Reciprocating Patents (Class 285/84)
  • Patent number: 11408546
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an improved rotatable safety cam lock fitting with an air vent, the male and female portions of the cam lock fitting only slightly separate from each other allowing the operator to reclose the cam lock fitting if the operator observes that the cam lock fitting still contains pressurized material. Rotation of the female portion is accomplished by placing a connecting collar on the rear of the female end portion so that the female portion rotates about the connecting collar. The safety lock mechanism operates by placing opposing notches in the end of the male portion so that when the cam levers are opened the male and female portions of the cam lock fitting initially only slightly separate allowing the operator to quickly reclose the cam lock fitting if it contains pressurized material. The rotating female portion easily aligns the cam lobes of the cam lever with the notches on the male coupling so that the male and female portions can be separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Inventors: Jeffrey Hartman, George L Williamson
  • Patent number: 11027379
    Abstract: Quick-clamping spindle contains two pieces, firstly a spindle body supplied with a clamping member at one of the ends thereof and secondly a control rod for controlling the use/withdrawal of said clamping member, which rod is contained in said spindle body as well as a member for maneuvering and controlling the clamping member placed at the other of the ends of said spindle body, which simultaneous control member has a helical ramp provided in the wall of said spindle body engaging a transverse shaft borne by said control rod. The spindle further has a device for rotationally blocking the control rod in the spindle body. It is intended for use in the machining field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: NORELEM SAS
    Inventor: Olivier Le Meur
  • Patent number: 10913645
    Abstract: A gas stem assembly comprising a vent tube having at least one protrusion extending in a radial direction, a receiver having a hole through which the vent tube extends and having at least one mating recess configured to interact with the at least one protrusion, and a spring configured to bias the at least one protrusion toward the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: M&M Machinery Services, LLC
    Inventor: Alton W. Mowdy
  • Patent number: 10502354
    Abstract: A quick connector includes paired first legs having a first push-in inhibiting protrusion, and paired second legs having a second push-in inhibiting protrusion. Although the first push-in inhibiting protrusions inhibit the push-in movements of a retainer in a state before a pipe is inserted, they do not inhibit the push-in movements of the retainer in such another state as the pipe is located at a midway position. The second push-in inhibiting protrusions inhibit the push-in movements of the retainer in the other state where the pipe is located at the midway position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: Sumitomo Riko Company Limited
    Inventors: Hideo Terada, Ryousuke Kanegae, Kazuki Hatanaka
  • Patent number: 9895562
    Abstract: A fire hose coupling, such as a quarter-turn Storz-style coupling, comprises a substantially annular body having a first end connected to a fire hose and a second end having internal engagement lugs for connecting to lugs on another coupling. The coupling includes at least one locking lever movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the lever locking the annular body of the coupling to the other coupling. The one or more locking levers comprise a light-reflecting surface to improve visibility of the lever. This facilitates assembly and disassembly of the couplings in conditions of poor visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: Mercedes Textiles Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Richardson
  • Patent number: 9568103
    Abstract: An expandable seal features a ring structure with internal and external seal. The seals are mounted in grooves and extend beyond a base outer dimension on the ring on the inside and the outside surfaces. Bumps are positioned in axial alignment with the seals but in opposition to each seal so that the exterior seal has a bump axially aligned but on the inside of the ring and the inner seal has a bump axially aligned and on the outside surface of said ring. The bumps have end transitions to the base dimension to create a volume for the seal material to travel axially when radially expanded from a mandrel extending within for effective seal containment. Seal rings can be stacked to adjust to dimensional irregularities in the surrounding tubular or the mandrel and to back each other up in the event of seal failure in any one seal ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Leopoldo S. Gomez, Ganesh K. Nanaware
  • Patent number: 8960726
    Abstract: A threaded coupling wherein external threads of the male body of the male coupling half are in mating engagement with internal threads of the female sleeve of the female coupling half. The female sleeve includes an interior hook and the male body includes a locking lever receptacle recessed therein as well as first and second slots for receiving first and second pins of the locking lever. The locking lever pivotally resides in the receptacle and interlocks with the hook of the female sleeve uniting the male and female. A tensioning O-ring secures the locking lever to the male body. A locking sleeve extends circumferentially about the male body and prohibits the release of the hook of the female sleeve from a recess in the locking lever unless a window is aligned with the locking lever. A process for locking the threaded coupling is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Leonard J Nick, Dennis Zeiber
