Vented Patents (Class 285/924)
  • Patent number: 11913578
    Abstract: A connecting device having a connecting body with a receiving opening for a pipeline and a retaining element for securing an inserted pipeline. Inside the connecting body is a release element disposed in an axially displaceable manner such that the pipeline can be released. The release element includes a ring part and snap-in arms separated from each other by longitudinal slots. The outer perimeter the ring part can be sealed by an outer perimeter gasket against an interior perimeter wall of the connecting body, and the interior perimeter of the ring part can be sealed by an interior perimeter gasket against the inserted pipeline. In an assembled state of the connecting device, the outer perimeter gasket can be deformed from its sealing position such that at least one leakage gap is formed in the interior of the connecting device by an interior pressure of a pressurized medium in the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: VOSS Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Adrian Klehr, Frank Engelhard, Kazim Canpolat, Harald Hagen
  • Patent number: 11873930
    Abstract: A locking quick connect assembly is provided for removably coupling a first tube and a second tube. A quick connect housing presents a central bore for receiving the second tube. A redundant latch component positionable between an unlocked position and a locked position may be provided to slidingly engage the quick connect housing. A twist lock retainer surrounds the quick connect housing and the redundant latch component. The redundant latch component includes an axially extending latch retaining arm and the twist lock retainer includes a locking channel for receiving the latch retaining arm. The twist lock retainer also includes a twist lock retaining arm that locks against a bead of the second tube to resists separation. The twist lock retaining arm extends transversely to and radially inwardly of the locking channel to engage the latch retaining arm to prevent unwanted decoupling of the assembly. A handle extends from the redundant latch component in a direction opposite the latch retaining arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Novares US Engine Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Stefan Grujo, Christopher Schroeder
  • Patent number: 8794677
    Abstract: An interchangeable fitting system generally involving a fitting, the fitting including a male connector and a female connector, the male and female connectors each having a forward portion and an aft portion, the male connector having a primary sealing structure and a secondary sealing structure, the female connector having a primary sealing structure and a secondary sealing structure, and the male primary sealing structure being interfaceable with the female primary sealing structure, and the male secondary sealing structure being interfaceable with the female secondary sealing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Crystal Engineering Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas D. Halaczkiewicz, David K. Porter, William R. Ehrgott
  • Patent number: 8651531
    Abstract: An apparatus for disposing of waste fluids includes a conduit system adapted to transport waste fluid from a receptacle to a sanitary sewer using an eductor having a venturi device. The conduit system includes first and second conduits. First and second connectors are used to connect the first conduit to the second conduit. The second connector includes a flap that acts as a check valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Allegiance Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Michaels, Kenneth Horton, Jr., Shannon C. Ingram
  • Patent number: 8523239
    Abstract: A joint apparatus for prevention of explosion includes a bellows tube including an extension section integrally formed at one end of the bellows tube and an annular protrusion interposed between the extension section and the bellows tube; a coupling nut coupled with the bellows tube; and a connection member coupled with the bellows tube while being supported by the annular protrusion. A gap is formed between a the extension section and the connection member and gas discharged from the bellows tube flows along the outer surface of the extension section through the gap and is discharged to an outside through a rear section of the annular protrusion. Since a travelling path of the gas is lengthened, pressure and temperature of the gas are lowered, so that gas explosion is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Seung Jin Ind. Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Ho Jin Jung
  • Patent number: 8196967
    Abstract: A fitting for making a metal-to-metal fluid seal between a first conduit and a second conduit and corresponding first and second fluid passages. The first conduit has a generally spherical-shaped exterior surface, and the second conduit has a generally conical-shaped interior surface for receiving the generally spherical-shaped exterior surface of the first conduit. A nut is engaged with a threaded exterior surface of the second conduit, tightening of the nut on the threaded exterior surface urging the first and second conduits axially together to apply increasing pressure. A ring can be positioned between the nut and the first conduit, the ring providing a lower net coefficient of friction during tightening of the nut compared to direct contact between the nut and first conduit. The ring can be radially spaced from a radially facing interior surface of the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: John R. Seifert, Dewey M. Sims, Jr., Ragu S. Raghupathi
