Split Ring Patents (Class 285/415)
  • Patent number: 11598456
    Abstract: A pipe connection swivel joint assembly includes a pipe member having an end flange with a conical proximal surface. A split ring assembly includes a pair of swivel ring halves each having a conical inner surface disposed against the conical proximal surface of the pipe member. The pair of swivel ring halves further include a plurality of mounting holes extending axially through the pair of swivel ring halves and a plurality of ring fastening holes. An outer ring is connected to the pair of swivel ring halves by a plurality of split ring fasteners engaged with the plurality of ring fastening holes. The outer ring supports a pair of distance plates that are disposed between opposing ends of the pair of swivel ring halves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Freudenberg Oil & Gas, LLC
    Inventors: Hanif Nazari, Finn Fredriksen
  • Patent number: 10316729
    Abstract: An exhaust system having a pipe for conveying exhaust from an engine, the end of which has an outwardly-protruding lip; a first pipe flange having a hole large enough to allow the lipped end of the pipe to pass through it, and a recessed shoulder adjacent the hole; a collar, configured to releasably encircle said first pipe, to abut with the recessed shoulder at its outer periphery, and the lipped end of the pipe at its inner periphery, thereby preventing the collar and lipped pipe assembly from passing through said hole; and a second pipe flange configured to attach to said first pipe flange to connect a tail pipe to the first pipe, and to hold the pipe, flange and collar assembly together. The invention also provides counterweights for counterweighted lift trucks adapted to secure such exhaust systems, and methods of fitting such exhaust systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: NEXEN LIFT TRUCKS LIMITED
    Inventor: William Oakes
  • Patent number: 9845905
    Abstract: The rapid assembly flange joint consists of a connecting device in the form of a constricting collar made up of at least two parts with a shaped groove on the concave face, the groove corresponding to the cross-section of the two coupled flanges of the members that are being connected, and clamping elements in the form of retaining sections on the flanges. The connecting device is provided with fasteners in the form of walls; the retaining sections are in the form of grooves, the width of which is not less than the thickness of the one or two fasteners that engage therewith. The number of grooves is not less than the number of component parts of the connecting device. The rapid assembly flange joint provides for a reliable connection between flanged cylindrical members without the need for additional fastening and clamping elements and without increasing the sizes of the connection point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: Electrophor, Inc.
    Inventors: Sergey Victorovich Smirnov, Vadim Nikolaevich Knizel
  • Patent number: 9687784
    Abstract: An assembly may include first and second components and a service flange. The first component has a first opening. The second component has a second opening in communication with the first opening. The service flange may be mounted to the first component such that the first component is disposed between the service flange and the second component. The service flange extends around the periphery of the first opening and may include a plurality of separate and discrete segments that are individually secured to the first component. Adjacent segments define joints that movably connect the segments together while allowing for relative movement between the segments before the first component is secured to the second component. The segments include mounting apertures spaced apart from the joints and receiving fasteners configured to fixedly secure the first component to the second component. Each fastener only engages a single segment of the service flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Tenneco Automotive Operating Company Inc.
