Expandable pin plug for automated use
US5779085A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 11, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 14, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 11, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L55/13
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention is a new device that can be used to plug perforations in materials. This plug comprises a cylinder plug with a tapered bore partially extending through the plug from one end. A cylinder pin that is tapered substantially the same as the plug will fit in the plug after installation is complete. A shear flange surrounds the pin so that when the pin is installed in the plug, the shear flange is against a plug flange. The pin is adhered to the plug by means such as a thin layer of epoxy or glue which allows the pin and plug to be handled as a single component. The pin is designed so that while in this position, there is no significant radial expansion of the plug. The pin has a pattern of holes or grooves that extend the entire length of the pin in order to allow for the expansion of any trapped fluids in the bore of the plug. The pin can have a groove along the outer diameter to allow for easier handling of the pin. The diameter size of these openings are not important, as long as the openings are large enough to resist plugging with debris.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.