Gas Carried By Or Evolved From Liquid Patents (Class 137/210)
  • Patent number: 11165078
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a generator unit (1) having a housing (10), a fuel cell device (20), which is arranged in an interior space (10a) of the housing (10), a gas-carrying duct (30) having an upstream opening (30a) and a downstream opening (30b), a valve (40), which is provided, in particular set up, to connect the interior space (10a) to the duct (30) at least at times in a gas-carrying manner, a driving device (50), which moves gas within the duct (30) from the upstream opening (30a) to the downstream opening (30b), and a sensor device (60), which is arranged in a downstream direction of the duct (30) starting from the valve (40) and is designed to detect at least one parameter of the gas. The present invention also relates to a method for monitoring a generator unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignees: AVL List GmbH, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Julian Makinson, Michael Reissig, Jörg Mathé, Robert Pöschl, Daiki Tanaka
  • Patent number: 10722909
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system of delivering at least two different reactive fluids to an applicator utilizing a pressurized gas. A method of delivery is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Inventor: Paul Charles Waelder
  • Patent number: 10352499
    Abstract: This application relates to a liquefied natural gas storage apparatus. The apparatus includes a heat insulated tank and liquefied natural gas contained in the tank. The tank has heat insulation sufficient to maintain liquefied natural gas therein such that most of the liquefied natural gas stays in liquid. The contained liquefied natural gas has a vapor pressure from about 0.3 bar to about 2 bar. The apparatus further includes a safety valve configured to release a part of liquefied natural gas contained in the tank when a vapor pressure of liquefied natural gas within the tank becomes higher than a cut-off pressure. The cut-off pressure is from about 0.3 bar to about 2 bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING & MARINE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jung Han Lee, Jung Ho Choi, Sung Kon Han, Dong Kyu Choi, Young Sik Moon
  • Patent number: 10088108
    Abstract: A method for filling a fuel tank with liquefied gas includes liquefied gas being brought into the tank so that gas in introduced to a lower section of the tank below the surface of the liquefied gas in the tank, and during a first phase of the filling procedure while gas is introduced to a lower section of the tank the pressure of the tank is maintained below a predetermined set pressure by spraying of liquefied gas into a gas space in the upper section of the tank above the surface of the liquefied gas in the tank. At a predetermined state of the filling procedure a second phase of the procedure is initiated during which the spraying liquefied gas into a gas space in the upper section of the tank is decreased and the second phase is practiced until a predetermined filling stage of the tank is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: WÄRTSILÄ FINLAND OY
    Inventors: Mathias Jansson, Soren Karlsson
  • Patent number: 10066788
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pump (15) for pumping a coolant (9) within a Dewar vessel (1) and to a corresponding Dewar vessel (1) for storing samples in a coolant (9). The Dewar vessel (1) comprises a thermally insulated reservoir (3) for the coolant (9) and a sample vessel (11) provided separately and arranged in the thermally insulated reservoir (3). The reservoir (3) is connected to the sample vessel (11) in such a way that the level of coolant (9) is constant in the sample vessel (11). Pump (15) may help in keeping the level of coolant (9) in the sample vessel (11) constant. For this purpose the pump (15) comprises a chamber (17) with an inlet (19) and an outlet (21), a closing element (23) and a pressure increasing device (25). Therein, the inlet (19) is connectable to the reservoir (3) and the outlet (21) is connectable to a sample vessel (11) of the Dewar vessel (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: EUROPEAN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LABORATORY
    Inventors: Florent Cipriani, Franck Felisaz
  • Patent number: 9644792