    Inventors: Erwin Peters, Keith Pieniazek, Kevin Reeder, Dennis Mellon, Dan Eggleston, Mickey Neal, Andy Porter, Matthew Anderson
  • Patent number: 9200736
    Abstract: A hose splice installation assembly to join hose ends includes first and second clamp members. Each clamp member includes separable portions each with an inner surface configured to engage a portion of a hose end, and a fastening device configured to hold the portions fixedly on the hose end. A displacement mechanism removably couples the first and second clamp members together and is configured to move the clamp members towards each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Inventor: Leo J. Toman
  • Patent number: 8864182
    Abstract: A coupling device may increase the integrity of a pipe joint. The coupling device may include a first pipe encircling device and a second pipe encircling device connected across the pipe joint by a spanning element. The pipe encircling device may be made up of at least two approximately c-shaped segments. The multi-part nature of the pipe encircling devices may facilitate installation of the coupling device at an excavation site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventors: Jackie Ray Buchanan, Joseph Ray Buchanan
  • Patent number: 8573655
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing an open end of a pipe includes a clamp for frictionally being secured to the exterior of the pipe, a sealing plate for covering the open end of the pipe and being connectable to the clamp, and an urging mechanism for urging the sealing plate towards the clamp and for forming a seal between the sealing plate and the open end of the pipe. In one aspect, the clamp comprises an annular body formed by at least two sections that are radially tightened over the pipe exterior. In another aspect, the clamp comprises cooperating annular bodies, one capable of radially narrowing the other for frictionally engaging the pipe outer surface. In another aspect the method provides a method of sealing an end of a pipe. According to the invention, once the open end is sealed, the interior of the pipe may be pressurized, for example for testing the integrity thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Patent number: 8551338
    Abstract: A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Celgard LLC
    Inventors: Gareth P. Taylor, Amitava Sengupta
  • Patent number: 8534716
    Abstract: A glueless union suitable for joining piping and other plumbing components. Several components are used to create the union. The portion of each plumbing component that is to be joined is a circular, thick-walled section which is centered on a central axis. This portion has a mating face that is perpendicular to the central axis. The union includes an annular face seal which is compressed between the opposing mating faces of the plumbing components to be joined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool & Spa, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M. Cowell, Leonard Richiuso
  • Patent number: 8328457
    Abstract: A sanitary clamp made of high molecular weight thermoplastic polymer for connection to a barb connector having one end with a funnel formation. The sanitary clamp includes a pair of essentially semi-circular members having a pivotal connection at one of the ends of each member and a locking connection at the other ends of each member. The semi-circular portions of the members are configured to sealing and secure a pair of funneled ends of a pair of barb connectors with an O-ring disposed therebetween. The locking ends of the sanitary clamp includes a ratchet portion on one member and a housing member configured to lockingly receive the ratchet portion on the other member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Twin Bay Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert A. Werth
  • Patent number: 8328458
    Abstract: A sanitary clamp for connection to a pair of barb connectors each having one end terminating at a funnel shaped portion is described herein. The sanitary clamp includes a first member having a first semi-circular center portion disposed between a first end and a second end. A second member has a second semi-circular center portion disposed between a first end and a second end. Said first ends of the first and second members are configured to pivotally connect to each other, and said second ends of the first and second members include a locking mechanism for selectively locking the second ends of the first and second members in engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Twin Bay Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert A. Werth
  • Patent number: 8328245
    Abstract: A clamp adapter assembly for connecting an instrument to a pressure vessel. The clamp adapter assembly allows an operator to convert a bolt connection base known in the art into a base suitable for utilizing a clamped connection similarly known in the art. The connection assembly includes a bottom plate, at least one fastener to fasten the bottom plate to a base, a top retaining plate, and a clamp. The peripheral portions of the bottom plate and top retaining plate may be beveled in order to be received within a tri-clamp. The top retaining plate may include two sections that overlappingly engage one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: SRM, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Gayer, Charles P. McKee, Carl Johnson
  • Patent number: 8318022
    Abstract: A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Celgard LLC
    Inventors: Gareth P. Taylor, Amitava Sengupta
  • Patent number: 8297664
