Gas And Water Specific Plumbing Component Making Patents (Class 29/890.14)
  • Patent number: 7743504
    Abstract: A duct structure (50), includes lengths of square/rectangular duct (52) manufactured by pre-forming the duct in round cross-section (51) and then transforming the round cross-section into square and rectangular cross-sections utilizing expandable die structures (58). The duct (52) may be connected together end to end by flanged connectors (54) formed from strip stock (71), that is notched at locations that correspond to the corners of the formed flange connector. The cross-sectional profile of the flanged connector is then formed by roll forming and/or bending and/or other techniques. Thereafter, the strip stock is bent at its notched locations to define the corners (80) of the flange connector (54) and then the free ends of the strip stock are fixed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Hermanson
  • Publication number: 20100101654
    Abstract: A gas regulator includes a housing and a pressure regulator positioned within the housing along a first axis for controlling the pressure of gas received from a pressurized source. A flow meter controls the flow rate of the gas received from the pressure regulator. The flow meter is positioned relative to the housing along a second axis, transverse to the first axis. An outlet nozzle member has a nozzle stem and is positioned along the first axis. The outlet nozzle member receives the gas from the flow meter and delivers the gas through the nozzle stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: INOVO, INC.
    Inventors: LeNoir E. Zaiser, Kevin Confoy
  • Publication number: 20100089476
    Abstract: A manifold includes first and second plates secured together at an inner face of each plate. A plurality of chambers and passages are in the inner faces of the plates and at least one port on an outer face of each plate connected to one of the chambers and passages. A crossover element in the inner face of the first plate separates a chamber or passage in the first plate from a chamber or passage in the second plate in the crossover area where the chambers or passages cross.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: New York Air Brake Corporation
    Inventors: Bucky J. Bordeau, Eric Wright, John M. Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20100090456
    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 being interfaceable with a plurality of non-system female connectors, and the female connector being interfaceable with a plurality of non-system male connectors, 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: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: CRYSTAL ENGINEERING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas D. Halaczkiewicz, David K. Porter, William R. Ehrgott
  • Publication number: 20100089819
    Abstract: A pleated filter element includes a composite depth filter medium formed into a plurality of pleats. The composite depth filter medium includes a plurality of depth filter media layers. Each of the plurality of depth filter media layers includes adsorber particulate matter. Each of the plurality of depth filter media layers may have a thickness less than about 1300 microns. The plurality of depth filter media layers may have at least 50% by weight of adsorber particulate matter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas J. Hamlin, Gokhan Kuruc, Peter J. Leavesley, Richard D. Sale
  • Publication number: 20100059996
    Abstract: A high pressure tube compression fitting/flared fitting for use in combination with a thick-walled tube and a connection body wherein a sleeve is in engagement with a thick-walled tube. The sleeve is generally cylindrically shaped with the exterior thereof coated and then etched. The sleeve includes a sharp annular biting portion engaging the thick walled tube. The sleeve further includes an inner annular symmetric concavity which engages the thick-walled tube upon deformation thereof. The thick-walled tube includes a flared end portion. A gland about the thick-walled tube engages the sleeve forcing it into engagement with the frusto-conical portion of the connection body coupling the tube, tube fitting and connection body together. The flared end of the thick-walled tube interengages and seals the frusto-conical portion of the connection body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Samuel D. Ciprich, Matthew T. Bernosky
  • Publication number: 20100043229
    Abstract: A gap sub assembly can be used to form an electrical isolation in a drill string, across which a voltage is applied to generate a carrier signal for an electromagnetic (EM) telemetry system. The assembly comprises two conductive generally cylindrical components fashioned with a matching set of male and female rounded coarse threads, held such that a relatively uniform interstitial space is formed in the overlap space between them. The third component is a substantially dielectric electrical isolator component placed into the gap between the threads that effectively electrically isolates the two conductive components. Injecting the dielectric material under high pressure forms a tight bond resistant to the ingress of conductive drilling fluids (liquids, gases or foam), thus forming a high pressure insulating seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Paul L. Camwell, Derek W. Logan, David D. Whalen, Thomas H. Vermeeren, Anthony R. Dopf
  • Publication number: 20100029190
