With Support Patents (Class 285/61)
  • Patent number: 6908116
    Abstract: A fixation clamp device includes a bracket having two flaps extended from a base plate which has a channel, and a block slidably coupled along the channel of the base plate with a fastener. The block includes a mouth and a port communicating with a bore, a fitting is engaged onto one of the flaps and coupled to the port of the block. A forcing device may force the block against the fitting. A gasket may be engaged between the port of the block and the fitting, and may include one end engaged into the port of the block. One or more further fittings may be selectively engaged onto the bracket, and coupled to the port of the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventors: Henry C. Chu, Ralph R. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6863248
    Abstract: A pipeline support for supporting a pipeline along its longitudinal axis comprised of a first and second longitudinally extending cylindrical supports supported on transversely extending threaded rods. The first support is fixed at one end of the transversely extending rods and the second support is movable along the rods, toward and away from the first support, so that the contact surface between the pipeline surface and the support surface may be moved and adjusted to inspect for corrosion or other defects. The pipeline support is designed so that the space between the first and second supports may be adjusted from one side of the pipeline only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Advance Products and Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad Anthony Calais, Lucas Johnson
  • Publication number: 20040262913
    Abstract: The present invention provides a securing device for securing the sewer drain line of a recreational vehicle during use. The securing device comprises a hold-down member that passes over the top of the sewer drain line and has opposing ends secured to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Bobby John Anderson, Percy Clark Morgan
  • Publication number: 20040222628
    Abstract: A toilet carrier for supporting a wall-hung toilet can include a smooth pipe nipple that attaches a toilet to a waste pipe. A seal can be formed with the pipe nipple at the waste pipe end using a gasket compression seal, where a gasket is compressed between two opposing flanges encircling the pipe nipple, forcing a seal to be formed with the pipe nipple.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Roy Hetzler, Bushra Awad Ghaly
  • Publication number: 20040094960
    Abstract: A clamp assembly is provided for interconnecting components in a fluid system. The clamp assembly includes two interconnected clamp members each having a C-shape that form a channel, and a spacer disposed within the channel having a centrally located bore defining a part of a central passageway for the transmission of a fluid. The clamp assembly also includes at least one port member disposed in the clamp member channel adjacent the spacer having a center portion with a clamping portion at one end of the center portion and a connecting portion at the opposite end and a longitudinally extending bore defining part of a central passageway for the transmission of the fluid. The port member includes a flange extending radially from the port member clamping portion having a predetermined shape corresponding to that of the clamp member channel. A plurality of clamping forces from the clamp members are directed radially inwards from points of contact between the flange and the clamp members to provide cross loading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Applicant: MASTER PNEUMATIC-DETROIT, INC.
    Inventor: Lawrence E. Brice
  • Patent number: 6732951
    Abstract: A roof mounted evaporative cooling system utilizing a plurality of elongate deflectors that are supported and secured a short distance above the ridge of a gable roof by a plurality of spaced apart support bracket connectors. Each support bracket connector has a central longitudinal portion with a hose barb at each end, and a vertical portion in which a spray nozzle is mounted. The support bracket connectors are joined together by a plurality of sections of flexible tubing having opposed ends engaged on the hose barb of the connectors and secured by hose clamps. Water is supplied to the connectors and adjoined sections of flexible tubing by conduit connected through a battery operated timer to an outdoor water faucet or to the cold water supply pipe in the attic of the building. In operation, the fine mist of water, under standard domestic water pressure impinges and spreads evenly along the underside of the deflectors and drips off of lateral side portions of the deflectors and runs onto the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventors: Pete Salazar, Gilbert R. Hicks, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040056480
    Abstract: A modular fountain includes a base, a bowl and a top or statue supported on the bowl by a pump housing in the bowl. Twist and lock bayonet type connectors are provided for connecting the base to the bowl and the top, if used, to the bowl at the pump housing. A through passage between the pump housing, the bowl and the base is formed for training a pump power cord therethrough, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Applicant: BECKETT CORPORATION
