With Additional Enclosure Structure; E.g., Manhole Patents (Class 52/20)
  • Patent number: 8091292
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing improved egress and greater safety for subterranean window wells. The apparatus has relatively low lifting force to allow people to escape fires and earthquake damaged buildings through egress windows. The apparatus can include mounts which are U-shaped and fit over opposing sides of the window well wall and are connected thereto. The mounts may have pivots which connect to an operator that applies upward force upon a grate assembly that covers the window well. The mounts and grate are hinged to pivot and allow the grate to be opened when needed. The operator has swivel and ball connections and an adjustable outboard connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Stephan J. Jalbert
  • Publication number: 20110265392
    Abstract: Insulated scuttle covers configured for placement within a building scuttle opening are provided. The insulated scuttle cover includes a scuttle panel configured to cover the building scuttle opening and further configured to be supported when positioned within the building scuttle opening. An insulative assembly is attached to the scuttle panel. The insulative assembly includes insulation material encapsulated by a jacket. The insulated scuttle cover is configured to prevent or substantially retard the flow of air passing through the building scuttle opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Fawn M. Uhl, Harry Alter, Brandon Robinson, Brian P. O'Riordan, Robert P. Collier, Weigang Qi
  • Publication number: 20110232201
    Abstract: An automatic retractable hatch guard provides enhanced safety and security to hatch openings and comprises retractable assistive handrails and a retractable access step that retracts to fit within a hatch opening and beneath a hatch cover and automatically extends upwards and beyond the hatch opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Cardwell
  • Patent number: 8006439
    Abstract: This device for closing an opening includes a frame (4) that delimits a pass-through access opening (10) suitable for receiving a cover (6) and which includes a frame hinge knuckle (18). The frame hinge knuckle (18) includes a hinge surface (38) and a pass-through hinge knuckle opening (40). The frame (4) has an exterior side and an interior side. The device also includes an inserted plug (52) positioned in a recess (50) of the frame hinge knuckle (18) located on the inner side of the hinge surface (38) and which makes the inner side of the frame hinge knuckle (18) appreciably sealed off from the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Pam-CRD
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Hauer, Francis Berthon
  • Publication number: 20110203192
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method for providing an enclosure is disclosed, which method in one embodiment may include: providing a container having an access opening; providing a channel around the access opening of a size and strength sufficient to retain therein a selected amount of an adhesive and to support weight of a riser; placing the selected amount of the adhesive in the channel; placing an end of the riser in the channel after placing the adhesive in the channel; aligning the riser in the channel; and curing the adhesive with the riser aligned in the channel to provide a watertight connection between an inside of the access opening and an outside of the riser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: CONTAINMENT SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: William A. Schneider, Kevin A. Soeder, Robert B. Sergent, JR.
  • Patent number: 7975436
    Abstract: A cover for a utility trench includes upper and lower surfaces enclosing a hollow cavity, which is subdivided by multiple, transverse channels recessed into an extending transversely across the lower surface. The channels form fused engagements or “kiss offs” with the upper surface, which increase the transverse rigidity of the cover for enhanced load-bearing capacity spanning across the opening formed by the trench. The hollow construction of the cover, which can comprise a suitable plastic, tends to minimize its weight A pair of flanges extend along respective sides of the cover and are bolted to the trench sidewall top edges in overlying relation. A pair of shoulders are formed inside the flanges and are adapted to extend into the trench with the cover positioned thereover. A method of manufacturing a utility trench cover includes rotary molding a hollow cover with kiss offs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Pedestals, Ltd.
