Plumbing Fixture Making Patents (Class 29/890.141)
  • Patent number: 11635163
    Abstract: A hydraulic component includes a component housing and a connection block. The component housing has an outer surface and an axial bore. At least one connecting channel extends from the outer surface to the axial bore. The connection block has a housing side with at least one connection bore, where the connection bore is in fluidic connection with the at least one connection channel. The outer surface of the component housing has a non-planar shape at least in the area of the at least one connecting channel, where at least one connecting bushing with a through hole is received in the at least one connecting channel and extends into the at least one connecting bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: HAWE Hydraulik SE
    Inventor: Georg Aneder
  • Patent number: 11338419
    Abstract: A faucet cartridge removal tool includes a cylindrical sleeve having an interior diameter configured such that a pipe holding a faucet cartridge fits within the cylindrical sleeve, a length configured such that a distal end of the cylindrical sleeve contacts a base of the pipe holding the faucet cartridge; a tubular extractor rod that extends through the cylindrical sleeve, the rod having a threaded exterior surface configured to thread through the threaded orifice of the cylindrical sleeve, a threaded interior surface of the rod, and a notch at a distal end, the notch configured to accept a faucet cartridge; a locking bolt that extends through the extractor rod, the bolt having a threaded exterior surface configured to thread through the threaded interior surface of the rod, wherein the threaded exterior surface at a distal end of the rod is configured to thread through a threaded orifice in the faucet cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Inventors: Edward Roston, Edward Roston, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10436339
    Abstract: A rupture disk (20), along with associated methods, is disclosed. More particularly, a miniaturized rupture disk is disclosed, comprising a transition area (23) configured to determine a pressure at which the rupture able portion will rupture. A method for forming a rupture disk is also disclosed, wherein a radius (R) of a transition area is configured to set the burst pressure of the rupture disk. A rupture disk having an indent at its apex (24) and a circular line of weakness configured to improve opening performance is also disclosed. Additionally, a method of relieving pressure in a pressurized system is disclosed, wherein a set of rupture disks is provided, wherein each rupture disk in the set has a different radius of transition area. A rupture disk may be selected from the set and installed based on a burst pressure set by the radius of transition area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: BS&B Safety Systems Limited
    Inventors: John Tomasko, Paul Goggin, Geof Brazier
  • Patent number: 10165905
    Abstract: A curbless shower base includes a subbase structure having a sloped floor and a zero entry. At least one side wall can be mounted flush with drywall during an installation so that a tile or other wall covering is installed flush over the at least one side wall to a floor of the subbase structure A drainage channel in the subbase structure extends substantially from a first side of the subbase structure to an opposite second side of the subbase structure. The drainage channel is sloped from the first side of the subbase structure to a drain outlet in the drainage channel, and the drainage channel is sloped from the second side of the subbase structure to the drain outlet in the drainage channel. A drain assembly has a drain outlet to connect with plumbing during the installation. A protective structure of the drain assembly at least partially surrounds the drain outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Sander and Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Sander, Philip Sander
  • Patent number: 9051720
    Abstract: A universal trim kit for tubs or showers and a variety of different OEM valves is disclosed that includes an escutcheon in the form of a decorative outer ring in combination with a plurality of interchangeable inserts and at least two fasteners, typically screws, for releasably attaching the escutcheon and one of the inserts to a valve body. The escutcheon further comprises a generally circular, centrally disposed aperture surrounded by an annular flange that functions as a seating surface for any of a plurality of interchangeable inserts, each insert being attachable to the outer ring and to a valve body disposed behind the ring, each insert also having a differently sized or shaped aperture configured for attachment to the body of a particular OEM valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: DANCO, INC.