    Inventor: John M. Walker
  • Patent number: 6622646
    Abstract: A case drain coupler mounting plate is mounted to the frame of the seeding machine. The case drain hydraulic coupler is secured to the case drain coupler mounting plate when it is not coupled to a tractor. The mounting plate is provided with a keyhole-shaped mounting aperture having an enlarged upper opening and a narrow channel projecting downwardly from the enlarged opening. The case drain hydraulic coupler is provided with a circumferential groove that engages the narrow channel in the keyhole shaped slot. A backing plate is mounted to the mounting plate at a fixed distance from the mounting plate. The backing plate engages the case drain hydraulic coupler and overcomes the biasing force to open the check valve. With the check valve open the case drain line provides a drain path for hydraulic fluid from the case drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Robert Edwin Bennett, Bradley John Meyer, William Douglas Graham
  • Patent number: 6595553
    Abstract: An accessory component for piping, such as a valve, filter or the like, comprising a hollow body that can be connected to sections of piping and is provided with elements for coupling the component to a supporting structure, the coupling elements being formed on at least one outer wall of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: ARAG S.r.l. Con Socio Unico
    Inventors: Daniele Medici, Alberto Garuti
  • Patent number: 6547285
    Abstract: An arrangement for installing a sanitary fitting contains a concealed tank with passage openings to be fitted in a wall and within which can be fitted a fitting body. The connection between the fitting body and the concealed tank takes place exclusively with the aid of connecting elements made from a soundproofing material and through which pass the passage openings of the concealed tank. There is no direct contact between the concealed tank and the fitting body. Different fittings can be screwed to the fitting body. The connecting elements can be simultaneously used for the passage of water pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Hansgrohe AG
    Inventors: Alois Schoenweger, Bernd Kronenbitter
  • Patent number: 6543731
    Abstract: A modular suspension system for supporting conduit between structural members, such as walls studs or ceiling joists, of a building. The system includes a transverse support bracket for securement between the building structural members and further includes an elongate conduit segment of tubing and end mounts received over opposite ends of the conduit segment for securing the conduit segment to respective building structural members. The end mounts are constructed of tubular segments coaxially received over end portions of the conduit segment and these tubular segments have one or more ears protruding therefrom for securing the tubular segments to the building structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: John Mercier
  • Patent number: 6478339
    Abstract: A piping joint for preventing pipe members laid across the connection end faces of two adjacent structural elements from being damaged by changes in the relative positional relationship between the two adjacent structural elements due to the expansion and contraction caused by changes in the temperature or external stresses. The piping joint connects the end portions of the two pipe members laid in two structural elements whose connection end faces can displace relatively to each other, between the connection end faces to make the two pipe members communicate. It comprises a fixed unit (30) fixedly embedded into the connection end face of one of the structural elements and a movable unit (50) supported by the fixed unit so as to be movable along the connection end face. The pipe member in the structural element is connected to the fixed unit, and the pipe member in the other structural element is connected to the movable element. The two pipe members communicate in the fixed unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: New Tokyo International Airport Authority
    Inventors: Yoichi Abe, Shoichi Kameta, Katsuhiko Hagiwara, Shunji Kawabata, Takafumi Oshima
  • Publication number: 20020158463
    Abstract: A piping joint for preventing pipe members laid across the connection end faces of two adjacent structural elements from being damaged by changes in the relative positional relationship between the two adjacent structural elements due to the expansion and contraction caused by changes in the temperature or external stresses. The piping joint connects the end portions of the two pipe members laid in two structural elements whose connection end faces can displace relatively to each other, between the connection end faces to make the two pipe members communicate. It comprises a fixed unit (30) fixedly embedded into the connection end face of one of the structural elements and a movable unit (50) supported by the fixed unit so as to be movable along the connection end face. The pipe member in the structural element is connected to the fixed unit, and the pipe member in the other structural element is connected to the movable element. The two pipe members communicate in the fixed unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Yoichi Abe, Shoichi Kameta, Katsuhiko Hagiwara, Shunji Kawabata, Takafumi Oshima