    Abstract: A flange for fastening a line to a pump casing, includes: a pump casing passage; and a plurality of stop members protruding in the passage and angularly distributed around the passage, the position of the flange being angularly adjustable by the stop members. A pump may include the fastening flange. A method for adjusting the position of the flange in relation to the pump is also disclosed. This method makes it possible to avoid the position of the pump casing being imposed by the orientation of the fastening flange of the pump casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Xavier Pottier, Hervé Bouilly
  • Patent number: 8267438
    Abstract: A two-piece flange adapter including two identical flange parts. Each flange part has two ends, with each end having a planar mating surface disposed at each end of the channel disposed on an inner diameter surface of the flange part. A projection extends from one planar mating surface and is formed to continue the channel for a predetermined distance past the planar mating surface. The other end of the flange and channel define a groove having a depth that accepts the projection of a mating flange part to form a complete channel. A gasket having a cross-sectional area with an internal cavity is compressively disposed in a pocket defined by the channel and the mating pipes. The cross-sectional area of the gasket occupies less than 87% of the pocket and can also occupy approximately 82-84% of the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Joseph G. Radzik, Mark J. Estrella, Mark S. DeFilippo
  • Patent number: 8248781
    Abstract: A waste heat recycling device includes an air-duct, a fan and a retaining mechanism. The air-duct is connected to a heat air. The fan communicates with the air-duct. The retaining mechanism clasps the air-duct and retains the fan. The retaining mechanism includes a clip and a support ring. An edge of the air-duct is sandwiched between the clip and the support ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zheng-Heng Sun, Xiao-Feng Ma
  • Patent number: 8158001
    Abstract: A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Celgard LLC
    Inventors: Gareth P. Taylor, Amitava Sengupta
  • Patent number: 8096591
    Abstract: A split ring restraint device having dual pipe size capability for securing the connection between adjacent pipes in water piping systems to prevent leakage or failure of the pipe connection. The restraint device comprises an interlocking, stepped joining interface that can be assembled in one orientation to fit a pipe having a first outside diameter and assembled in another orientation to fit a pipe having a second outside diameter. The restraint device can be used without modification on pipes having different outside diameters. The restraint device can be installed more rapidly than current state-of-the art split ring restraint devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: The Ford Meter Box Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary J. Gentile, Jr., Earl Sinjon Bradberry, Adam Pennington, John K. Lonergan
  • Patent number: 8079622
    Abstract: A connector spool system for connecting a first component and a second component of an industrial compression system includes a connector spool having a substantially cylindrical shape. The spool includes an axial end and a flange at the axial end, the flange defining a radial surface for positioning proximate the first component. A spacer is positioned between the flange of the spool and the first component, the spacer including radial surfaces for providing uniform compressive force transmission between the spool and the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Dresser-Rand Company
    Inventor: William C. Maier
  • Publication number: 20110204626
    Abstract: An eduction tube assembly made of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene material for use on a containment vessel for corrosive liquids. It includes vertical eduction tube and a unitary transition flange member having a first flange for connection of the assembly to an attachment flange associated with the vessel and a second flange to receive a connected hose flange. A single segmented ring with multi-directional capability is disposed between the flanges and receives securement elements to accomplish both connections. Bolts are used for one connection, upstanding threaded studs secured to the segmented ring are used for the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: Salco Products Inc.
    Inventors: Alex V. Degutis, Raymond P. Bass, Peter J. Gubricky
  • Patent number: 7985037
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for pulling pipe involves providing a pipe having an exterior surface with a groove circumscribing the exterior surface of the pipe adjacent to one end and an anchoring collar which is segmented into segments and has an inner circumferential surface with an inwardly projecting tongue. The segments of the anchoring collar are secured together to circumscribe the pipe with the inwardly projecting tongue engaging the groove of the pipe. One end of the pipe is capped with an end cap. The end cap is coupled to the anchoring collar. A tow line is secured to the end cap and exerts a pulling force, with the anchoring collar securing the end cap against removal when pulled and the end cap preventing debris from entering the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Jody Duggan
  • Patent number: 7967343
    Abstract: An adapter for pipe locking clamps, particularly but not exclusively useful for welding portions of plastic piping by polyfusion. The adapter has at least two bodies obtained from a metal plate, and arranged parallel to each other. The bodies have respective circular arc-like lateral rims that have a same radius of curvature. The centers of curvature of the circular arc-like lateral rims are all arranged on a same axis so as to form a partially cylindrical concave surface forming an open cradle which is adapted to lock the pipes in cooperation with a similar surface formed on a complementary and opposite reduction unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Ritmo S.p.A.
