Miscellaneous Patents (Class 405/303)
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Patent number: 6161358Abstract: A modular mobile drilling system and method of use supports land-based drilling operations on remote sites. Plural support boxes fixedly deployed in first and second rows define a drilling zone. A plurality of platform support beams disposed from the first row to the second row support a platform for holding drilling equipment. An actuator associated with the platform and beams skids the support beams relative to the boxes to align the platform with predetermined positions in the drilling zone, allowing the drilling of multiple wells along the length of the support box rows. The drilling equipment can also skid laterally across the drilling platform to support drilling of multiple rows of wells in the drilling zone.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventors: David A. Mochizuki, Siegfried Meissner, Stevan D. Stronach
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Patent number: 6135674Abstract: A rod storage and transport apparatus comprising a roof bolter including a tool. The apparatus includes a rotatable holding carousel adjacent the tool and adapted to hold a plurality of rods therein. The apparatus also includes an extending and retracting transport mechanism cooperating with the carousel to move one rod at a time between the carousel and the tool, so that the tool can use the one rod to perform a mine operation. The carousel has a generally elongated shape and is able to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the shape. This permits the carousel to position the one rod held by the carousel adjacent the transport mechanism, so that the transport mechanism can transport the one rod to the tool, or position the carousel to receive a rod transported by the transport mechanism from the tool. The transport mechanism when fully retracted is substantially within a cylinder generated by the rotation of one of the rods about the longitudinal axis of the carousel.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1998Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: Cram Australia Pty Ltd.Inventor: Brad Neilson
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Patent number: 6132356Abstract: The invention provides a portable apparatus and a method for quickly conting, suppressing and mitigating localized hazardous material spills. The hazardous material containment apparatus has a vapor, aerosol and particulate containment vessel having a cover and side walls attached around a perimeter of the cover to define an open central cavity. Each of the cover and side walls are composed of a material which resists penetration of a hazardous material therethrough. A tube extending through the vessel has a first end open at a point inside the cavity and a second end at a point outside the vessel. Vacuum and filtration systems are attached to the second end of the tube for extracting a hazardous material from inside the cavity to outside the vessel through the tube.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Paul G. Schabdach, James A. Genovese
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Patent number: 6131654Abstract: A well cover includes a housing having a top side and a substantially concave bottom side, and a peripheral base portion. A substantially radially outwardly extending flange is disposed on the peripheral base portion for securing the well cover to the ground. Alternatively, a plurality of tabs may be provided for securing the well cover to the ground. The flange or tabs may be provided with holes or slots therethrough. Attachment anchors cooperate with the flange or tabs to releasably secure the well cover to the ground. A method of forming the well cover includes vacuum molding a sheet of vacuum-moldable material into a desired contour. The flange or tabs are formed integrally with the housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Inventor: Morris Holscher
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Patent number: 6087582Abstract: A utility enclosure apparatus for utility lines extending upward from the ground consists of a housing defining a cavity and an upper aperture opening into the cavity as well as a lower aperture for the passage of utility cables into the cavity. Two rails extend upward from the housing and support a hanger rod therebetween that is slidable along the lengths of the rails. An amplifier or other device may be hung from the hanger rod for connection to the utility cables. An adjustable center support bar extends across the upper aperture in the housing to provide support to the amplifier or other device hanging from the rail. A rock-like cover is configure to fit over and conceal the housing and be removably secured to the housing so as to provide an aesthetic look to the utility enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 1998Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Inventor: Joel C. Arthur
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Patent number: 6074131Abstract: A method of upgrading the area below a dispenser to contain accidental release harmful materials from contaminating the soil below grade without repiping, electrical changes, or concrete disruption.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1997Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Assignee: BP Amoco CorporationInventors: Charles M. Daul, Paul A. Sivak, David Lyzinski, Albert J. Kovach