  • Patent number: 6454311
    Abstract: A gas line mounting assembly includes a bracket which is adapted for being secured to a cabinet of an appliance and a gas inlet fitting attached to the bracket. The fitting has a generally rectangular body disposed within a generally rectangular aperture in the bracket. The enlargement between the rectangular body and the rectangular aperture prevent rotation of the fitting with respect to the bracket. The bracket has a tab which is plastically deformed into a groove of the rectangular body to prevent longitudinal movement of the fitting with respect to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Lincoln Brass Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary E. Berry
  • Publication number: 20020113433
    Abstract: The invention provides a piping structure of a crawler driving hydraulic motor able to reduce a reduction in strength of a vehicle body frame and shorten the exposure length of a hydraulic piping in the exterior of the vehicle body frame, and reduce a damage opportunity due to an external obstacle, etc. Therefore, the hydraulic piping is connected from a hydraulic pump arranged within the vehicle body frame to left-hand and right-hand crawler driving hydraulic motors respectively attached to one-end sides of left-hand and right-hand crawler track frames arranged on left-hand and right-hand outsides of the vehicle body frame. The hydraulic piping extends through a frame rear wall constituting the vehicle body frame, and is taken out to the exterior of the vehicle body frame, and is connected to the left-hand and right-hand crawler driving hydraulic motors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Kazuo Soga, Eiji Ishibashi
  • Publication number: 20020089175
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a length of smooth inside walled, substantially flexible irrigation pipe to an item, such as a sprinkler, another irrigation pipe, or a garden hose, includes a connector body with fittings extending therefrom for connection to both a smooth inside walled, substantially flexible irrigation pipe and to an item to deliver or supply water. In this way an above ground irrigation system having a plurality of sprinklers connected by lengths of irrigation pipes can be constructed and easily repositioned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Michael R. Ericksen
  • Publication number: 20020060274
    Abstract: A support for a pipeline, especially for cold liquids, has a two-part or more than two-part carriage, which surrounds an insulating shell surrounding the pipeline. The carriage includes carriage parts connected to one another at connection flanges. One of the connection flanges is arranged under the pipeline when viewed from a base plate on which the pipeline is supported vertically toward the central axis of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventor: Hermann Klezath
  • Publication number: 20020020448
    Abstract: A piping structure of a working machine, which prevents the piping at a coupling portion where a pair of members are swingable coupled together via a shaft, from being damaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Applicant: SHIN CATERPLLAR MITSUBISHI LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Nishikawa, Takahiro Iwamoto, Toshiyuki Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6295657
    Abstract: A unit for injecting a disinfectant, deodorant or the like into the inlet stream of flushing water as it is pumped into the bowl of a tankless marine toilet. The injection unit is preferably constructed of commercially-available plastic plumbing components. The main body of the unit provides an additive reservoir which surrounds the flush water inlet pipe and is formed from a conventional plastic sanitary tee jointed fitted at each end with plastic size-reduction bushings. The two bushings connect the injection unit to the flush water inlet tubing and also support an interior flow pipe. Holes drilled at angles in the flow pipe divert a portion of the flush water through the additive reservoir where it mixes with and dissolves the additive (normally a water soluble disk of the type typically placed in the tank of a household toilet).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Frederick C. Prue
  • Patent number: 6213521
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a quick release mount for a suction cup and a locking member for releasably locking the suction cup within a housing. The suction cup mount includes a bayonet coupling which is attached to the suction cup. The bayonet coupling is received within a space located within the housing. The housing further includes a pair of semi-circular flanges for securing the bayonet coupling within the space. The locking member selectively engages the bayonet coupling when the bayonet coupling is moved from an unlocked position to a locked position. The housing also includes a button coupled to the locking member that can release the locking member from engagement with the bayonet coupling and permit unlocking of the bayonet coupling from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Syron Engineering & Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Jacob Van't Land, Alfred P. Herbermann
