Score Line Or Groove Patents (Class 285/4)
  • Patent number: 11337561
    Abstract: A shower nozzle assembly includes a shower nozzle, a nozzle attachment, and a bayonet connector. The shower nozzle has a water inlet opening and a water outlet part spaced from the water inlet opening, with the water outlet opening being configured to direct a flow of water out of the shower nozzle. The nozzle attachment has a through bore configured to receive the water outlet part therein. The bayonet connection is operative to secure the nozzle attachment to the shower nozzle, and includes a radial projection and a female bayonet receptor part configured to receive the radial projection therein to secure the shower nozzle to the nozzle attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Justrite Manufacturing Company L.L.C.
    Inventors: Anthony Douglas Hughes, Neil Sholes
  • Patent number: 10989435
    Abstract: An adapter for connecting a duct and a diffuser includes a base configured to be coupled to the diffuser and having a central opening. The adapter also includes a radially inner collar directly coupled to the base and extending circumferentially about a longitudinal axis of the central opening. The adapter also includes a radially intermediate collar directly coupled to the base, extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis, and disposed radially outward from the radially inner collar. The adapter also includes a radially outer collar directly coupled to the base, extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis, and disposed radially outward from the radially intermediate collar. A height of the radially intermediate collar, measured from the base upwardly, is greater than a height of the radially outer collar, and less than a height of the radially inner collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: Cardinal IP Holding, LLC
    Inventors: Anthony S. Uriarte, Peter M. Schmitz, Alisha R. Story, Mark R. Krug
  • Patent number: 10850059
    Abstract: One form of the present technology includes a fluid connector for delivery of breathing gas to a patient from a respiratory pressure therapy device, the fluid connector including a first end with a first opening to deliver a fluid flow, a seal portion extending around a periphery of the first opening, and a latching portion, a second end with a second opening to receive the fluid flow, a sealing surface extending around a periphery of the second opening and configured to engage the seal portion to form a face seal, and a complementary latching portion configured to engage with the latching portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: ResMed Pty Ltd
    Inventors: James McKensey Bencke, Justin John Formica, Richard Llewelyn Jones, Joseph Samuel Ormrod, Mark Simpson, Jamie Graeme Wehbeh
  • Patent number: 10648596
    Abstract: In a method of assembling a conduit fitting, a conduit fitting is provided, including a first coupling member, a second coupling member, an internal conduit gripping device disposed between said first coupling member and said second coupling member, and an external deformable structure. The first coupling member is pulled up with the second coupling member on an end portion of a conduit to engage the external deformable structure with an external surface of one of the first and second coupling members. After engaging the external deformable structure with the external surface of one of the first and second coupling members, the first coupling member is further pulled up with the second coupling member to axially compress the external deformable structure, until an amount of torque required to continue pulling up the first coupling member increases to a predetermined torque. The predetermined torque corresponds to an initial pulled-up position in which the conduit gripping device grips and seals the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: SWAGELOK COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark D. Bearer, Mark A. Bennett, John D. Karkosiak, Jeffrey Michael Rubinski, Peter C. Williams, Tobin Berry, Mark A. Clason, Eric M. Kvarda
  • Patent number: 10060115
    Abstract: A toilet fastening system includes a bolt, a nut, and a cap, the bolt and nut each configured with ratchet or ratchet-like portions that define a ratchet or ratchet-like constructs between the bolt and nut to provide controlled tightening (rotation) of the nut onto the bolt, audible confirmation of nut tightening, and tactile user feedback while aiding in preventing back off of the nut relative to the bolt, the cap joining with the nut such that the cap becomes the tightening and loosening tool for the nut as well as the finished beauty cap for the toilet fastening system. The bolt has an offset foot with curved inner and outer surfaces for positive orientation and seating of the bolt into the toilet flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: AIIM, LLC
    Inventors: Jody D. Miller, Darrell Wayne Bowden, Anthony Joseph Parker
  • Patent number: 9993636
    Abstract: A medical connector assembly for establishing a fluid connection between a first medical device and a second medical device includes a multi-use connector and a plurality of single-use connectors connected in series. The multi-use connector has a proximal end opposite a distal end along a longitudinal length thereof. The plurality of single-use connectors each have a proximal end opposite a distal end along a longitudinal length thereof. The distal end of the multi-use connector is releasably connected to the proximal end of a first of the serially-connected single-use connectors. When a second of the serially-connected single-use connectors is disconnected from the first single-use connector, the first single-use connector remains connected to the multi-use medical connector as a sterility retaining cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: BAYER HEALTHCARE LLC