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Patent number: 6065902Abstract: A method and device for on-site producing a cable at the location for placing the cable includes a mobile device supporting an arrangement for forming a protective sheath of the cable and an arrangement for inserting the optical fibers or electrical leads into the sheath and then discharging the sheath into a cable laying position. The device may include an arrangement for forming a trench for receiving the cable, an arrangement for inserting a filling compound into the interior of the sheath as the leads or fibers are introduced therein and means for supplying a filling material for filling the trench subsequent to insertion of the cable therein.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1999Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ernst Mayr, Ernst Opel, Waldemar Stocklein, Guenther Uhlenhuth, Lothar Finzel
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Patent number: 6065904Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring soil compaction using a compaction machine which applies periodic impact blows to the soil surface. The apparatus comprising a rotatable, multi-sided compactor mass that applies periodic impact blows to the soil surface when rolled over that surface. Data related to the level of compaction of the soil surface is derived, during compaction of the soil surface, from the deceleration of the compactor mass as it impacts the soil surface. This is achieved using one or more accelerometers mounted on the impact compactor.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1999Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Compaction Technology (Soil) LimitedInventors: Eric Johnstone Cook, Aubrey Ralph Berrange
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Patent number: 6061975Abstract: A subterranean outside plant telecommunications equipment enclosure system including a substantially water-tight containing capsule slidably and rotatably received within a vertical underground sleeve. The capsule is selectively positionable into a first upwardly projecting position with respect to the sleeve and a second storage position within the sleeve. The system provides easy access for servicing and prevents binding of telecommunications cables connected to the capsule.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Thomas Francis Craft, Jr.
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Patent number: 6045297Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a method and apparatus for drilling rig mobilization and demobilization. The rig is assembled or constructed at a remote site. It is later taken apart and transported to another remote site or back to a staging point. The rig itself comprises a rig floor which is supported on a set of vertical rig legs which support the rig floor for movement between raised and lowered positions. An equipment module is preferably installed on the rig floor. It goes above the rig floor while other modules are attached under the rig floor and provide additional equipment and service space. The method involves the transportation of the rig floor, the legs, equipment module and other modules to and from the rig site by hover craft while riding on a top deck on the hover craft for lateral transfer and installation.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1998Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Inventors: Ronald J. Voorhees, Ronald B. Tinkham
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Patent number: 6039505Abstract: The apparatus and technique of the invention constitutes a hydraulic jack system for pushing sections of new pipe which, in turn, pushes a sleeve-cone expander arrangement to break up the old pipe and define a straight path for the new pipe. Apparatus is employed to determine the skin friction and the penetration friction, and to dispense a lubricant to reduce such frictional forces.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1998Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Inventor: Albert A. Tenbusch, II
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Patent number: 6004076Abstract: A method of monitoring of the level of compaction of a soil surface undergoing compaction by an impact compactor which includes a rotatable, multi-sided compactor mass that applies periodic impact blows to the soil surface when rolled over that surface. In accordance with the invention, data related to the level of compaction of the soil surface is derived, during compaction of the soil surface, from the deceleration of the compactor mass as it impacts the soil surface. This is achieved using one or more accelerometers mounted on the impact compactor.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1997Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Compaction Technology (Soil) LimitedInventors: Eric Johnstone Cook, Aubrey Ralph Berrange
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Patent number: 5990196Abstract: The present invention provides a ground surface structure for prevention of weed growing. The structure includes a germination-preventing sheet (2) resistant to penetration of buds of a plant and laid over the surface of a selected ground (1). The structure also includes a surface layer (3) formed by accumulating a water-repellent earth material on the germination-preventing sheet (2). The earth material includes material grains formed with silicone coating. Typically, the germination-preventing sheet (2) is made of a nonwoven fabric material and resistant to penetration of buds of a plant. Further, the sheet blocks the passage of light, but exhibits water permeability and air permeability.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1998Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignees: Yoshiyuki Naoi, Kazumi ToushinInventor: Kazumi Toushin
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Patent number: 5959249Abstract: In a drain structure for an electric connection box, a drain hole (5) for discharging water permeating within a case (4) is provided in a bottom wall (4a) of the case (4) of an electric connection box (1) having a terminal insertion port (3b) of a terminal receiving portion (3); and a permeation prevention wall (6) for preventing the water discharged from the drain hole (5) from permeating within the terminal receiving portion (3) is provided at least in a portion between a discharge port (5a) of the dram hole (5) and the terminal insertion port (3b) of bottom wall surface (4b) close to the discharge port (5a) of the drain hole (5) in a projecting manner.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventor: Daiji Hotta
