative to an outer socket pipe with which it has been joined. The restraint, which operates within the annulus, generally comprises a spigot wedge ring, a socket wedge ring, and one or more specially designed wedge housings. The spigot wedge ring features one or more spigot gripping protrusions which, upon contact, frictionally engage the spigot pipe. The socket wedge ring similarly features one or more socket gripping protrusions which, upon contact, frictionally engage the socket pipe. The wedge housings position the spigot wedge ring and/or the socket wedge ring so that the gripping protrusions grip the pipes, preventing axial movement (whether separation or compression).

Abstract: An automated transaction machine (10) includes a note receiving and dispensing mechanism (77). The mechanism includes a storage reel (66), a take-up reel (68) and a flexible web (70) extending between the reels. A drag applying member (196; 208) may be used in operative connection with at least one of the reels. The note receiving and dispensing mechanism is housed within a note storage module (44). Notes are selectively passed into and out of the storage module to a passage area (92). The machine further includes a note inlet opening (30) and a note outlet opening (28). A note outlet transport (96) extends between the passage area and the note outlet opening. A note inlet transport (98) extends between the passage area and the note inlet opening. A note validator (58) extends adjacent to the note inlet transport for purposes of sensing the validity of notes inserted in the machine. The machine is selectively operative responsive to inputs to receive and deliver notes.

Abstract: Fluid connector for connecting a first fluid-bearing conduit in a capillary tube to a second fluid-bearing conduit in a receiver. An internal fitting assembly includes an internal fitting body, a body cavity for receiving a ferrule and a self-compensating nut, the ferrule and self-compensating nut being locatable on the capillary tube, and an internal ferrule seat located on a portion of the body cavity, against which a tapered portion of the ferrule is applied to so as to obtain a first fluid-tight seal between the capillary tube, the ferrule, and the ferrule seat.

Abstract: A blocking arrangement serves for securing prevention of a spear (1) being unscrewed from a corresponding neck ring (3) in a container for a liquid, for example, beer, being under pressure by a drive gas in the container. The blocking arrangement consists of a split spring ring (8) which is placed in a groove (5) constructed in the corresponding neck ring (3). This groove is so deep that the spring ring is allowed to be squeezed radially into the groove. The expansion for the spring ring radially outwardly is limited, however, by in inwardly turning cylinder face (22) on the spear (1). Furthermore, the spear has an upwardly turning blocking face (12) which adjoins the cylinder face (22). When dismounting of the spear is attempted, its blocking face (12) adjoins the spring ring (8) which is retained axially by the downwardly turning upper side (16) of the groove.

Abstract: A quick connect coupling for high pressure fluid includes a male fitting body connected on the end of an elongated tube. The male fitting body has an annular recess for receiving a retainer movable between a compressed position allowing longitudinal insertion of the male fitting body within a corresponding female aperture and a released position for retaining the male fitting body seated within the female aperture. A visual indication is provided to signal if the retainer is fully seated within a corresponding groove of the female aperture. A locking member maintains the retainer in the released position in response to seating the male fitting body within the corresponding female aperture. A biasing member urges the male fitting body in an opposite direction with respect to the longitudinal insertion direction within the corresponding female aperture.

Abstract: A rotary joint for delivering a mixed fluid from a radial inlet of a joint element axially through a high speed rotating shaft. Leakproof protection is first realized by one side of a wear block being compressed against an end face of the shaft. A spring presses a washer and an O-shaped ring against the other side of the wear block to prevent leakage and filter most solid impurities. Leakproof protection is also realized by covering the shaft with a seal to isolate leaking fluid from the first protection.

Abstract: A connector for connecting a first fluid-bearing conduit to a second fluid-bearing conduit, thereby providing a substantially leak-free fluid communication between the first and second fluid-bearing conduits. The second fluid-bearing conduit is located in a receiver and communicates with a receiving port. A frustoconical surface on the receiver defines the receiving port. The connector includes a support, a biferrule, and a biferrule compression assembly. The biferrule is provided with a forward end having a spherical head portion, an aft end having a frustoconical tapered portion, and a bore therebetween for receiving the first fluid-bearing conduit.

Abstract: An assembly device (1) of a first element (4) on a tubular part (3) equipped with a fluid channel comprises a second element (9) slidingly mounted with respect to said first element (4). A first axial through passage (35)is arranged in the second element (9), and coupling arms (26) securedly unite the first element (4, 37) to the part (3) in a predetermined axial position, in which the second element (9) presses axially around an opening of the fluid channel of said part (3), allowing communication of the channel with said first axial passage (35). A first seal (16) is fitted between the second element (9) and the part (3), and an internal space (19) extends in the axial direction between opposite faces (6, 18) respectively of the first and second elements (4, 9), said space being in communication with the first axial passage (35) of the second element (9), in such a way that the fluid pressure in the space (19) urges the second element (9) against the part (3).