  • Patent number: 6176526
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an expansion joint to connect two or more concentric bodies that are heated/cooled to different temperatures for the passage of liquid or gases. When the connecting portion is at an angle not in plane with the concentric bodies, the design allows for the gravity drainage of fluids and slurries from one connecting body to another without pooling or damming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Lever Brother Company division of Conopco
    Inventors: Fred McRae, R. Dennis Ray, Constance E. Morris
  • Patent number: 6126207
    Abstract: A self-supported rotary joint for introducing a heating or cooling medium, such as steam or water, into a rotating drying or cooling drum. The rotary joint is supported upon the drum structure by a rotating bearing housing whose bearings support the stationary nipple. The nipple supports the stationary rotary joint body head, and the stationary syphon support tube which supports the stationary syphon structure inside the drum. To prevent damage to the hoses supplying steam or water to the joint body head, and removing condensate or water from the joint, in the event of bearing seizure causing rotating of the nipple, the joint body head is mounted upon the nipple outer end by frangible connectors in the form of shear pins which prevent excessive torque being imposed on the joint body head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: The Johnson Corporation
    Inventor: Alan T. Ives
  • Patent number: 6123366
    Abstract: A pipe reinforcing device includes a tubular connecting member with a pair of internal threads at opposite ends thereof, and a pair of sleeves extending outwardly from the internal threads. The sleeves have a slightly larger inner diameter than the threads. Pipes are inserted into the sleeves, and screwed into the threads. The sleeves extend substantially beyond the external threads on the pipes and completely enclose them. When the pipes are deflected, stress on their external threads is relieved by the sleeves, so that the pipes are prevented from fracturing at the external threads. In a second embodiment, U-shaped sleeves are attached to the adjacent ends of a pair of pipes joined by a conventional connector. A connecting member is positioned against the pipes opposite the sleeves. The sleeves are secured to the connecting member by bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventors: Ioannis Kiriakopolos, Ulla B. Kiriakopolos
  • Patent number: 6070912
    Abstract: A dual seal is provided for establishing fluid tight engagement between conduits subjected to both internal and external pressure. The dual seal comprises four seal portions disposed between an inner and an outer cylindrical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Reflange, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond E. Latham
  • Patent number: 6047929
    Abstract: The present invention provides a radiant tube supporting apparatus for a radiant tube arranged as a radiant heat source in a heat treatment furnace. The radiant tube is inserted through a furnace wall on one side having a supporting member attached to a bend at the tip of the radiant tube. The supporting member projects to outside the furnace through the furnace wall on the other side, and a bearing member bearing the supporting member is provided outside the furnace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Kawasaki Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsushiro Kaji, Akio Sakurai, Yoshiharu Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6039360
    Abstract: A coupling comprises a holding member having a U-shaped cross section, and a channel member held by the holding member. The holding member has an upper wall formed with screw bores for use in attaching the holding member to a fluid controller. The channel member comprises a body having an inner channel and fitted in a space between the upper wall of the holding member and a lower wall thereof, a tubular upward projection communicating with the inner channel of the body and having an upper end inserted in a through bore in the upper wall of the holding member to communicate with a downward channel of the fluid controller, and a tubular lateral projection communicating with the inner channel of the body and extending laterally. The upper end of the channel member has an outward flange, and the through bore of the upper wall of the holding member has an inward flange for supporting the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignees: Tadahiro Ohmi, Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Michio Yamaji, Tsutomu Shinohara, Shigeru Itoi, Keiji Hirao, Yuji Kawano, Shigeaki Tanaka, Kosuke Yokoyama, Hiroshi Morokoshi, Nobukazu Ikeda