    Inventors: Arthur E. Uber, III, Kevin P. Cowan, James A. Dedig, David M. Griffiths, Edward J. Rhinehart, Benjamin Taggart, Mark Trocki
  • Patent number: 9416690
    Abstract: A valve stem seal including a radially outwardly extending flange that includes one or more circumferential grooves to allow the flange to flex and lay flat against a support surface and protect the flange from fatigue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: FREUDENBERG-NOK GENERAL PARTNERSHIP
    Inventors: John A. London, Patrick L. Scheib
  • Patent number: 9086039
    Abstract: A fuel delivery unit of a motor vehicle comprises a prefilter arranged inside a swirl pot, said prefilter having a filter element, and at least one connection piece for connecting a supplementary filter element. The at least one connection piece, in its initial condition, is closed, and is opened when the supplementary filter element is attached. The invention allows the fuel delivery unit to be adapted to projected filter surfaces of the prefilter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Karl Eck, Dieter Hagist, Matthias Kadler, Martin Maasz, Oliver Schönert, Michael Teichert
  • Publication number: 20140300097
    Abstract: A conduit stub-up connection assembly and method for coupling electrical conduit raceways. In an embodiment, a conduit stub-up connection assembly may include a connector including a connector body defining an opening for receiving a conduit end portion. The connector may also include a conduit retainer disposed relative to the opening. The conduit retainer may include at least one engagement feature for mechanically engaging the conduit end portion to resist removal of the conduit end portion relative to the connector. The coupling assembly may further include a conduit access form configured to be coupled relative to the opening of the connector body and extending longitudinally from the connector. The conduit access form may have a cross-sectional profile larger than a cross-sectional profile of the conduit end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey Krause
  • Patent number: 8727382
    Abstract: A coupling device for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line may include a first connecting piece having a first outer latching contour on its outside and may be connected to at least one of the first fluid line and the first outer latching contour. The coupling device may also include a second connecting piece having a second outer latching contour on its outside and being connected to at least one of the second fluid line and the second outer latching contour. A sleeve may also be provided in which both connecting pieces may be inserted on opposite ends thereof. The sleeve may have inner latching contours on its inner side, the inner latching contours being complementary to the outer latching contours and latching with the outer latching contours when the connecting pieces are inserted. The sleeve may be enclosed by a protective cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Mahle International GmbH
    Inventors: Helge Adrian, Sjard Potscher
  • Patent number: 8608206
    Abstract: The invention comprises a replacement collar for a roof vent pipe. The collar provides UV protection for an existing gasket or can be used as a separate installation. Preferably, the collar has a thicker gauge and includes a seal flange and pre-applied sealant. The collar is designed for universal application for all appropriate sizes of pipe with unique cut line indentations to enable correct trimming to selected size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventors: Glenn F. Fedale, Sr., Allen Fedale, Glenn F. Fedale, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8505633
    Abstract: A coupling to serve as a logging head or other downhole weakpoint assembly. The coupling is configured with a variety of internal tensile members. The individual members and load bearing capacities of each may be selectively engaged in a variety of combinations so as to provide a host of different load bearing capacities to the weakpoint coupling. Such selectable engagement is achieved through the dialing of a key by the user without the need to add or remove any load bearing features from the coupling. Thus, the user-friendly nature of the coupling is enhanced and the possibility of the user leaving behind supplemental load bearing tensile members for change-out is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: L. Michael McKee
  • Patent number: 8485561
    Abstract: A combined structure for air-conditioning ventilation comprises a tee connector (1), an easy connector (40), and a caliber adapter (30). The tee connector (1) comprises a tubular adjustable part (10) at its cylindrical tube (3) for outflow ventilation. The caliber adapter (30) may be installed at the inflow cylindrical tube (14) of the tee connector (1). By clamping the snap-fit points of the easy connector (40) into the snap-fit points (7) that is located on a first cylindrical tube (3) of the tee connector (1), the easy connector (40) may be installed at the first cylindrical tube (3). The resulting combined structure can be easily installed and used, and can have its parts easily switched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Shanghai Yinda Air Conditioning Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jincai Guo
  • Patent number: 8397711
    Abstract: A solar collector has a polygonal top panel forming a top face and having at least three edges, a similarly polygonal bottom panel forming a bottom face directed away from the top face and fitted congruently to the top panel to form a flow passage extending between the faces, and at least four connectors projecting from at least three of the edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Global Plastic, S.A.