    Inventors: Chad Jones, Steve L. Fillipp
  • Publication number: 20150143622
    Abstract: A urinal repair apparatus wherein the horizontal flange on the rear surface is easily and securely replaced by a repair bracket with simple tools when damaged, without damaging or drilling into the urinal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Andrew Scott Lacy
  • Publication number: 20150041563
    Abstract: An irrigation drip emitter, and methods relating to same, are provided for delivering irrigation water from a supply tube to an emitter outlet at a reduced and relatively constant flow rate. The emitter having at least one moveable member for compensating for fluctuations in supply line fluid pressure. In one form the emitter further includes a root growth inhibiting member for hindering roots from obstructing fluid flow through the emitter. In another form, the emitter includes an inlet protrusion so that fluid entering the emitter comes from a position closer to the central or center portion of the conduit in order to avoid larger obstructions that may be located near the periphery of the conduit. In another form, the emitter includes a carrier for assisting in mounting the emitter into conduit. In another form, more than one of the above features are present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Mark M. Ensworth, Jae Yung Kim, Mark Richard Edris, Joseph Nazari
  • Publication number: 20150020301
    Abstract: A ceramic toilet pan having a raised rear portion to which a hinge tube may be accurately located and fixed in position for example by adhesive using a jig despite variations in pan body size due to ceramic firing, a water pump and air pump being provided for flushing the toilet pan when a seat and lid are in a closed position. The seat and lid are rotationally mounted to the pan by a horizontal hinge pin located in the hinge tube and a latch member is provided for latching the lid and seat closed. A cistern is also provided having an overflow weir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Garry Moore
  • Publication number: 20150000019
    Abstract: A closet flange system with attached bolts on the anterior surface and a beveled edge on the posterior surface, a groove on the anterior surface for an O-ring to form a seal between the bottom of the toilet and the anterior edge of the closet flange. The anterior surface is connected to a midsection of the closet flange, which includes a keeper ring, securing the position of the closet flange within a drain pipe by preventing removal. An additional O-ring may be positioned on the midsection to block fluid and gas from the drain from rising to contact the keeper ring or escaping outside of the drain pipe. The beveled edge guides the end of the flange into the drain pipe. The system includes bolts which attach the closet flange to the bottom of the toilet before the system is attached to the drain pipe at the floor surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Darrell Gregoy Connell
  • Publication number: 20140310861
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to improved water closet flanges and methods for installing such water closet flanges. In one exemplary embodiment, an improved water closet flange apparatus includes an outer flange and a flexible conduit portion (i.e. sleeve) extending downwardly therefrom. The flexible sleeve has a sufficient degree of flexibility to accommodate connection between offset, misaligned, angled, or otherwise incongruous plumbing fixture discharges and waste drain pipe outlets. In one embodiment, the flexible sleeve includes at least one corrugated portion to aid the desired flexibility. An upper portion of the flexible sleeve may include an inwardly extending lip portion to accommodate the desired seal between the plumbing fixture discharge and the flange apparatus. Related methods for installing the disclosed flange apparatus between plumbing fixture discharges and waste drainpipes are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Eduardo Coronado, Jorge Sada
  • Publication number: 20140310869
    Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for attaching a tap body on to a sink. The apparatus comprises a tap body for positioning above an aperture on the sink and the tap body has at least one water pipe inlet port on a surface which is positioned directly above the aperture. The apparatus also comprises a fastening plate which is positioned underneath the aperture on the sink, and a securing means which is insertable through the tap body which secures the tap body and the fastening plate from above the sink. At least one water pipe inlet port is flush with the external surface of the tap body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Anthony McNicholas
  • Publication number: 20140299809
    Abstract: A device for a plumbing installation, the device, for example, may be a valve, such as valve (1), or a fluid flow meter (6), and has a casing (10) that is hydraulically formed from metal tubing so as to have a wall surrounding a void interior. The casing (10) is provided with one or more formations, such as shoulders (64) and (65) and at least one inlet opening (14) and at least one outlet opening (18). A cartridge (12) is at least partly located in the void interior of the casing (10). The cartridge (12) has at least two openings, being a first opening (20) and a second opening (22). Seals (46), (48) and (50) are provided between the casing (10) and the cartridge (12). The cartridge (12) is accommodated in the casing (10) by the one or more formations of the casing (10). The cartridge (12) is provided with the operational components of the device (1). The inlet opening (14) of the casing (10) and the first opening (20) of the cartridge (12) are in fluid communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: TRITECK LIMITED