    Abstract: An exhaust system for an aircraft galley chiller is provided. The exhaust system includes a galley having a chiller that includes an inlet, a condenser fan inlet, a condenser fan outlet proximate to chiller inlet, and a first flow of air through the condenser, an air ventilation outlet conduit that includes a second flow of air therethrough, and an ejector pump. The ejector pump includes a first airflow inlet, a second airflow inlet and an airflow outlet, wherein the first airflow inlet is coupled in flow communication with the condenser fan outlet, the second inlet is coupled in flow communication with the air ventilation outlet conduit. As the second airflow increases, the first velocity increases in a direction away from the galley chiller facilitating a decrease in temperature at the condenser fan inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Michael J. Dessero, Luong Hoang Le, Thomas J. Moran
  • Publication number: 20090320953
    Abstract: An interstitially insulated pipeline for flowing a hydrocarbon. In an embodiment, the pipeline comprises a first interstitially insulated pipe and a second interstitially insulated pipe. Each interstitially insulated pipe comprises an inner pipe, an outer pipe mounted coaxially around the inner pipe, an insulating interstice radially positioned between the inner pipe and the outer pipe, and a layer of screen mesh having a mesh size 10 or less disposed in the insulating interstice. In addition, the pipeline comprises a joint coupling the first interstitially insulated tubular and the second interstitially insulated tubular end-to-end. The joint includes a connection that couples the outer pipe of the first interstitially insulated pipe to the outer pipe of the second interstitially insulated pipe, and an annular seal member disposed between the inner pipe of the first interstitially insulated pipe and the inner pipe of the second interstitially insulated pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: THE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEM
    Inventors: Leroy S. Fletcher, Egidio E. Marotta, Charles A. Bollfrass
  • Publication number: 20090294416
    Abstract: A manufacturing system is disclosed. The manufacturing system may have a mount configured to hold a workpiece, a laser source configured to generate a laser beam directed toward a first side of the workpiece, and a sensor located on a second side of the workpiece. The sensor may be configured to sense a characteristic of the laser beam during penetration of the workpiece and to generate a signal in response thereto. The manufacturing system may also have a controller in communication with the laser source and the sensor. The controller may be configured to adjust parameters of the laser beam during penetration of the workpiece based on the signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Zhaoli Hu, Marion B. Grant, JR.
  • 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: 20090200406
    Abstract: An injection system (1) for injecting fuel at a predetermined fuel pressure has: an actuator (2, 3) providing a stroke for lifting an injector needle (4) that opens a nozzle into which the fuel is injected; a leverage apparatus (5) for translating the provided stroke into a modified stroke, the apparatus has a compensating device (6) coupled to the actuator (2, 3), and a lever device (7), which is coupled to the injector needle (4), wherein the lever device has at least two symmetrically disposed, single-arm levers (8a, 8b), which each come in contact with an injector needle head (10) of the injector needle (4) when lifting the injector needle (4) by means of a single needle head support (9a, 9b); and wherein the compensating device (6) is suited to compensate a varying force application of the actuator (2, 3) on the single-arm lever (8a, 8b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Maximilian Kronberger
  • Patent number: 7543383
    Abstract: A floating collar is metal injected moulded with an excess portion intended to be separated, such as by shearing, from the reminder of the moulded floating collar to leave a chamfer thereon and/or remove injection marks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Bhawan B. Patel, Lorin Markarian, Melissa Despres
  • Patent number: 7543856
    Abstract: A tubing connecting device for a fluid carrying tube having a flat portion with an aperture therethrough includes a coupling body having a first port and a second port that are in fluid communication, a planar surface on the coupling body, surrounding the first port and configured to engage the flat portion of the tube with the first port in fluid communication with the aperture. A strap is affixed at both ends to the coupling body and is configured to engage the tube and hold the coupling body in place on the flat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Mueller Gas Products
    Inventor: Mark Thomas Lang
  • Publication number: 20090140196
    Abstract: A manufacturing method for a fluid pressure device and a fluid pressure device are provided, in which joints are diffusion bonded to a valve body. In the fluid pressure device, the joints are inserted into an inlet port and an outlet port formed in the valve body, and heating is performed to generate a temperature difference between the valve body and the joints, whereupon by diffusion bonding of the joints into a wall of the valve body in which the inlet port and the outlet port are formed, both members are bonded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Keiichi MINEGISHI, Yasunori Yoshida, Kouji Wada, Youichi Kawamura