    Inventors: Robert Jung, Javier Otano, Jürgen Weigel, Michael Schröder
  • Patent number: 8172273
    Abstract: A sealing arrangement for a coupling for refrigerant lines comprises a first coupling piece, which is connected sealingly to a first line end piece, and a second coupling piece which is connected sealingly to a second line end piece. In the sealing arrangement, a sealing ring is held on the sealing face of one of the two coupling pieces by a holding device which is configured as a plastic cap having a through hole. The plastic cap has at least one predetermined breaking location (26) which is configured as a groove which reduces the material thickness of the plastic cap in such a way that the material integrity at the predetermined breaking location (26) is maintained during assembly and breaks apart during disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: ContiTech Kuehner GmbH & Cie. KG
    Inventor: Andreas Wildermuth
  • Patent number: 8162582
    Abstract: A threaded connection piece, e.g., a connection piece of a sensor, includes a cylindrical base body that is able to be at least partially introduced into an accommodating opening, which is provided, at least over a part of its longitudinal extension, with a threaded section and, at its end face, with a sealing surface. In order to improve the sealing properties of the threaded connection piece when it is screwed into the accommodating opening, the cylindrical base body is developed to be elastic between the threaded section and the sealing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Stoll, Christian Roesser, Markus Ledermann, Joerg Engelhardt
  • Publication number: 20120012074
    Abstract: A coupling device for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line may include a first connecting piece having a first outer latching contour on its outside and may be connected to at least one of the first fluid line and the first outer latching contour. The coupling device may also include a second connecting piece having a second outer latching contour on its outside and being connected to at least one of the second fluid line and the second outer latching contour. A sleeve may also be provided in which both connecting pieces may be inserted on opposite ends thereof. The sleeve may have inner latching contours on its inner side, the inner latching contours being complementary to the outer latching contours and latching with the outer latching contours when the connecting pieces are inserted. The sleeve may be enclosed by a protective cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Helge Adrian, Sjard Potscher
  • Patent number: 8066024
    Abstract: An emergency shutoff valve includes a fluid conduit having a frangible area defined therein, a valve member operatively coupled to said conduit upstream of the frangible area, an expansible chamber having the frangible area defined therein, a movable member defining at least a portion of the expansible chamber, and a linkage operatively coupled to the movable member and the valve member for shutting the valve upon movement of the movable member in response to leakage of fluid through the frangible area. A method of shutting off fuel includes defining an expansible chamber about a frangible area in the conduit, moving a member defining a portion of the expansible chamber in response to leaking fuel, and shutting off a fuel valve in response to moving the movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Lauber, James E. Kesterman
  • Patent number: 8020576
    Abstract: An emergency shutoff valve is provided that includes a housing defining a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid flow passage extending therebetween. The valve includes a valve element disposed within the housing and releasably latched in an open position by a latching mechanism. An expansible member defines at least a portion of a sealed expansible chamber that is sealed at locations downstream and upstream of a weakened portion of the housing. The valve includes an access port in fluid communication with the chamber. The access port may be used to test the integrity of the expansible member. An expandable material may also be disposed in the chamber and used to shut off the valve on the occasion the housing is compromised to an extent wherein fuel can flow into the expansible chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Lauber, James E. Kesterman
  • Patent number: 7967072