    Inventors: Peter John Morris, Garry Rodney White
  • Patent number: 8789276
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary fitting having a housing element and a functional unit which comprises water-conducting components and is housed in the housing body of the sanitary fitting, wherein the housing element comprises at least two shell-shaped individual parts. The shell-shaped individual parts are produced from a metal alloy or a plastic in a diecasting process and are adhesively bonded to each other or connected to each other by means of material bonding to form a hollow element surrounding the functional unit by means of a joining process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Grohe AG
    Inventor: Karl Thomas
  • Patent number: 8776355
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for fixing a faucet to a mounting (1), such as a worktop or a sinktop. A fixing collar (2) is fastened to the top surface of a mounting by turning from above one or more set screws (3) extending from the fixing collar (2) over a distance below a bottom surface of the worktop. Turning of the screw is used for raising a clamping claw (4), which is in engagement with the threading of said set screw and which is steered by means of a guide (5) extending downward from the fixing collar and used for disallowing a rotation of the clamping claw (4) along with the set screw (3). The bottom end of a faucet body (10) or its extension is fastened around the fixing collar (2) by expanding the fixing collar (2) by an actuation means, such as a screw (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Oy Graana Finland AB
    Inventors: Hannu Reiman, Raimo Kaukinen, Esko Savolainen
  • Publication number: 20140115775
    Abstract: There is provided a monobloc tap apparatus (201) for securely mounting to a sink (202). The apparatus comprises a monobloc unit (301) for positioning above the sink, a fastening plate (303) for positioning underneath the sink, the plate having three holes in a linear arrangement, and a securing bolt (305) insertable through the monobloc unit (301) and into the middle hole (603) of the fastening plate (303). The monobloc unit (301) comprises two locating collars (302) configured to pass through the two outermost holes (602) of the fastening plate (303), and the securing bolt (305) is configured to be tightened from above the sink (202).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Anthony McNicholas
  • Publication number: 20140103646
    Abstract: The invention includes a connector for coupling to a composite pipe, and methods for forming the same. The connector has a seal carrier forming a fluid passage that is made of a first material and that includes a seal receiving portion configured to receive at least one seal and a first coupling surface on an outer seal carrier surface. The connector also has an interconnect with a passage configured to receive the seal carrier that is made of a second material and includes a second coupling surface on an inner interconnect surface configured for coupling with the first coupling surface to connect the seal carrier and the interconnect and a third coupling surface on an outer interconnect surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: D. Kelly Allin, Christopher E. Makselon
  • Patent number: 8695218
    Abstract: A joint construction includes first and second conduit sections having coaxially overlapping end areas. A coupling member has a first end received within the end of the first conduit section and a second end with external threads. A bore of the coupling member receives the second section end area. A plurality of protrusions are formed on an outer surface of the coupling member. The plurality of protrusions engage a plurality of complimentary features formed on the end area of the first conduit section. A gland nut has threads configured to engage the external threads of the second end of the coupling member. A washer is disposed on the second conduit section between the second end of the coupling member and the gland nut. The washer is configured to engage the end area of the second conduit section to resist relative axial movement between the first and second conduit sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Allied Tube & Conduit Corporation
    Inventor: Giulio Scartozzi
  • Publication number: 20140068850
    Abstract: A driving mechanism of a flush apparatus includes a motorized unit supported by a valve body, a plunger arm driven by the motorized unit for operating the valve body between a sealed position to an unsealed position, and a timer module operatively linked to the motorized unit to set a flush interval for enabling the flushing operation to be completed once every flush interval. The driving mechanism converts the flush apparatus into water efficient fixture by controlling the amount of daily flushes for ultimate water efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Advanced Modern Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Jorge Maercovich
  • Publication number: 20130220449
    Abstract: A system for preventing flooding caused by blockages in the drain lines of appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and the like included a sealed connection between a washing machine drain line and the sewer line drain, further including a washing machine drain line inlet attachment to a housing, the inlet line connecting to the sewer drain line and to a sealed vent pipe connected to the sewer line drain above the inlet attachment, and including a C-shaped loop in fluid communication with the sewer drain line and containing a float actuated control valve adapted to cut off power to the washing machine upon actuation; a kit containing components of the system and methods of installing the system and kit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: R. Kevin Dawes
