Patent ID: 7736098

Claim:
A method for distributing concrete using a feed hose adapted to convey hydrated concrete to a selected area through an outlet defined by the feed hose, said method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a bell defining an opening adapted to receive the feed hose; (b) providing a fastening device adapted secure the feed hose within the opening, the fastening device including a collar nested within the opening, the collar defining a plurality of through holes, the fastening device further including a plurality of threaded fasteners, each of the threaded fasteners being adapted to be received by one of the plurality of through holes, the fastening device further comprising a segmented bushing, each of the threaded fasteners being adapted to engage the segmented bushing to bias the segmented bushing toward the feed hose; (c) placing the feed hose through the collar, the segmented bushing, and the opening such that the bell substantially surrounds the outlet; and (d) securing the feed hose within the opening by threading the threaded fasteners through the through holes to bias the segmented bushing toward the feed hose such as to establish a frictional connection between the feed hose and the segmented bushing; (e) allowing the feed hose to convey hydrated concrete to the selected area; and (f) allowing the bell to direct hydrated concrete toward the selected area.