    Abstract: A release mechanism for incorporation into a logging head. The release mechanism may be a tensile release mechanism that employs a plurality of tensile members for interchangeable insertion into a plurality of tensile compartments. As a result, a weakpoint for the logging head may be user defined on location at the oilfield. Furthermore, for potentially deeper wells, a rotatable release mechanism may be alternatively or additionally incorporated into the logging head. The rotatable release mechanism may be employed to effectuate a release of the logging head upon signaling from surface equipment. Additionally, the rotatable release mechanism may be powered to achieve the release solely from a downhole power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: L. Michael McKee
  • Patent number: 7963565
    Abstract: An adapter (1) for cleaning a medical appliance comprises a fluid channel (2) with an inlet (3) and at least one outlet (4.1), at least one outlet being provided with a coupling unit (5.1) for an opening of a medical device. The coupling unit (5.1) is designed as a single-use coupling which, after the medical device has been coupled for the first time, generates a leak in the fluid channel at the time of uncoupling. This ensures totally hygienic cleaning of medical devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Oro CLean Chemie AG
    Inventor: Ursula Suter
  • Patent number: 7900967
    Abstract: A dual-purpose engine fitting is provided that may be used both during engine testing and during engine use, for vehicles with vacuum assisted brakes and for those without. The fitting has a body portion configured to fit within an opening in the manifold and defining a passage having opposing first and second ends. The fitting has a seal portion enclosing the first end of the passage. The second end of the passage is open to the manifold when the body portion is fit within the manifold. A thinned wall joins the body portion and the seal portion, establishing a predetermined fracture region at which the seal portion will separate from the body portion when sufficient torque is applied to the seal portion to thereby open the first end of the passage. A method of assembling vehicles is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Francis M. Jensen, Timothy D. Carr, Debra Benson, Roger M. Brisbane
  • Patent number: 7578308
    Abstract: An emergency shutoff valve is provided that includes a housing defining a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid flow passage extending therebetween. The valve includes a valve element disposed within the housing and releasably latched in an open position by a latching mechanism. An expansible member defines at least a portion of a sealed expansible chamber that is sealed at locations downstream and upstream of a weakened portion of the housing. The emergency shutoff valve defines a failure mode wherein the structural integrity of the housing is compromised to an extent wherein fuel can flow into the expansible chamber when a predetermined load is applied to a portion of the housing, wherein the expansible member is operable for uncoupling the latching mechanism so that the valve element moves from the open position to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Lauber, James E. Kesterman
  • Patent number: 7472912
    Abstract: A unitary removable barrier for installation in a cylindrical water line to selectively block the water line to passage of water therethrough. The unitary removable barrier is composed of a single piece rubber body having at least one cylindrical section sized to receive upstream and downstream pipes of the water line. A unitary rubber planar disc molded with the cylindrical section is of a circular circumference and which completely blocks the water line but which is selectively removable from the cylindrical section thus removing the barrier to the passage of the waste through the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: MCP Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Duncan
  • Patent number: 7467643
    Abstract: A fuel-tank fitting includes a cylinder-shaped fitting body including a connecting end to be connected with a pipe and a free end to be disposed freely inside a fuel tank, a flange disposed on an outer peripheral surface of the fitting body, and fastened to an opening periphery of an installation opening opened through the fuel tank, and a check valve disposed in the fitting body, openable only in a direction heading from the connecting end of the fitting body to the free end thereof, and closable for sealing a fuel. The fitting body further includes a first portion sealing the check valve, a second portion fastened to a portion of the flange, a third portion connecting the first and second portions, and a fragile portion fracturing more preferentially than the first and second portions and the flange fracture while securing a fuel-sealing ability inside the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenichiro Kaneko