  • Patent number: 8091926
    Abstract: A device (10) for connecting two duct elements (12, 14) and a baffle (34) in an aircraft air conditioning system may include first (30) and second (32) connecting flanges each connected to one of the two duct elements (12, 14), and at least one connecting element (38) formed on the first connecting flange (30) which interacts with at least one corresponding connecting element (40) formed on the second connecting flange (32) to establish the connection of the two duct elements (12, 14) and the baffle (34). The first (30) and/or second connecting flange (32) has/have an opening (44) for receiving the baffle (34), which is substantially disc-shaped and formed with at least one air passage (46, 48). The baffle (34) serves to control the flow of at least one air stream flowing through the connected duct elements (12, 14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Hofmann, Alfred Huber, Jurijs Zambergs
  • Patent number: 7984934
    Abstract: Copper purge fittings for brazing components of a special gas delivery line together are provided. An orifice is located on the top or end portion of each fitting to create a continuous flow of inert purging gas through the delivery line under construction while brazing. Each fitting will reach temperatures exceeding 1500 degrees. By having a continuous flow of inert gas while brazing, the protection of the interior portion of the system remains intact. Without a purge in place, the intense heat would create a rapid immediate buildup of carbon and other contaminates. Brazing is only commenced after the elimination of harmful oxygen and proper flow of purging gas is measured. The purging gas pressure is lowered if it becomes high enough to potentially cause separation of tubular sections from the purge fittings and is raised if a low flow rate is detected indicating potential insufficient flow of purging gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: David J. Blaton
  • Patent number: 7946629
    Abstract: The coupling includes a mandrel and a coupling outer sleeve. In a method for installing the coupling on a pipe, the mandrel is inserted into the inner diameter of an end of pipe with an outboard end of the mandrel protruding from an end of the pipe. Then the outer sleeve is positioned over the pipe to form a length of substantially concentrically arranged, overlapping parts of the mandrel, the pipe and the sleeve. Then the sleeve is crimped over at least a portion of length, which engages the pipe between the sleeve and the mandrel. Either before or after sleeve is crimped over the pipe, the sleeve is connected to the outboard end of the mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Flexpipe Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Ryan Conley, Samuel Glen Bouey
  • Patent number: 7931306
    Abstract: A vented gas riser for use in a system for conducting pressurized gas through a gas carrier pipe from a gas supply source line located below ground level to a delivery point disposed above ground is provided. A fluid tight gas riser protective casing is disposed around said carrier pipe and creates a gas escape passageway in an elongate annular space between the carrier pipe and the casing. Any gas which leaks from the gas carrier pipe is captured in the gas escape passageway. A riser transition head, which includes at least one vent passageway, provides a fluid connection with said gas escape passageway and with the atmosphere such that any gas which leaks in the vicinity of the gas escape passageway can escape through the at least one vent into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Energy Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Royston, John A. Samudovsky
  • Patent number: 7922215
    Abstract: A plug connector for fluid conduits. The plug connector including a housing part with a plug socket for the fluid-tight insertion of a tubular plug-in part, a holding element for locking and a fluid seal for sealing the inserted plug-in part. The plug connector being arranged in a plug socket, the housing part being in two parts comprising a base part and an insert plate which is connected to the base part via a snap-action positive fit connection. The base part comprising a receiving part for the holding element, the fluid seal and the insert part, and a joining part for the joining connection of the housing part to a fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Voss Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Salomon-Bahls, Dirk Dresen, Ingo Hüpgen
  • Patent number: 7887102
    Abstract: The coupling comprises a male plug (3) and a female element (2). A retaining latch (20) for retaining the plug (5) in the female element (7) is movable between a first position in which said latch (20) is capable of retaining the plug (5) engaged to a first depth in the female element (7) in which it is connected in leaktight manner to said female element, and a second position in which said latch (20) is suitable for retaining the male plug (5) engaged to a second depth that is smaller than the first depth. The latch (20) is configured in such a manner as to be returned (F3) towards the second position at least in part by positive pressure in a passage (4, 17, 26, 34) for purging the downstream pipe when the plug is at the second depth. In a variant embodiment, the coupling includes an adapter that the latch is suitable for retaining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud, Olivier Pastore