  • Patent number: 8662540
    Abstract: Systems for coupling tubes, pipes, conduits, ducts, and the like. In at least some embodiments, a coupling assembly includes a sleeve, a retaining member having an angled end surface, and a locking member. A tube is positioned through the locking member, the retaining member, and into the sleeve. In a first position, a first portion of the locking member contacts an angled end surface of the retaining member, and a second portion of the locking member is spaced apart from the angled end surface. The locking member is then tilted into a second position wherein the second portion is relatively closer to the angled end surface to securely engage the locking member with the tube, and the locking member is then secured in the tilted (or second) position relative to the sleeve, thereby securing the tube within the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Philip C. Whitener
  • Patent number: 8484816
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for securing devices to various openings in tanks, vessels, walls, and the like. The system includes a fastening mechanism, a securing device, and a raised lip. The fastening mechanism functions to hold devices up against the vessel opening where the system is used while the securing device may function to secure hoses that may be utilized with fans or ventilators that are to be utilized with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventors: John Vicknair, Andrew Pregeant
  • Publication number: 20130134701
    Abstract: When releasing a connection between a second tube member and a first tube member, a ring member is moved, whereby an inclined surface of a bump part and an inclined surface of a bump part of a cam part slide, and a stopper rotates from a coupled position to an uncoupled position. Thus, a coupling between a leading end part of a claw part of the stopper on the second tube member, and a coupling surface of a coupling-accepting part on the first tube member is released. In connecting the first and second tube members, when the first tube member is pushed into the second tube member with the ring member in the locked position, the claw part of the stopper is elastically deformed, whereby the leading end part of the claw part rides past the coupling-accepting part, and couples to the coupling surface of the coupling-accepting part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Mikio Nezu
  • Publication number: 20120326435
    Abstract: A lock member (16) moves between a standby position, in which a locking part (86) of a locking piece (78) provided on the lock member is placed inside a gap (44) provided between a projecting part (40) and a projecting part (42) provided on a lock part (36) of a connection part (18), and a connected position, in which the locking part is placed beneath the projecting part (42), and the lock member (16) moves to the connected position and is locked by the locking piece (78) when a pipe (12) is inserted up to a prescribed position. Also, an elastic piece (80) and the locking piece (78) are pushed to spread outward and accumulate urging force when being contacted by a flange part (12A) of the pipe (12), but return along an outer perimeter surface of the flange part (12A) and release the urging force when the locked state in the standby position of the locking part (86) is unlocked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: NIFCO INC.
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Okazaki
  • Patent number: 8240718
    Abstract: A quick-connect sanitary fluid connector system provides for connection of a sanitary fluid system to an industry standard, flanged sanitary fitting. The standard fitting is placed in abutting relation to a sanitary gasket and to a first fitting of the quick connector, and at least two eccentric cams operated by cam levers press against the back surface of the standard connector flange, thereby applying pressure to the juncture and forming an abutted sanitary seal which avoids fluid entrapment within the connector. The joining pressure can adjustable by threaded rotation of the first fitting within a connector body. The cam levers can include locking holes and pins for locking the levers in their locking positions. Insertion of the standard fitting can automatically open the cams, and springs can automatically return the cam levers to their locking positions. Spring retracted telescoping cam levers can be automatically latched in their locking positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: HITCO, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Morton, George Carmichael
  • Patent number: 8201853
    Abstract: A female coupling element for releasably joining pipes and which receives a male element along a longitudinal axis thereof, and which includes a body, a locking ring secured in translation relative to the body and provided with at least one slot for receiving at least one radially projecting portion of the male element, and at least one locking notch for receiving the projecting portion in a configuration in which the projecting portion is locked axially along the longitudinal axis, a safety ring superposed, at least in part, on the locking ring, and the safety ring including at least one elastic member that is deformable between a first configuration in which the member prevents the projecting portion of the male element moving out of a locking notch and a second configuration in which the member allows the projecting portion to move from the locking notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Christophe Durieux, Serafim Marques Barroca
  • Publication number: 20120007352