  • Publication number: 20080277918
    Abstract: A modification apparatus for an object is provided. Generally, the modification device is in an object of substantially uniform thickness, has two grooves defining a strip therebetween, and a fingerpiece attached to the strip. The fingerpiece, strip, and material of the grooves can be removed from the object by moving the fingerpiece until the modification apparatus is torn away from the object. A vent hood comprising this modification apparatus is provided as well. A method of using the modification apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: John L. Andersen
  • Patent number: 7316423
    Abstract: A fitting and pipe section assembly 10 that is capable of being installed in tubing 20A and 20B of a jetted bath to render the tubing 20A and 20B adaptable to accept a close fit fluid flow device 30. The fitting and pipe section assembly 10 includes a pipe section 12, first and second fittings 18A and 18B, and first and second indicia 17A and 17B. The pipe section 12 has a center segment 16 between inlet and outlet end portions 14A and 14B. The inlet and outlet portions 14A and 14B may be placed in fluid flow communication with an inlet and an outlet of the tubing 20A and 20B. The first and second fittings 18A and 18B are disposed on the inlet and outlet portions of the pipe section 14A and 14B. The first and second indicia 17A and 17B on the pipe section 12 define the center segment 16 of the pipe section 12 and guide post-installation cutting of the pipe section 12 at predetermined points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Global Heating Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary P. Rochelle
  • Patent number: 7121557
    Abstract: A plate for passing a member from a first side of the plate through to a second side of the plate. The plate includes a retainer having a first surface on the first side of the plate, and a second surface on the second side of the plate. The retainer has one or more ports formed therethrough, at least a first one of the ports having an inner diametric extent configured to receive the outer periphery of the first member therethrough. A layer of an elastomeric material is provided on the first surface of the retainer across at least the first one of the ports. The layer is formed as having a first imperforate portion closing the first one of the ports, which first imperforate portion is openable for receiving the outer periphery of the first member through the inner diametric extent of the first one of the ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Christie, Richard G. Novak, Jeffrey J. Blake, Ronald A. Moner
  • Patent number: 7100696
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a disconnect for use in a wellbore to separate a tubular string from a stuck wellbore component. In one aspect, the invention includes a disconnect with a first portion and a second portion and a lock nut preventing the separation of the two portions. When a predetermined fluid force is applied to a piston in the disconnect, a tensile sleeve fails and the first and second portions of the disconnect separate, thereby leaving a portion of the disconnect in the wellbore with the stuck component. In one embodiment, the tensile sleeve's failure permits an annular piston to dislodge a wedge sleeve from the lock nut, thereby permitting separation of the first and second portion of the disconnect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: Greg Marshall
  • Patent number: 7097209
    Abstract: Sterile coupling comprising a male and a female connector, each provided with a membrane device comprising a membrane surface covered with an adhesive at the exterior surface. When the connectors are brought into operation, the adhesive surface are contacted to form a bonded surface. Then, a hole is generated through the bonded surface and the sterile portions of the devices are brought into cooperations. The hole is formed by a rupture member arranged in one of the connectors. After rupturing, the membrane devices retract to a space formed between the cylindrical bodies of the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Gambro Inc.