  • Patent number: 7753415
    Abstract: This connection comprises two elements, male and female, adapted to fit axially in each other, the body of the female element being equipped with a lock mounted to slide and pierced with at least one opening for the fit of the male element. The wall of this opening is equipped with at least one element in relief adapted to cooperate with a corresponding element in relief of the male element in order to retain these elements in fitted configuration. The lock is in two parts and comprises a first part on which may be exerted, from outside the body, an effort of displacement, as well as a second part mobile with respect to the first part and bearing the aforementioned element in relief. A safety member is adapted to block the first part against the effort of displacement, without preventing the displacement of the element in relief with respect to the first part of the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud
  • Patent number: 7753412
    Abstract: A vented gas riser for use in a system for conducting pressurized gas through a gas carrier pipe from a gas supply source line located below ground level to a delivery point disposed above ground is provided. A fluid tight gas riser protective casing is disposed around said carrier pipe and creates a gas escape passageway in an elongate annular space between the carrier pipe and the casing. Any gas which leaks from the gas carrier pipe is captured in the gas escape passageway. A riser transition head, which includes at least one vent passageway, provides a fluid connection with said gas escape passageway and with the atmosphere such that any gas which leaks in the vicinity of the gas escape passageway can escape through the at least one vent into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Energy Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Royston, John A. Samudovsky
  • Patent number: 7744018
    Abstract: A power operated pressure washer having a high pressure liquid supply hose with an inlet fitting formed with an axial stem having a central liquid passageway that can be connected to a pressure washer outlet fitting by a threaded retaining ring. As a feature of this invention, the retaining ring can be unscrewed from the pressure washer outlet for permitting the dissipation and venting of high pressure buildup within the hose while the retaining ring safely retains the hose fitting on the outlet. In one embodiment, the stem has a pair of axially spaced annular sealing members adaptable for sealing engagement with relatively smaller and larger size pressure washer outlets and the stems is formed with a transverse passageway for venting liquid from the central stem passageway around one of the sealing members, as an incident to unscrewing of the retaining ring, while the other sealing member remains in sealed engagement with the pressure washer outlet fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: FAIP North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Gus Alexander, Morgan McCarthy, John Pianetto
  • Patent number: 7740284
    Abstract: A vented gas riser for use in a system for conducting pressurized gas through a gas carrier pipe from a gas supply source line located below ground level to a delivery point disposed above ground is provided. A fluid tight gas riser protective casing is disposed around said carrier pipe and creates a gas escape passageway in an elongate annular space between the carrier pipe and the casing. A containment chamber is disposed below ground level which creates a confined space which has, as its only egress, a fluid connection to a gas escape passageway. Any gas which leaks into the containment chamber is directed into the gas escape passageway. A riser transition head, which includes at least one vent passageway, provides a fluid connection with said gas escape passageway and with the atmosphere such that any gas which leaks into said containment chamber is directed through the gas escape passageway and through the at least one vent and into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Energy Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Royston, John A. Samudovsky
  • Patent number: 7695022
    Abstract: A cap for a fluid coupling is provided that includes a stem member adapted for insertion into the fluid coupling and a cover member connected to the stem member. The cover member includes an internal cavity sized to receive the fluid coupling such that the fluid coupling is positioned between the stem member and the cover member. The internal cavity is defined by a wall having at least one of a longitudinally extending groove and a longitudinally extending protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Michael P. Wells
  • Patent number: 7673911