  • Publication number: 20090133258
    Abstract: A connector sleeve for joining conduit, and a joint construction, and a coupling assembly for joining conduit; and a method for joining conduit using a coupling assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: ALLIED TUBE & CONDUIT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Giulio Scartozzi
  • Patent number: 7516522
    Abstract: A clamping collar comprising an open ring (10), each end of which carries a bearing tab (10A, 10B), and tightening means comprising a tightening bolt (14) whose shank passes through the bores (12A, 12B) in the bearing tabs, a nut (16), and a spacer (18). In order to tighten the collar, the head of the bolt or the nut are driven in rotation. The spacer is disposed between the element that is driven in rotation and the corresponding bearing tab. The spacer (18) is formed by a rolled-up blank disposed around the shank (14B) of the bolt (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Etablissements Caillau
    Inventors: Richard Chene, Didier Goussalt
  • Patent number: 7481350
    Abstract: A welded pipe joint having reduced internal stresses comprises a pipe, a socket fitting, and an annular weld. The end surface of the fitting is chamfered in a concave profile, so that the weld profile subtends an angle of from about 100 degrees to about 120 degrees, rather than the customary 90 degrees. The fitting and the pipe are welded together by applying, from outside the pipe, an annulus of added bead metal to the chamfered end surface of the fitting so as to surround the chamfered end surface, and fusing the base metal of the annular wall and pipe. The pipe has no dam or other protuberance to confine the bead of added metal. Prior to welding, the fitting may have an annular lip immediately surrounding the surface of the pipe and may also have a ring spaced from the lip. The ring may be integral with the fitting and spaced from the lip by thin, radially spaced metal bars or may be separate from the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Nitin J. Shah
  • Publication number: 20090021006
    Abstract: A coupler 10 for coupling two conduits 12, 14 is disclosed. The coupler 10 includes a female open ended tubular member 16 and a male open ended tubular member 18. Each tubular member 16, 18 has a joint end 20 and a conduit connection end 22, 24 between which an axial flow path extends. The conduit connection end 22, 24 is for connecting the tubular member to an end of a conduit such as a drain pipe. The coupler 10 further includes a jointing arrangement 34 for connecting the joint ends 20 of the tubular members 16, 18 to each other. The arrangement 34 includes a coaxial spigot formation 26 at the joint end of the male tubular member 18, and a coaxial socket formation 28 at the joint end of the female tubular member 16. The spigot formation 26 is received in spigot-socket fashion within the socket formation 28. The jointing arrangement 34 permits angular and rotational movement of the two tubular members 16, 18 relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: Plastec Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Andrew Hobbs
  • Patent number: 7475476
    Abstract: In a threaded connection with tapered male and female threads, an annular housing is provided in the vicinity of the free end of the female element, which housing receives a portion of a deformable sealing ring, which is radially compressed, while a retaining lip of the ring is immobilized in a further annular housing of the female element by a rib on the male element. Such a connection may find particular application for connecting pipes for hydrocarbon wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignees: Vallourec Mannesmann Oil & Gas France, Sumitomo Metal Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Gabriel Roussie
  • Patent number: 7448652
    Abstract: A fitting is inserted into an opening in a wall. The fitting includes a ring portion where it extends through the opening. It also includes one or two end portions that extend axially outwardly from the ring portion. The ring portion has an inside diameter that is smaller than the inside diameters of the end portion or portions. The fitting is positioned within the wall openings. Then, an expansion tool is moved through the interior of fitting for the purpose of expanding the ring portion. The ring portion is expanded to such an extent that it makes a tight fit with the opening. Also, the degree of expansion may result in a cold working of the wall material surrounding the opening. The expansion tooling only expands the ring portion and does not exert a substantial expanding force on the end portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Fatigue Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Tom G. Poast, Dean C. Madden, Mark R. Weiss
  • Patent number: 7426784
    Abstract: The invention satisfies this need. The invention is an internally threaded insert for use with a polymetric pipe fitting in a fire sprinkler system. The insert comprises an outer side surface, an outer rearward surface and an outer forward surface. The outer forward surface is adapted to retain a fire sprinkler at a forward end of the insert. The outer side surface of the insert is sized and dimensioned so as to closely match the bores of standard polymeric pipe fittings, so as to be capable of being slidably and snugly received into the bores of a standard polymeric pipe fitting. The insert can be conveniently affixed within the bores by non-mechanical means, such as by gluing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Spears Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Wayne Spears, Douglas Swingley