    Abstract: Coupling arrangements and connectors for establishing a substantially fluid-tight removable connection between a plurality of fluid ports or channels in a medical device such as, an endoscope. Various embodiments of the connectors may be coupled to a plurality of fluid conduits that may be attached to a decontamination or reprocessing device used to flow fluid through corresponding channels in the medical device during the decontamination process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: Nick N. Nguyen, Walter Francovich, Philippe Conseil
  • Patent number: 7938456
    Abstract: A quick connect and quick release coupling for connecting two pipes, including a male element and a female element that are axially fitted and interlocked one inside the other and wherein a locking mechanism retains the male element in a coupled position and a temporarily retaining mechanism immobilizes the male element, after its release by the locking mechanism, in a position for flushing a pipe connected to the male element. The locking mechanism is controlled by a sleeve that slides relative to a body of the female element. When the temporarily retaining mechanism retains the male element in flushing position, it is subjected to a first force (E1) derived from a pressure (P) of the fluid flowing (F) from the male element outwards and to a second force (E2), opposite to the first, exerted by elastic return means which, when the pressure (P) drops to a safety threshold, moves the temporarily retaining mechanism into a position for releasing the male element from the female element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Antoine Chambaud, Alain-Christophe Tiberghien
  • Publication number: 20110012340
    Abstract: A fluid conduit coupling assembly has a depressible latch mechanism that secures a first fluid conduit to a second fluid conduit via a first coupler and a second coupler. The first coupler connects to the first fluid conduit and the second coupler connects to the second fluid conduit. The depressible latch mechanism is formed by a pair of cantilevered buttons disposed in symmetrically opposed positions on one of the couplers. The cantilevered buttons have engagement lips that extend distally with catches that extend radially outward to engage a ridge formed on an interior wall of the opposing coupler. Fluid ports within the couplers interface when the couplers connect to provide fluid flow between the first and second conduits. Valves may be disposed in each of the couplers to arrest fluid flow when the couplers are detached and automatically open to allow fluid to flow when the couplers are connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: Value Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Trent Turner Packham, Francis J. Lombardi, Leonard L. Hofheins, Gregg D. Niven, Robert J. Elshof, Raymond L. Townsend, Richard W. Caims
  • Publication number: 20100084854
    Abstract: A connector can comprise: a body and a clip. The body can comprise a hollow core formed by walls and capable of receiving a conduit, and a side tab extending from the wall. The clip can comprise a transverse portion with an engagement configured to engage the side tab; and a member extending from the transverse portion to the first end and having a protrusion with an engagement surface and an entry surface. The protrusion can be configured to deflect radially inward. Another connector can comprise: a body, a spring clip, and a cable clip. The spring clip can comprise a flexible mid-portion configured to deflect under pressure. The cable clip can comprise a bridge portion with an engagement extending therefrom and configured to engage the side tab, and an arm configured to engage the conduit when disposed in the core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: SIGMA ELECTRIC MANUFACTURING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ashok Alilughatta Sathyanarayana, Chanddrakanthra Gireeshrao, Robert Kenneth Sheehan
  • Patent number: 7510216
    Abstract: A tubular and compressible seal attached to one tube and formed with a cowling projecting over a peripheral bead in a connector tube and formed with a radially inwardly projecting sealing ring engaging such connector tube. A constraining sleeve compresses the cowling and sealing ring against the connector tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Arrowhead Products Corporation
    Inventors: Reg Tomerlin, David S. Larner
  • Patent number: 7316424
    Abstract: A plug connection for fast-fit coupling of two appliances forming part of a medical handpiece system includes a first coupling fitting on one of the appliances and a second coupling fitting on the other of the appliances. The first coupling fitting has a movable locking element and the second coupling fitting has a projecting element projecting toward the first coupling fitting. The projecting element comprises an end portion of a media line or an end portion of an electrical contact and is positioned to engage a surface of an opening in the locking element to move the locking element between lock and unlock positions when the first and second coupling fittings are moved toward and away from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: W&H Dentalwerk Burmoos GmbH
    Inventors: Richard Kardeis, Wolfgang Wendtner
  • Patent number: 6910719
    Abstract: A connecting device (20) for connecting a connection hose or connection tube to a receiving device includes a tubular connection neck (2), an actuating sleeve (28), and a support sleeve (38). The receiving device, to which the connecting device (20) can be connected, includes at least one detent element, which is actuatable by means of at least one actuating element mounted on the receiving device. The connection neck (2) is connectable to the connection hose or connection tube and has a detent lug (20) or detent groove, which can be brought into engagement with the detent element of the receiving device. The actuating sleeve (28) serves to actuate the actuating element of the receiving device. The support sleeve (38) is braced on the receiving device and is axially displaceable relative to the actuating sleeve (28), prestressing a first spring (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Franco Zeleny, Thomas Raff