  • Patent number: 8266777
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved method of installing a bathtub liner in a bathtub, with a liquid adhesive. The method steps include removing the bathtub drain and overflow protection device, templating and cutting the bathtub liner to properly fit into the bathtub, cleaning the bathtub, forming a foam rail gasket, setting the bathtub liner into place and forming the bathtub liner drain, removing the set bathtub liner and cleaning the bathtub liner, applying tub and wall adhesive and sealant between the bathtub and the bathtub liner, resetting the liner into place and installing the bathtub drain and stopper, installing any accessories, pouring the liquid adhesive between the liner and the bathtub, flushing away any unnecessary liquid adhesive and catalyzing the liquid adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Callie Jeffrey Kincaid
  • Publication number: 20110167557
    Abstract: A bronze outlet pipe and making process thereof comprises the steps of: a. fluid inflation forming; b. working an outer wall of the tube member; c. working a first and a second connectors; d. working an arcuate leadless brass tube; e. selectively welding the first inlet with the orifice or welding the first outlet with the mouth together; f. welding the first connector and the tube member together; g. selectively welding the first connector or the second connector with the first opening of the first inlet together, or welding the orifice of the first connector or the mouth of the second connector with the first inlet of the tube member or the first outlet of the tube member together; h. surface treating; wherein the tube member and plural welding portions are surface treated to finish the bronze outlet pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Xiqiao Tan
  • Patent number: 7966857
    Abstract: An HVAC connector is disclosed that includes a one-piece conduit. The conduit includes a generally planar, rectangular mounting flange that defines an air inlet into the conduit. A first body portion extends from the mounting flange and a second body portion extends from the first body portion to define a generally tubular takeoff neck having a round outlet that is disposed generally parallel to the mounting flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Sheet Metal Connectors, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Myers
  • Publication number: 20100276522
    Abstract: A dispense tip constructed and arranged to communicate with a material dispensing pump comprises an elongated neck and a molded base having a first portion and a second portion opposite the first portion. The neck extends from the first portion of the base. The second portion is constructed and arranged to abut an outlet surface of the pump. An outermost region of the second portion of the base includes a compressible fluid-tight surface that compliantly conforms to the outlet surface when the dispense tip is mounted to the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2009
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: DL TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Fugere
  • Publication number: 20100194096
    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: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: John R. Seifert, Dewey M. Sims, JR., Ragu S. Raghupathi
  • Publication number: 20090294554
    Abstract: A sprinkler apparatus including a manifold is used with a nipple and a union. The manifold includes a pipe section and at least one port. There is a fitting on the port. The nipple has a proximal and distal end. A fitting is located at to the distal end of the nipple. One or more radially extending projections may be positioned around the circumference of the nipple. The fitting on the fitting on the distal end of the nipple may form a water-tight seal with a fitting on a valve without tightening with a wrench by mating the projections and indentations and applying a torque to the union. The union includes one or more indentations that may align with and mate with the projections to allow the union to slide over the nipple. The union has a fitting. The fitting on the union corresponds to and engages the fitting on the port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Tres Wangsgaard
  • Publication number: 20090273182
    Abstract: A pipe fitting includes a polymeric body molded into and fixedly connected to a metallic body, so that the metallic body extends around the polymeric body. The polymeric body extends around and is contiguous with a passageway of the pipe fitting, and at least partially defines a first opening of the passageway that is for being mated to a polymeric pipe. The metallic body extends around and is contiguous with the passageway, and at least partially defines a second opening of the passageway that is for being mated to a metallic pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Eric Wayne Lewis, Julie Starnes Parker
  • Patent number: 7596865
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for retrofitting a sink drain to a sewer pipe. A connector tube is provided with a preset curve that is cut at a selected location on the connector to provide a connection between the waste tee connector of a sewer line to a “P” connector. A “circularizing” tool is provided which shapes an elliptical end of a tube cut on a curve to a circle that telescopes into the nipple of a waste tube connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventors: Gary Ling, Simon Maung
  • Publication number: 20090189391