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Patent number: 5951208Abstract: A method of roof/side wall roof bolting in-situ includes the steps of drilling a bore hole, loading a rupturable resin cartridge into a lightweight, tubular wand through the delivery end, manually placing the wand with the delivery end adjacent the mouth of the bore hole, pushing the cartridge through the wand for transfer into the bore hole, and inserting the roof bolt to rupture the cartridge and for setting into place in the rock. The related apparatus includes a tubular wand, a flexible pusher that is extensible through the wand and into the bore hole for transfer of the cartridge and a driver in the form of a flexible snake assembly from a reel to push the cartridge. The snake assembly includes a cylindrical head on the end and a plastic retainer fits over the trailing end of the cartridge to prevent retro movement and to provide protection from premature rupture. A handle at the proximate end of the wand provides for easy manipulation of the wand.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: J. H. Fletcher & Co., Inc.Inventors: Henry E. Wilson, William B. Schwab
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Patent number: 5944452Abstract: Heavy duty mobile metal foundation installation apparatus and method are disclosed including a push-it carriage movably supported through controllable positioning to push a metal foundation into the ground by hydraulic cylinders pushing against a header frame held and secured in adjustable positions on a heavy duty mobile push-it tower. The heavy duty mobile push-it tower and metal foundation holder and push-it carriage mounted on the heavy duty tower are attached to a track roller frame tractor structure. The push-it tower is attached to the track roller frame tractor structure by a hydraulically activated tractor boom arm, a pivot point on the tower, and a hydraulic cylinder for rotating and positioning the tower about the pivot attachment point.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1998Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventor: Gary L. Reinert, Sr.
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Patent number: 5938376Abstract: In an automated temporary roof support and roof bolting machine there are several safety features. The machine has forward operator's stations on each side of the machine. All the controls for operating the machine are in the operator's stations. The machine is pulled forward, a precise distance, by a hydraulic cylinder with a limited stroke. The pulling of the machine is controlled by safety switches requiring both operators to operate the switches in unison.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Inventor: Robert J. Alcaraz
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Patent number: 5915886Abstract: A liner assembly for a manhole or passage comprises a multiple-ply, generally cylindrical tube. The outermost ply includes inner and outer surfaces and is adapted for being impregnated with material for rigidifying and bonding the outer surface of the outermost ply to a manhole or passage. The innermost ply includes inner and outer surfaces and is adapted for being impregnated with a material for rigidifying the innermost ply. An impermeable ply is disposed between the innermost and outermost plies. The impermeable ply includes an impermeable membrane having fibers impregnated on the inner and outer surfaces of the impermeable ply. The fibers of the inner surface of the impermeable ply bond with the epoxy impregnated outer surface of the innermost ply. Likewise, the fibers of the outer surface of the impermeable ply bond with the epoxy impregnated inner surface of the outermost ply, so that the manhole or passage becomes structurally reinforced.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Inventor: Ronald A. McNeil
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Patent number: 5911543Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of controlling erosion and creating a growth medium capable of supporting plant life. The method comprises the steps of analyzing a site, determining the amount and type of a mulch to be applied to the site, determining the desired conditions of the site and the length of time for placing animals on the site and applying mulch and animals to the site to produce conditions suitable for generation of the growth medium such as soil. The present invention further relates to an automated site reclamation control system which utilizes a control system processor to control the amount of feed and water supplied to the feed and water troughs, as well as the location of the troughs thus controlling the location and movement of the animals on the reclamation site thereby optimizing the creation of the growth medium.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: BHP Copper Inc.Inventors: Timothy R. Higgins, Jesse D. Mitchell, Todd R. Breen, Andrew A. Brodkey
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Patent number: 5902072Abstract: A modular seismic cable handling system contained in a knockdown intermodal freight container, the freight container configured for secure containment and shipment of the system, as well as being configured to open to a platform designed to engage the main deck of a marine vessel, providing, with cable handling equipment contained therein, a relatively portable, self contained seismic cable handling system, on a vessel which may not specifically be designed for such an activity. The present invention may include a large wheel mounted in the front of the vessel for retrieving seismic cable from the water, a horizontally mounted cable handler comprising an eight wheel cable puller for pulling the cable from the wheel, urging same to the main deck level of the vessel, the cable puller comprising four pairs of tires configured for frictional, rotational contact another along their outer surface, to frictionally grab and pull a seismic cable along a linear path.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Assignee: Regional Fabricators, Inc.Inventor: Larry Berges