  • Patent number: 6854772
    Abstract: A plug connection for hoses or pipes as for connecting washing fluid conduits in a motor vehicle comprises a plug receiving member for receiving a connecting plug portion. The connecting plug portion can be latched in the plug receiving member in such a way as to be secured against forces acting axially thereon. The plug receiving member has resilient or spring-loaded latching portions. A securing sleeve is arranged axially slidably on the outside of the plug receiving member. In a first position of the securing sleeve the latching portions are held in a receiving and latching position in which a connecting plug portion can be inserted into and latched in the plug receiving member. In a second position of the securing sleeve it permits the latching portions to move resiliently into a retracted open position for disengagement of an inserted connecting plug portion from the plug receiving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignees: Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG, Volaplast Werner-Hoppach KG
    Inventors: Andreas Weller, Frank Breidenich, Rolf Janssen, Gregor Zielinski, Juergen Moitzheim, Juergen Hofmann
  • Patent number: 6722705
    Abstract: A medical connector, usable to securely couple a first tubular medical device to a second tubular medical device, includes first and second fittings cooperating with the first and second medical devices, respectively. The first and second fittings may each include a nipple, a ferrule, or some other structure that is connected to the associated medical device and that is connectable to the other fitting. The second fitting may additionally include a tubular sleeve that slides over the second medical device and the ferrule or other component of the second fitting. The two components of the second fitting are sequentially connectable to the first fitting through distinctly different motions to provide a redundant, secure connection. For example, the first fitting may include a first set of left-handed threads and a second set of right-handed threads, and the components of the second fitting may have corresponding left-handed and right-handed threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: AB Korkor Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Adel B. Korkor
  • Patent number: 6568717
    Abstract: A ball coupling comprising a male tubular endpiece (2) provided with an outer annular collar (4), a female tubular endpiece (3) having a ball-retaining cage fixed axially thereon, the cage having slots (10) for receiving balls (12), and a thimble (13) disposed coaxially about the cage (6) and mounted thereon via guide means (14, 15) for guiding the thimble to turn about the longitudinal axis (1) of the coupling so as to enable the thimble to turn through a turn angle (&agr;) relative to the cage between a first position and a second position, the thimble having for each ball, a first recess (16) extending in register with the corresponding slot for the first position of the thimble to form an abutment for holding the corresponding ball in a position in which it projects into the inside of the cage, and a second recess (17) connected to the first recess via a sloping wall (18) and offset relative to the first recess by an angle corresponding to the turn angle (&agr;) so as to receive the corresponding ball in
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventor: Pascal Le Clinche
  • Patent number: 6557899
    Abstract: The releasable plug coupling is used for connecting fluid lines, particularly, fuel lines of motor vehicles. The plug coupling comprises a tubular plug-in part (3) with an annular retaining lip (4) as well as a coupling housing (1) with a cylindrical receiving space (2) for inserting the plug-in part (3) and a separate retaining element (7) with elastic retaining edges (11) that project radially into the receiving space (2) and that grip behind the retaining lip (4) after the plug-in part (3) is inserted into the receiving space (2). The retaining edges (11) are attached to support bodies (12) that are connected at their ends by elastic connecting pieces (14) that form a V to pressure plates (15). These plates extend outwards through corresponding openings (16) in the housing wall (17) and are pressed together from the outside for releasing the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: A. Raymond & Cie
    Inventors: Daniel Martin-Cocher, Erminio Moretti
  • Patent number: 6533330
    Abstract: A connector (1) for connecting together at least two tubular members (3) includes a body (7) having tubular mouth portions, each receiving one of said tubular members. At least one of the mouth portions is provided with means for connecting the body to a tubular member, the connection means comprising sealing means (17) for sealing the body against the tubular member and securing means for preventing relative longitudinal movement between said body and said tubular member. The securing means comprise a first securing member (25) for engagement with the tubular member and being deformable between a tubular member engaging position and a position allowing said first member to be readily moved along the tubular member, and a second securing member (31) being for holding the first securing ember in its tubular member engaging position. The body and first and second securing members are adapted to coact to prevent, in use, relative longitudinal movement between said first securing member and said body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Paul Davidson, Richard John Wakelin
  • Patent number: 6460894