  • Patent number: 7421784
    Abstract: An original equipment manufacturer water heater including a water tank including an inlet and an outlet, means for heating water in the water tank, a base pan at least partially supporting the water tank such that water leaked from the water tank collects in the base pan, a valve closable to prevent water from entering the water tank through the inlet, and a sensor positioned in the base pan, the sensor configured to close the valve upon detecting water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: AOS Holding Company
    Inventors: Marc W. Akkala, William R. Hoover
  • Publication number: 20080203218
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for reducing pressure loss of air flowing from a first area in a first direction to a second area in a second direction. The systems include a flow surface, first and second fence walls, an opening, and a flow path. The flow surface defines a portion of the first area. The fence walls extend substantially parallel to each other along the flow surface in the first direction. The opening is formed in the flow surface and is disposed between the first and second fence walls. The flow path defines at least a portion of the second area and is in flow communication with the opening to receive a portion of the airflow and to direct the airflow in the second direction. Methods of using and manufacturing the systems are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Morris G. Anderson, Yogendra Y. Sheoran
  • Publication number: 20080185491
    Abstract: Embodiments of a fuel tank flange are disclosed, including a single fuel tank flange plate having multiple fuel tank system components secured thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: W. Bruce Bosch, Evan Waymire
  • Publication number: 20080178466
    Abstract: A method is shown for manufacturing a length of pre-insulated piping of the type having an inner steel carrier pipe surrounded by an outer layer of insulating foam and, in turn, an outer plastic waterproof jacket. The interior of the waterproof jacket is treated in a flame treatment process in order to ensure a more uniform bond between the layer of foam insulation and the outer waterproof plastic jacket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Keyes
  • Patent number: 7350828
    Abstract: A tube fitting (50) that uses two basic components, namely a fitting body (54) and a fitting nut (52). The nut (52) and body (54) are adapted to be threadably coupled together by relative rotation therebetween. The nut (52) includes an integral tube gripping ring (80) that may be separable from the nut upon pull-up of the fitting. The tube gripping ring and nut (52) form a trepan in which a sealant (400) is disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Swagelok Company
    Inventor: Peter C. Williams
  • Patent number: 7347454
    Abstract: A hose/clamp assembly is provided that has a hose, a hose clamp, and a retaining device. The hose clamp is openable and closable. The retaining device has an arm, a clamp retainer attached to a first end of the arm, and a hose clip attached to a second end of the arm. The retaining device is removably attached to the hose and the hose clamp. The retaining device secures the hose clamp to the hose when the hose clamp is in a expanded, open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Fluid Routing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig W. Martus
  • Publication number: 20080061555
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved flared cone fitting of the type having a male portion and a female portion having a tube, an inverted conical annulus, a nut, and a joinder portion. It is improved by the joinder portion including a back-side annular face, which may define a void. The joinder portion may also include an abutment intended to contact a shoulder of a fitting nut and properly direct forces exerted on the nut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Colin Knight
  • Patent number: 7310877
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing the sensors for monitoring corrosion of heat exchanger tubes in a thermal power plant. The sensor is made of the tubes taken out from actual heat-exchanger. As a result, the sensor not only has the same material as the actual heat-exchanger tubes, but also has the same surface state where it contacts the working medium. Therefore, a serious technical difficulties have been solved that the sensor made by the prior art can't measure different corrosion states of actual heat-exchanger tubes, that the corrosion rate measured is different from the corrosion rate of actual heat-exchanger tubes, and that the cost of anti-corrosive treatments is high . By use of the sensor made by the present invention, the different corrosion states of actual heat-exchanger tubes can be measured, not only the rate of uniform corrosion of actual heat-exchanger tubes can be measured but also the rate of localized corrosion of the heat-exchanger tubes can be measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Thermal Power Research Institute
    Inventors: Jieyu Cao, Jingxia Song, Deliang Wang, Guojun Long, Benda Sun, Jiantao Yao, Weike Zhang, Tao Liu, Bing Liu
  • Patent number: 7246826