    Abstract: The method of transferring compressed gas at from a first tank to a second tank without decompressing the compressed gas and then re-pressuring the compressed gas comprising filling the second tank with a fluid, connecting a first fluid connection on the first tank to a second fluid connection on the second tank with a first line with one or more first valves, connecting a first gas connection on the first tank to a second gas connection on the second tank with a second line with one or more second valves, opening the first valves and the second valves to allow the compressed gas to pressurize the fluid, and pumping the fluid in the second tank into the first tank, thereby causing the compressed gas in the first tank to be displaced into the second tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Inventors: Marc Moszkowski, Benton Frederick Baugh
  • Patent number: 9429320
    Abstract: Provided is a gas-air mixing device for a combustor which effectively controls the amount of gas and air supplied to a burner provided in a combustor, thus improving the turn-down ratio which leads to increased convenience for using hot water and heat and enhanced durability of the burner. The gas-air mixing device for a combustor comprises: a housing, connected on one side to a turbo fan; a discharge part disposed on one side of the housing and in contact with the turbo fan; first and second air supply parts, provided on the other side of the discharge part and separated by a first partition; first gas supply part, divided by a second partition, and a second gas supply part having a protruding part; and an opening/closing means for controlling the flow of gas and air by opening or closing the second air supply part and the second gas supply part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: KYUNGDONG NAVIEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Myoung Gee Min, Duk Byung Lim
  • Patent number: 9377382
    Abstract: The invention provides a method for detaching and/or isolating a histological sample that is adhering to another sample and/or to the inside of a cassette, for example as a result of solidification of an embedding medium within a cassette. The sample is immobilized in a sample receiving chamber above a first fill level of a liquid that is suitable for counteracting the adhesion; and that the fill level of the liquid is then elevated at least until said level reaches the sample. An apparatus according to the present invention that can be used for carrying out the method comprises a sample receiving chamber and an adjusting chamber, the adjusting chamber being connected to the sample receiving chamber in such a way that a change in the fill level height of the liquid in the sample receiving chamber is producible by changing the pressure existing in the adjusting chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Arne Burisch, Christian Löchte, Annika Raatz, Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinrich Westerhoff
  • Patent number: 9366359
    Abstract: A float valve apparatus is provided for regulating the level of fluid within a tank. The apparatus may include a housing having one or more inlet ports and an outlet port that are each fluidly connected via a channel disposed within the housing. A float disposed within the housing may move relative to the housing between a first position and a second position when a fluid level in the tank reaches a preset level. A shaft may extend from the float into a chamber, and as the float moves from the first position to the second position, fluid may enter a chamber and bias the float further upward. In some examples, the shaft is further configured to increasingly obstruct the flow of fluid in the channel as the float moves from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Flowtech Fueling, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Workman
  • Publication number: 20130174919
    Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid storage device relates to the field of semiconductor manufacturing technology comprising: a liquid storage tank, a liquid intake tube, a liquid discharge tube and a gas discharge tube; the liquid intake tube, the liquid discharge tube and the gas discharge tube are all connected with the liquid storage tank; the liquid storage device also comprises a gas compensating tube connected with the liquid storage tank; the gas compensating tube comprises a differential pressure mechanism and a gas storage tank; one end of the differential pressure mechanism is connected with the liquid storage tank, and the other end is connected with the gas storage tank; the differential pressure mechanism is used for controlling the connection or disconnection between the liquid storage tank and the gas storage tank according to the pressure difference therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: BEIJING SEVENSTAR ELECTRONICS CO.,LTD.