    Inventors: Birgitta Ekman Sparrman, legal representative, Eric Westberg, Peter Unger, deceased
  • Patent number: 7080486
    Abstract: A cast-in-place pass through firestop device for providing a passage in a partition in a structure through which wires, cables, pipes, and the like are run includes a housing having a riser portion with frangible connections that define removable bands that can be readily removed by a user to adjust the height of the device in accordance with the thickness of the partition into which the device is installed. The removable bands include pull tabs that provide grasping means to facilitate removal of the bands by a user along a frangible connection. The housing also includes a base portion including a recess with ribs for maintaining the firestop material in spaced relation from the base portion sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: DuWayne C. Radke, Paul J. Cobian
  • Patent number: 6799606
    Abstract: An accessory for use in construction includes a conduit (12) that has an inlet end (34) portion and an outlet end (18) portion. The outlet end (18) portion is mountable on a drainage pipe (22) so that the conduit (12) and the drainage pipe (22) are in fluid communication with each other. A removable closure member (40) is mounted on the inlet end (34) portion to close the conduit (12) when not in use or during building construction, so that ingress of material or detritus into the drainage pipe (22) is inhibited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: Leslie Lawrence Howson
  • Patent number: 6796478
    Abstract: A fuel cell adapter system for a combustion tool which includes a housing enclosing a fuel metering valve. The fuel cell is provided with an adapter having a generally cylindrical nozzle and an enlarged base configured for engagement upon the fuel cell. The nozzle has a lobed free end and defines a passageway. A frangible membrane is provided for blocking the passageway. The latch is disposed in the housing for releasably securing the adapter in fluid communication with the fuel metering valve. The latch includes a latch body having at least one locking tang movable between a closed position and an open position, and a release member for moving the locking tang to release the engagement with the adapter and permitting withdrawal of said fuel cell from said tool. A modified latch receives the adapter of the fuel cell in a push-and-twist motion to retain it in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Yury Shkolnikov, Tony Deieso, Walter J. Taylor, Sandra J. Wilson, William N. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6739631
    Abstract: A torque-limiting bolt-and-nut assembly is provided for actuating a pipe-pressing member in order to secure two pipe ends together. The bolt includes a threaded shank, a secondary drive head, and a shearable drive head designed to be sheared-off by a torque exceeding a predetermined value. A recess is formed between the shearable drive head and the second drive head. The nut is mounted on the shearable drive head and is configured for transmitting torque to the shearable drive head from a manual tool. A nut includes a connection structure extending into the recess for resisting dislodgement of the nut from the bolt. The shearable drive head has at least four sides, all of the sides being of equal length, and the number of the sides being an even number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventors: Radford S. Smith, Roger D. Woody
  • Patent number: 6739628
    Abstract: A frangible hose connector that has a knit line at the intended point of fracture, as opposed to a circumferential groove or notch. The knit line provides a break zone which has a lower tensile strength than that of the parent material, thereby providing that the connector is relatively easy to fracture. The connector also includes finger grips which makes breaking the connector easier. The finger grips provide that the connector is configured to be fractured via a twisting or torsion force, as opposed to a bending force. As such, the connector tends to break in a manner wherein fluid does not fling or spray. The connector is formed of plastic, and the knit line is created during the plastic injection molded process, wherein two mold fronts are “squared-up” and meet in the mold cavity to form the knit line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Atrion Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rowland W. Kanner, Michael Parcus, Larry Lee Young
  • Patent number: 6694684
    Abstract: A cast-in-place pass through firestop device for providing a passage in a partition through which wires, cables, pipes, and the like are run includes a housing having a riser portion with frangible connections that define removable bands that can be readily removed by a user to adjust the height of the device in accordance with the thickness of the partition into which the device is installed. The removable bands include pull tabs that provide grasping means to facilitate removal of the bands by a user along a frangible connection. The housing also includes a base portion including a recess with ribs for maintaining firestop material in spaced relation from the base portion sidewall. A flame retardant char forming material, which works in combination with the firestop material to provide a fire, smoke, and water barrier, may also be provided adjacent the firestop material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: DuWayne C. Radke, Paul J. Cobian, Anthony J. Schommer