  • Patent number: 6030003
    Abstract: A gas supply assembly having a tube with a first end and a second end. The first end is provided with a burner fitting and the second end is provided with an inlet fitting, the inlet fitting having an inlet fitting shape. The assembly also has a mounting bracket defining a bracket opening for receiving the inlet fitting. The bracket opening has a bracket opening shape complementary to that of the inlet fitting shape so that the mounting bracket and the inlet fitting cooperate to substantially prohibit rotation of the tube. The present invention also provides a method of assembling an appliance incorporating the gas supply assembly, where the gas supply assembly is attached to a burner assembly before these components are introduced into the appliance's cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Universal Tubular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Sherman D. Peed, John Dipaolo
  • Patent number: 6027142
    Abstract: A device for jointing feeding hose appropriate to such a case as jointing a feeding hose made of synthetic resin to a part-feeding metallic pipe, in which a guiding base plate (20) in the shape of a single plate is connected to a part-feeding pipe (5) and said guiding base plate (20) is provided with a cylindrical holding part (23) for receiving a feeding hose (12) as a mating member so that a fixing piece (25) of the feeding hose is fixed to the guiding base plate (20) in a position spaced from said cylindrical holding part (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Yoshitaka Aoyama
  • Patent number: 6012741
    Abstract: An arrangement and method for connecting a fluid passing conduit to a supporting housing having a conduit receiving bore has a strap assembly disposed about an end portion of the fluid passing conduit and a torque restraining bracket. A plurality of fasteners removably connect spaced end portions of the torque restraining bracket and the strap assembly together and secure the torque restraining bracket to the fluid passing conduit. A fastener connects a middle portion of the restraining bracket to the supporting member and maintains the fluid passing conduit from axial and rotary movement. A sealing member seals between the fluid passing conduit and the supporting member. A pilot ring concentrically pilots the conduit end portion relative to the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley J. Shaffer, Jay C. Rene, Jay A. Tschetter
  • Patent number: 5971663
    Abstract: A culvert collar for providing a device that will support a culvert pipe and further reduces the installation time and maintenance time when working with culvert pipes. The inventive device includes a two piece flange assembly that has a first member that has a plurality of tongue portions and a second member with tongue grooves. The first member is placed in position in the trench and the culvert pipe is seated in a semi-circular channel of the first member. The second member is placed over the culvert pipe and held in position by the coupling of the tongues portions with the tongue grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Jerry T. Brothers
  • Patent number: 5964481
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus for fluid control components includes a first mounting plate with a first serial connection major surface with a first fluid port, a first set of through holes, and a first set of threaded holes formed therein, a first linking major surface, a first component minor surface with first component affixation apertures formed therein, and a first substrate minor surface with first substrate affixation apertures formed therein. A second mounting plate is aligned in a parallel configuration with the first mounting plate. The second mounting plate includes a second serial connection major surface with a second fluid port, a second set of through holes, and a second set of threaded holes formed therein, a second linking major surface, a second component minor surface with second component affixation apertures formed therein, and a second substrate minor surface with second substrate affixation apertures formed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Dana Buch
  • Patent number: 5904379
    Abstract: A rotation joint which is adapted for connecting a steamer arm to a facial steamer machine includes a clamping mount affixed to the facial steamer machine, an arm head which is affixed to the steamer arm having a head sleeve rotatably mounted in the clamping mount, a stopper device for limiting the rotation angle of the steamer arm, and a locking means for fastening the steamer arm to a desired inclined angle. The rotation joint limits the adjustable rotation angle of the facial steamer arm to less than 180 degree, so that the steamer arm is blocked to avoid positioning horizontally. In other words, in all situation during operation, the steamer arm extends upwards to prevent any hot water from dropping down to the patient body. Besides, the rotation joint also enables the steamer arm to be adjusted to a hang down position so as to save the storage space when it is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Henry Ping Chang