    Abstract: A safety type quick connector has a body, a socket base, a moving base, a pushing assembly, an outer sleeve, multiple springs, multiple first balls and second balls. The socket base is connected to the tubular body and has an inserting end, a connecting end, multiple ball slots and ball bores. The moving base is movably mounted in the socket chamber and has a closed end, an open end, a sealing flange, multiple ball holes and at least one vent. The sealing flange is formed around the closed end and abuts against and closes the connecting end of the socket base. The pushing assembly is movably mounted in the moving base. Accordingly, the moving base can be kept stationary when a plug is inserted into the connector and pushes the pushing assembly to move, and this can keep air from leaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Hsiu-Hsiung Liu
  • Patent number: 7527305
    Abstract: A hose connector with adjustable ambient air inlets includes a conduit section having a plurality of spaced-apart holes covered by an adjustable outer ring having a similar pattern of spaced-apart holes. Turning the outer ring relative to the conduit section permits the holes in the conduit section to be either fully opened, fully covered, or at some intermediate condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: William J. Hyslop
  • Patent number: 7472930
    Abstract: This connection comprises two elements, male and female, adapted to fit axially in each other, the body of the female element being equipped with a lock mounted to slide and pierced with at least one opening for the fit of the male element. The wall of this opening is equipped with at least one element in relief adapted to cooperate with a corresponding element in relief of the male element in order to retain these elements in fitted configuration. The lock is in two parts and comprises a first part on which may be exerted, from outside the body, an effort of displacement, as well as a second part mobile with respect to the first part and bearing the aforementioned element in relief. A safety member is adapted to block the first part against the effort of displacement, without preventing the displacement of the element in relief with respect to the first part of the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud
  • Patent number: 7416223
    Abstract: A coupling device for an adapter connection point, including a first fitting and a second fitting, wherein at least one of the first and the second fittings includes at least one channel, and wherein when a user begins to disengage the coupling device any trapped pressure will be relieved through the at least one channel prior to total disengagement of the coupling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Sulmone
  • Patent number: 7389794
    Abstract: In order to create a quick coupling for connecting at least two pressurised lines to a first coupling part that is connectable to a second coupling part so as to be pressure-proof, which quick coupling in a simple manner makes possible easy coupling while avoiding the mentioned disadvantages in all pressure ranges, it is provided for an externally arranged central pressure relief device (70) which is integrated in a second coupling part, or arranged on the second coupling part in an additional block (84), to be connectable to the pressurised lines (Lx) by way of pressure-relief connection lines (52A to 52D), and for the coupling parts to be able to be reversibly brought by a lever element (92) from a non-coupled position (P1) to a coupled position (P2), and to be lockable in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: TEMA Marketing AG
    Inventor: Per Knuthson
  • Patent number: 7238317
    Abstract: A twin-wall pipe comprises an internal pipe and an external pipe. The external pipe is corrugated, having elevations and troughs. The twin-wall pipe is further provided with a socket. In a transition portion towards the twin-wall pipe and the socket, provision is made for at least one overflow passage which interconnects the clearance between the external pipe and internal pipe in the vicinity of the transition portion and an adjacent elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Ralph Peter Hegler
  • Patent number: 7150473
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing a coupling device for conduits of pressurized media which consists of (includes) at least two coupling parts (1, 2) that are possible to couple to each other in the shape of a female part and a male part which is insertable into the female part. A locking device is arranged to hold the coupling parts completely coupled in a locking position. The locking device comprises a locking member (11) positioned at one of the coupling parts (2) which in a locking position attaches into a recess (12) in the other coupling part. A sealing member (6) in the locking position achieves sealing between the coupling parts. The other coupling part (1) exhibits a further recess (16) in which the locking member can be brought to locking of the coupling parts (1, 2) in an outer locking position when the two coupling parts are coupled to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Mats Sandborn, Stefan Eriksson
  • Patent number: 7007983
    Abstract: An annular gasket is stationarily mounted on one coupler, and a tubular body is mounted for axial sliding movement within another coupler. The body has an outer wall formed with a sealing surface that sealingly engages the gasket in a sealed position, and with an outer channel that is spaced from the gasket in a bleed position in which pressurized fluid within the couplers is released to a bleed fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Faster S.p.A.