  • Patent number: 6659126
    Abstract: A backflow preventor which permits adjustment of the outflow direction is provided. A conduit provides fluid communication between the two valves of the backflow preventor. The conduit can be separated, e.g., by cutting along a groove, leaving annular flat regions. The annular flats are configured to engage with a coupler to provide leak-free connection between the separated portions of the conduit. The separated portions of the conduit can be rotated to adjust the outflow direction. Preferably, an infinite number of outflow directions are possible, all of which lie in a plane parallel to the inflow direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Charles W. Dunmire, Dennis G. Whitelaw, Richard D. Fields
  • Patent number: 6595243
    Abstract: A barrier device (1) and technique for use in the plumbing during construction of a swimming pool includes a tubular cylindrical section (2) having an open first end. A pop-out barrier (12) is integral with the cylindrical section, and is disposed to cover a second end of the cylindrical section. In one embodiment, an annular water barrier flange (3) is integral with the cylindrical section, and is disposed about a mid portion of the cylindrical section to prevent water leakage around an outer surface of the cylindrical section (2) when the barrier device is installed on the end of a water return pipe or drain pipe extending through the a wall surface of a swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Shasta Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Tarr
  • Patent number: 6582655
    Abstract: A thermoformed PVC, modified PVC, CPVC, metal or coated metal cover, covering system and method is provided for covering assemblies of pipe and pipe insulation, hangers, support rods and mechanical assemblies wherein the assembly is biocide treated, covered by and completely enclosed by the cover, the cover is sealed in order to prevent bacteria growth within the cover while allowing a smooth outside surface for biocide application. The cover can be modified to facilitate the application of biocide after the assembly is covered by providing resealable openings in said cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventors: Christos J. Botsolas, Jeff Rebholz
  • Publication number: 20030098081
    Abstract: A barrier device (1) and technique for use in the plumbing during construction of a swimming pool includes a tubular cylindrical section (2) having an open first end. A pop-out barrier (12) is integral with the cylindrical section, and is disposed to cover a second end of the cylindrical section. In one embodiment, an annular water barrier flange (3) is integral with the cylindrical section, and is disposed about a mid portion of the cylindrical section to prevent water leakage around an outer surface of the cylindrical section (2) when the barrier device is installed on the end of a water return pipe or drain pipe extending through the a wall surface of a swimming pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Applicant: SHASTA INDUSTRIES, INC
    Inventor: William C. Tarr
  • Patent number: 6565125
    Abstract: A coupling body has: (i) a central member; (ii) a first retaining member; and, (iii) a second retaining member. The first retaining member and the central member define a first pipe receiving region. The second retaining member and the central member define a second pipe receiving region having a tapered inner surface. A selectively constrictable clamp collar is located in the first pipe receiving region. A bolt or other actuation member is operably engaged with the clamp collar and is movable to constrict the clamp collar. A gripping collet is located in the second pipe receiving region and includes a tapered outer surface. At least one tie-bolt or other fastener extends between the retaining members and is selectively adjustable to draw the first and second retaining members toward each other so that the tapered inner surface engages the tapered outer surface of the collet to constrict the collet radially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Perfection Corporation
    Inventor: David L. Robison, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6520212
    Abstract: A protective endpiece for the end of a tube (100), the endpiece comprises a sheath (2) about an axis (3) possessing a central housing (4) for receiving the end of the tube (100) and has an open end (5) and a closed end (6). The sheath is provided at its open end (5) with a ring (10) that is detachable from the sheath so that after the sheath (2) has been removed and the end of the tube (100) has been coupled to a piece of equipment (200), the ring forms a stopper on,the end of the tube (100) for closing the gap that exists between the end of the tube (100) and the equipment (200).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Legris S.A.
