Abstract: A shower head liquid agent dispenser includes a storage tank having a hollow interior space for storing a liquid agent, a first tubular member that is connected to the bottom end of the storage tank, a valve which can be manipulated between an on and off position, a second tubular member that is connected to a tee fitting which is selectively connected to a building's shower arm and a shower head assembly.

Abstract: Some embodiments include a method of providing substantially uninterrupted gas service by coupling at least one gas cylinder to a portable tanking assembly. The tanking assembly can include a cart including a rear frame and a coupled carrier frame supported on an axle with wheels. In some embodiments, the carrier frame can include a caged regulation assembly housing at least a portion of a regulation apparatus with an upstream supply end coupled to a downstream delivery end. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus includes a primary regulator coupled a one relief valve. The relief valve can be coupled to a downstream regulator, coupled to a water column gauge. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus further includes a delivery valve. In some embodiments, the delivery valve comprises a distribution manifold assembly including a manifold and a plurality of distribution couplers coupled to the manifold.

Abstract: A slurry handling and disposal system is provided for waste slurry and particulates. The system includes a waste bin provided with support structures for retaining a flexible removable filter element with a filter element supported above a floor of the waste bin. The particulate matter component of a volume of the waste slurry and particulates deposited in the filter element is retained in said filter element while the liquid component of the waste slurry and particulates are collected in a base portion of the waste bin.

Abstract: An economical fat, oil and grease removal assembly and method includes a container having a bottom, a top, at least one sidewall, an inlet and an outlet. The outlet is spaced above the bottom and below the top to define a static water level for liquid in the container. The container may include at least one divider. The container further includes a valve at an elevation such that F.O.G. floating on water in the container can flow from the container out through the valve when a valve control is engaged and opened. The assembly further includes an inlet baffle, an outlet baffle and a removable storage tank arranged to accept F.O.G. that is flowed out of the container.

Abstract: A dual tank structure includes first and second tanks with a common secondary containment structure which are all integrally supported on a common base frame. The common base frame includes longitudinal skids so as to be suitable for transport using a conventional winch truck. A passageway with an integral valve therein permits selective communication between the tanks. The common containment structure has a containment volume which is greater than a storage volume of a largest one of the first tank and the second tank and which is less than a combined storage volume of both the first tank and the second tank.

Abstract: A portable fuel tank includes a recess formed in a top wall that accommodates a fuel/water separator canister. The canister includes an inlet in fluid communication with liquid fuel in the enclosure and an outlet in fluid communication with a motor. The canister retains water separated from the fuel. A fuel intake tube is disposed within the tank and a fuel inlet conduit is disposed externally of the tank. The fuel inlet conduit has a first end in fluid communication with the fuel intake tube and a second end in fluid communication with an inlet of the canister. A manifold includes a first branch providing fluid communication between the fuel inlet conduit and the canister inlet and a second branch providing fluid communication between the canister outlet and a fuel outlet conduit that supplies water-free fuel to a motor.

Abstract: A water cooler assembly and/or liquid dispensing apparatus and method for using same, having various, alternative features including: a bottom load water cooler, including such a cooler with a door stop mechanism; an adjustable drip tray assembly; a leak stop mechanism; an adjustable bottle interface accommodating dimensional variations in water bottles; an instaboil feature; and programmable dispensing and visual display modes.

Abstract: A combustion device in the form of a paraffin stove (10) comprises a fuel reservoir (12), a burner (14), stand pipe (16) which extends between the reservoir (12) and the burner (14) and a stove top (18). The reservoir (12) comprises a rigid, air-tight outer container (22) and a deformable bladder (25) for holding paraffin (27) which is located within the container (22). The bladder has an outlet (44) which is connected to the stand pipe (16). A conduit (51) which can be connected to a source of compressed air is connected to the container (22) for pressurizing the container (22) to exert a force on the bladder (25) sufficient to cause the paraffin to be delivered to the burner (14) where it is ignited to produce a flame.