    Inventors: Jinqun He, Likun Pei, Yi Wu, Wei Zan
  • Patent number: 8403000
    Abstract: A tank for a cryogenic liquid is fitted with a conduit assembly that provides for flow of the cryogenic liquid into and out of the tank, venting of the tank and control of the fill level in the tank. The conduit assembly includes serpentine tubes that extend into an upper region within the inner shell. Within the inner shell, one of the tubes extends downwardly to a lower opening and provides for liquid flow into and out the tank; the other tube has an end with a downwardly facing opening in the upper region whereby vapor can be conducted out of the tank and the fill level is established. A system for effecting pressure management of the cryogenic liquid in the tank includes a conduit network that provides for pressure build as pressure in the conduit network drops and provides for delivery of liquid only to, e.g., a vehicle engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Cryogenic Fuels, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy E Adkins, Harold E Sutton
  • Patent number: 8336734
    Abstract: Systems are described for delivery of a wide variety of materials in which liquid and gas or vapor states are concurrently present, from a package preferably including a fluid-containing collapsible liner. Headspace gas is removed from a pressure dispensing package prior to liquid dispensation therefrom, and ingress gas is removed thereafter during dispensation operation. At least one sensor senses presence of gas or a gas-liquid interface in a reservoir or gas-liquid separation region. A gas removal system including an integral reservoir, at least one sensor, and at least one flow control elements may be included within a connector adapted to mate with a pressure dispensing package, for highly efficient removal of gas from the liquid being dispensed from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald D. Ware, Glenn M. Tom, Paul Dathe, Amy Koland, Jason Gerold, Kirk Mikkelsen, Kevin T. O'Dougherty, Michael A. Cisewski
  • Patent number: 8307815
    Abstract: A filter assembly (100) comprises a housing (200) and a filter cartridge (300) that incorporates crankcase pressure-regulating components. The cartridge (300) includes an end cap (330), a plunger (340), and a spring (350). When the filter cartridge (300) is installed in the housing (200), the plunger (340) interacts with a podium (224), in response to crankcase pressure, to allow or block fluid communication with the inlet chamber (111).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald G. Frazier, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7897195
    Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and devices for coating stents are described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
    Inventors: David Rego, Kurt Kilchenmann, Sang joon Park, Mark Haight, Anthony S. Andreacchi, Yung-Ming Chen, Arnoldo M. Currlin, Antonio Garcia, Jason Van Sciver, Thomas David Esbeck, Bryan D. Glenn, Patrick A. Tuohy, Richard Baillargeon, Edward P. Garcia, Steven E. Lehner
  • Patent number: 7779856
    Abstract: A fuel supply connectable to a fuel cell is disclosed. The fuel supply comprises an outer casing and a fuel liner and an effective amount of fuel in the space between the outer casing and the fuel liner to control the pressure inside the fuel liner. In one example, the fuel inside the fuel liner is methanol, and the fuel between the outer casing and the fuel liner is methanol or methanol gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Paul Adams, Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks, Constance R. Stepan
  • Publication number: 20080248560
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of tissue processing, particularly, to the treatment of fluids used in tissue processing. In one embodiment the present invention provides for treating a tissue processing fluid comprising first processing fluid comprising a first processing fluid and a second contaminating fluid, by: gradually varying the pressure of the fluid from an initial pressure level to a first pressure level such that the fluid remains below a vaporizing point of the second contaminating fluid and, heating the fluid to at least a vaporizing temperature of the second contaminating fluid. In another embodiment, the present invention removes the second contaminating fluid from the fluid by varying at least one of the pressure and temperature of the fluid so as to allow the second contaminating fluid to vaporize. Alternatively, an embodiment of the present invention interleaves the step of removing with one or more tissue processing protocol steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Houston Drummond
  • Patent number: 7387502
    Abstract: A pumping apparatus for pumping a liquid from a source to a target including a motor, a first pump driven by the motor, a second pump driven by the motor and a separator in fluid communication with the first and second pump for separating a liquid received from a source into a gaseous component and a liquid component. The separator further diverts the gaseous component to the first pump and the liquid component to the second pump, wherein the first pump pumps the gaseous component back to the source and the second pump pumps the liquid component to a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Fluid Metering, Inc.