  • Patent number: 5890741
    Abstract: The invention provides an elongate folded card, for example of the same size as a mailable postcard when fully folded, which bears on one of its faces when fully folded a display of an entertainment nature such as a representation of playing pieces of a game, or one of a series of collectable items such as famous footballers, or a panel of a cartoon strip, whereas on its other face or faces there is provided a display of material having an educational aspect, for example commercial subject matter. In a first preferred form, the card, when fully folded, has the dimensions of a playing card so as to permit formation of a `pack` of playing cards. In another preferred form, the card when fully folded has the shape and dimensions of a mailable postcard, so as to permit formation of a mailable pack of cards of postcard size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Omega Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Milton Bernard Hollander
  • Patent number: 5868439
    Abstract: A water manifold is usable in the construction of a fluid-based heat-transfer system for space heating, the supply and distribution of potable water, and other applications. The water manifold is formed from a number of elements in a flexible manner, in that the elements are assembled as needed for a particular application. A plurality of manifold segments 100, each supporting a pipe directed away from a main pipe, transfer heat to a specific area, and may be be connected in a linear manner, as required by the design of the application. A cross tee segment 300 is attachable to the manifold segments, and may be used to support a thermometer unit 200, an automatic air vent or other apparatus. A spigot 400 is attachable to the cross tee segment, adjacent to the thermometer. An open end cap 500 provides a male plastic fitting connected to a brass female fitting, thereby allowing connection of the manifold to metal plumbing. A closed end cap 600 allows the manifold to be terminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: Garry Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5839703
    Abstract: The anti-rotation bracket according to the present invention prevents a pipe from rotating with respect to an appliance in which it is installed. The bracket includes a U-shaped member, an attachment mechanism for securing the U-shaped member to an appliance, and at least one clip extending from each of two legs of the U-shaped member for securing a rectangular crimped section of a pipe. The U-shaped member has a base and first and second legs which are spaced to receive the rectangular section of the pipe therebetween. The clips extend inward from each of the legs towards an opposite one of the legs and are configured to engage one of the flat surfaces of the rectangular section of the pipe to prevent rotation of the pipe with respect to the bracket when the bracket is attached to the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Perfection Corporation
    Inventor: Robert D. Tesar
  • Patent number: 5823577
    Abstract: A water meter box bottom is disclosed for fastening a meter setter upright and centered within a water meter box. The water meter box bottom has a raised, contoured base, and vertical legs affixed to each side of the base. Nuts and bolts extending between the legs, pull the vertical legs together to secure the meter setter in a vise like grip. Inlet and outlet pipes may be supported by additional vertical legs positioned at outer perimeters of the meter box bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Sammie "J" Johnston
  • Patent number: 5788193
    Abstract: A drain support system (8) for supporting a motor home or recreational vehicle drain hose (10) between a recreational vehicle (14) and an in-ground receptacle (16) is provided. The system comprises one or more support assemblies (20) and a trough (18) capable of supporting the flexible drain hose. Each support assembly comprises a crossmember (40), a downwardly extending center leg (50), and a pair of outer legs (22, 32) pivotally attached at opposing ends of the crossmember. The pair of legs is attached to the crossmember so that the position of each leg is independently and infinitely adjustable. Each end of the trough is supported by a support assembly. The drain hose is supported by the trough to provide a general downward tilt from the recreational vehicle to the receptacle, ensuring that the waste water within the drain hose fully drains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Gary A. Hilbert
  • Patent number: 5772256
    Abstract: A pipe support system including a first pipe, a second pipe, a dead leg pipe and a T-shaped connector. The T-shaped connector has a first opening at a first end, a second opening at a second end, and a third opening at a third end. The connector has a fluid passageway extending between the first and second openings. The third opening is blocked from fluid communication with the fluid passageway. The first end is affixed within the first opening. The second pipe is affixed within the second opening. The dead leg pipe is affixed within the third opening. A support rack extends upwardly from a support surface and receives the dead leg pipe therein distal of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Lavon Martin