    Inventor: Massimo Arosio
  • Patent number: 7004510
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is a piping system including a fluid impermeable sleeve having a plurality of longitudinal, spaced ribs formed on an interior surface of the sleeve. A fluid carrying tubing is positioned internal to the sleeve. A coupling has a first end and a second end, the first end having interior threads engaging an outer surface of the sleeve. The coupling has a vent opening in fluid communication with the interior of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Omega Flex, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Treichel
  • Patent number: 7000952
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus and method for coupling two duct sections together to form a joint therebetween. The apparatus includes a catcher ring component formed coextensive with the edge of one section of duct, and a catcher finger component formed coextensive with an edge of the other section of duct being coupled to form the joint. The catcher finger component includes a catcher finger which is longitudinally aligned with a flange of the catcher ring, and that protrudes inwardly into its associated section of duct. In the event of a failure of a main clamping assembly disposed over an outer periphery of the two duct sections at the joint, the catcher finger and flange engage to limit separation of the two sections of duct to only a controlled, limited degree. This protects other subassemblies and components positioned closely adjacent the duct from any damage that might result from separation of the two duct sections, including exposure to high temperature and pressurized air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Joe E. Sternberger, Kevin L. Loss
  • Patent number: 6948698
    Abstract: A valve for a pressurized canister includes a housing having a central aperture extending therethrough, a first set of external threads, and a second set of external threads. A sealing member is positioned in an axially outward end of the central aperture and is axially moveable. A first spring biases the pin axially outwardly. An axially slidable member is received and axially movable in the central aperture. A second spring biases the axially slidable member outwardly. A threaded member in an aperture in the housing engages the axially slidable member. Each of a plurality of radially moveable members is positioned in an aperture in the housing and is radially moveable between a lip on the aperture and the second spring. An exterior surface of an inner end of the axially slidable member engages and forces each radially moveable member into contact with the lip when the threaded member is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: Eric Scott, Nancy A. Scott
  • Patent number: 6926312
    Abstract: A quick coupler for joining two pipes that includes a male element adapted to be fitted into a female element and maintained in position by a latch forming a stop and opposing withdrawal of the male element. A movable safety member maintains the latch in a blocked position, under the force of pressure of fluid in the coupler, by the cooperation of two surfaces provided, one on the latch and one on the safety member, that are forced into engagement with one another. The safety member releases the latch when a residual pressure in the coupler drops to a safe level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Jean-Jacques Lacroix, Olivier Pastore
  • Patent number: 6860290
    Abstract: A rapid coupling system for establishing a connection of at least two pressurized lines in a pressure sealed manner is provided. A first coupling plug element has an operating mechanism, including a journal, in a connecting block thereof. A second coupling socket element is adapted to be connected to the first coupling element in a pressure sealed manner. A control unit is arranged in a socket element connecting block and includes a displaceable plunger having at least one cam. A pressure relief unit is connectable to at least one of the pressure lines via a pressure relief connection. When the first and second coupling elements are connected to one another, the journal of the operating mechanism displaces the control plunger, causing at least one cam of the control plunger to engage the pressure relief unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Tema Marketing AG
    Inventor: Per Knuthson
  • Patent number: 6840548
    Abstract: A quick connect coupling for joining two pipes which includes a male and a female element adapted to fit axially in each other. A body of the female element is equipped with a resiliently urged bolt mounted to slide in the body and provided with a central opening for receiving the male element. A wall of the opening is equipped with three teeth offset with respect to one another along a median axis of the opening. The male element is provided with a shoulder adapted to rest selectively against one of the teeth. When the male element rests against an intermediate tooth, a the downstream pipe is placed in communication with ambient atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventor: Jean-Jacques Lacroix
  • Publication number: 20040239103
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus and method for coupling two duct sections together to form a joint therebetween. The apparatus includes a catcher ring component formed coextensive with the edge of one section of duct, and a catcher finger component formed coextensive with an edge of the other section of duct being coupled to form the joint. The catcher finger component includes a catcher finger which is longitudinally aligned with a flange of the catcher ring, and that protrudes inwardly into its associated section of duct. In the event of a failure of a main clamping assembly disposed over an outer periphery of the two duct sections at the joint, the catcher finger and flange engage to limit separation of the two sections of duct to only a controlled, limited degree. This protects other subassemblies and components positioned closely adjacent the duct from any damage that might result from separation of the two duct sections, including exposure to high temperature and pressurized air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Joe E. Sternberger, Kevin L. Loss
  • Publication number: 20040217593
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is a piping system including a fluid impermeable sleeve having a plurality of longitudinal, spaced ribs formed on an interior surface of the sleeve. A fluid carrying tubing is positioned internal to the sleeve. A coupling has a first end and a second end, the first end having interior threads engaging an outer surface of the sleeve. The coupling has a vent opening in fluid communication with the interior of the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Steven A. Treichel
  • Patent number: 6695000
    Abstract: A valve with an integral means for bleeding internal pressure prior to separation of a bonnet for the valve from its engagement with the valve body, provided by a bore through the valve body. This allows the internal pressure of the valve to equalize with atmospheric pressure prior to complete disassembly of the bonnet from the valve body. The bore through the valve body also serves as a leak detector, by providing a path for fluids passing through the valve to leak to the exterior of the valve body in the event of a failure of the seal between the bonnet and the valve body, which can readily be detected by passersby upon inspection of the exposed end of the bore at the exterior of the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventors: Randy Jerold Hall, Ronald Charles Burr, Mark Douglas Stiehl
  • Patent number: 6588806
    Abstract: A radially offset valve is mounted in a bypass passage that extends through two movable members that are jointly moved during coupling between two couplers. The valve is moved from a closed position in which the flow of a pressurized fluid through a flow channel of an outer tubular body is prevented from being discharged through a discharge passage, to an open position in which the fluid is permitted to flow to the discharge passage, thereby resisting fluid leakage to the environment during coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Faster, S.r.l.