    Abstract: A fluid line with a filter insert. The fluid line is adapted for efficient, safe transfer of fluids for fueling of vehicles. The fluid line includes a tubular housing with a filter element positioned therein. The fluid line also includes a slide-over or threaded sleeve arranged on a housing of the fluid line. The sleeve is mounted such that it can be readily moved for exchanging the filter element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventors: Wolfgang Weh, Erwin Weh
  • Patent number: 6382680
    Abstract: A coupler apparatus for hoses, etc. comprises a pair of coupler bodies 1a, 1b having no distinction between male and female and having the same structure. Front end faces of the coupler bodies are provided with seal faces 5. In addition, the front end faces of the coupler bodies are provided with a plurality of engaging projections 8 and engaging recesses 7 formed among the engaging projections. The engaging projections 8 and engaging recesses 7 are axially engaged with the engaging projections 8 and engaging recesses 7 of the mating coupler body in a complementary manner. One side face 8a of each engaging projection 8 is provided with an engaging hook portion 9, and the engaging hook portions 9 are circumferentially engaged to couple the pair of the coupler bodies 1a, 1b. At least both side faces 8a, 8b of the engaging projection 8 are defined by radially extending planes passing through a central axis of the coupler body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Sakura Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Horimoto
  • Patent number: 6371523
    Abstract: A position-recoverable pulling device is adaptable for attachment to a lock bolt of a fitting for coupling two tubular members, and includes an anchoring member with a cam surface, and a coiled pulling member including a plurality of loops which are biased to abut against each other. The coiled pulling member is hooked on the anchoring member, while an outer segment thereof is disposed outboard to the cam surface. A bent portion of the outer segment is slidably contacted by a normal spot of the cam surface and is bent away from the adjacent loop to relieve the biasing action of the loops. Once the coiled pulling member has been swung to move the bent portion from the normal spot to reach a swung spot, the bent portion will be brought to slide back to the normal spot, thereby moving the coiled pulling member back to a normal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Waterson Chen
  • Patent number: 6364369
    Abstract: A tube connecting device comprises a housing, a socket formed in the housing for receipt of a pipe to be releasably secured therein and a securing arm pivotally mounted to the housing. The securing arm is pivotable from a first, locked position in which a portion of the arm projects through an associated aperture in the wall of the socket to engage a complementarily-shaped portion of the pipe to be retained, to a second unlocked position in which the projecting portion of the securing arm is withdrawn from the socket. The device further comprises an actuator mounted on the arm and a locking member located in a chamber within the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Fort Vale Engineering Limited
    Inventor: David Bailey
  • Patent number: 6341804
    Abstract: A slip-out preventive unit of a supply exhaust pipe assembly with a supply exhaust pipe forming a faucet at one end and forming an insertion port at the other end. The faucet having a cut window to allow the lock portion of a lock member to pass through the faucet to engage a circumferential groove of the insertion port. A slip-out prevention unit of which the lock member is a component, to guide and constrain the lock member to engage the circumferential groove, resulting in the holding of the insertion port within the faucet preventing unwanted separation after connection of the assembly. A slide guide allows movement of the lock member in an axial direction of the faucet where the tip of the lock member may be constrained from radial movement of the engagement portion of the lock member by a locking bag wall upon an attempt to separate the insert portion from the faucet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Tosetz Co., LTD
    Inventors: Shuji Ito, Jiro Takahashi, Tomohiko Oka
  • Patent number: 6206431
    Abstract: A safety locking coupling assembly in which pull rings on the female coupling unit of a male coupling unit/female coupling unit assembly serve both to release the coupling assembly and to maintain the coupling assembly locked against unintentional disconnection. The pull rings are attached to cam arms which engage the male coupling unit to lock the coupling assembly and are disengaged from the male coupling unit to release the coupling assembly. In the locked condition of the coupling assembly, the pull rings abut against ears on the housing of the female coupling unit to oppose unintended movement of the cam arms from the locked position of the cam arms to the released position of the cam arms. Upon intentional removal of the pull rings from abutment with the ears by an operator and pulling on the pull rings, the cam arms can be moved from the locked position of the cam arms to the released position of the cam arms to disconnect the coupling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventor: David G. Street
  • Patent number: 6106026
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for male and female coupling members for use in undersea production and drilling applications is disclosed. At least one pin extends radially from the female member. The pin enters an L-shaped slot in a guide sleeve extending longitudinally from the male member. A lock bar moveable between a locked and unlocked position holds the pin in the L-shaped slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: National Coupling Company Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 6010160