    Inventor: Renzo Bortoli
  • Patent number: 7887104
    Abstract: A quick connect and disconnect coupler (QCDC) having a coupler plug and a coupler socket. The coupler plug has an input that is connected to a fluid source and an output. The coupler socket has an input that is connected to the coupler plug's output, and an output that is connected to a hose from where the fluid is applied to a fire. The coupler socket features a front and rear gripping flange that together allow a person to safely, quickly, and easily attach the coupler socket to the coupler plug. The QCDC also features a safety lock that is normally in a locked position, which prevents the socket from being attached or detached to and from the plug. The safety lock is released from its locked position only after a determination has been made that it is safe to attach or detach the coupler socket from the coupler plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Hollis Wilson
  • Patent number: 7798537
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus includes projections projecting axially from circumferential positions on a distal part of an annular body, each projection having an engaging hook projecting in one circumferential direction at an end part thereof. The body and the projections are formed independently of each other, and the apparatus includes a fixing structure for fixing the projections to the positions on the distal part. After inner peripheries of the projections are placed on the outer periphery of the distal part adjacent to an outward overhang, the fixing structure is detachably fixed on the outer periphery in a side of the projections axially opposing to the overhang and has an inward tapering surface fitted on an outward tapering surface of each projection to fix the projections at the predetermined positions on the outer periphery, and includes a cutout exposing the outward tapering surface of at least one projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Sakura Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Nakamura, Akira Horimoto, Kazuyuki Tamada
  • Patent number: 7798535
    Abstract: A pipe clamp for reinforcing a welded joint between two pipes, having a plurality of circumferential clamp segments that are bolted together around the joint. One axial end of the clamp has circumferentially extended ridges that project inward and seat in corresponding circumferential grooves in a pipe on one side of the joint. The other axial end of the clamp has circumferentially spaced fingers that extend inward and fit into corresponding pockets on the other side of the weld joint. Either or both the ridges or the fingers have a taper whose cross-section reduces in an inward direction and fits in complimentary grooves or pockets on either side of the joint. The taper forces the opposite sides of the weld joint toward each other as the clamp segments are tightened together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Co. LLC
    Inventor: Gregory L. Calhoun
  • Publication number: 20100230963
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a split retaining ring for a connection assembly adapted for connecting an instrument or other device to a vessel, such as a pressure vessel. The connection assembly includes a base, an instrument or device, and a split retaining ring wherein the split retaining ring includes overlapping end portions in order to substantially duplicate the strength and load resistance of a continuous retaining ring. The split retaining ring also includes an annular rib adapted for engaging a ferrule of the instrument or device in order to substantially sealing engage the instrument or device to the base. The retaining ring of the present invention can provide the required strength characteristics while be maintaining a thinner profile thereby making the split retaining ring compatible with a wider variety of instrumentation and devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Jason GAYER
  • Patent number: 7758087
    Abstract: An apparatus configured to a downhole tubular to a pump. The apparatus comprises: a body portion having a bore; a locking assembly comprising at least one locking member pivotally mounted to the body portion so as to permit the locking member to be pivoted between an open position in which the downhole tubular can be inserted into the bore of the body portion, and a closed position in which the locking member engages the downhole tubular so as to lock the downhole tubular in the bore of the body portion. Fixing means is provided for fixing the looking member in the closed position. A method of drilling a wellbore using a borehole casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: David Niven, Dennis Robert Mario Fernandes
  • Patent number: 7640603
    Abstract: A cistern outlet valve mounting bracket assembly (10). The assembly includes first and second bracket members (12, 14) adapted for positioning about an outlet valve (20) in engagement with each other and the valve (20). The members (12, 14) also have means (28, 32) to allow fixing of the engaged members (12, 14) to a cistern (38). A method of installing an outlet valve (20) in a cistern (38) is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Caroma Industries, Limited
    Inventor: Sam Robertson
  • Patent number: 7625017
    Abstract: A coupling having two or more mating components with alignment of the mating components provided by mating projections and recesses. The components include extensions having bolt hole that align to form a bolt pathway when the components are properly aligned, and that do not align to form a bolt pathway through the extensions when the components are improperly aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Joseph G. Radzik
  • Publication number: 20080203727
    Abstract: An apparatus and method according to which the apparatus includes a pair of connected arcuate members for clamping around a pipe, with each arcuate member including at least one protrusion. The arcuate members have a first material hardness and at least a portion of the at least one protrusion has a second material hardness that is greater than the first material hardness so that the portion penetratingly engages the pipe when the arcuate members are clamped around the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: EBAA IRON, INC.