Abstract: A tube coupler has a main tubular socket body connected to a first tube, a main tubular plug body connected to a second tube and removably connected to the main tubular socket body, and a locking mechanism for locking together the main tubular socket body and the main tubular plug body in a state in which the main tubular plug body is inserted in the main tubular socket body. The tube coupler further includes an operating ring threadably engaging the outer peripheral surface of the main tubular socket body, a slide ring mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the main tubular socket body and being moved axially by the operating ring, and a cylindrical holder slidably fitted in the main tubular socket body and engageable with the main tubular plug body. The holder has a groove open radially outward, and the main tubular socket body has axially elongated holes. The slide ring is provided with pins each having a distal end portion extending into the groove through the corresponding elongated hole.

Abstract: A seal for preventing leakage of pressurized fluid along a flow path along an engagement plane between a first and second members. The seal has a cylindrical body with a first elastomeric ring located on an end and a second elastomeric ring located on a peripheral surface of the cylindrical body. The cylindrical body is located in a passage in the second member. A spring urges the first elastomeric ring into engagement with a face on the first member when the first and second members are joined together. Pressurized fluid which flows from a passage in the first member into the second passage in the second member acts on the cylindrical body to further urge the end into engagement with the first member to prevent fluid leakage along the engagement plane there between.

Abstract: A rotary joint for supplying and/or removing a fluid heat transfer medium to/from a rapidly rotating roll or drum supported upon journals. The rotary joint nipple threads into the journal bore and closely fitting complementarily shaped cylindrical surfaces on the journal end and joint nipple interengage to concentrically relate the joint to the journal, and engaging radial surfaces on the journal and nipple further coaxially position the joint with respect to the journal to prevent relative tilting. In an embodiment the joint nipple includes an internal seal ring axially biased against a counterseat to reduce the rotary joint axial dimension and permit utilization of wider spaced bearings which improves stability, balances bearing loads and increases bearing life.

Abstract: A plug coupling for providing a pressure-sealed connection to a device having a cylindrical connector. The coupling has a tube-like support element having a front portion provided with a sealing ring and a rear portion formed as an inlet part. Elongated clamping jaws are linked to the support element and extend in a generally axial direction. The clamping jaws are arranged concentrically around a longitudinal axis of the support element and have free ends radially displaceable. A sleeve surrounds the support element and is shiftable in longitudinal direction and has a front end portion provided with a rim for engaging peripheral surfaces of the clamping jaws for locking them in an engaged position. The sleeve is urged into the engaged position either by a spring or by pressure. An arresting device blocks the sleeve to prevent this engagement of the plug coupling when fluid pressure is applied thereto.

Abstract: A rotary joint for rotating heat exchangers of the drum or roll type having a journal wherein damage to the rotary joint by radial impact forces is minimized by mounting the joint housing upon the rotating journal, the joint nipple is stationary and mounted upon the fluid receiving head and spherical roller bearings are interposed between the housing and nipple. The primary fluid seal is located adjacent the heat exchanger journal and impact forces between the seal components and nipple, and their surrounding structure, is absorbed by the use of annular elastic glide rings which also function as fluid seals.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for connecting first and second conduits having first and second bores, respectively to provide communication between the first and second bores which may be used with temperatures and/or wide variations in temperature. While a biasing element is used to provide a sealing ferrule with sufficient force to seal the second conduit, a ferrule forming screw may be used to form an initial seal if a conduit is used that is undersize with respect to the ferrule. A quick-lock adaptor is also attached to the base of the connector which adapts the connector for use with standard tubing fittings.

Abstract: A sleeve element is installed between two hollow gear shafts which are rotatably coupled relatively to each other by a bearing. The sleeve has a hollow cylindrical body which is received inside one of the shafts. The sleeve has a plurality of slots in one end thereof which permit lubricating oil to flow to the bearing. A plurality of spring elements project from the other end of the cylindrical body. The spring elements engage the one shaft and are biassed to urge the one end of the body against an end surface of the other shafts. The force of the spring elements is active at least during primary assembly of the shafts. At a particular temperature, such as the operating temperature of the shafts, the spring elements lose their force. Preferably, the spring elements and the cylindrical body are integrally formed of one part.

Abstract: A coupling device for releasably connecting a corrugated member to the coupling device, has a radially outer housing, a radially inner operating sleeve and at least one locking claw forming part of the sleeve that is axially movable within the outer housing. The locking claw is accessible through an opening in the outer housing wall and its claw engages a corrugation ridge when a corrugated member is inserted into the operating sleeve. In the locked position a flange of the operating sleeve is axially spaced from the housing, whereby the claw rests against an edge of the opening and cannot be tilted radially outwardly about its hinge. In an unlockable position the flange of the sleeve contacts the housing and the claw can clear the opening edge to permit withdrawal of a corrugated member.