    Inventors: David Rawlings, Harry E. Pinkerton, III
  • Patent number: 7364609
    Abstract: A kit for constructing a de-aerator for a fluid distribution system includes a gas concentrator adapted to be received in chamber of a T-coupling provided with the kit. A cap is provided that closes a cap connector integrally formed with the T-coupling. The cap supports a valve that opens and closes in response to fluctuations of a level of the fluid in the cavity as air is accumulated in the cavity and discharged by an opening of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: James MacDuff
  • Patent number: 7258140
    Abstract: A portable gas supply apparatus comprises first and second storage tanks, a first pressure reducing device, a manifold and a first pneumatic connector fitting. The first storage tank includes an internal cavity for holding a supply of a pressurized fluid at a relatively high pressure, and is thermally uninsulated such that the pressurized fluid therewithin remains at ambient temperature. The first pressure reducing device has an inlet in fluid communication with the internal cavity of the first storage tank and an outlet. The first pressure reducing device reduces the pressure of fluid flowing therethrough from the relatively high pressure at the inlet to a first relatively lower pressure at the outlet. The manifold has a plurality of manifold connection points in fluid connection with one another. A first of the manifold connection points is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first pressure reducing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Acree
  • Patent number: 7069942
    Abstract: A method for the handling of covering gas or inert gas in connection with a tank that conveys crude oil, during successive discharging and loading operations of the tank, is disclosed. The method is characterized by the fact that covering gas/inert gas is re-circulated in an approximate closed circulation by the following steps: that during discharging of the tank, covering gas is produced in a recognized manner known per se from the cargo to fill the gradually increasing void space in the tank, and that when the tank is filled again with crude oil, the gas from the tank is extracted again, and it is compressed and absorbed into the stabilized crude oil. An apparatus is mentioned for accomplishing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: ABB Gas Technology AS
    Inventors: Reidar Trefall, Kristian Utkilen
  • Patent number: 7028488
    Abstract: A method of dispensing a liquid material from a source container which includes a blend of fluids of a first composition that normally fractionate upon boiling. A material of a second composition (different than that of the first composition) and capable of maintaining the first composition of the material remaining in the source container is added to the source container during the transfer of liquid from the source container. This addition of a material of a second composition to the supply container during the transfer can minimize and/or even eliminate fractionation of the liquid in the source tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Robert G. Richard, Henk van der Maaten
  • Patent number: 6893485
    Abstract: A kit for constructing a de-aerator that includes a concentrator is adapted to be connected to a standard pipe coupling. The concentrator is inserted in the path of liquid conveyed through the pipe coupling for aggregating gas, and directing the gas to a cavity. The cavity is encased by the fitting which is a vertical, cylindrical sheath with one end adapted to be inserted into standard pipe couplings, and the other end adapted to be connected with the cap. The cap includes a vent adapted to open and shut in response to lowering and raising of the level of the liquid in the cavity below/above a threshold, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Swabey, Ogilvy, Renault
    Inventor: James MacDuff
  • Patent number: 6615861
    Abstract: A dispensing system allows cryogenic liquid to be dispensed from either a primary bank manifold and associated cylinders or a secondary bank manifold and associated cylinders. Each manifold includes a gas header and a liquid header. The associated cylinders communicate with the gas header through flexible lines and excess flow check valves and the liquid header through flexible lines and spring-loaded check valves. An automatic control system selects between dispensing from the primary bank manifold or the secondary bank manifold. A pressure gauge detects the pressure of the cryogenic liquid from the dispensing manifold. The pressure gauge is in communication with a controller which opens and closes the appropriate valves to begin dispensing cryogenic liquid from the originally idle manifold if the detected pressure drops below a predetermined minimum. After the manifold is switched over, the controller checks the pressure in the non-selected manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Chart Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Drube, Paul Sjogren
  • Patent number: 6530094
    Abstract: A flowable material dispensing system is disclosed which includes a container (5) for holding the flowable material, the container (5) having a downwardly directed lower outlet opening (510) which can be located within an outer container being either a cistern of a flushing system or within a cabinet (40,41) that is connectable to a flushing flow path of sanitation apparatus, the container (5) being so located that a portion of flowable material within said container (5) is discharged therefrom during each flushing operation of the sanitation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Calfarme Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Boon Lye Paul Neo