    Abstract: A pipe lap joint for use with vehicle exhaust systems which includes an inside pipe end telescopically inserted into an outside pipe end with the pipe ends secured together by a band clamp. The outside pipe end includes a sealing zone having a collapsible sealing slot that enables the outside pipe end to be drawn tight over the outside surface of the inside pipe end via the band clamp to thereby provide a fluid-tight seal between the pipes. The sealing slot extends from an open end of the outside pipe end and includes a pair of opposing sidewalls each having a tooth and recess. As the band clamp is tightened, the sealing slot collapses such that the teeth of the sidewalls move into the opposing, complementarily-shaped recesses, while adjoining circumferential edges of the teeth engage each other to thereby form a fluid seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Breeze-Torce Products, LLC
    Inventors: Brian T Ignaczak, Alan M Polaski
  • Patent number: 7243409
    Abstract: A composite conduit suitable for transporting corrosive and/or erosive fluids including gases, liquids or slurries, is formed by positioning a tube formed of a material having desirable corrosion and/or erosion resistant properties within a pipe formed of a commonly weldable material such that one end of the tube is aligned with one end of the pipe. The tube has an outer diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of the pipe. The tube is affixed to the pipe by connecting the aligned ends thereof, and the pipe is compressed in a reducing operation so that the inner diameter of the pipe is reduced to a diameter that is less than or equal to the outer diameter of the tube. Adjacent, end-to-end sections of the composite conduit are connected using a coupling that employs a cylindrical body formed of the same material as the tubes of the conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: John K. Lewis
  • Patent number: 7240928
    Abstract: A tubing connection arrangement and a method used for coupling expandable tubing sections together. In one embodiment, there is disclosed a tubing connection arrangement comprising a first expandable tubing section defining a male portion; a second expandable tubing section defining a female portion, the first and second expandable tubing sections being engageable with one another; one of the first and second expandable tubing sections including a restraining member for restraining part of the other expandable tubing section; and the first expandable tubing section including a tapered shoulder for co-operating with a corresponding tapered shoulder of the second expandable tubing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason David Evans, Martin William Geddes, Colin McHardy, Wayne Rudd
  • Patent number: 7234222
    Abstract: A method for configuring a gas distribution channel, the gas distribution channel being configured for introducing a plasma source gas into a plasma processing chamber of a plasma processing system is disclosed. The method includes providing a metal conduit, providing a thermo-plastic tubular structure, and disposing the thermoplastic tubular structure within the metal conduit. The method also includes applying heat and pressure to the thermo-plastic tubular structure, thereby causing the thermo-plastic tubular structure to mechanically couple with the metal conduit wherein an outer surface of the thermo-plastic tubular structure is longitudinally coupled with an inner surface of the metal conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Fangli Hao, John Daugherty
  • Patent number: 7231716
    Abstract: A novel method of making a nozzle by forcing a malleable metallic disk into a series of cavities in progression using punches to draw down a formed section so metal can be pulled into the shape of the next cavity in the series. Each cavity differs in size and shape, progression of the nozzle to the next cavity occurs until the metal is incrementally hardened by each step in the progression and the desired shape is formed. Wall thickness of the nozzle can be selectively varied in each section drawn down or pulled. Exceptionally accurate nozzles can be made with smooth, hard, rigid, walls of varying and constant thickness at low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Brian L. Verilli
  • Patent number: 7222885
    Abstract: A drain seal for connecting a drain tube to a support structure includes a molded unitary body having first and second moldingly joined portions, each formed of dissimilar durometer materials. The first portion is formed to sealingly join the body to a drain tube. The second portion is formed to mount the body in an aperture in a support structure. A bore extends completely through the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Cooper Standard Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Lyle D. Tincknell, Darryl T. Bradley, James D. Grant, Timothy J. Stuart, James E. Ostrander, Daniel E. Snead
  • Patent number: 7172142
    Abstract: Various nozzles, components of nozzles, and methods, materials and devices for making them are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Diamicron, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery K. Taylor, Richard H. Dixon, Michael A. Vail, Clayton Frank Gardinier
  • Patent number: 7152321