    Inventor: Earl Terence Bradley
  • Patent number: 7384077
    Abstract: An apparatus configured to a downhole tubular to a pump. The apparatus comprises: a body portion having a bore; a locking assembly comprising at least one locking member pivotally mounted to the body portion so as to permit the locking member to be pivoted between an open position in which the downhole tubular can be inserted into the bore of the body portion, and a closed position in which the locking member engages the downhole tubular so as to lock the downhole tubular in the bore of the body portion. Fixing means is provided for fixing the looking member in the closed position. A method of drilling a wellbore using a borehole casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: David Niven, Dennis Robert Mario Fernandes
  • Patent number: 7340817
    Abstract: A fully formed flared portion is molded as part of the main body of the one embodiment of the fitting. The flared portion is inserted through the back side of a retaining cap. A collet assembly is assembled together around the smallest diameter of the tube fitting below the flare. The collet assembly is fitted into the top of a mating nut. The retaining cap is then snapped onto the top of the nut, completing the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Frank F. Hayes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7231983
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a split locking ring for wellhead components. In one illustrative embodiment, the device comprises a first internally threaded wellhead component, a second wellhead component, at least a portion of which is positioned within an opening in the first wellhead component, and a rotatable split lock ring comprised of at least two externally threaded sections, wherein at least a portion of the sections of the split lock ring are positioned between the first and second wellhead components and rotated to threadingly couple the sections of the split lock ring to the first wellhead component and thereby secure the second wellhead component to the first wellhead component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Huy Lequang, Joseph Shu Yian Liew, Brian J. Baca, Hoa Ngoc Nguyen, Kevin Kok Sum Lim
  • Patent number: 7216899
    Abstract: A clamping system for high or ultra-high vacuum system components including a clamping member surrounding a flange of the vacuum system component. A bead along the inside diameter of the clamping member engages a groove in the peripheral surface of the flange. When a clamping force is applied to the clamping member, as by a bolt, the force is transmitted to the flange providing sufficient clamping force to form a vacuum seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Kimball Physics, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles K. Crawford
  • Patent number: 7147254
    Abstract: An apparatus configured to a downhole tubular to a pump. The apparatus comprises: a body portion having a bore; a locking assembly comprising at least one locking member pivotally mounted to the body portion so as to permit the locking member to be pivoted between an open position in which the downhole tubular can be inserted into the bore of the body portion, and a closed position in which the locking member engages the downhole tubular so as to lock the downhole tubular in the bore of the body portion. Fixing means is provided for fixing the looking member in the closed position. A method of drilling a wellbore using a borehole casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: David Niven, Dennis Robert Mario Fernandes
  • Patent number: 7114752
    Abstract: A slip coupling. A tube having smooth outer walls is joined to a larger hollow outer casing using a slip coupling assembly. The casing has an interior cavity and a flanged end. An annular seal is placed adjacent the flanged end. A split flange is positioned adjacent the annular seal to compress the seal toward the flanged end. The split flange further includes a gasket seat for a gasket circumferentially extending around the smooth outer wall of the pipe, to form a fluid tight seal between the split ring and the outer wall of the pipe. One or more backing rings and a plurality of fasteners are utilized to secure (1) the flanged end of the outer casing, (2) the annular seal, (3) the split flange, and (4) the gasket, in a fluid tight relationship. The design is suitable for manufacture of parts in high density polyethylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Dean E. Voelker
  • Patent number: 7111876
    Abstract: A split flange is provided. The split flange may be capable of being fitted firmly around the pipe having a flexible pipe body and a flared portion formed at an end portion of the pipe body. The split flange is provided with two or more arcuate flange members and two connecting members located at both end portions of the flange members and projecting outward from outer circumferential faces thereof. The flange members may be connected to each other to form an annular structure. An operation for fitting the flange members firmly around the pipe body is carried out easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Sankei Giken Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaneyoshi Hayashi, Shigeyoshi Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7021676