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Patent number: 5879501Abstract: A method of sealing a polymeric lining of a manhole and the sewer lines communicating with the manhole which comprises forming insitu an integral substantially continuous monolithic polymeric coating or lining on the interior surface of the manhole adhered to the interior surface and substantially simultaneously forming a generally tube-shaped polymeric sealing member coaxially aligned with the manhole opening having an interior diameter generally equal to the interior surface of the manhole opening which is integral and continuous with the polymeric lining of the manhole preferably by spraying the interior surface of the manhole with a polymeric material having an isocyanate-terminated compound, most preferably a polyurea, then substantially simultaneously forming the tube-shaped polymeric sealing member of the same material as the manhole lining.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1996Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.Inventor: Gregory J. Livingston
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Patent number: 5871304Abstract: A precast prerotation basin system for use in a wet well for removing water or fluid therefrom is disclosed which comprises a prefabricated, three-dimensional body having a prerotation basin and fluid entrance channel. The precast prerotation basin presents an improvement over prior methods of forming prerotation basins downhole in a wet well because the basin system of the present invention is prefabricated, easily transportable and can be placed in a wet well without the need for providing a cement casing or floor beforehand. The precast prerotation basin of the present invention is pre-structured for accurate alignment of a centrifugal pump therein and eliminates the cost and inaccuracies of forming prerotation basins from molding cement downhole.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: EnviroTech Pumpsystems, Inc.Inventors: Joel Quinn, Eric Maass, David P. Borrowman
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Patent number: 5870871Abstract: This invention includes repair of an existing underground sump without the need for costly and time consuming excavation. A plurality of liner-forming pieces are placed inside the underground sump to create a liner preferably substantially conforming to the interior dimensions of the sump. The pieces are joined together to form a unitary containment shell by first taping and then using fiberglass cloth and fiberglass resin. A layer of gel-coat is applied to the surface of the shell to create a fluidtight containment chamber within the sump. Some of the liner-forming pieces can have openings formed therein to accommodate the pipe entries corresponding to those in the sump.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Total Containment, Inc.Inventor: David Stewart
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Patent number: 5833398Abstract: A dynamic, self compensating constant volume deformation support system includes a sealed constant volume containment chamber including a base and a rigid peripheral wall; a load-carrying deformable plate carried by and attached to the peripheral wall; a non-compressible fluid within the containment chamber supporting the plate and responding to a negative deflection created by an applied load to the plate by creating an opposite and offsetting pressure uniformly distributed on the underside of the plate for creating a positive deflection of the plate and producing a net deflection an order of magnitude lower than normally induced by the applied load.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Inventor: Edward J. LeNormand
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Patent number: 5813797Abstract: A unitary sump frame made from a continuous material is disclosed. A substantially planar and continuous flange has an inner perimeter defining an opening in the frame and an outer perimeter. A lip is integrally connected to the flange and extends downwardly from the flange. The lip includes a securing mechanism that is operative to attach a component to the frame. A lug is integrally connected to the lip and extends away from the opening. The lug is operative for anchoring the frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1997Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Dover Corp.Inventors: David Pendleton, John Joseph Matracia
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Patent number: 5810511Abstract: A spill containment system has plural fluid impervious sheets. Each sheet has peripheral edges adapted to sealingly couple to the peripheral edge of each other sheet. Plural wall elements each have an edge adapted to sealingly couple to, and uncouple from, peripheral edges of the fluid impervious sheets. The fluid impervious sheets and the wall elements may be sealed together to form a pan like structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1995Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Inventor: Gordon G. Schmidt