    Abstract: A gas generator housing part is produced of a thin-walled tube having a wall thickness which amounts to a maximum of 10% of a tube external diameter and a minimum tensile strength which amounts to at least approximately 800 N/mm2, and a connecting piece having an external diameter which amounts to between 15% and 40% of the tube external diameter. After aligning the connecting piece radially to the tube such that an end face of the connecting piece faces an outer face of the tube, the tube and the connecting piece are joined by friction welding. A maximum welding time amounts to less than 1 second, preferably less than 0.3 second and a friction depth amounts to less than 80% of the wall thickness of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: TRW Airbag Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Sebastian Bierwirth, Karsten Schwuchow, Achim Hofmann, Thomas Kapfelsperger
  • Patent number: 7152885
    Abstract: A connection structure of a multi-channel tube with branching tubes is provided with a multi-channel tube having an end, the multi-channel tube including; an outer tube; a partition being formed in a unitary body and running parallel with the outer tube, the partition partitioning an interior of the outer tube into two or more channel holes; and a passage formed at an end of the partition, the passage linking the channel holes; two or more branching tubes respectively inserted into the channel holes to an insertion depth greater than a depth of the passage measured from the end of the multi-channel tube; and brazing material spreading beyond the passage over clearances between the multi-channel tube and the branching tubes and connecting the multi-channel tube and the branching tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Calsonic Kansei Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Takamatsu, Hiromi Takasaki, Susumu Satou
  • Patent number: 7144048
    Abstract: A composite marine riser may be formed, in one embodiment, of a pair of threaded metallic sections having threaded external surfaces. The threaded external surfaces may taper from a larger to a smaller diameter. The composite material may be formed over the threaded external surfaces, which surfaces serve to transfer force from the metallic sections to the composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Stena Drilling Ltd.
    Inventor: Gavin Humphreys
  • Patent number: 7134204
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for restraining pipe against internal forces at a pipe or fitting connection and to join and seal at least two pipes to form a pipeline is shown featuring an improved restraining/sealing mechanism. The restraining/sealing mechanism includes a relatively rigid gripper ring and a companion sealing ring which are received within one or more mating grooves provided in the belled end of a female pipe. The gripper ring and sealing ring can be combined or attached, or they can be separate members located in the same retaining groove or separate grooves in the female belled pipe end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: S & B Technical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradford G. Corbett, Jr., Jim Jones
  • Patent number: 7108296
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector is mountable onto the threads of a threaded fluid component in a sealed fluid connection. A retainer element carried by the fluid quick connector is engagable with the threads on the second fluid component. In one aspect, the retainer element is at least one tab projecting inward into a bore in the quick connector body for engagement with the threads on the fluid component. In another aspect, the retainer is a resilient member carried within an expanded chamber in the quick connector body which has resilient legs positioning a tip end into engagement with the threads on the fluid component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Andre
  • Patent number: 7104573
    Abstract: A gasket for converting a standard mechanical joint into a restrained mechanical joint without the need for altered configuration of the bell, spigot, or gland of the joint, and without the need for additional fittings or devices. In the practice of the present invention, a standard mechanical joint's bell and gland configuration can be employed to connect a spigot end of one pipe length to the bell end of another pipe length in a restrained relationship, with the restraint based on forces superior to rubber-to-pipe friction. In more particular discussion of the embodiments taught, the invention includes forming the gasket to fit within the bell in such a manner that a void, or gutter, exists during rest, into which void the gasket compresses, which in turn influences the rotational motion of the segment. In this manner, the configuration of the gasket influences the timing and extent of rotation throughout the process of securing the gland to the bell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: United States Pipe and Foundy Company, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel A. Copeland
  • Patent number: 7096585
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a duct member having a plurality of adjustable sections which are rotatable relative to one another. The apparatus and method causes relative rotation between individual sections during the manufacturing process, to form a completed duct member in an automated process utilizing a rotating head assembly comprising a plurality of engagement members extendable radially outward of the rotating head body in an engagement position and retractable radially inward to a disengagement position. Accordingly, a 90 degree adjustable elbow can be produced in its 90 degree elbow configuration without requiring the machine operator to manually adjust the adjustable sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Cleveland Tool & Machine, Inc.