    Abstract: A connector system for interconnecting a hearing aid (3) with a fixture (5) anchored in a bone segment (7). An abutment (9) has a contact surface (21) with is a substantially circular surface. A connector plate (17) with a substantially circular connector contact surface (20) is in contact with the abutment contact surface (21) when the hearing aid (3) is connected to the abutment (9). The abutment (9) has a wide abutment coupling area and a narrow portion. The abutment coupling area is enclosable by coupling shoes (15). The coupling shoes (15) exert a pressure against the abutment coupling area disposed on a mantle surface (25) of the abutment. The coupling shoes are movable in a radial direction relative to the connector plate (17). The coupling area has an increasing diameter in a lateral direction (L).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Patrik Westerkull
  • Patent number: 7010889
    Abstract: A riser clamp mateable with a riser, wherein the riser clamp supports a column of the riser as material passes therein, and the riser clamp further covers or seals the opening in the partition formed through which the riser passes. The riser clamp comprises a pair of clamp members adjoined to a riser. The clamp members comprise a semi-annular jacket seated against the riser, a collar circumscribing the jacket, wherein the collar covers an opening formed in a partition through which the riser passes. The clamp members further have a pair of mounting flanges depending from the jacket and the collar, with the mounting flanges extending laterally in opposing directions from the jacket and coplanar to a medial margin. Each one of the mounting flanges accommodates a fastener for adjoining the pair of clamp members securely about the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Bill J. Renfro
  • Patent number: 7007716
    Abstract: The invention relates to a branch piece for a pipework, comprising a body (1) including at least one branch fitting (2). A connecting piece (3) is arrangeable in the branch fitting (2). The branch piece includes a locking means made up of one or more parts for locking the connecting piece (3) in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation AB
    Inventors: Jarmo Smahl, Jyri Järvenkylä
  • Patent number: 6722707
    Abstract: A loose flange for connecting pipes, the flange having radially inwardly oriented and elastically deformable oblique surfaces. The clamping force capacity of the loose flange is improved as a result. A method for producing the loose flange is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventors: Erich Schurmann, Ernst Doring
  • Patent number: 6648377
    Abstract: A saddle assembly is secured about a liquid conduit by its contoured base portion and a half clamp and threaded fasteners. A pipe or nipple is received in a gasketed bell-end outlet and is retained against separation by respective components and devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Ali Marandi
  • Patent number: 6533333
    Abstract: Hinged mechanical couplings with interfitting ends include at least a pair of coupling segments each having: an elongated arcuate body with first and second opposing ends; a generally concave surface with central channel extending between the ends; a longitudinal central plane extending through the ends; a tongue and a recess located side-by-side on each end, the tongue being generally on an opposite side of the longitudinal central plane from the recess, each recess being slightly larger than the tongue to receive the tongue of the other coupling segment and form a tongue-recess interfit when the coupling segments are coupled together; a fastener pad protruding from the first end; and a pair of axially spaced-apart extensions protruding generally radially outwardly from the second end, one extension located on one side of the central longitudinal plane and immediately adjoining a space on an opposing side of the plane defined between the two extensions, the extensions being pivotally connected together to hi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Central Sprinkler Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph G. Radzik
  • Patent number: 6505864
    Abstract: A fabricated connector for oval shaped cross section ducts is provided. The fabricated connector has two oval shaped connector elements, each of which are formed from two semi-circular rings to which universal connectors are permanently affixed on each end of the semi-circular rings by the manufacturer. The semi-circular rings with universal connectors attached are then shipped to the field where angle pieces are inserted and fixed between the universal connectors of the two semi-circular rings to form the precise shape of oval connector desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Ductmate Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan B. Shuey
  • Patent number: 6494502
    Abstract: A connector for joining two tubular members together includes inner and out concentric rings that are joined together in a manner that permits the outer ring to turn relative to the inner ring. The inner side of the inner ring has two seats to engage the ends of the tubular members that are to be joined together. The outer side of the inner ring and the inner side of the outer ring have camming members that when engaged cause the outer ring to exert compressive forces on the inner ring that in turn causes the inner ring to firmly grip the tubular members. The inner ring preferably has a gasket-like material in each of the seats that firmly engages the ends of the tubular members. When the camming members are disengaged, the ends of the tubular members may be inserted into or removed from the connector so as to separate the parts from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Rolf C. Hagen, Inc.