    Inventor: Massimo Arosio
  • Patent number: 6523861
    Abstract: A fluid coupling including coded and non-coded embodiments and a method for their use. The coded embodiment allows connection of such lines while preventing the inadvertent connection of mismatched lines in a system where there are matched and mismatched delivery and supply lines. Both embodiments of the coupling include axially movable first and second coupling members and a radially operating latch. The coupling members are releasably slideably, axially interfitted with their fluid passageways in communication, and the latch moves radially of the passageways to secure the couplings when they are interfitted. In the coded embodiment, key coding elements on the coded coupling members are movable into matched interengagement when the supply and delivery lines are matched but are precluded from moving into matched interengagement when the lines are mismatched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventors: Gary Clancy, Robert Haake
  • Patent number: 6412828
    Abstract: A quick safety connection for the removable joining of pipes, comprising a male connector and a female element adapted to fit and to be locked inside one another. A controlled locking mechanism is adapted to immobilized the male connector axially in a position of connection, while at least one retention member is provided to immobilize the male connector, after release of the connector by said locking mechanism, in an intermediate position of discharge of the pipe connection. The locking mechanism and retention member are controlled by a sleeve sliding around the female element. Vents and safety stops are provided to limit the movement of the sleeve under the effect of the pressure prevailing due to the discharge of the connection in the intermediate position between the female element and the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Jean-Jacques Lacroix, Antoine Chambaud
  • Patent number: 6394504
    Abstract: A clampless coupling which attaches a hose to a nipple without need of a clamp at the end of the hose to ensure sealing, including a connector and a nipple of a fluid system component. The connector is sealingly pre-connected at one end with a hose; the opposite end is in the form of a sleeve. The sleeve features a notch at its forward end, a boss on a resilient lock arm, and an O-ring seal. The nipple has a pocket depressionally formed on its outside nipple surface and an alignment tab. In operation, a user slides the sleeve over the nipple by pressing the connector toward the near end of the nipple. As the sleeve slides over the nipple, the tab is received by the notch to align the connector with the nipple, the boss drops abuttably into the pocket, and the O-ring seal sealingly compresses between the nipple and the connector. A seal assurance feature reveals improper connection when a pressure test is undertaken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: John L. Brummans, Steven M. Haar, Scott D. Wixom, Thomas K. Lockwood
  • Patent number: 6298881
    Abstract: A modular fluid handling assembly includes a plurality of fluid handling units. Each fluid handling unit includes a fluid passage and associated port, a vacuum passage and associated port, a vacuum pressure source, and a containment seal. The fluid passage ports and vacuum passage ports of adjacent fluid handling units respectively communicate. The containment seal is disposed between adjacent fluid handling units and surrounds the communicating fluid passage ports and vacuum passage ports. The vacuum pressure source is in continuous communication with the vacuum passages of the fluid handling units, generates an urging force which aids in sealing adjacent fluid handling units together, and draws off any fluid that may leak from a fluid passage port. A sensor can be tapped into the vacuum line to sense whether any fluid has leaked from a fluid passage port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Shigemoto & Annett II, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Curran, Hiromi Dick Shigemoto, John Annett, Lope M. Amores
  • Patent number: 6286877
    Abstract: An improved dual seal pipe coupling is provided of the type having matingly interfitting male and female pipe fittings formed on adjacent ends of a pair of conduit members, wherein at least one of a pair of seal rings is vented at low pressure to prevent pressure build-up and potential seal ring distortion or damage upon initial assembly of the pipe fittings. The seal rings are seated respectively within a pair of axially spaced-apart recessed grooves formed on one of the pipe fittings for slidably and sealingly engaging the other one of the pipe fittings upon assembly therewith. A bypass vent is formed in at least one of the seal ring grooves, to include a shallow recessed channel underlying the associated seal ring and leading axially to a smoothly curved and generally arch-shaped relief port formed in an outboard side wall of the seal ring groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Anthony Manufacturing Corp. Industrial Prod. Div.