    Inventor: Nelson C. Newton
  • Patent number: 7966772
    Abstract: A tubular insert sleeve for an excavated hole and a safety cover fitted to cover an operatively upper end of the insert sleeve are provided to maintain the integrity of an excavated hole and limit access to the hole in order to improve the safety of the public. The sleeve is made of cooperating segments which can easily be separated and which a form a sleeve when assembled. The operatively upper end of the assembled sleeve forms an outwardly extending bell-shaped end of greater outer diameter to define an outwardly extending flange which is more easily grasped for removal of the sleeve from an excavated hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Super Sucker Hydro Vac Service, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard George Bartels, Darren Bernard Bartels, Marc Beaudry, Darren Van Buuren
  • Patent number: 7966786
    Abstract: A riser formed from a plurality of curved cylindrical segments with vertical side edges having mating vertically tapered projections and slots brought into interlocking engagement to pull confronting surfaces together as the tapered elements become increasingly mechanically engaged. The segments are assembled by a sliding engagement of the protruding mating element of one segment into the vertically tapered slot of an adjacent segment. When sufficient segments are joined together horizontally to complete a ring except for a last adjacent pair of vertical side edges, the ring is warped to align the protruding mating element of the last adjacent pair of vertical side edges with an opposite end of the adjacent tapered slot. Thus aligned, the final protruding mating element and tapered slot are then slipped together while un-warping the joined segments forming the remainder of the ring until the top and bottom ends of all the segments are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Sim-Tech Filters, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Koteskey
  • Publication number: 20110148631
    Abstract: A manhole security cover includes a manhole cover body comprising a non-metallic RF signal transmissive material. The manhole cover body is seatable on a manhole frame to cover a manhole opening. In the seated position, the first side is accessible from outside the manhole, the second side is disposed within the manhole, and the peripheral edge portion engages a manhole cover support surface on the manhole frame. A manhole cover tamper sensor is responsive to a predetermined movement of the manhole security cover body. A transmitter is operatively connected to the manhole cover tamper sensor and configured to generate a radio frequency manhole cover tamper signal when the manhole cover tamper sensor detects the predetermined movement of the manhole security cover body. An antenna is operatively coupled to the transmitter to radiate radio frequency energy through the manhole cover body to a receiver located outside of said manhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: MCGARD LLC
    Inventors: Thomas R. Lanham, Andrew D. Trank, Daniel J. Corby, Jeffery R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7955026
    Abstract: To line an inner circumferential surface of side walls of a manhole, a rehabilitating sheet made of a sheet material resistant to water and corrosion is provided in the form of a bag having a shape corresponding to the inner circumferential surface to be lined. The rehabilitating sheet is inserted into the manhole to be lined. Block and plate frames are coupled inside the bag of the rehabilitating sheet to support it so as to have the shape corresponding to the inner circumferential surface to be lined. A gap between the rehabilitating sheet and the inner circumferential surface of the side walls of the manhole is filled with a filler, which is then hardened to line the side walls of the manhole. Pairs of plate frames having different diameters are coupled to each other to provide ring plates having different diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K.
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Koji Kaneta, Kenji Fujii, Katsuyori Miura
  • Patent number: 7926510
    Abstract: A riser system for use at the access opening of a wastewater treatment tank includes an adaptor ring affixed to the top of the tank, and a mating riser. The adaptor ring and riser have ends with mating circumferential L-shape sections. There are horizontally projecting tabs spaced apart around the upper end of the adaptor. The tabs engage a corresponding number of L-shape slots which are spaced apart around the circumference of the bottom end of the riser. When ring and riser are mated, rotation of the riser relative to the adaptor causes each tab to move circumferentially to a recess in the slot, which locks the tab in position. Micro-ridges on horizontal mating surfaces of the L-shape sections help form a seal between the two parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: EZflow L.P.