Abstract: An elastomeric vial cap used for sealing a vial container, but allowing pipette access to its containment fluid includes an annular flange portion for capping the vial and a sloped truncated cone portion to easily guide the pipette into the vial container. A tubular seal portion is configured to encircle the truncated cone portion and firmly engage an inside wall of the vial container with ease of insertion. A center flap portion is circumscribed by a channel at its top surface for penetration by the pipette and has a flex portion. The center flap portion separates around the perimeter of the channel but hinges at the channel above the flex portion and does not become dislodged. The ratio of the diameters of the pipette and the center flap portion is such that significant problems related to back-pressure and vacuum conditions do not exist during transfer of the containment fluid.

Abstract: A rainwater harvesting device and system that stores water for irrigation and outdoor use that provides constant pressure via gravity to a sprayer such as might be used for landscape or garden irrigation, or outdoor washing. The device and system comprise a water storage vessel that is free to move vertically, and optionally contained within a rack or other structure if necessary, and supported by one or more springs, which can be compression or tension springs or a combination thereof. When the vessel is at or near capacity, the spring assembly is largely or fully compressed/extended and supports the vessel at a minimal elevation. In such a state, the pressure head provided by the static water level is sufficient to provide a desired pressure at the sprayer.

Abstract: An installation for the intermediate holding and storage of sewage and effluent, said installation comprising a sealable housing 9 having an inlet 1 for receiving said effluent and an outlet for discharging said effluent, a holding reservoir 2 pivotally mounted and positioned within said housing to receive and temporarily store a quantity of said effluent, wherein said holding reservoir is an asymmetrically shaped open bucket adapted to automatically move about said pivot from a first position adapted for receiving and storing said effluent to a second invented position where stored effluent is emptied into said housing under the influence of gravity once the accumulated effluent reaches a sufficient mass wherein said housing includes an effluent race 11 incorporated into the floor of said housing to divert said effluent directly to said outlet.

Abstract: A sprayer nurse vehicle includes an arm arrangement which carries a coupler section that is connected to the discharge end of a fluid transfer conduit that extends from the nurse tank carried by the vehicle. The arm arrangement is constructed so that it may be extended outwardly from the nurse vehicle and moved vertically and laterally. An outer end of the arm arrangement is provided with a fluid coupler section mounting bracket that permits the coupler section to be swiveled about an upright axis and tilted about a transverse axis. A torsion bar is arranged along the transverse axis and is preloaded to counterbalance the weight of the hose and liquid contained therein so as to minimize the effort an operator must exert to tilt the fluid coupler section.

Abstract: A water cooler assembly and/or liquid dispensing apparatus and method for using same, having various, alternative features including: a bottom load water cooler, including such a cooler with a door stop mechanism; an adjustable drip tray assembly; a leak stop mechanism; an adjustable bottle interface accommodating dimensional variations in water bottles; an instaboil feature; and programmable dispensing and visual display modes.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ice making device for a refrigerator, which is installed in a storage space of the refrigerator to make ice by cold air circulating through the storage space. The ice making device comprises a water tank which is installed within an ice making space provided in a receiving box installed to be introduced into and taken out from the storage space, and has a water-storing space for storing water to be used in making ice and at least one water-supplying hole for use in supplying the water stored in the water-storing space; and at least one ice tray installed in the ice making space and provided with at least one ice making recess for use in making ice by receiving the water stored in the water-storing space. The water stored in the water tank is supplied to the ice tray when the water tank is mounted in the storage space.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing apparatus and method for using same, including a dispenser for dispensing liquid such as water to a user. A liquid container is located below the dispenser and removably attachable to a pivoting cradle engaging the liquid container. The cradle may be pivoted about an axis located adjacent an exit location for liquid within the liquid container. A filling device may be located below the liquid container for removably engaging the liquid container in fluid communication.