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Patent number: 5804069Abstract: A mesh enclosed container is provided to remove melt water from frozen blocks of contaminated sediment which has been extracted from a marine environment. The mesh enclosure has a number of porous wicking tubes for insertion into corresponding cavities in the frozen sediment blocks. Wicking material is inserted into the tubes to enhance melt water flow out of the sediment blocks during the thawing cycle. A sealed container may be provided to enclose the block and meshed container to prevent escape of volatile materials during the thawing cycle. The sealed container will also collect melt water accumulated during the thawing cycle. A method of melting frozen marine sediment blocks is provided to recover treated water.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1996Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Inventor: Lars Leander Eriksson
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Patent number: 5799405Abstract: An aligning tool, involving plumb bob usage, for a fully assembled underground elevator ram system is provided and makes it possible to align the elevator ram into a required vertical position. Further this allows the fully assembled elevator to be vertically installed at site in a hole which often is flooded by groundwater.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1996Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: C.M.F. CorporationInventors: Jack V. Christensen, Erwin D. Kanne
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Patent number: 5795107Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the handling of rods such as drilling rods, roof bolts, or rib bolts, so that they can be removed directly from a storage cradle near a drilling rig or other mining operation machinery. The invention removes the need to manually load rods into drill rigs or other machinery, by a system of transportation mechanisms made up of straps and/or hydraulic actuators, and gate mechanisms to control the entry and exit of the rods from a storage cradle. Gripping mechanisms are also included to deposit the rods to and from a desired location on the drill rigs or other machinery.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1996Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Assignee: Cram Australia Pty Ltd.Inventors: Michael Edmondson, Brad Neilson
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Patent number: 5791822Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the handling of rods such as drilling rods, roof bolts, or rib bolts, so that they can be removed directly from a storage cradle near a drill rig or other mining operation machinery.The invention removes the need to manually load rods into drill rigs or other machinery, by a system of transportation mechanisms made up of straps and/or hydraulic actuators, and gate mechanisms to control the entry and exit of the rods from a storage cradle. Gripping mechanisms are also included to deposit the rods to and from a desired location on the drill rigs or other machinery.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1996Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Assignee: Cram Australia Pty Ltd.Inventors: Michael Edmondson, Brad Neilson
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Patent number: 5791820Abstract: There is provided a new and useful apparatus for use in implanting a screw-in piling or anchor into the subsoil. The apparatus comprises an insertion means mounted to a skid-steer loader combined with a first load bearing measuring device to measure the load required to insert the piling or anchor and a second load bearing measuring device releasably attachable to the anchor to measure the holding strength of the piling or anchor within the subsoil.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1996Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Inventor: Jake Rempel
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Patent number: 5782584Abstract: A utility enclosure apparatus for utility lines extending upward from the ground consists of a housing defining a cavity and an upper aperture opening into the cavity as well as a lower aperture for the passage of utility cables into the cavity. Two rails extend upward from the housing and support a hanger rod therebetween that is slidable along the lengths of the rails. An amplifier or other device may be hung from the hanger rod for connection to the utility cables. An adjustable center support bar extends across the upper aperture in the housing to provide support to the amplifier or other device hanging from the rail. A rock-like cover is configure to fit over and conceal the housing and be removably secured to the housing so as to provide an aesthetic look to the utility enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1996Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Inventor: Joel C. Arthur
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Patent number: 5775836Abstract: A capping vessel and method for the low-turbidity delivery of a desired depth of capping materials to the sediment surface of a body of water along a predetermined course, the vessel comprising at least one floatable platform; a plurality of generally vertically submerged tremies comprising an array, the array of tremies depending from the at least one platform and extending to a predetermined height above the sediment surface, for the delivery of capping material to the sediment surface; at least one delivery hopper for the apportioning and feeding of capping material to the array of tremies; at least one rotary feeder interposed between the array of tremies and the delivery hopper for delivering the capping material to the array of tremies at a controlled rate; rotation control means for controlling the rate of rotation of the at least one rotary feeder in predetermined relationship to the forward velocity of the platform and the desired depth of capping material; and navigation control means for controllinType: GrantFiled: March 5, 1996Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Inventor: Americo Dean, Jr.