    Abstract: A tube fitting assembly is provided for a gas burner. The assembly includes a pre-deformed tube connector having first and second ends. At least one of the ends is provided an annular sealing bead formed by compressing and cold working at least two intermediate annular beads together. A first coupling member is provided defining a cavity and having a shaped seating surface adapted to sealingly engage a cooperating surface of the annular sealing bead. A second coupling member is provided rotatably and slidably disposed on the pre-deformed tube connector and is adapted to mate with the first coupling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: William Joseph Ferlin, Timothy J. Tupa
  • Publication number: 20090184513
    Abstract: For use with a pipe fitting, an adapter including a hollow, substantially cylindrical sleeve formed of a polymeric material, preferably Nylon, the sleeve defining a bore on a first open end for engaging a pipe fitting and a tapered second open end for insertion into a pipe. A pipe fitting assembly is formed by the adapter together with a hollow fitting having a first open end defining an insert adapted and configured for insertion into the bore of the adapter; and a stop member; the adapter being adapted to abut against the stop member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: SAGIV SHITUFIT CHAKLAIT BE'AM
    Inventor: Moty Avnon
  • Publication number: 20090085349
    Abstract: A juncture assembly between first and second tubes includes first and second flanges formed at the ends of the tubes. The flanges include respective legs in a confronting relationship and defining a gap between them. A gasket member contacts the flanges and is configured to prevent travel of fluids through the gap. The gasket member may, for example, be disposed in the gap between the first and second legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: LANGDON INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Joseph P. Sandman, Michael N. Sandman
  • Publication number: 20080272038
    Abstract: There is provided a drain cover for a drain disposed within a fabricated layer having an exposed surface. The drain includes a frame member having a top surface. The frame member extends through the fabricated layer. The drain cover includes a collar having a lower surface that is placed adjacent to the top surface of the frame member. The drain cover also includes a cup member having a cavity operative to receive a filling material. The collar defines an area within the exposed surface that is larger than the area of the cup member. There is at least one fin connected to the collar and the cup member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Michael A. Stetson
  • Patent number: 7444746
    Abstract: It is described how to easily manufacture a pipe fitting by machining instead of casting, despite its complex shapes and its small dimensions. A model is created, a machining program is defined, checks are made and the previous results are input into a numerically controlled machine tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Airbus France
    Inventors: Herve Lanvin, Robert Rossato
  • Publication number: 20080222891
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a leak-proof shower module suitable for use in constructing a tiled shower is implemented in one embodiment when a manufacturer provides a tool for creating the leak-proof shower module. The tool includes a cavity portion and a core portion which define a shape corresponding to the shape of the shower module. Next, the manufacturer inserts at least one form into the tool between the cavity portion and the core portion at a location corresponding to a drain aperture, injects a polymeric material into the tool to produce the shower module, and removes the shower module from the tool while retaining the form in place. In one embodiment, the manufacturer clamps the shower module to a rigid surface such that the module is prevented from flexing and the drain aperture rests in a hole in the rigid surface, and cools the shower module while retaining the form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph R. Cook
  • Patent number: 7398910
    Abstract: A mechanical weldable fitting for use in tapping a pipe includes a first and second metal collar, each formed of attachable upper and lower semi-toroidal portions that when assembled on the pipe providing spaced-apart external cylindrical surfaces. Each collar having at least one internal circumferential sealing groove therein that receives a gasket formed about the pipe. A lower semi-tubular metal containment member is positioned on the external cylindrical surfaces of the collars. An upper semi-tubular metal containment member is positioned on the external cylindrical surfaces of the collars. The upper containment member having an integral upwardly extending tubular access portion affording passage for tapping the pipe. The upper and lower containment members are welded to each other and to the collars to fully encompass a portion of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Tony R. Garrison, Larry J. Oden, James E. Terry, Dixit B. Kadakia
  • Publication number: 20080030023
    Abstract: A compound tube is disclosed that includes an outer tube and an inner tube disposed in the outer tube. A passage is defined between the outer tube and the inner tube. Various methods of joining the outer tube to the inner tube are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Applicants: DENSO Corporation, DENSO Airs Corporation
    Inventors: Shun Kurata, Hiroki Naganawa, Fumiaki Nakamura, Kinji Ochiai, Hiroki Ohara
  • Publication number: 20070210047