  • Patent number: 6481456
    Abstract: A float control valve for liquid treatment apparatus is located sufficiently far above the level of the liquid being treated that forces created by the liquid, or forces created during movement of the apparatus, do not harm the control valve or interfere with its functioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Kemp E. Falkner
  • Patent number: 6474356
    Abstract: A device for controlling a liquid flow by a gas pressure. The device includes a pressure chamber, in which an overpressure, an underpressure or atmospheric pressure may prevail. The pressure in the pressure chamber can be used for allowing the liquid flow to pass or for stopping the liquid flow. Furthermore the liquid flow can be limited to a predetermined rate of flow. The device may interalia be used in sewage systems, hydraulic engineering works and irrigation works.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Gertjan Roelof Bouwkamp
  • Patent number: 6119735
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for filling a volatile liquid into at least one tank (10) of a multi-tank installation having a vent-pipe (11A, 11B . . . 11F) associated with each tank, all of the vent-pipes being connected to a common vent manifold (13) through respective over-pressure valves (12A, 12B . . . 12F). A vapor extraction manifold (16) is also connected to each over-pressure valve (12A, 12B . . . 12F) and during a tank filling operation is coupled to a vapor extraction mechanism. Both the vent manifold (13) and the extraction manifold (16) are provided with pressure sensitive valves (15, 19) respectively to allow air to enter the manifolds from the ambient when the pressure within the respective manifold falls below atmospheric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventor: Rodney Carter
  • Patent number: 6076541
    Abstract: A system and method for dispensing an aqueous solution to one or more points of use is provided with one or more pressure vessels that are adapted to be charged with pressurized gas to drive the aqueous solution on to the point or points of use. A humidifier is also employed to humidify the pressurized gas to at least inhibit the pressurized gas from evaporating the moisture from the aqueous solution. In such manner, changes to the make up of the aqueous solution are avoided. Such changes can produce caking and/or changes in chemical properties found in pressure vessels used in dispensing slurries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventors: Peter M. Pozniak, Duy Khanh Trang, Benjamin R. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6019114
    Abstract: A bubbler container assembly particularly adapted for use in vapor generating systems comprising a main outer vessel, an inner bubbler vessel, a carrier gas inlet and a vapor outlet such that the inner bubbler vessel is contained within the main outer vessel and the bubbler container assembly is constructed so as to self-meter an incoming supply of vaporizable liquid during the introduction of a carrier gas and extraction of resulting vapor. Preferably, the system further provides for magnetic induced centering and positioning of the inner buoyant bubbler vessel, fluid temperature sensing and control, connection of a fluid makeup supply, carrier gas inlet supply, and vapor extraction outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Icon Dynaamics, LLC
    Inventor: Donald B. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 6003542
    Abstract: An automatic shut-off valve for regulating the flow of beer or other liquid from its container, whereby a float is kept away from the outlet by directing some of the liquid upwardly against the float while most of the liquid is being discharged. The discharge of liquid is usually accompanied by a suction about the outlet which tends to suck the float downwardly to seal the outlet prematurely. By the present valve and the location of the float during discharge of liquid, premature sealing is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventors: Dominic Pizzacalla, Alastair Knott
  • Patent number: 5893385
    Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a liquid discharging device for discharging liquid stored on a bottom wall of an interior of a compressed natural gas tank of a vehicle, comprising a liquid discharging pipe for discharging the liquid from the compressed natural gas tank to an outside of the compressed natural gas tank. The liquid discharging pipe has an open end which is open into the interior of the compressed natural gas tank at a position adjacent to an inner face of the bottom wall of the compressed natural gas tank. Further, the liquid discharging device comprises a liquid discharging control valve arranged in the liquid discharging pipe to discharge the liquid due to the pressure of the natural gas when the liquid discharging control valve is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kouhei Igarashi
  • Patent number: 5771596