    Inventors: Theophilus B. Terry, III, Thomas N. Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20110083376
    Abstract: A safety hatch and safety railing assembly in unitary form which incorporates the fabrication of a roof or deck scuttle with safety guard rails as required by the Occupation Safety Hazards Act (OSHA) around the roof or deck opening of a building. The safety hatch or safety hatch and safety railing assembly of the present invention preferably employs safety railing mounting bracket components that are welded to hatch flashing or to bracket hanger members and are designed to receive and provide for safe and efficient mounting of vertical posts and rails of a safety railing assembly around a roof or deck access opening. The safety hatch and safety railing assembly provides an improved base flashing that additionally functions to hold the roofing membrane to the scuttle curb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph Cuccurullo
  • Publication number: 20110072731
    Abstract: The invention relates to a top part for a shaft, having an access part and a shaft cone which is connected to an access part and, with a connecting element on that side of the shaft cone that lies opposite the access part, can be mounted onto a further shaft element, the shaft cone having a substantially convex basic shape, characterized in that, in the region of the shaft dome, stiffening structures are disposed on the inner surface of this shaft dome, which extend substantially radially or parallelly, angularly or concentrically from one or more imaginary points or lines within or outside the dome downwards over the curved shape of the shaft cone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Friedrich Kastner, Manfred Klausberger, Erich Mitteregger
  • Patent number: 7914227
    Abstract: A manhole cover includes a support having an upper surface and a peripherally-extending portion. An outer insulating member is disposed over the entire upper surface of the support, and the support comprises a first material and the outer insulating member comprises a second material different from the first material. The peripherally-extending portion of the support is positionable over the lip of the manhole ring. The outer insulating member is positionable between the upper surface of the support and the upper surface of the rim of the manhole ring when the manhole cover is received in the manhole ring. In one aspect, the support comprises cross-members defining a grate having passageways through the support. In another aspect, the support comprises metal, and the outer insulating member comprises a composite of resin, reinforcement fibers, and stone aggregate. In another aspect, screen inserts are disposed in a plurality of passageways in the outer insulating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignees: Energy Products, LLC, Power and Composite Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Lawrence E. Jordan, Anthony F. Mitola
  • Patent number: 7908798
    Abstract: A device for closing a frame, which has a panel mounted removably on and articulated on the frame includes a hook that has, at an end part, a heel that can stop against a surface of the articulation edge of the frame to immobilize the panel in a secure open upright position, generally perpendicular to the frame. The invention can be applied to roads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Norinco
    Inventor: Jean-Jacques Monneret
  • Patent number: 7891904
    Abstract: A stop mechanism advantageously combined with a manhole cover includes a holder body having a passage which slidably receives a stop member able to be cammed in and out upon advance or retraction of a threaded drive member having an enlarged tip engaged with a down sloping channel formed in the stop member. Upper sides of the channel engage the tip upon reversal of the drive member to cam the stop member back into the holder body. The stop member when extends prevents removal of the cover from being blown completely free of the manhole vault structure in the event of an explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: David Stadler
  • Patent number: 7889079
    Abstract: There is disclosed an antitheft security alarm system and method for manhole covers, rainwater drains, and the like, to prevent burglary of the cover by transmitting a wireless alarm signal to a remote station when the cap is removed to notify a dispatch center or other notification message recipient of the burglary incident and location. The security apparatus may be an integrated unit, including sensors, a telemetry unit, a power supply, a processor, and supporting hardware, all located in an enclosed, waterproof housing. The security alarm system apparatus is adapted to fit within a manhole cavity without the need for extensive or alteration of existing manhole structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Kuwait University
    Inventor: Tareq Abduljalil Albahri
  • Patent number: 7883290
    Abstract: A manhole barrier system configured to prevent unauthorized access or dumping or removal of materials into manholes is provided. The manhole barrier system includes a substantially hollow sub-ring configured to be secured to the inside wall of the manhole, preferably using a layer of adhesive, and to receive a pan configured to serve as a barrier therein. The pan may be secured to the sub-ring by way of circumferentially spaced locking assemblies. The locking assemblies are further configured to allow for a limited amount of play between the pan and the sub-ring such that water trapped in the manhole may be allowed to flow upwardly out of the manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventors: Brenda Ross, David Ross
  • Patent number: 7862729
    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: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Stetson Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Stetson
  • Publication number: 20100300007
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a shelter with a ventilated storm window that can be affixed to an exterior wall of the shelter. The ventilated storm window can enable shelter occupants to safely view areas outside of the shelter. The ventilated storm window can also improve air circulation compared to roof-mounted ventilation schemes. Embodiments of the invention may also include a shelter with an improved hatch that can be mounted on a roof of the shelter. The hatch may be configured to withstand storm-force winds and torrential rains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: John F Bunts, SR.