    Abstract: In its preferred embodiment, a quick connector (10) for connecting a male conduit (12) to a female receptacle (14) has a pair of waist segments (60 and 62), a body segment (56), and a pair of leg segments (68). Each of the leg segments (68) are defined by a pair of projecting elements (76) which are at least partially compressible toward one another thereby causing the pair of waist segments (60 and 62) to move toward one another. A confirmer ring (114) is provided on the pair of projecting elements (76). Confirmation that the quick connector (10) is properly locked in place is made when the confirmer ring (114) is fully seated within a portion of the opening (18) of female receptacle (14). An alternate embodiment provides for use of the confirmer ring (114) as an installing tool when connecting the male conduit (12) with the female receptacle (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Proprietary Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald D. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 5988693
    Abstract: A safety locking coupling assembly in which pull rings on the female coupling unit of a male coupling unit/female coupling unit assembly serve both to release the coupling assembly and to maintain the coupling assembly locked against unintentional disconnection. The pull rings are attached to cam arms which engage the male coupling unit to lock the coupling assembly and are disengaged from the male coupling unit to release the coupling assembly. In the locked condition of the coupling assembly, the pull rings abut against ears on the housing of the female coupling unit to oppose unintended movement of the cam arms from the locked position of the cam arms to the released position of the cam arms. Upon intentional removal of the pull rings from abutment with ears by an operator and pulling on the pull rings, the cam arms can be moved from the locked position of the cam arms to the released position of the cam arms to disconnect the coupling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Campbell Fittings, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Street
  • Patent number: 5954370
    Abstract: A tube coupling for use in a vacuum cleaner includes a first tubular part and a second tubular part, which parts can be coupled to and separated from one another. The first part includes a locking member which is movable from a first position, in which the locking member locks the second part relative to the first part, to a second position, in which the locking member releases the second part. The first part further comprises a slide which cooperates with the locking member, the locking member being moved to the second position if the slide is moved parallel to a longitudinal axis of the first part in a direction away from the second part. In this way, a force exerted on the slide to unlock the parts and a force exerted on the first part to separate the parts from one another are oriented in the same direction, as a result of which the tube coupling is very easy to handle. In a special embodiment the slide of the tube coupling is a grip held by the user when the parts are to be uncoupled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: John B. Pietersen
  • Patent number: 5911445
    Abstract: A hose coupling which includes a coupling body having two side openings and two pair of lugs at two opposite sides of each side opening, two locking levers pivotably coupled to the lugs at two opposite sides of the coupling body by a respective pivot and turned between a locking position to lock a plug/male connecting element in the coupling body and an unlocking position to release the plug/male connecting element, two retainer plates respectively coupled to the pivots and disposed outside the side openings of the coupling body and adapted to stop the locking levers in the locking position, and two spring and pin sets respectively mounted in stepped holes on the locking levers and adapted to engage with retainer plates in stopping the locking levers in the locking position, each spring and pin set having a knob for release control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: Shen-Chih Lee
  • Patent number: 5863079
    Abstract: A quick connect/disconnect coupling comprised of a male coupling adapted to mate with a female coupling, the female coupling forming a passageway to receive the male coupling, and locking means for retaining the male coupling in said female coupling. The locking means being comprised of a locking lever pivotably mounted to the female coupling and having a cooperating projection adapted to extend through the coupling into the passageway to engage an annular cavity of the male coupling to maintain the male coupling into a mating relationship with the female coupling when the locking lever is in a closed position. The male and female couplings are provided with a reinforced annular rim, the reinforced annular rim of the male coupling extends radially of the coupling at a mid-portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: Gestion Michel Donais
    Inventors: Michel Donais, Denis Lamontagne
  • Patent number: 5857713
    Abstract: A coupling for coupling hoses comprising a pair of coupling main bodies that are structurally identical and undiscriminable for male and female. Each of said coupling main bodies is provided at the front end surface with a sealing surface for mutual abutment and at the front end with a plurality of engaging projections and engaging recesses, each of said engaging recesses being arranged between any two adjacent engaging projections, so that the engaging projections and the engaging recesses of the two coupling main bodies can be complementarily engaged with the corresponding engaging projections and engaging recesses of the other coupling main bodies. The engaging projections are provided with respective hooked anchor sections that are peripherally engaged to restrict axial movement and consequently couple the pair of coupling main bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: Sakura Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Horimoto