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Patent number: 5772362Abstract: The movement of relocatable racing rails (10) by manual labor involves the extraction of poles (16) from the ground and re-insertion of each pole a fixed distance from its adjacent pole along the path of the new location of the racing rail, thereby resulting in a time consuming and very labor intensive operation wherein inaccuracies in placement of the poles can result in misfits of the relocatable rails over the poles, whereby readjustment is often required. A transportation apparatus (28) is provided for carrying poles (16) and measuring a fixed distance between the last pole and a pole driver mechanism (32) for driving the next pole (66) into the ground. The pole driver is allowed to move relative to the transportation apparatus as the apparatus moves along the ground, but the relative movement is arranged so as to maintain a fixed distance to the last pole for a time shortly before, during and after the pole driver mechanism is actuated to drive a pole into the ground.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: Aclis Pty LtdInventor: Anthony McGregor Sims
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Patent number: 5772363Abstract: A pile remover has a first embodiment for removal of short pilings and a second embodiment for long pilings. Both embodiments include a pile-fitting tube with hydraulic cylinders at the top end of the tube that push downward to cause rocking cutters at the bottom end of the tube to pivot with sharpened ends moving inward to shear off the piling. Both embodiments are designed for use with a back hoe or a derrick. After a piling has been shearing, with the cutters still in cut position, the back hoe operator can lift the cut off piling and deposit it on a barge or other conveyance by reversing the cutter action and drooping the piling.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Inventor: John G. Larson
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Patent number: 5752786Abstract: The invention relates to a method for relining an underground branch conduit (10) of an underground main conduit (11) by a relining pipe (14) in the form of a radially stiff double-walled pipe with a corrugated outer wall (14A) and a smooth elastic inner wall (14B) being inserted by use of a traction rope (22), a draw shoe (20) and a pressure plate (25). A stop element (27) is provided on the traction rope (22), which can be pressed against the draw shoe by the motion of the traction rope in relation to the draw shoe.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1996Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Assignee: Uponor Innovation ABInventor: Pasi Tapio Huikari
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Patent number: 5725331Abstract: A tight crossing to ensure a high efficiency seal between the interior (1) and the exterior (2) of a high activity cell. The crossing comprises a sleeve (6) placed in the wall (3), a guide tube (11) placed within the sleeve (6) and a support flange (12) placed between the sleeve (6) and the guide tube (11) on its outer end. A joint holder flange or ring (15) is placed in the cell interior (1) and is secured against the cell skin (4), the guide tube (11) and the sleeve (6) by means of captive bolts (18).Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 1996Date of Patent: March 10, 1998Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie AtomiqueInventor: Jacques Martinez
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Patent number: 5720579Abstract: A ground anchor for use in securing a desired object adjacent the ground is described. The ground anchor consists of a one-piece unitary molded plastic body member having a reinforcing rod extending through a mid portion thereof. The ground anchor includes an annular shoulder surface to which a driving force is translated. A cable or other tie member links an embedded ground anchor to the desired object. The anchor is configured so that tension on the cable tends to rotate the anchor within the ground to increase the resistance against pulling out of the ground.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1996Date of Patent: February 24, 1998Assignee: Royal Anchor Systems, Inc.Inventor: Julian P. Trangsrud
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Patent number: 5720582Abstract: The present invention provides a bolt delivery system having a bolt magazine movably attached to a magazine base which in turn is affixed to a rock bolter having a bolt driver. The bolt magazine moves between a work position and a park position. In its work position, a linear incremental bolt advancing mechanism advances the bolts to where they are aligned with the bolt driver, and, in combination with a bolt-embracing arm, maintains the aligned bolt until it is engaged by the bolt driver. After the bolt driver has engaged the bolt and advanced it to engage a bolt centralizer provided to position the bolt in a pre-drilled hole in a rock surface, the bolt magazine is moved to its park position. At which time, the bolt driver is further advanced driving the bolt into the pre-drilled hole. The linear incremental bolt advancing mechanism preferably has a lower and an upper bolt advancing mechanism, and more preferably, provides the bolts a component of motion toward the rock surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1996Date of Patent: February 24, 1998Assignee: Cannon Industries, Inc.Inventors: Ward D. Morrison, Perry L. Coombs