Abstract: A transfer line for the transfer of fluid or powder-like substances from one or more sources to an outlet characterized in that the transfer line comprises at least one movable section, optionally including associated equipment such as one or more pumps or filters. The movable line section to be cleaned is coupled to a cleaning station. Water for a first washing is transferred through the movable line section and preferably at least for a part recirculated a number of times. The used water is drained off. Fresh water for a second washing is transferred through the movable line section. After transferring the used water from the second wash tank into the first wash tank, water from a third wash tank is transferred through the movable line section to the first wash tank. The washings collected in the first wash tank can be reused as a first washing for a next movable line section to be cleaned.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a construction machine having a working oil tank and a switching valve to open/close the pilot line of the hydraulic pressure control system, the return oil from the switching valve being put back to the tank at the bottom through a return pipe, wherein a drain pipe is provided at a portion of the return pipe lower than the tank, while a plug for opening/closing the drain pipe at the outlet thereof, the oil in the working oil tank being discharged through the return pipe in a case where the outlet is opened by the plug. This allows the simplification of the configuration of drain passage as well as the improvement of the efficiency of draining works.

Abstract: A miniature patio heater is provided which has a total height of approximately 3 ft. and which has a shroud with a diameter less than 2 ft. The patio heater includes a base having a vertically extending chamber, which is approximately 1.5 ft. high, for receiving a small gas bottle. A hollow post extends upwardly from the upper end of the chamber. A heater assembly and shroud are supported at the upper end of the post. A gas line extends along the inside of the hollow post between the heater assembly and the chamber. A connector assembly provides a pivotal connection between the end of the gas line and a regulator connected to a gas bottle within the chamber. The chamber is provided with an access opening for inserting and removing the gas bottle. Thus, the gas bottle, with attached regulator, can be swung from a vertical upright position within the chamber outwardly through the access opening to an angular position to facilitate removal of an empty gas bottle and replacement with a full gas bottle.

Abstract: Cassette based systems and methods of hydrogen storage, distribution, and recovery are disclosed. A cassette contains a hydrogen storing material from which hydrogen may be recovered in a hydrogen recovery system. Several different types of materials are disclosed, including those that may be removed from the cassette for hydrogen recovery, and those that may be heated within the cassette for hydrogen recovery. The hydrogen recovery system recovers hydrogen from the cassette and may provide the hydrogen to a fuel cell, a hydrogen powered vehicle, or another hydrogen utilization system. The cassette may be distributed through a common carrier as a non-hazardous material. A hydrogen network may be used to obtain information associated with hydrogen storage, recovery, and utilization from various components of the network, and may be used to implement various business methods, such as distribution of cassettes based on network information, and distribution of cassettes through common carriers.

Abstract: An improved portable water purification system with reduced leaks and the capability of automatic draining of its boiling tank, as well as to a method of preventing water spillage from a portable water purification system and a method of draining a boiling tank of a portable water purification system. The system includes a control tank that is connected to a water supply, a boiling tank that is connected to the control tank for boiling water, a condenser that is connected to the boiling tank for receiving steam from the boiling tank and for condensing the steam to form distilled water, and a distilled water tank that is connected to the condenser for collecting distilled water from the condenser. An inlet solenoid control valve is disposed between the water supply and the control tank, with the inlet solenoid control valve controlling flow of water to the control tank. The system further includes a UV light sanitizer, leak prevention and leak detection features, and a mechanism for detecting water quality.

Abstract: An oil reservoir is described, and more specifically an oil reservoir used to supply first and second oil circuits within a device that may be subject to inversion, such as an electrical generator fitted to an aircraft. The reservoir has a first outlet 102 from which oil must be available irrespective of the orientation of the reservoir and a second outlet 104 from which oil flow must be interrupted if the generator is inverted. A feed to the first outlet is positioned in a central region of the reservoir where it remains immersed in fluid irrespective of the orientation of the reservoir. A second feed to the second outlet is located adjacent a normally lowermost region of the reservoir such that it is not in fluid flow communication with the reservoir when the reservoir is inverted.

Abstract: A fluid ladder or a fluid lifter and a method for lifting a liquid or a flowable or fluid-like material such as grains, sand, soil, and the like from one level to a higher level preferably through oscillation. The fluid ladder is capable of lifting fluids without the use of conventionally known pump devices and without the need for energy sources such as electrical energy, combustion energy and the like. The apparatus may be operable using energy sources such as that provided by muscles e.g., the muscle use of a human being or animal or the energy provided by oscillatory wave motion of a body of fluid. The fluid ladder lifts fluid through a series of, or a plurality of, reservoirs.