    Abstract: A novel orbital welder includes a body defining a tube passage, a weld tip, a light source disposed to emit light toward the tube passage such that the emitted light will impinge upon one or more tubes placed in the tube passage, a detector to detect the light emitted by the light source from the tube passage, a clamp adjacent the tube passage, and a control unit operative to close the clamp responsive to a signal from the detector. A method is also disclosed for automatically clamping tubes in an orbital welder when they are properly aligned. The method includes the steps of emitting light from the light source into the tube passage, monitoring the light from the tube passage with the detector, receiving a signal indicative of the position of the tube(s) based on the intensity of the detected light, and automatically closing a clamp depending on the signal from the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Publication date: September 13, 2007
    Inventor: Kent Child
  • Publication number: 20070151102
    Abstract: The present invention provides a water vacuum break assembly for use in a washing machine and a method of assembling the water vacuum break assembly. The water vacuum break assembly includes a housing defining at least one water inlet opening, a water cavity fluidly connected with the at least one water inlet opening, and a control system cavity positioned proximate the water cavity, the control system cavity configured for selectively retaining one of at least two differently configured control systems configured for sensing and/or regulating a temperature of water in the water cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: July 5, 2007
    Inventor: Terry Hygema
  • Patent number: 7216795
    Abstract: A mechanical weldable fitting for use in tapping a pipe includes a first and second metal collar, each formed of attachable upper and lower semi-toroidal portions that when assembled on the pipe providing spaced-apart external cylindrical surfaces. Each collar having at least one internal circumferential sealing groove therein that receives a gasket formed about the pipe. A lower semi-tubular metal containment member is positioned on the external cylindrical surfaces of the collars. An upper semi-tubular metal containment member is positioned on the external cylindrical surfaces of the collars. The upper containment member having an integral upwardly extending tubular access portion affording passage for tapping the pipe. The upper and lower containment members are welded to each other and to the collars to fully encompass a portion of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Tony R. Garrison, Larry J. Oden, James E. Terry, Dixit B. Kadakia
  • Publication number: 20060059686
    Abstract: A faucet channel structure and manufacturing method is applied to a faucet having a channel including a curved section, and comprises a faucet body and a channel lid. The faucet body includes an open channel having a polished surface. The channel lid includes a polished surface corresponding to the polished surface of the open channel of the faucet body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Publication date: March 23, 2006
    Inventor: Chuan-An Wei
  • Patent number: 6889435
    Abstract: A method of securing a metal component to a body having a metal wall includes placing the component against the body such that a wall of the component is in external surface contact with the wall of the body. An opening is then thermal drilled through the abutting walls causing thermal flow of material on opposite sides of the abutting walls that, when hardened, joins the component to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony W. King, Todd Gerardot
  • Publication number: 20050081380
    Abstract: A pipe coupling method includes an inlet insert, a clamping ring, a clamp and the forming of a flange on an end of two adjacent pipes. A clamping ring is sized to receive the flanges. The inlet insert is sized to be inserted into first and second pipes. The clamp is placed over the clamping ring. The clamp is tightened to secure the two pipes. A second embodiment of the pipe coupling method includes an inlet insert, and a pair of latch clamps for joining a pipe to a sprinkler pipe. A third embodiment of the pipe coupling method includes an inlet insert, two collars, a peripheral clamp and enlarging a perimeter of two coupled pipes. A fourth embodiment of the pipe coupling method includes an inlet insert, an inlet insert, a clamp and enlarging a perimeter of two coupled pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Publication date: April 21, 2005
    Inventor: Daniel Knoblauch
  • Publication number: 20050072001
    Abstract: It is described how to easily manufacture a pipe fitting by machining instead of casting, despite its complex shapes and its small dimensions. A model is created, a machining program is defined, checks are made and the previous results are input into a numerically controlled machine tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Publication date: April 7, 2005
    Applicant: Airbus France
    Inventors: Herve Lanvin, Robert Rossato
  • Publication number: 20050028366
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a branch pipe. In order for the dependable production of a branch pipe with virtually any desired design of the branch to be made possible in a simple way it is proposed that an elongate, straight main curvature and at least two lateral curvatures, respectively branching off from a longitudinal side of the main curvature, lying opposite each other with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the main curvature extending in the material of the blank and having a mirror-symmetrically arranged base line are formed from a blank by deep-drawing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: February 10, 2005
    Inventors: Wilfried Bien, Pierre Bonny, Michael Halves, Thomas Huelsberg, Uwe Kluessmann, Holger Nuhn, Ralf Puenjer, Olav Reinhardt, Dirk Riewert, Thorsten Sternal
  • Patent number: 6845559