    Inventors: Rick Mendoza, Mark M. Ensworth, David V. Evans
  • Patent number: 6095570
    Abstract: A plug-in coupling for pressurized systems having two coupling components (2, 4), namely a receiving component (2) and a connector component (4). The connecter component (4) includes a connecting shaft (6) which is inserted into a locator opening (8) of the receiving component (2) and is sealed around the perimeter and arrested against loosening by a holding element (20) situated in a recess (22) of the receiving component (2), first in a partially inserted, incompletely sealed, pre-locked position and secondly in a fully inserted, perfectly pressure sealed full lock-in position. The holding element (20) has arresting elements (28, 30) each of which engage behind a locking edge (24) of the connector component (4) when a lock-in connection (28, 24; 30, 24) is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Armaturenfabrik Hermann Voss GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Harald Hagen, Volker Kaminiski, Manfred Berg, Hilmar Hester
  • Patent number: 6047994
    Abstract: A blocking arrangement serves for securing prevention of a spear (1) being unscrewed from a corresponding neck ring (3) in a container for a liquid, for example, beer, being under pressure by a drive gas in the container. The blocking arrangement consists of a split spring ring (8) which is placed in a groove (5) constructed in the corresponding neck ring (3). This groove is so deep that the spring ring is allowed to be squeezed radially into the groove. The expansion for the spring ring radially outwardly is limited, however, by in inwardly turning cylinder face (22) on the spear (1). Furthermore, the spear has an upwardly turning blocking face (12) which adjoins the cylinder face (22). When dismounting of the spear is attempted, its blocking face (12) adjoins the spring ring (8) which is retained axially by the downwardly turning upper side (16) of the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Micro Matic A/S
    Inventors: Per Kurt Augustinus, Bernt Ipsen
  • Patent number: 6047995
    Abstract: A pipe connector comprises a plug having a groove on the outer periphery of the distal end portion thereof, a socket having an axial hole to receive the distal end portion of the plug and a radial hole, a sealing member attached to the socket and sealing the plug and the socket, a lever pivotally mounted on the socket adjacent the radial hole and having a cam engagable with the groove through the radial hole, the lever being movable to a connected position, a half-connected position and a separated position. The cam is engaged with the groove and the sealing member is pressed, while the lever remains in the connected position, the cam is partly engaged with the groove and the sealing member is free from pressure, while the lever remains in the half-connected position, and the cam is disengaged from the groove, allowing the plug and the socket to move relative to each other, while the lever remains in the separated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoyuki Kotake
  • Patent number: 6027143
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a plug connection for pressure systems which consists of two coupling parts, namely a receptacle part (2) and a plug part (4). The plug part (4) can be inserted into a receptacle opening (8) of the receptacle part (2) with a plug shaft (6) such that it is circumferentially sealed and blocked from being separated by a locking device (12). The locking device (12) is realized in such a way that a partially plugged prelocking position (FIG. 1b) and an entirely plugged full locking position (FIG. 1a) are ensured. In the prelocking position, an incomplete seal is produced such that a signal, preferably an acoustically perceivable leakage noise, is generated if the plug connection is charged with pressure. A complete, pressure-tight seal is produced in the full locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Armaturenfabrik Hermann Voss GmbH + Co.