    Abstract: A first liquid container has therein a level control including a float valve, a storage tank or second container and a third container having therein a liquid which is maintained at a fixed liquid level. The third container is connected to the liquid in the first container by the float valve, and is replenished by the liquid in the storage tank. Preferably the storage tank is designed as an evaporator, with a condensate separator plate or surface arranged above the third container which also has an overflow to the storage tank. A temperature stabilizer keeps the liquid in the first liquid container at a temperature above ambient, and the storage tank is in contact with the liquid in the first container to be warmed thereby, and the condensate separator is cooled by ambient air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Raytheon Anschuetz GmbH
    Inventor: Ulf Bey
  • Patent number: 5558139
    Abstract: A system for compactly safely storing and delivering oxygen has a plurality of elements interconnected by fluid lines and includes a liquid oxygen tank, a filler valve and a vent valve. The new system also includes a differential pressure gauge located between and in communication with the fill valve and the vent valve to permit monitoring the pressure differential in the system so that selective adjustments can be made in a timely and controlled manner to maintain the pressure within the system during filling at an optimum level. The system also has at least one pressure relief valve, a heat exchanger, a fluid pressure regulator, an oxygen flow control outlet and a phase selector valve, to thereby permit automatic selection as a function of pressure of whether oxygen supplied from the tank to the heat exchanger will be supplied as either a liquid or a gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Essex Cryogenics of Missouri
    Inventor: Fred P. Snyder
  • Patent number: 5462078
    Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to an apparatus for purging hazardous or volatile materials from external loading lines fixed to the bottom of cargo tank compartments. According to the invention, pressurized gas is directed into each external loading line to force the material to the lowest point in the loading line, through a purging tube, and back into the cargo tank compartment. In one embodiment, the purging apparatus is wholly contained on the cargo tank. In another embodiment, the apparatus is partly contained on the cargo loading facility and partly contained on the cargo tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Inventors: Roy W. Andenmatten, Ronald P. Andenmatten
  • Patent number: 5415196
    Abstract: A vapor pressure control system for controlling the vapor pressure in a fuel storage tank is provided which comprises a cooling chamber for cooling the fuel vapor, wherein the temperature of the cooling chamber is maintained at a point slightly above the freezing point of water. Vapor intake and return lines provide for communication of the fuel vapor between the tank and the cooling chamber. A fan interposed in the intake line causes the circulation of the fuel vapor between the tank and the cooling chamber. The fan is operated by a pressure sensitive switch which causes the fan to run when the difference between the ambient air pressure and tank vapor pressure falls below a certain minimum level, and which causes the fan to stop when the difference between the ambient air pressure and tank vapor pressure rises above a certain, maximum level. The fan is shut off by a temperature sensitive switch when the ambient temperature approaches the freezing point of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventors: Billy O. Bryant, Glen C. Bryant, Douglas D. Drube, Shannon L. Lowe
  • Patent number: 5402547
    Abstract: A ballast broom machine for sweeping ballast off a track comprises an elongated machine frame supported on the track by undercarriages, and at least three ballast brooms vertically adjustably mounted on the machine frame, the ballast brooms being spaced from each other in the longitudinal direction and including a leading ballast broom, each ballast broom comprising a rotary shaft extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction and flexible sweeping elements projecting radially from the rotary shaft. A conveyor band is mounted on the machine frame and extends in the longitudinal direction, the conveyor band having an input end arranged to receive ballast swept off the track by the leading ballast broom and a discharge end positioned higher than the input end, and a ballast storage bin having discharge openings is arranged on the machine frame below the conveyor band discharge end for receiving discharged ballast therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Assignee: Franz Plasser Bahnbaumaschinen-Industriegesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventor: Josef Theurer
  • Patent number: 5377715
    Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to a method for purging hazardous or volatile materials from external loading lines fixed to the bottom of cargo tank compartments. According to the invention, pressurized gas is directed into each external loading line to force the material to the lowest point in the loading line, through a purging tube, and back into the cargo tank compartment. In one embodiment, the purging apparatus is wholly contained on the cargo tank. In another embodiment, the apparatus is partly contained on the cargo loading facility and partly contained on the cargo tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventors: Roy W. Andenmatten, Ronald P. Andenmatten
  • Patent number: 5315831