  • Patent number: 5762380
    Abstract: A pipe joint comprises two tube-end connectors 4, 4 to which the end of a tube 3 is connected, a cylindrical spacer 1 with the tube-end connector 4 fitted to either end, and a pair of metallic housings 6, 6 that each axially covers half the side outer circumference of the spacer 1 and each tube end connector 4, 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Shoichi Hiwatashi, Takashi Tozaki, Toshio Funato
  • Patent number: 5749602
    Abstract: A medical device comprises an articulated string of hollow plastic beads which lock into each other. The medical device will attach to an operating-room table-rail and hold a nozzle or suction scoop in a given position near the surgical site to evacuate airborne hazardous smoke fumes. The medical device will eliminate the need for an operating room nurse who in the past may be been solely responsible for manually holding the prior art nozzles or suction scoops in the vicinity of the surgical site. A surgeon will be able control by one hand the aiming and positioning of the nozzle or suction scoop by grabbing and configuring the medical device via a quick thrusting action. The medical device will remain in place until moved into another position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Mend Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Delaney, Allen D. Tilley
  • Patent number: 5746453
    Abstract: An inline pipeline expansion joint is provided having a first sleeve with the outer end adaptable to attach to a pipe. A second sleeve also has an outer end adaptable to attach the attachment of a pipe, the inner end of the first sleeve being co-axially and telescopically received within the second sleeve. A seal is interposed between the interior of the first sleeve and the exterior of the second sleeve. A tubular liner is positioned within the second sleeve, one end of the liner being telescopically received within the interior of the first sleeve to thereby reduce turbulence of fluid flow through the expansion joint. The first sleeve has an external annular circumferential flange with openings therethrough that receive circumferentially spaced alignment rods that are secured at one end to the second sleeve so that as the first sleeve moves telescopically with respect to the second sleeve, the two sleeves are prevented from rotating with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: ERC Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Allen L. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5732744
    Abstract: A mounting system, for supporting semiconductor process gas delivery and control components for assembly and use as a gas stick, aligns the connection union seals between fittings on adjacent components to absorb accumulated stresses resulting from manufacturing tolerances and reduce the likelihood of seal leakage. Components are mounted on individual upper clamp members which are secured to lower clamp members to form a slidable but non-rotatable radially aligned yoke around a rigid elongate support member for subsequent longitudinal positioning and joining of adjacent fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Aloysius Barr, Christopher Velton Barr, James Charles Elliott, Dirk Alan Frew
  • Patent number: 5692783
    Abstract: A hose connector connects a hose with a pipe which projects through a mounting member, and includes a connector body, an intermediate member and a grommet. The connector body includes a hose connector member, and a pipe connector member. The intermediate member is detachably engaged with the connector body, and includes a second engager and an engager claw. The intermediate member can be assembled with the connector body by simply engaging the second engager with the first engager of the connector body, and can be assembled with the mounting member by simply engaging the engager claw with a mounting hole of the mounting member. The grommet is held on the intermediate member so as to seal a periphery of the mounting hole of the mounting member. The hose connector enables not only to connect a hose with a pipe by snap action, but also to project a pipe through the mounting member by a reduced length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Norio Watanabe, Kenichi Mitsui
  • Patent number: 5676402
    Abstract: A rotary union assembly includes a rotor with a housing rotatably mounted on a forward end thereof, the rotor being selectively releasably mounted in one end of a tubular support member. The rotor includes a socket extending radially from a central shaft and a spring loaded plunger within the socket having a pin cooperable with a hole in the tubular member side wall to releasably secure the rotor in position in the tubular member. A hose barb on the rearward end of the rotor shaft permits easy installation of a resilient, flexible hose on the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventors: Craig D. Eley, Darin L. Schollmeyer