Abstract: A modular, portable, environmentally friendly aboveground fueling assembly includes at least one pad member that is supported on the ground, and that is fabricated from a material that is heat resistant and that is resistant to exposure to petroleum products. A portable aboveground fuel tank is supported on the pad member, and at least one pumping station is included for dispensing fuel from the tank to a customer. A freestanding structure is secured to the fuel tank and the pad, and the structure is designed to give an aesthetic effect of a more substantial, permanent facility than would be given by the aboveground fuel tank standing alone. The components of the assembly are generally designed so as to be conveniently portable and so as to be simple to assemble and disassemble in the field. The assembly serves a need for inexpensive and environmentally friendly service stations, particularly in rural areas and underdeveloped countries.

Abstract: A coupling mechanism for a rotary fluid cylinder which comprises a rotary member and a fluid feeding member concentrically mounted on said rotary member, at least one fluid passage being formed for supplying fluid from the fluid feeding member to the rotary member even while the rotary member is rotating. The coupling mechanism comprises a pair of rolling bearings interposed between the fluid feeding member and the rotary member at the respective extreme ends of the fluid feeding member so as to allow relative rotation of the rotary member with respect to the fluid feeding member. A biasing member for applying a predetermined pre-load to the respective rolling bearing is provided. The applied pre-load acts on the rolling bearings in such a manner that the rolling bearings are biased to move away from each other in their axial direction.

Abstract: The rotary fluid coupling decreases the possibility of microcontaminates entering the fluid flow line and is thus especially suitable for processing equipment in manufacturing of wafers and other components for the microcomputer industry. The rotary fluid coupling interconnects a fluid conveying passageway and a spindle element to a duct in a second element such that the two elements are rotatable with respect to each other. An axial channel is provided along the length of the spindle. A planar faced plate is mounted on the spindle. A bore in the spindle plate is in axial alignment with the spindle channel, generally forming a single continuous fluid conveying passageway. A second element has a generally planar distal faced plate. A fluid conducting duct extends from an aperture on the distal face of the second plate to a fluid source with the two faces generally aligned in parallel relationship to each other creating a fluid permeable gap.

Abstract: A water-spraying device for cleaning ship's hull and other upright surfaces has a horizontally movable carriage from which an outrigger extends towards the surface to be cleaned, and carries a water-spraying device. The carriage has a longitudinally extending water reservoir and a water supply conduit extends along its path of movement and has valves which are opening by a device in the carriage when the water in the reservoir drops below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A liquid transport container unit carried by a vehicle for transporting liquid products such as water or gasoline is disclosed, such unit utilizing an elongated base section positioned parallel to the direction of movement of the vehicle. This base section contains an internal chamber for containing the liquid to be transported. An elongated upper section positioned substantially parallel to the base section is also mounted to the vehicle. This upper section is elevated with respect to the base section and also has an internal chamber for receiving the liquid. A plurality of return portions are connected between the base section and the upper section and are adapted for communicating the liquid between the internal chambers of the upper and base sections.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new container that can be displaced by rotary force, consisting of a continuous sheet that assumes a form similar to a cylindrical surface, generated by a rectangle whose shorter sides have been substituted by convex semicircumferences, when it rotates around an axis that is very close and parallel to one of the long sides. An element is then placed in the direction of the axis and forms the axis of rotation. This element is held fast by the container when the latter is filled with fluid or other matter that induces multidirectional pressures of sufficient magnitude to cause the element installed, when impelled by a force, preferably along the axis but from either direction, to pull with it the enclosed sheet, thus displacing the container by rotary force over the supporting surface.

Abstract: A rotary drum plant is disclosed in which a unique system for directing a liquid medium to the rotating drum is utilized. A rotary drum such as a tube mill has a driving shaft connected thereto, with at least one U-shaped inner ring member having a channel-like cross-section positioned about the shaft and mounted for rotation therewith with the opening of the U-shape facing radially outwardly. At least one stationary ring member has a generally rectangular cross-sectional configuration and is positioned about the rotating U-shaped member to form a generally annular chamber with the U-shaped inner ring. A conduit adapted for carrying a liquid medium such as water communicates the chamber to the rotating drum and rotates therewith, while another liquid conduit directs the liquid medium to the chamber via the stationary ring member.