    Abstract: In a combined liquid natural gas and compressed natural gas fueling station, liquid natural gas is stored in a cryogenic tank and dispensed to vehicles on demand. Compressed natural gas is produced on demand from the liquid natural gas by a high-efficiency pump and vaporizer system and dispensed directly to vehicles or stored for later dispensing. For greater efficiency, the pump and vaporizer system is powered by combustion of natural gas, including gas bled off to relieve pressure from the cryogenic tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: Hydra-Rig, Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Goode, Michael D. Hoyle, Raymond E. Lance
  • Patent number: 5247959
    Abstract: A multi-function valve has a floating disc (24) with concentric annular ribs (25,27) on one face for cooperation with respective first and second seatings, and an annular rib (26) on its other face for cooperation with a third seating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Assignee: Meggitt (UK) Limited
    Inventor: James K. Fretwell
  • Patent number: 5165246
    Abstract: A trailer with piping and accessories capable of maintaining the ultra high purity of a cryogenic liquid while receiving and transporting the liquid, purging an external receiver, and transferring liquid to the receiver. The trailer has a heat exchnger for vaporizing a liquid flow from its liquid container into warmed gas. The gas is used for purging an external receiver and for pressurizing the liquid container sufficiently to transfer liquid into the purged receiver. The trailer piping allows purging of and then transferring to the receiver without opening any connections. The number of welded surfaces in the trailer capable of trapping and generating contaminants are reduced, particularly the number of welded penetrations of the liquid container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Assignee: Praxair Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Richard C. Cipolla, Jeffrey R. Huber, Victor E. Bergsten
  • Patent number: 5026527
    Abstract: A reaction product is formed by a process which involves the transfer of the reaction product from the autoclave to a receiving vessel at a substantially constant flow rate. Just prior to this transfer, the pressure in the receiving vessel is brought up to the pressure in the autoclave by passing gas from the autoclave to the receiving vessel. The flow of gas from the autoclave to the receiving vessel is then stopped, and the pressure in the receiving vessel is allowed to drop due to transfer of heat from the gas to the walls of the receiving vessel. The resulting pressure difference between the autoclave and the receiving vessel is used to initiate the transfer of the reaction products from the autoclave to the receiving vessel. A pressure release valve on the receiving vessel is then controlled by means a signal derived from a flow meter which measures the flow rate of the reaction products flowing from the autoclave to the receiving vessel to maintain constant this flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1991
    Inventor: Pieter Krijgsman
  • Patent number: 4956975
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved internal pressure relief valve for filling a cryogenic liquid storage tank. The internal pressure relief valve consists of a housing with a sealing seat at one end, an inlet hole at the other end, and a ball enclosed therein. The internal pressure relief valve is constructed of materials which can withstand the heat encountered during fabrication without melting. Consequently, the material for the ball is more dense than the cryogenic liquid in the tank so that the ball will not float in the cryogenic liquid. Consequently, the ball and the housing are dimensioned so that the momentum of the cryogenic liquid as it flows into the housing toward a vent port during the filling operation is sufficient to drive the ball into engagement with the sealing seat, closing the vent port, and assuring the termination of the filling process when the pressure in the cryogenic tank builds up to that of the delivery pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Inventor: Keith W. Gustafson
  • Patent number: 4909038
    Abstract: A simple, inexpensive and reliable dispensing system for a cryogenic fluid is presented. The system controls the dispensing of a cryogenic liquid, such as liquid nitrogen, from a large, well insulated reservoir to a cooling enclosure for an electronic circuit or similar enclosure. In order to prevent a considerable heat influx from the environment to a standing cryogenic fluid through long lengths of insulated conduit between the main, well insulated reservoir and the enclosure, the system fills an intermediate reservoir and subsequently drains most of the long lengths of insulated conduit into the intermediate reservoir by a siphon action. The intermediate reservoir is well insulated and holds enough cryogenic fluid to fulfill the requirements of the cooling enclosure for long periods of time before refill from the main reservoir is necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Warren W. Porter
  • Patent number: 4905719