  • Patent number: 5580102
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a support system for thermoplastic pipe which includes two sleeves each securable to one of two pipe ends, each encompassing a portion of the pipe and having a connection member spaced apart from the pipe and interconnected between the sleeves. The system minimizes stress on the pipe and fittings associated with thermal expansion and contraction of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Stultz
  • Patent number: 5575511
    Abstract: A fluid coupling bracket adaptable for snap-on engagement with a coupling base. The fluid coupling bracket has tabs that engage with an annular groove of the fluid coupling base, and a plurality of teeth that set against radially extending ledges protruding from the external surfaces of the base and adjacent to the annular groove. The bracket has an extending flange portion having various size U-shaped recesses for fixing the bracket in supporting relationship with the fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: Flexon, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Kroha, Daryl S. Beesley
  • Patent number: 5511826
    Abstract: Mechanically locking sprinkler fittings are provided by this invention for making a fluid connection between irrigation pipes. The sprinkler fittings contain a tubular fitting member having first and second open ends for mating with a pair of irrigation pipes. The tubular fitting member contains a laterally facing orifice for receiving a sprinkler riser and an annular recess located along its surface which corresponds with a mating annular recess on at least a first of the irrigation pipes to form an annular cavity. The fitting also includes a flexible spline inserted into the annular cavity to form a mechanical lock between the first pipe and the tubular fitting member. The sprinkler fittings of this invention are convenient to use, and can be made of lightweight polymeric materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: James Clare, John Himmelberger
  • Patent number: 5507532
    Abstract: A branched hose connector includes a branched inner pipe substantially made from a suitable lightweight material, a plurality of hoses connected onto the branched inner pipe, a cover covering the branched inner pipe and a portion of the hoses to join the branched inner pipe and the hoses, and an integrally formed flange projecting outwardly. The branched hose connector is lightweight so that it can be installed with ease via the flange, and it can be manufactured easily and less expensively. Further, the branched hose connector can include a valve member, and a convexity and a concavity provided on opposing end surfaces of the branched inner pipe and the valve member. With these extra features, the valve member can be tightened into the branched inner pipe with a predetermined appropriate torque by a manual operation alone, and it can resist loosening by vibrations, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Inventor: Kenichi Mitsui
  • Patent number: 5487569
    Abstract: An easily-assembled, heat resistant connector for releasably joining end portions of three capillary tubes for use in chromatography without interrupting flow or interfering with chromatographic results comprises a main body, and a glass insert which has first, second and third hollow legs that are connected together at a central portion, and a connector that connects each leg of the glass insert to a capillary tube. Each leg of the glass insert extends outwardly from the central portion towards an open end portion, and each leg has an inboard bore with a taper that receives and end portion of one of the capillary tubes. The taper is wider near the open end portion of the leg and narrower near the central portion. The connectors are mounted on the main body and a sealing ferrule is provided in each connector for making a seal between the capillary tubes and the legs of the glass insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Restek Corporation
    Inventors: Paul H. Silvis, Bradley R. Rightnour
  • Patent number: 5460415
    Abstract: Apparatus for suspending and connecting a pair of tubular members, particularly a pair of radiant heater tubes, wherein each tubular member has an expanded end and a straight end so that successive tubular members are connected by slip joints. The suspending and connecting apparatus of the preferred embodiment includes a pair of brackets fixedly secured to the body of one tubular member generally adjacent to the straight end thereof, and a pair of semi-circular clamping members forming a ring about the adjoining tubular member and engaging the expanded end thereof. Holes formed in the clamping members and brackets are alignable so that a pair of screws may be inserted therein to operatively engage a pair of nuts retained by the brackets. The brackets include holes for attachment to conventional suspension systems, so that one bracket for each tubular member may be employed to suspend the assembly from a ceiling or other overhead support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts Corporation
    Inventors: Philip Lengauer, Kenneth Rowe, Warner Specht