Abstract: A small-diameter pipe connector comprises a connector body and a socket body. The connector body has a front cylindrical portion and a rear lock portion and is formed therein with an axial through hole, a small-diameter chamber, and a large-diameter chamber. The socket body has a plurality of resilient pawls. A seal ring is fitted in the small-diameter chamber. A bush is disposed in the rear of the seal ring. A spring is provided such that an expanded portion of a pipe inserted in the small-diameter and large-diameter chambers is pushed against the resilient pawls. Therefore, the pipe connected in the connector does not shift axially and the seal ring wears little even under vibration conditions.

Abstract: A universal swivel body for a fluid handling hose connector has threaded inlet and outlet ends connected by an axial fluid passageway and capable of attachment to a stationary fluid supply line and a rotating fluid service line. The axial fluid passageway has a number of internal circumferential sealing surfaces, each of which is sized and located to provide a fluid tight seal in cooperation with a compliant seal ring and with a corresponding sealing surface on a swivel adapter designed for a particular working pressure. The outlet end of the swivel adapter is capable of rotation with respect to the swivel body so that the device can be used with a hose reel.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting first and second conduits having first and second bores, respectively, to provide communication between the first and second bores. The apparatus includes a base attached to the first conduit and a cap attached to the base. A follower is slidably disposed in the cap and is provided with a passageway, the second conduit extending through the passageway. A ferrule is received on the second conduit, the ferrule having a first end and a second end. The follower is biased against the first end of the ferrule. The first bore in the first conduit has a frustoconical surface which defines a receiving formation for the ferrule, the ferrule having a portion which is circular when viewed in transverse cross section. When the second end of the ferrule is urged in the receiving formation by the action of the biasing spring, the ferrule engages the frustoconical surface defining the receiving formation in substantially line contact.

Abstract: A rotating union including a seal assembly having a rotating seal member removably mounted in the rotor, a non-rotating floating seal member mounted in the housing of the union and keyed thereto to prevent rotation within the housing, and a bias assembly maintaining seal surfaces of the two seal members in engagement. In one embodiment, the combination of materials for the seal members provides a silicon carbide to carbon graphite seal.

Abstract: A quick connect apparatus (10) for attaching a stub shaft (14) to a main rotor shaft (16) of a generator. A rotatable retaining device (12) is secured to the end of the main rotor shaft (16) and includes channels (22) which are engaged by pins (30) projecting radially inward from an inner diameter portion of the stub shaft (14). A polgon drive portion (34) extends from the stub shaft (14) and engages a similar shaped polygon opening (18) formed in the end of the main rotor shaft (16) when the stub shaft (14) is attached. A biasing spring (40) is provided between the back of the polygon opening (18) and a recess in the mating polygon drive portion (34) for biasing the stub shaft (14) axially away from the main shaft (16).

Abstract: A quick connect female coupling with a brasing means in a bore of the coupling that bias an O-ring type packing in sealing engagement against part of the coupling and a pipe end portion when the coupling is in use. A retaining ring in the coupling snap fits against an external collar of a pipe end portion as a retaining means when the coupling is in use.

Abstract: A sealing arrangement for the pin and box of a threaded connection between tubular members includes annular piston means for positioning in the box of one of the tubular members. Resilient seal means supported on the piston means seals between the pin end, box and piston means when the pin is threadedly engaged in the box. Additional seal means on the piston means is responsive to fluid pressure in the tubular members whereby the piston means may be urged toward sealing engagement with the pin end and the resilient seal means.

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

Abstract: A rotary joint utilizing a single anti-friction bearing interposed between the static and dynamic components wherein a self-aligning or floating seal is utilized to maintain effective sealing in the event of misalignment. The rotary joint includes a bearing supported sleeve to which a conduit adapter may be affixed in such a manner to mount and locate the bearing on the sleeve, and the components are economically manufactured wherein a dependable and efficient rotary joint may be produced at low cost.

Abstract: A coupling device has two connectable and disconnectable units. A first unit is provided with a centrally arranged body and an inner casing slidingly arranged between two positions. In a first position, the inner casing cooperates with the central body to keep closed a passage for a fluid medium through the first unit. A second unit has a front section interactable with the inner casing in order to force the casing to a second position against the force of a spring which urges the casing towards the body. In the second position of the casing, the passage for the fluid medium is opened. The second unit also has a valve which closes a passage for the fluid medium when the units are in the disconnected position and opens said passage when the units are in the connected position.