  • Patent number: 7827737
    Abstract: A plaster collar assembly having a first ring, a second ring secured to the first ring, and a mechanism arranged at an outer periphery of at least one of the rings for axially displacing the first and second rings during rotation of the secured rings relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Jude Ziobro, Vergenia Chanlel Whiting, Jeff Edward Underwood, James B. Lee
  • Publication number: 20100242377
    Abstract: A riser formed from a plurality of curved cylindrical segments with vertical side edges having mating vertically tapered projections and slots brought into interlocking engagement to pull confronting surfaces together as the tapered elements become increasingly mechanically engaged. The segments are assembled by a sliding engagement of the protruding mating element of one segment into the vertically tapered slot of an adjacent segment. When sufficient segments are joined together horizontally to complete a ring except for a last adjacent pair of vertical side edges, the ring is warped to align the protruding mating element of the last adjacent pair of vertical side edges with an opposite end of the adjacent tapered slot. Thus aligned, the final protruding mating element and tapered slot are then slipped together while un-warping the joined segments forming the remainder of the ring until the top and bottom ends of all the segments are aligned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Gary L. Koteskey
  • Patent number: 7802402
    Abstract: A crawl space access device is capable of being placed in a below grade level crawl space entry pit, and mating with the below grade opening in a building wall. The crawl space access device includes a body member having a base portion restable on a horizontal surface of the pit. A side wall portion extends generally perpendicular to the base portion. The side wall portion includes a side wall opening matable with the below grade opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Turtl Enterprises LLC
    Inventor: Albert Skaggs
  • Patent number: 7793991
    Abstract: A pipe connector (10) including a joining portion (12) having a port (14) for connection of a first pipe thereto, the joining portion also having a wall for connection of a second pipe thereto, the second pipe being able to be connected to the wall by boring a hole through the wall and bonding the second pipe thereto, the wall having a shape such that the pipe may be bonded to the wall at a plurality of angles with respect to the port, whereby, in use, the pipe connector (10) can connect the first pipe to the second pipe at a plurality of angles with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Shane John Wormall
  • Patent number: 7793468
    Abstract: A blind adapted for easier access than that of traditional hunting blinds. A dual blind including easier access to the blind. A blind with a flip open entry which may then be closed, leaving only the traditional single person sized opening or openings open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Howard Dysle
  • Patent number: 7774988
    Abstract: An inspection chamber having a plastic sleeve, a plastic base accommodated in the sleeve and at least two branches connected to the sleeve, which base has a flow profile that extends between the two branches. The base is made up of at least two separate base parts that are permanently fixed to one another at their edges facing one another, such as by welding, fusing, gluing and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Pipelife Nederland B.V.
    Inventor: Hans Edward Guitoneau
  • Patent number: 7726080
    Abstract: An under-floor storage system provides extra storage space, and is intended for use in locations where tile floors are normally used, such as in kitchens and in bathrooms. The storage system provides for tiles that are the lids of sub-floor storage containers. In one embodiment, the removed tile lid provides access to the storage compartment. In another embodiment, the lid and the storage compartment are integral in normal configuration, but can be separated once removed from the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Rebecca Lynne Hyndman
  • Publication number: 20100124458
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for coupling a manhole cover to an underground utility box to support the manhole cover substantially flush with a ground surface such as a roadway. A holder couples to an underground utility box and includes upper and lower ends and a channel extending therebetween, and a support structure extending into the channel and defining an upwardly facing support surface. An adjustment member for coupling to a manhole cover is inserted within the channel, and includes upper and lower ends, and a passageway extending therebetween and communicating with the channel. The adjustment member is movably receivable within the channel to be seated on the support surface, and to define an adjustment space between the adjustment member and the holder. The adjustment member may thus be adjusted for accommodating a slope and elevation of a ground surface, and sealed with the holder after adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: John Munro
  • Patent number: 7712259
    Abstract: A quick, field installed sump cover system for below ground sumps includes a support ring, a seal between the ring and sump upper lip, preferably two compression brackets each having two spaced regions extending under riser parts, at least one elongated member coupled between the support ring and compression brackets for selectively applying tension forces therebetween causing the bracket regions to engage the riser parts and the support ring to compresses the sealing member to form liquid-tight seal with the sump lip. The sump top can be closed by a dome-cover removably coupled to the support ring. The elongated members can include chain-like members with tensioning devices that, in field installations, can accommodate various sump sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Universal Valve Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Martin C. Pettesch