    Inventor: Philippe Blivet
  • Patent number: 6467506
    Abstract: An elongated clear fluid orifice device which includes a plurality of different exterior widths for accommodating the mounting of different sized hoses thereon while having a constant interior width. The device may be used in any liquid cooled engine having heated fluid flowing therethrough. The device is best made pressure resistant and high temperature resistant polycarbonate material such as EMS Grliamid TR-55 (clear nylon) compound and having an interior fluid tube with a cylindrical center section having a predetermined, constant interior width. The exterior tube levels have a raised ridge at each level to assist in securing a clamp to hold the hose in place at each level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Thanh V. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6460860
    Abstract: A tubular wall sealed at a first end by an integrally molded annular wall, forming a cap, is cast in the concrete wall of a low pressure vessel, forming a sealed cavity in the concrete. One end of a rubber tubular gland wrapped sealingly around the outside of the second end of the tubular wall is sealed in the concrete by a radially extending cast-in anchor. The diameter of the other end of the rubber tube is smaller than the diameter of the tubular wall of the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Norman W. Gavin
  • Patent number: 6457896
    Abstract: A breakaway coupling having a loop for receiving a connecting element. The loop includes a material reduction region. The material reduction region is formed as part of the loop such that the loop breaks at that region when placed under a pre-defined load. The coupling may be of fixed or swivel configuration. The material reduction region has dimensions less than the remainder of the loop such that-when the selected load is reached, the loop will break in that region. This design is particularly suited for those conditions when an underwater connecting element, such as a rope tied between an underwater lobster trap and a floating buoy, comes in contact with a marine animal. If the animal is of sufficient size, such as a whale, to apply the selected load to loop breakage, the connecting element will be released and the possibility of entanglement with the marine animal will be substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Eric deDoes
  • Patent number: 6443495
    Abstract: A floor flange apparatus for use with a plumbing fixture positioned on a floor surface includes a conduit section having a fixture end and a drain end and defining a bore therethrough. The conduit section is adapted to be coupled to a drain pipe proximate the drain end and to be coupled to a plumbing fixture proximate the fixture end for draining water from the plumbing fixture. A flange is positioned proximate the fixture end of the conduit, and the flange is configured to engage a plumbing fixture and couple the fixture to the conduit section. Elevation structures extend from the flange and are configured for interfacing with a floor surface to elevate the flange above the floor surface. At least a portion of the elevation structures are removably coupled with the flange for being selectively removed to allow the elevation of the flange to be selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Jet Plumbing Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Harmeling
  • Patent number: 6394992
    Abstract: A connection device includes a first connecting device and a second connecting device, which are interconnectible for the purpose of transferring an aseptic fluid. The first connecting device includes an injection needle and a protecting sleeve which has an orifice that can be punctured and which at least partially surrounds the needle and is displaceable relative thereto. The second connecting device includes a rubber-like part, which is penetratable by the needle and resealable when the needle is withdrawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Arom Pak International AB
    Inventor: Johan Sjöholm
  • Patent number: 6378549
    Abstract: In the case of a fuel tank for a motor vehicle, a filling pipe (2), which is welded to a tank chamber (1), has a section (3) provided for the separation. The section (3) provided for the separation is adjoined by regions for the attachment of a connecting part. This enables the tank chamber (1) to be taken out of the motor vehicle and to be subsequently refitted without removing the entire filling pipe (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventor: Thomas Zapp
  • Patent number: 6328344
    Abstract: A pipe fitting includes a slider disposed in an insertion hole of a main body so as to be axially moved and includes a pressed portion which a falling-off preventing flange of a pipe abuts so that the slider is pressed axially when the pipe is inserted into the insertion hole. A fitting checker includes a pair of spreading legs having respective claws, the fitting checker being detachably attached to the main body so that the legs hold the main body. The claws engage the body and the slider so that the fitting checker is not allowed to be detached from the body when the legs are closed. The legs are spread so as to release the claws from engagement with the body and the slider so that the fitting checker is allowed to be detached from the body. Releasing protrusions are formed to protrude from inside portions of the legs of the fitting checker, the releasing protrusions being pressed so that the legs are elastically deformed in respective opening directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Togo Seisakusyo Corporation
    Inventors: Kenji Tozaki, Masatoshi Harada
  • Patent number: 6322108
    Abstract: A pipe fitting comprises a fitting body with a longitudinal axis, having a pipe connection member for the sealed connection of a pipe and a thread for threadedly joining the fitting body to a connection unit, and a member on the fitting body to be driven by a tool, to which a tool for turning the fitting body about its longitudinal axis may be applied for threadedly joining the same to the connection unit. This fitting is provided with means between the tool engaging portion and the fitting body that limit the torque acting on the fitting body when the tool engaging portion is turned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Hewing GmbH
    Inventors: Franz-Josef Riesselmann, Peter Braegelmann