    Abstract: A structure and a method for coupling a protective net to a flexible tube, comprising shaping the flexible tube, wrapping the flexible tube with the meshed protective net made of stainless steel, and welding both ends of the flexible tube to both ends of the protective net. A solution heating process for the flexible tube and welding process for the flexible tube and the protective net are simultaneously carried out under the same condition in the same furnace. As a result, the protective net and the flexible tube are uniform in terms of physical properties. Furthermore, intergranular corrosion of stainless steel by inevitable stress generated upon welding a flexible tube and a protective net using any one of conventional methods, and crevice corrosion between a welding ring and a flexible tube, are prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Dong-A Flexible Metal Tubes Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jin Lim Choi
  • Patent number: 6817379
    Abstract: A plumbing part in the form of a water delivery device is comprised of a protective liner through which potable water can flow. The protective liner is in the form of one or more lengths of stainless steel tubing and is encased in a casting of a desired material, such as bronze or brass. Fittings required to attach the water delivery device to sinks, bathtubs or other water sources and to allow for insertion of various aerators and other flow devices are also encased in the casting. The various fittings are pre-assembled to the liner prior to casting to ensure a water-tight seal between the liner and the fittings prior to casting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Frank Perla
  • Patent number: 6694616
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of forming a T-shaped pipe (60) or tube connecting section, also referred to as a T-connector, T-junction or a T-section. The method comprises the step of cutting a form out of sheet metal, the form substantially comprising a rectangle having extensions on each side arranged in two pairs of opposing extensions (2) followed by the step of bending the edges of a first pair of opposing extensions (6a, 6b) together to form a body having a central passage extending through the body in a first plane and a further passage (64) extending from the exterior of the body to the central passage in a plane orthogonal to the first plane. The invention also provides apparatus arranged to form a T-connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph McKenna
  • Patent number: 6691411
    Abstract: A method of installing a wastewater drain assembly for a bathtub by inserting an L-shaped drain pipe into a drain hole of a bathtub such that an annular flange on the drain pipe rests on a bottom wall of the bathtub. Slideably mounting a lock washer over the drain pipe and threadably tightening the lock washer against a lower surface of the bottom wall of a bathtub. Connecting the drain pipe to a drain system. Testing the drain assembly for water leaks. Finally, installing a drain closure into the upper end of the drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6656294
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a processing method for preventing elution of lead in a lead-containing copper alloy to prevent lead from eluting from a faucet metal, etc. made of a lead-containing copper alloy, and a drinking water service fitting made of a lead-containing copper alloy in which elution of lead has been prevented. By forming a chromate film on the surface of a lead-containing copper alloy material, it is possible to reduce elution of the lead left in a limited amount on the surface. A drinking water service fitting made of a lead-containing copper alloy is immersed in an alkaline etching solution in a pre-processing step for a nickel chromium plating step to selectively remove lead on the surface of the lead-containing copper alloy material and is then activated in a solution such as sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Masashi Kawamoto, Akira Gotou, Mituo Imamoto
  • Patent number: 6523261
    Abstract: A metallic press fitting element is made from a solid or hollow bar as starting material which is treated by a machining process, or by a machining process and a subsequent non-cutting process, to form a finished press fitting element with a pressing zone destined for connection of a pipe. The pressing zone is comprised of a hook-shaped region of substantially roof-shaped cross section for receiving an O-ring gasket, and an adjacent cylindrical region positioned inwardly of the hook-shaped region distal to an insertion end for the pipe into the pressing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Mapress GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Bernd Sedlak, Richard Krüger
  • Patent number: 6345643
    Abstract: Faucet valve chamber body composed of a controlling valve body, an inlet tube, a main tube body and an outlet/inlet sleeve. The valve chamber body is assembled with a handle, a casing, an upper clamping block, a washer, a sealing ring and a lower clamping block. An upper end of the controlling valve body is provided with a driving rod milled with a casing outer thread section and a stepped stop block. A lower portion of the controlling valve body is milled with a locking outer thread section. The inlet tube is milled with an internal inlet tunnel and an upper annular engaging section. A middle portion of the inlet tube is milled with a stepped section to which an annular flow-guiding rib is adjacent. A lower end of the inlet tube is milled with locking outer thread section. The main tube body is milled with an internal receiving tunnel. Inner circumference of the upper end of the receiving tunnel is formed with a locking inner thread section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Chung Cheng Faucet Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsi Chia Ko