    Inventors: Manfred Berg, Harald Hagen, Volker Kaminski
  • Patent number: 6027144
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pressure medium plug-in connector, consisting of two connector parts, i.e. a housing part (2) and a plug part (4), wherein the plug part (4) with a plug shaft (6), via at least one peripheral seal (10) located in an annular groove (14) of the one connector part (4) and interacting with a peripheral sealing surface (18) of the other connector part (2), can be inserted in a sealed manner into a receiving opening (8) of the housing part (2) and can be secured against release by means of a locking arrangement (12). The locking arrangement (12) is constructed in such a way that a partially plugged, prelocked position and a completely plugged, fully locked position are ensured. In the prelocked position, a seal is present which is so incomplete that, if pressure is applied with a pressure medium, a clearly limited perceptible leak, particularly in the form of an audible leaking sound, occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Armaturenfabrik Hermann Voss GmbH + Co.
    Inventors: Harald Hagen, Volker Kaminski, Manfred Berg
  • Patent number: 6010161
    Abstract: A plug connection for a pressure system comprising a receptacle part and a plug part, the plug part is inserted into the receptacle part and retained therein by a locking device which forms a prelocked, unsealed connection and a locked, sealed connection between the plug part and the receptacle part with a limit stop element which indicates when the locked, sealed connection has been obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Armaturenfabrik Hermann Voss GmbH
    Inventors: Manfred Berg, Harald Hagen, Volker Kaminski
  • Patent number: 5988705
    Abstract: A quick connect coupling is disclosed for use with a tubular conduit having a radially outwardly extending bead adjacent a free end of the tubing. The coupling includes an elongated tubular and cylindrical housing having an axial passageway formed through it which forms a fluid passageway and is open at both ends. One end of the housing has a enlarged diameter internal bore portion adapted to axially receive the free end of the conduit including the conduit bead as the conduit is inserted to a magnet position. A retainer within the internal bore portion of the housing lockingly engages the conduit bead when the conduit is moved to its connected position while fluid seals engage the outer periphery of the conduit. A one way valve is also contained within the housing passageway which permits fluid flow in only one direction through the housing passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Pilot Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip Norkey
  • Patent number: 5937899
    Abstract: A coupling comprising a male portion and a female portion wherein the female portion comprises: a housing, an inner body member positioned within the housing and slidable relative thereto, a relief valve positioning member, a piston residing intermediate the relief valve positioning member and the inner body member and slidable relative to the positioning member and the inner body member, and a valve. The housing includes a first port and a second port. The inner body member includes a port communicating with the first port of the housing. The relief valve positioning member includes a relief valve. The piston includes an interior, an exterior, and a passageway interconnecting the interior of the piston and the exterior of the piston. The valve slidably engages the piston and seats against the inner body member. The male portion of the coupling engages the inner body of the female portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Snap-Tite Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Zeiber
  • Patent number: 5813702
    Abstract: A water softener drain adapter system includes a tube having a first end and a lumen, a plurality of air slots project into the tube, an arcuate cap encloses an end of the tube opposite of the first end, and a tapered barb connector tube projects through the cap into the lumen. The tapered barb connector tube is for coupling to the drain hose of the water softener, and the first end of the tube engages the drain pipe within the sewage system. The plurality of air slots prevent sewage from being siphoned back into the water softener thereby preventing the water softener from being contaminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Harry William McGuire
  • Patent number: 5788287
    Abstract: The present invention is an outlet connector configuration for an oxygenator that prevents excessively high positive or negative pressure from forming in the oxygenator and helps to minimize the possibility of misidentifying the outlet connector. The outlet connector is hollow and substantially cylindrically tubular in shape so that a hollow inner conduit is formed. The outlet connector is in fluid communication with the outlet manifold of an oxygenator through the inner conduit. In one embodiment, the outlet connector has an elongated hole extending through the tubular material of the outlet connector into the hollow inner conduit formed therein. The elongated hole is preferable large enough to be felt by the fingers of the person connecting tubing to the outlet connector. The elongated hole is preferably arrow shaped with the arrow pointing in the direction of fluid flow out of the outlet manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert F. Gremel