    Inventor: Robin Plante
  • Patent number: 6494503
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for sealing an end of a pipe, to an external sealing surface. The method includes providing a pipe assembly which includes a pipe and a flange. The pipe includes a proximal pipe end and a flared end region. The flared end region is integral with the pipe and is proximate to and continuous with the proximal pipe end. The flange is non-integrally disposed around the pipe distal to the pipe's flared end region. The method further includes securing, non-integrally and distally to the pipe's flared end region, the flange to the pipe so that proximal movement of the flange relative to the pipe is restricted. The flange is drawn toward the external sealing surface, which causes the flange sealing surface to bias the pipe's flared end region into sealing contact with the external sealing surface. Pipe assemblies which include a backup ring having a tapered inside surfaces and a flange having tapered outside surfaces are also discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Non Metallic Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn C. Heubach, Jay D. Tripp
  • Patent number: 6460901
    Abstract: A split nut assembly (100) for joining a threaded pipe (90) with a flanged pipe (95), the split nut assembly having a two-piece split nut (110, 130) having locking pins (113, 133) that engage locking apertures (115, 135) to properly align the split nut. A locking ring (150) slidably engages the properly aligned split nut to hold the assembly together. Rectangular apertures (123, 143) are provided on the split nut, that engage corresponding channels (163) in the locking ring, whereby the locking ring is rotationally coupled to the split nut when assembled. Locking tabs (164) hold the locking ring in place after assembly. This split nut assembly allows the pipes to be joined without threading any hardware along the length of either pipe, and with the split nut threads (112, 132) engaging the pipe threads (92) without having to rotate the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Alpha-Western Corporation
    Inventor: Gary P. Rochelle
  • Patent number: 6435563
    Abstract: A plastic mounting ring comprises two plastic arcuate members each having a flat upper profile, a flat lower profile and a predetermined thickness. Each plastic arcuate member has a lip extending radially inwardly with an inside diameter that allows it to engage the sides of the channel formed by the flange on the water closet coupling on which it is to be mounted. A corresponding first end of each arcuate member has a notch out of the lower level of its thickness. A second corresponding end of each arcuate member has an extension, coplanar with its flat lower profile, which engages the lower surface of the base of the opposite end of the other arcuate member. The members are fitted together to form a mounting ring having a flat upper profile and a flat lower profile. The mounting ring can be used to replace a flange formation of an installed water closet coupling without removing the total water closet coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: GPJ Limited
    Inventor: Paul E. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20020074801
    Abstract: An elbow connection having coupling members for connecting between components of an internal combustion engine. The elbow connection has a reduced curvature and maintains a proper connection between the components of the internal combustion engine. The elbow connection includes a first end and a second end. A flange is formed near the first end and an o-ring groove is formed between the first end and the flange. A female coupling member is formed at the second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Anthony K. Chan, Shaun M. Copley
  • Publication number: 20020074802
    Abstract: A fuel container with a pipe, the fuel container having a pipe connecting piece with a conically widened rim and the pipe having an annular bead, on which a connecting member acts, and a sealing ring further being seated between the conically widened rim and the annular bead. In order to make the connection such that it can be produced simply and accurately, and to make it quite tightly, on the side of the annular bead facing the pipe connecting piece, the pipe forms a cylinder with two circumferential grooves, in each of which a sealing ring is seated, which rests in a sealing manner on the cylindrical inner surface of the pipe connecting piece. The annular bead has a cross section with two oblique flanks, the conically widened rim of the pipe connecting piece resting on the flank facing the pipe connecting piece, and the connecting member acting on the flank facing away.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Stefan Feichtinger