    Abstract: A system and method for pumping liquid fluorocarbons and the like from a pressurized supply container to another container. The system compensates for the inherent vapor pressure drop occuring within any pressurized container of fluorocarbons as the fluorocarbons are pumped out. A phase conversion apparatus is provided to recirculate a portion of the liquid being pumped from the downstream side of the pump, through a phase conversion chamber into the supply tank in a vapor phase. This prevents a vapor pressure drop in the supply tank and avoids the flashing of the liquid into a gas at the discharge connection of the supply container. The invention also comprises an improved fluorocarbon gear pump and pressure regulation means. The gear pump utilized offset gear axes and porous gears to form a liquid film over the gears to prevent deleterious contact in the pump and extend useful pump life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Inventor: James C. Lawless
  • Patent number: 4680937
    Abstract: A safety apparatus and system are disclosed which can be used in vessels for containing a liquifiable gas having a boiling point below the ambient temperature at atmospheric pressure. The apparatus and system provides an automatic method of cooling the vessel when the vessel is heated because of a fire in the region of the exterior of the vessel. The apparatus includes a pump to pump the liquified gas to a sprayer that sprays the liquified gas onto the vessel which is not in contact with the liquified gas. The pump is activated by movement of the vaporized gas that escapes through a pressure safety relief valve in the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1987
    Inventor: Colin G. Young
  • Patent number: 4625753
    Abstract: A cryogenic liquid storage tank has an automatic pressure relief means which vents vapor while the tank is being filled so that the tank may be completely filled. The pressure relief means includes a float which, when the cryogenic tank is filled, automatically closes the pressure relief means. In an alternative embodiment, the pressure relief means is combined with an eductor attached to the tank's inlet. The eductor entrains and condenses vapor within the tank to minimize the amount of vapor vented by the pressure relief means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Inventor: Keith W. Gustafson
  • Patent number: 4611623
    Abstract: This invention relates to a device for monitoring a liquid level in a first vessel and for effecting the transfer of liquid to the first vessel from a second vessel upon the liquid level in the first vessel reaching a predetermined minimum point. The device comprises a pressure sensitive appliance which is in contact with a gas in a first and in a second chamber. The pressure sensitive appliance is movable between a first position and a second position. The second position is towards the first chamber and occurs when the pressure in the first chamber is lower than the pressure in the second chamber. The first chamber is vented to an ambient atmosphere. A conduit is also provided which is in gas communication with the first chamber and with the interior of the second vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1986
    Assignee: Louisiana State University and Mechanical College
    Inventor: Roy G. Goodrich
  • Patent number: 4510964
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a valve for pressurized cylinders for liquified gases, such as butane, propane, and similar gases. This valve is characterized by the combination of: a first safety device which prevents any overfilling of the cylinder with gas in a liquid phase; a mechanism for releasing gas in a gaseous phase which is intended for normal consumption; a flow shut-off device which closes when the flow of gas in a gaseous phase exceeds a predetermined level; and a safety mechanism situated ahead of the shut-off device, according to the direction for releasing gas, the mechanism opening whenever the pressure of gas stored inside the cylinder exceeds the operating pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1985
    Inventor: Jean Wendling
  • Patent number: 4474189
    Abstract: An apparatus incorporating a normally-closed check valve mounted on the inlet end of a vapor withdrawal conduit and located in the upper vapor portion of a partially filled pressurized LP gas tank on a recreational vehicle or the like. The outlet end of the vapor withdrawal conduit extends to a point lower and exterior to the volatile liquid container and is connected to a control valve to stop the flow of fluid. As the control valve is opened to allow fluid to pass. Then the pressure in the vapor withdrawal conduit drops. The check valve opens and allows gases from the volatile liquid container to pass down the tube. After the control valve is closed, the pressure in the vapor withdrawal conduit increases till it equals the pressure in the container. The check valve closes and stops the flow of fluid.When the apparatus is used in a movable mode, such as on a vehicle, the check valve is closed, preventing the volatile liquid contained in the container from being splashed into the vapor withdrawal conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 2, 1984
    Inventor: Harley D. Brown
  • Patent number: 4423750
    Abstract: A liquefied gas overcharge prevention device provided with a safety valve. The overcharge prevention system comprises, in combination, a conventional pressurized gas tank charging valve having a liquid level responsive gas inlet valve mechanism, a first relief valve for regulating pressure within the tank and a second relief valve for regulating back pressure within the charging valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1984
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuo Morizumi, Masahiro Kawahata