  • Patent number: 5435604
    Abstract: A tube connecting device includes a first tubular connector and a second tubular connector which extends into the first connector and which is formed with an annular peripheral groove that is registered with a pair of radial openings in the first connector. A press arm has one end mounted pivotally to the first connector adjacent to each radial opening and formed with a cam face. Each press arm is formed with a positioning seat in which a positioning rod is provided slidably and is pivotable to a locking position so that the cam face thereof extends into the groove via the respective radial opening. A retaining seat is disposed below each radial opening and is formed with a vertical through-hole into which a first end portion of the positioning rod is biased to extend when the press arm is in the locking position. A locating projection is disposed immediately below each retaining seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Inventor: Waterson Chen
  • Patent number: 5401062
    Abstract: A pipe coupling comprises a pair of flanges adapted to be secured together in face to face relation to form a fluid-tight coupling. Each flange incorporates at least one coding device formed to provide a key and a keyway, which coding devices are so disposed and arranged on the flanges that the two flanges can only be secured together to form the fluid-tight coupling if the coding devices on the respective flanges correspond with one another, and each of the pair of coding devices comprising, secured within a hole in a flange, a bar member whose cross section is partly cut away to provide the keyway and key, and the bar member being secured in the hole in one of a predetermined number of relative orientations, selectively achieved by adjusting, by rotation, the bar member in the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Seetru Limited
    Inventor: John C. Vowles
  • Patent number: 5295717
    Abstract: A tube connecting device includes a first tubular connector and a second tubular connector which extends into the first connector and which is formed with an annular peripheral groove that is registered with a pair of radial openings in the first connector. Each of a pair of press arms has one end mounted pivotally to the first connector adjacent to a respective one of the radial openings and formed with a cam face. Each of the press arms is pivotable to a locking position in which the cam face thereof extends into the peripheral groove via the respective radial opening so as to press against the second connector. Each of a pair of retaining units includes a positioning rod which is provided slidably in a positioning bore that is formed in an inner side of a respective press arm. A biasing unit biases the positioning rod so that an end portion of the latter engages a respective retaining seat which projects outwardly from the first connector when the respective press arm is in the locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Inventor: Waterson Chen
  • Patent number: 5284366
    Abstract: A unique quick-connect receiver is disclosed for connecting an adapter to the receiver. A lock pin within the receiver is moved eccentrically to force the adapter further into the receiver, and lock the adapter. The adapter and receiver have mating Z-shaped surfaces which are forced to ride along each other as the adapter is moved to be locked within the receiver. The combination results in a high strength connection that may be quickly connected and disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 8, 1994
    Assignee: Syron Engineering & Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Alfred F. Herberman, Edward C. Larsen
  • Patent number: 5184851
    Abstract: A coupling half designed to mate with an identical coupling half to form a coupling for interconnecting sections of hose or the like, has a tubular body having at one end a projecting tooth and a complementary socket arrangement constituted by a plurality of uniformly spaced arcuate connector teeth axially outstanding from the tubular body and terminating in a radially inwardly directed arcuate protrusion, a plurality of radially outwardly directed arcuate ribs circumferentially aligned with the teeth, and a plurality of tooth entrance ways located circumferentially between each of the ribs and each of the teeth, a resiliently biased detent locking device in the body biased towards an advanced position, and an annular detent unlocking ring angularly rotatable on the body and resiliently biased in one direction of rotation to an inoperative position and being angularly movable in the opposite direction to an active position wherein it engages the detent locking means to retract it away from the advanced positi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventors: Fred Sparling, Wilfred Maloney
  • Patent number: 4884591
    Abstract: A frangible fluid couping wherein at least one coupling part includes a self closing valve. Frangible interlocking component interconnect the coupling parts under normal conditions and the interlocking structure includes weakened portions which fracture upon the coupling being subjected to severe impact, such as during an aircraft crash, permitting the coupling parts to separate. The frangible interlocking component include manually releasable structure permitting the coupling parts to be selectively disconnected for test purposes, and a safety lock is utilized to prevent inadvertent release of the interlocking structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventor: Alexander P. Webster
  • Patent number: 4881850