  • Publication number: 20100043305
    Abstract: The invention provides a composite material structure comprising a plate having an upper side, an under side and at least first and second beams, each beam having a plurality of faces comprising at least an upper face and a base face and a pair of spaced apart side faces intermediate to and adjoining the upper and base faces, each beam being attached to the underside of the plate at the upper face wherein the first beam has an open ended passage extending between the side faces and the second beam extends through the open ended passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Nuala Donnellan, John Reginald Newton
  • Publication number: 20100012671
    Abstract: A manhole cover assembly includes a frame defining an access opening, first and second mounting posts extending from the frame, and a cover for covering the access opening. The cover includes first and second mounting recesses that pivotally receive the first and second mounting posts respectively, such that said cover is movable between an open position and a closed position by rotating the recesses about the posts. At least one of the recesses includes a locking groove that aligns with the post when the cover is moved to an open position to lock the cover in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: EAST JORDAN IRON WORKS, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin S. Vrondran, David E. Fuller, Jeremy I. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7627992
    Abstract: A stackable riser section having a single side wall having a first open end defined by an edge and a second open, channel end. The riser section includes a plurality of bosses extending to the first open end and connected to an interior surface of the sidewall by narrow webs. A channel, on the channel end of one riser is adapted to receive the bosses of a mated riser. A wall defining the boss receiving channel has a plurality of slots with at least a portion defined by parallel edges. The slots receive the webs that connect the bosses to the riser sidewall. The bosses are wider than the portion of the slots defined by the parallel edges. The slotted wall includes thickened wedge portions to snugly fit with the first open end of another riser section. A cover is disclosed that includes the same channel end to coact with the first open end of a riser section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Peter W. Gavin
  • Publication number: 20090282747
    Abstract: A grain bin has a vertical side wall and an inclined roof and a personal lift system is provided for lifting a person to the roof which comprises an upstanding support post or posts tied to the vertical wall with a pulley and cable for lifting a cage containing the person. A counterweight is provided allowing the power for lifting to be provide by the person pulling on the cable. A rail system is provided which allows the cage to move from a lift portion of the rail system at the support post onto the rail to travel horizontally to one or more bins arranged in a row.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Richard J. Epp, Dwayne S. Epp
  • Publication number: 20090211170
    Abstract: An inground marker for a subterranean object, such as a septic tank, includes an imitation paving stone molded from a plastic material in the general shape of an inverted rectangular pan having a substantially planar top surface. The top surface has a recessed area or depression in which an insert bearing a message indicating the presence of a subterranean object is secured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Albert A. Burlando
  • Patent number: 7574831
    Abstract: An integrally formed riser pan member for use as a modular component within an access passageway for an on-site waste disposal system, such as a septic tank, to receivably retain a secondary cover member within, the riser pan member including a cylindrical body having an upper portion having a vertical wall member adapted to receive another modular passageway component thereon, and a lower portion which includes an integral pan portion to seatably receive a secondary cover member. The riser pan member further includes an annular ring between the upper and lower portions. The riser pan member can be employed as a lowermost, a highermost, or as an intermediate component in, for example, an access passageway formed of multiple stackable riser members. In addition, the riser pan member may be formed integrally with a stackable riser member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Tuf-Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore W. Meyers
  • Publication number: 20090199490
    Abstract: A cover (3) for mounting on a frame structure (1) associated with a manhole, the frame structure (1) having side walls defining a central opening there through, the cover (3) including: a cover member dimensioned to fit the central opening with a bottom surface of the cover member facing towards an interior of the manhole and a top surface (9) of the cover member facing away from the manhole, the cover member being moveable with respect to the frame structure (1) between a closed position, whereby the central opening is covered, and an open position, a lock mechanism for releasably locking the cover member in the closed position, the lock mechanism including one or more locking members (13) engagable with the frame structure (1) to thereby retain the cover in the closed position and a lock actuator connected to the locking members (13) for engaging and disengaging each locking member (13) with the frame structure (1), the lock actuator being accessible from the top surface of the cover member, the lock mechan