    Inventor: Victor Bota
  • Patent number: 7093858
    Abstract: A clamp for attaching a pipeline tracer wire to a pipeline riser has an elongated riser grip which is resiliently flexible to snap onto the riser. An elongated conduit with a V-shaped groove extends integrally along the outer wall of the riser grip. The conduit receives the tracer wire therein. At least one tap screw is engagable in the groove and radially into the conduit to lock the tracer wire between the screw and the opposite inner wall of the conduit. Alternatively, a tap screw may be threadedly engaged in the upper end of the conduit to lock the tracer wire between the screw and the opposite inner wall of the conduit. Preferably, the clamp is made of non-metallic, fire retardant material such as a high density thermoplastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Jim L. Russell
  • Patent number: 7076874
    Abstract: A method of modifying a bath to accept a heater (30) using a fitting and pipe section assembly (10) is provided. The method includes cutting the assembly (10) along first and second indicia (17A and 17B) disposed at the ends of a pipe section (12) and removing a center segment (16) of the pipe section (12), leaving first and second end fittings (18A and 18B) with a gap therebetween. The method further includes inserting the heater within the gap without displacement of the fittings and securing the heater in fluid communication with the fittings with a fastening assembly. A method of forming a fitting and pipe section assembly to permit the mounting of a heater in fluid communication with tubing of a bath is also provided. A method of modifying a segment of tubing of a jetted bath to accept a heater is further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: AquaTemp Products Inc.
    Inventor: Gary P. Rochelle
  • Patent number: 7073240
    Abstract: A layout tool and a means for using the tool to fabricate multi-segment elbows and offset joints from rectangular cross-section fibrous air ductboard material. The tool has a triangular main body having at least one structural feature that defines a plane. At least one flange is connected to the main body, is oriented substantially perpendicular to the main body plane, and forms the first side of the triangle. The main body includes a first outer straight edge extending at an angle of 67.50 degrees from the flange forming the second side of the triangle. A second outer straight edge extending at an angle of 78.75 degrees from the flange forms the third side of the triangle. An inner structure of the main body forms a straight edge perpendicular to the plane of the flange. The outer angled and interior straight edges enable 22.5- and 45-degree miter joints to be easily marked and cut in pre-formed fibrous air duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Dwayne K. Eberly
  • Patent number: 7066497
    Abstract: A flexible hose formed from corrugated metal tube has a fitting permanently crimped to the end of the hose. The fitting includes an elongated stem having a first end adapted to be coupled to an appropriate fitting surface and a second end configured to be received within the hose. A sealing member disposed on the second end of the stem seals the fitting between the corrugated metal tube and the stem. A ferrule is placed over the hose and is crimped to compress the hose and sealing member between the ferrule and stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventors: Wolfgang F. Fullbeck, Mark A. Hess
  • Patent number: 7055869
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector includes a housing which sealingly receives a tubular endform latched in the housing by a movable retainer. An axially slidable top hat is mounted in the bore in the housing and has axially extending posts with ends disposed in the path of movement of the retainer when the top hat is in a biased first position. Biasing members are formed on the retainer to normally bias the retainer to the first position. The biasing members are cantileveredly movable by contact with the inner surfaces of the bore in the housing under forced insertion of the endform into the housing through contact between the annular flange on the endform and the posts on the top hat enabling the endform to be fully sealingly inserted into the bore in the housing before of the retainer can be moved to the latched position to latch the endform in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: David S. Malone
  • Patent number: 7055864
    Abstract: A pneumatic coupling is provided. The pneumatic coupling is configured to couple a plurality of pneumatic lines together. According to the preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the pneumatic coupling includes first and second housings and a plurality of fittings sized to receive the pneumatic lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: SMC Corporation of America
    Inventors: Rick D. Pelfrey, Christina G. Santiago, William O. Hodge, Edward E. Kohl, Michael D. Nowling