    Abstract: A subsea landing base including a plurality of guide posts interconnected to a housing support structure including an upper annular plate, a lower annular plate, an annular control plate supported on the upper annular plate and rotatable thereon, a connection between the control plate to a landing ring to actuate the landing ring between housing supporting position and expanded position, rotation of the control plate to one of its positions of running, released and landed and locked, and a tool for rotation of the control plate and for retrieval of the landing base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1989
    Inventor: William A. Abreo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4691942
    Abstract: A quick disconnect cam locking fluid conveying coupling has a hollow male plug with there being an external circumferentially extending peripheral groove formed about the exterior thereof. The plug is received within a hollow socket and the socket has a pair of opposed windows aligned with the peripheral groove. Seal means interposed between the plug and the socket prevents fluid escaping from the coupling apparatus. A pair of cam members each have an operating lever and are positioned adjacent the socket with a cam portion passing through one of the windows and engaging the peripheral groove. A pair of ears is attached to the socket on opposed sides of the windows. A shaft extends through the ears and cam member so that each cam member is pivotally connected to the socket for outward movement of the levers away from the socket to disengage the cam for portions from the peripheral groove, thereby releasing the plug from the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1987
    Inventor: Michael B. Ford
  • Patent number: 4682795
    Abstract: A tension actuated fuel (e.g. gasoline) delivery hose uncoupler is disclosed in which, upon a predetermined tension load being applied to the delivery pump hose, the coupling will automatically uncouple thus releasing one end of the hose which, for example, may remain inserted in the fuel tank of a vehicle driving away from the fuel dispensing pump, and the other portion of the hose which is permanently affixed to the pump. The coupler includes normally closed check valves which, upon uncoupling of the coupler, close thereby preventing spillage of fuel. Further, the coupler is adjustable so that it may be calibrated to uncouple at predetermined tension loads. The uncoupler is structured so as to substantially eliminate the effects of fluid (e.g., gasoline) delivery pressure on the tension load required for uncoupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1987
    Assignee: Charles Rabushka
    Inventors: Charles Rabushka, Layton J. Reprogle
  • Patent number: 4643459
    Abstract: An apparatus for establishing a quick-connect fluid-tight coupling together of hose sections or the like. A pair of identical couplings are provided each interconnected to and terminating a respective hose section and adapted to be aligned along a common co-axis in mutual sealing engagement. Each coupling includes a body member having a circular seal face disposed in a plane perpendicular to the axis. Means are provided on each body member for releasably sealing the seal faces together in fluid-tight engagement by rotation of the body members in opposing directions about the axis. Each body member includes a locking assembly mechanism for automatically locking the respective body members together upon make-up to prevent further relative rotation in either direction or separating movement in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Assignee: J. M. Huber Corporation
    Inventor: Forrest L. Carson
  • Patent number: 4557508
    Abstract: An improved tubular connector including a first tubular member, a second tubular member, said members having external grooves near their ends which are to be joined, a plurality of latching segments having internal projections adapted to engage in the grooves of both said first tubular member and said second tubular member and also having external tapered surfaces, an actuator ring having an internal tapered surface matching and engaging the external tapered surfaces of said latching segments, movement of the actuator ring in one direction wedging said segments into tight latching engagement with said grooves on said tubular members and movement in the other direction releasing said segments to allow them to disengage from said grooves on said tubular members, an external retaining groove in one of said tubular members, and a split ring positioned in said external retaining groove and engaging said actuator ring to exert a force thereon which retains it in each of its extreme positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1985
    Assignee: Cameron Iron Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen J. Walker
  • Patent number: 4488740
    Abstract: A breech block hanger support member for a subsea wellhead assembly for wells having a working pressure up to approximately 15,000 psi. The assembly includes a wellhead, the support member, a packoff for sealing the support member, and one or more other casing hangers supported by the support member. The support member is connected to the wellhead for itself suspending casing, for supporting at least one other casing hanger and casing, and for containing the working pressure. Breech block teeth are provided on the wellhead and support member to permit the support member to be stabbed into the wellhead and rotated less than 360.degree. for completing the connection therebetween. The teeth include groupings of spaced-apart no-lead teeth having slots therebetween. The slots provide a flow way for passing well fluids. The support member further includes an upper annular flange for arresting its downward movement within the wellhead. This flange includes flutes aligned with the slots for passing well fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1984
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Benton F. Baugh, Herman O. Henderson, Jr., John H. Fowler, Arthur Ahlstone