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Patent number: 5700109Abstract: There is described a travelling multi-functional disposal simulation instation for simulating the long-term behaviour of materials for disposal containing organic components. These can comprise disposable house refuse and similar wastes, but also contaminated soils. Simulation serves for recultivation, composing and similar soil investigations. The installation constructed for this purpose comprises a double-walled heatable container, a lower, inner base plate with a slight inclination to the horizontal and with at least one outlet opening at its lowermost point, a horizontal base plate disposed immediately above the said first base plate, and forming the support base for the fill material, and which is in the form of a screen base, two different lid formations extending in a gas-tight manner over the clear width of the container and being vertically adjustable along the inner wall, and a travelling undercarriage receiving the entire container.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1996Date of Patent: December 23, 1997Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Angewandten Forschung e.V.Inventors: Kerstin Hund, Werner Klein, Werner Kordel, Theo Gortz, Norbert Schwarzer
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Patent number: 5690449Abstract: A tool base securing system for a rock bolter. One aspect of the invention provides a securing system for the tool base which is being advanced on a cradle along a feed shell. This system includes a forward latch which is pivotably attached to the forward section of the cradle base and has a tool base engaging lug. A mechanical linkage is provided to engage and disengage the front lug from the tool base as the cradle is advanced from and returned to a park position on the feed shell. In a preferred embodiment a rear latch is also provided which has a mechanical linkage for engaging and disengaging a rear lug. A second aspect of the invention provides a securing system which provides a mechanical interlock which immobilizes all tool bases which are off the cradle when the cradle is being advanced.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1996Date of Patent: November 25, 1997Assignee: Cannon Industries, Inc.Inventors: Ward D. Morrison, Perry L. Coombs
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Patent number: 5683203Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing a padmount transformer using a buried support frame is provided wherein the transformer is mounted adjacent a trench about the underground cable, the frame includes a pair of telescopically extendable legs which rest on the trench bottom. Each of those legs reaches to the top of the trench and is removably attached at that upper end to one of a pair of arms that rest on the surface of the ground under where the floater pad is to be placed. A stabilizing bar is removably attached to each of the legs to secure them in a desired relative position. The position of each of these frame elements can be adjusted to permit the top of the frame to be made level. The relatively compact ground at the bottom of the trench and the surface adjacent the trench secures the frame against significant or uneven changes in vertical position over time.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1996Date of Patent: November 4, 1997Assignee: Donald W. AndersonInventors: Donald W. Anderson, Dieter John Trimolt
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Patent number: 5673512Abstract: A portable masonry pier constructed of a used steel drum, a reinforcing rod frame which surrounds the drum in a masonry wall which is laid up around the frame and secured with mortar to the frame. The mortar is also internally confined by the drum. Removable fasteners secure the frame to the drum and are provided with lifting rings to lift and move the composite pier structure as a unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1996Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Inventor: Herman K. Dupre
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Patent number: 5674030Abstract: The invention involves a device and a process which can be employed for sealing building branch lines (3b) leading from a building or a collecting manhole directly to a sewer main (4) using a relining process in which liners (1) made of self-hardening/self-curing sealant are used. In the process according to the invention, a pipe repairing machine (6) is employed which features a rope guiding device (10) at its front end (14), said rope guiding device (10) being comprised of a roller mount (15) to which a deflection pulley (5) and a retaining roller (16) are affixed. The pipe repairing machine (6) into whose rope guiding device (10) the rope (7) to which the liner (1) is attached is threaded is positioned inside the sewer main (4) at the building branch line junction (2) in such a manner that the rope (7) does not come into contact with the building branch line edge (9) facing the pipe repairing machine (6) when taut.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1994Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Assignee: Sika Equipment AG.Inventor: Alwin Sigel