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen Hockham
  • Patent number: 7571570
    Abstract: A plaster collar assembly having a first ring, a second ring secured to the first ring, and a mechanism arranged at an outer periphery of at least one of the rings for axially displacing the first and second rings during rotation of the secured rings relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Jude Ziobro, Vergenia Chantel Whiting, Jeff Edward Underwood, James B. Lee
  • Patent number: 7556055
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a rupture disk assembly having a rupture disk and a rupture disk holder. The rupture disk holder has a first annular member downstream of the rupture disk, a second annular member upstream of the rupture disk, and an optional third annular member upstream of the second annular member. An outer peripheral portion of the rupture disk is sandwiched between the first and second annular members; and, if a third annular member is present, (a) the second annular member is sandwiched between the outer peripheral portion of the rupture disk and the third annular member, and (b) the third annular member includes a fluid port aimed at the rupture disk. However, if the third annular member is not present, the second annular member includes a fluid port aimed at the rupture disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Michael Stanley DeCourcy, Connie Sue Williams, David Alec Williams
  • Publication number: 20090123227
    Abstract: A one-piece, unitary manhole cover has dual lifting ports that drain through the outer circumferential edge of the cover. A lifting channel runs from the interior of the upper face out to the outer circumferential edge. A lifting bar spans the lifting channel and defines an ergo lifting port and a pry bar lifting port. Both the ergo lifting port and the pry bar lifting port drain through the outer circumference of the manhole cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: EAST JORDAN IRON WORKS, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin S. Vrondran, Jeremy I. Johnson, Andrew J. Malpass
  • Publication number: 20090120013
    Abstract: An integrally formed riser pan member for use as a modular component within an access passageway for an on-site waste disposal system, such as a septic tank, to receivably retain a secondary cover member within, the riser pan member including a cylindrical body having an upper portion having a vertical wall member adapted to receive another modular passageway component thereon, and a lower portion which includes an integral pan portion to seatably receive a secondary cover member. The riser pan member further includes an annular ring between the upper and lower portions. The riser pan member can be employed as a lowermost, a highermost, or as an intermediate component in, for example, an access passageway formed of multiple stackable riser members. In addition, the riser pan member may be formed integrally with a stackable riser member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: TUF-TITE, INC.
    Inventor: Theodore W. Meyers
  • Patent number: 7516575
    Abstract: An improved safety railing for use with an opening in a rooftop or other location. The safety railing is easily securable to the curb, or upstanding wall, surrounding the opening. The securing mechanism of the safety railing also takes advantage of any outwardly protruding lip on the curb of the opening. The safety railing features a base portion that is reversibly securable to the curb portion of the opening and a railing portion that rises above the base portion. The base portion includes a pair of side members that are shaped and sized to abut the upstanding portion of the curb. Each of the curb members also present a surface to underlie the lip of the curb and engage it if the base portion is lifted. The base portion also includes two base members that interconnect the two side members. The base members are preferably formed of round hollow stock and have threaded nuts welded to each axial end. Threaded bolts are used to affix the side members to the base members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Cuccurullo
  • Publication number: 20090074509
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for sealing a manhole structure. A band with a relatively rigid angled corner engages the upper margin of a manhole structure. Adhesives may also be used with the band to enhance the seal with the manhole structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: SSI PARTNERSHIP LLC
    Inventor: Paul H. Ess
  • Publication number: 20090072978
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) assembly is configured for use with cast concrete components. The RFID assembly has a planar back plate having a plurality of break-away, registration posts extending perpendicular to the nominal plane of the back plate, and a plurality of gripping surfaces extending opposite the registration posts. The RFID assembly further includes a RFID transponder encapsulated between the back plate and a cover. The RFID transponder is programmed with information concerning the cast concrete component to which the RFID tag is affixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas M. Tilson, JR.