Abstract: Apparatus for connecting a cylindrical first member to a second member which may comprise: a tubular body adapted to receive one end of the first member and for connection to the second member; an annular seal assembly carried by the body and movable from a relaxed position, in which one end of the first member may be axially received therein, to a compressed position, sealingly engaging one end of the first member; a seal load ring engageable with the seal assembly and axially movable relative to the body for moving the seal assembly to its compressed position; a gripper assembly axially spaced from the seal assembly and movable from a radially expanded position in which the first member may be axially received by and displaced from the body, to a radially contracted position gripping the exterior of the first member and preventing its axial displacement from the body; and a gripper load ring engageable with the gripper assembly and axially movable relative to the body for moving the gripper assembly to its

Abstract: A liquid precoat filter has a multitude of elongated replaceable filter elements that have one of their ends supported on tubes that project upwardly from a tube sheet. The individual filter elements are releasably connected to the tubes by couplings that permit a spring clip to lock under shoulders when the filter element is pushed down; the spring clip is released when the filter element is rotated about one-quarter of a turn. A sliding seal prevents leakage between the filter elements and their support tubes.

Abstract: This invention relates to a pipe element designed for rapid connection to a pipe provided with a thermal flange, and provided with new terminal hydraulic seal means which ensure a perfect durable hydraulic seal in the connection region. Said seal means comprise an axially slidable tubular member provided with an inwardly facing terminal flange and having a first annular gasket of greater diameter disposed around said tubular member and a second annular gasket of smaller diameter disposed on the front of said terminal flange of the tubular member. Resilient thrust means are arranged to urge said tubular member into a state of tight engagement of its terminal flange with the terminal flange of the pipe to which the pipe element is connected.

Abstract: A sealing joint in the form of a coupling utilized to connect two gas conveying lines and in which the lines on either side of the joint have different co-efficients of expansion and in which the coupling permits lateral movement between said two lines while retaining a sealed joint for said gas lines.

Abstract: A seal between the opposing surfaces of two joined members, wherein at least one of the surfaces is disposed about a bore or cavity. A salient portion (edge or bead) is formed on at least one of the surfaces and around the bore or cavity, and a gasket of resilient material is disposed between the surfaces to overlay the salient portion. The portions of the opposing surfaces other than the salient portion are substantially planar, and the gasket extends across the salient portion. Each salient portion is preferably formed by its opposing surface being disposed at an incline to an apex and the gasket is configured to have a thickness such that some extending portion thereof aside the salient portion is subjected to compression, of lesser degree than that applied by being at the salient portion.

Abstract: A pipeline coupling adapted for mounting over a pipe to which connection is to be made. It includes an annular seal ring of elastomeric material supported by the coupling and adapted for deformation to a confined sealing position between the coupling and the pipe. Means such as a plurality of circumferentially spaced about and hydraulically actuatable pistons are arranged for applying a compressive force to the seal ring to thereby deform the seal ring to the confined sealing position. Means are provided which are operably associated with the seal ring for automatically accommodating increases and decreases in the volume of the confined seal ring to thereby reduce variations in the confined pressure of the seal ring caused by variations in temperature. One form of such automatic means includes springs arranged to apply substantially uniform counter forces to the aforesaid pistons.

Abstract: A joint for connecting a smooth wall pipe to fittings or other pipes, the joint including a hollow body member having a passageway therethrough, a split gripper ring positioned and movable axially within the passageway, an elastomeric sealing ring also positioned and movable axially within the passageway and means for axially urging the gripper ring and the sealing ring apart whereby the gripper ring has improved initial grip on the pipe upon insertion of the same and the sealing ring has improved sealing characteristics over a range of positive and negative pressures and over a hot and cold temperature range. The external configuration of the split gripper ring cooperates with the internal configuration of the passageway so that the pipe can be installed axially into the body member but when pulled outwardly of the body member the gripper ring is further actuated from its initial gripping action to prevent removal of the pipe.

Abstract: Joints for high temperature and high pressure conduits are disclosed wherein two conduit members are joined in such a manner that permits axial and radial movement due to temperature variations therein while at the same time provides sealing of the joints by means of segmented sealing rings disposed in grooves and extending into a space defined by a sleeve-like extension on one conduit member and a bushing like extension on a second conduit member.

Abstract: Upon the occasion of loss of coolant in a nuclear reactor as when a coolant supply or return line breaks, or both lines break, borated liquid coolant from an emergency source is supplied in an amount to absorb heat being generated in the reactor even after the control rods have been inserted. The liquid coolant flows from pressurized storage vessels outside the reactor to an internal manifold from which it is distributed to unused control rod guide thimbles in the reactor fuel assemblies. Since the guide thimbles are mounted at predetermined positions relative to heat generating fuel elements in the fuel assemblies, holes bored at selected locations in the guide thimble walls, sprays the coolant against the reactor fuel elements which continue to dissipate heat but at a reduced level.