Resilient plug apparatus and method of use
US8104517B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 2, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jan 31, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 5, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/6123
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Various embodiments of the present invention provide apparatuses and methods for stopping the flow of media within a pipeline. The pipeline generally includes one or more pipes connected end-to-end, where each of the pipes has a longitudinal axis with an annular wall. The annular wall has an outer wall surface and an inner wall surface, where the inner wall surface defines an inner pipe diameter. In various embodiments, a hole is formed in the pipeline substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the annular wall and extending through the opposing pipe wall. A resilient plug is positioned within the pipeline such that it extends between the holes and is selectively expanded in a radial direction to create a seal with the inner surface of the pipe and holes to prevent flow of the media within the pipe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.