  • Patent number: 7491010
    Abstract: This road manhole comprises a frame (4) which delimits an opening (6) and which is provided with an internal collar (8) which extends radially inwards, a cover (10) which comprises a blocking web (12) and a cylindrical skirt (14) which complements the internal collar (8), the blocking web and the skirt defining a concave corner (16), and a main gasket (18) which is arranged on the internal collar (8) and which is interposed in the closed state between the cover (10) and the frame (4). The road manhole (2) comprises an auxiliary gasket (20) which is in contact, at least in the closed state, with the concave corner (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Pam
    Inventors: Arnaud Cuny, Jacky Boca
  • Patent number: 7451570
    Abstract: A casting riser pan for defining an access opening in a cast concrete structure, serving as a cast for a cover for closing the access opening, and serving as a seat for the cover. The casting riser pan includes an orientation element for orienting the cover in case of out of round distortion of the casting riser pan and the concrete cover, an inner wall and an outer wall for increased radial strength, and a continuous securement element for attaching the casting riser pan to a casting mold for simultaneously casting the concrete structure and the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Peter W. Gavin
  • Patent number: 7438498
    Abstract: Security System for Sewer, Aqueduct, Telephone and Energy System Manhole Caps or Covers including an electromechanical cover (1), on the surface of which is placed an electromagnetic crane (2) that has a handle (3), and that has an emitting coil (4), a battery (5), an electronic card (6) and a control panel (7); inside a waterproof space at least partially enclosed by the electromechanical cover (1) are placed a receiving coil (8), electronic card (12) and two motors (9) that move a pin (10) that has bellows (11), and that are connected to an electronic card (12). The system operates by the emitting coil (4) transferring electromagnetic energy to the receiving coil (8), and at the same time sending an exclusive binary code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Micromotores Limitada
    Inventor: Dimosthenis Despiniadis
  • Publication number: 20080244988
    Abstract: Several improved manhole grade rings and methods for providing improved manhole grade rings. In one embodiment, a plurality of concentric annular rings are connected by radial ribs. Certain radial ribs can be broken to provide a manhole grade ring of the desired diameter. In several other embodiments, concentric annular ribs and interconnecting radial ribs provide lightweight stackable manhole grade rings. In another embodiment, a manhole grade ring defines an annular cavity that can be filled to reinforce the manhole grade ring. Two embodiments provide improved forms for pouring manhole grade rings in place. One form provides a plurality of forms of different diameters that can be filled to any height, while another form provides adjustable height of the manhole grade ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventors: Cynthia R. Meissen, Kyle L. Baltz
  • Patent number: 7428800
    Abstract: An improved shelter of the type having a front wall, a back wall, two opposing side walls, a bottom and a top defining a substantially rectangular box with an opening defined in the top, a flat lid adapted to cover the opening, a roller means for alternately rolling the lid to expose or close the open top, the improvement comprising: substantially, the entire top of the box defining an opening; the lid adapted to be substantially flush with the surrounding ground level in a closed position; and a roller means for allowing the lid to slide above the ground level, exposing more than half of the top when in an open position. The shelter alternatively including stairs rotatably affixed to the front wall and a stair support means releaseably supporting the stair in position to be used as a stepping entrance into the shelter, whereby the stair can be rotated against the front wall when not in use or rotated and fixed in place by the stair support means to serve as a stepping surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventors: Cliffton Vaughn, Jerry Wirtz
  • Patent number: 7401998
    Abstract: A stackable polymeric foam adjustment or grade ring is provided for the construction of the adjustment courses or manhole chimney portion of a sewer system. The adjustment ring is circular and may include concentric annular grooves on at least one surface and male portions corresponding in size and shape to the concentric annular grooves on a second surface. The adjustment rings are stacked one on another with the respective male portions being coupled within a corresponding annular groove to provide a manhole construction that is resistant to inflow, chemicals and freeze-thaw cycle damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventors: Stephen K. Wilson, David Wahl
  • Publication number: 20080168719
    Abstract: The present invention is construction safety device designed for use on construction sites where man-made holes are present. The new safety device is constructed of high-impact resistant polyethylene, and is highly durable. The device is sized to fit snugly in construction holes, and can be walked on. It protects workers from hazards presented by holes, and keeps the holes clear of debris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Phillip Borunda