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Patent number: 5669737Abstract: A wall retention system for abutting against and retaining a mass of earth, comprising in combination: (a) a set of flat facing slabs, each facing slab having an outer flat surface and an inner, reinforced surface. The facing slabs are edgewisely interlocked to form a single continuous wall structure. Foundation slabs abut on the ground, and support the lower portions of the facing slabs wherein the facing slabs are supported in generally upright condition. A number of elongated brace bars are provided, integrally carried at their inner ends by the facing slabs reinforced surface and transversely projecting therefrom at vertically spaced intervals. These tension members embeddingly anchor into the mass of earth to be retained. Hence, large horizontal loadings from the mass of earth can be sustained by the wall retention system, without compromising the angularity of the facing slabs relative to ground level.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1995Date of Patent: September 23, 1997Inventors: Michel Equilbec, Jean Cote
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Patent number: 5661265Abstract: An explosion proof drain for incorporation into an enclosed electrical system including a hollow housing with an opening at an upper end and an annular flange circumscribing a smaller opening at a lower end. A porous, metallic disk is force fitted into a bore in the housing and seated against the annular flange. A filling material is poured into the bore of the housing and is supported by the porous metallic disk. A second porous, metallic disk is force fitted into the opening in the upper end of the drain to ensure that the sand does not exit the drain.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Assignee: Appleton Electric CompanyInventors: Garrett S. Yarbrough, Nabil L. Mina
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Patent number: 5660055Abstract: A freezing cell having one or more freezing tines may be used to remove contaminated sediment from the beds of water bodies. The freezing tines are to be immersed into the sediment. Refrigerant is supplied to the tines by a refrigeration unit during the freezing cycle to solidify the surrounding sediment into a block held by the cell. The block of frozen sediment is lifted from the water body. The block is released from the freezing cell by heating the tines. The block is then transported for treatment. The freezing cell may be returned for reuse in sediment removal. The freezing cell may be configured to permit close placement of the cell to other like cells used in the extraction process. A method of freezing marine sediment into blocks is used to recover contaminants from water bodies.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Inventor: Lars Leander Eriksson
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Patent number: 5658091Abstract: Apparatus for inserting prefabricated drain members downwardly into underlying earth which includes a vertically extending mast that supports an elongated earth penetrating mandrel. The mandrel is adapted to receive a prefabricated drain member for movement with the mandrel down into the earth to insert drain members. A drive is mounted on the mast for driving the mandrel into and out of the underlying earth and the drive includes a rotary drive gear that engages the mandrel and a motor for driving the gear. A vibrator is mounted on the upper end of the mandrel for imparting vibrations to assist in its penetration into the earth. A flexible torsion drive coupler couples the motor to the drive gear for driving the drive gear and for also isolating the motor and the mast from vibrations imparted to the mandrel by the vibrator.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1996Date of Patent: August 19, 1997Assignee: Geotechnics America, Inc.Inventors: R. Robert Goughnour, C. Russell Joiner
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Patent number: 5647165Abstract: A selective inverted drain has an upright cylindrical duct the base whereof may flare out in trumpet or funnel shape and fixed or adjustable legs. An atmospheric fluid dynamizing device is in the portion between the lower half of the upright cylindrical duct and the flared out portion thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1992Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Inventor: Rafael Guarga Ferro
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Patent number: 5645372Abstract: A form for construction of a catch basin including a water insert form that has a front insert wall, a rear insert wall, a pair of side insert walls and a concave bottom edge. The front insert wall and the rear insert wall each have knockouts along the bottom. The mortar insert form is positioned over an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe of a catch basin for bridges. Also, included are a pair of thumb screws that are capable of being positioned through one of the side walls of the mortar insert form. Included is a height mortar bridge form that has a front bridge wall, a rear bridge wall, and a pair of side bridge walls. The front bridge wall and the rear bridge wall each have a concave bottom. The front bridge wall and the rear bridge wall each have an inner wall that sloops downwardly from a top edge to form a cross rib. Lastly, the height mortar bridge form is locked within the mortar insert form a pair of thumb screws. This provides a form for mortar to be poured into.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1995Date of Patent: July 8, 1997Inventor: Raymond F. Hahn