Plural Valved Passages Patents (Class 141/302)
  • Publication number: 20090071566
    Abstract: A device for the filling of vessels, with a container for liquid and pressurized gas and at least one filling pipe connected with this, which filling pipe comprises a liquid valve and a return gas pipe, whereby a gas pipe discharges into the filling pipe outside the return gas pipe, which gas pipe is connected with the container by means of a pre-stressing valve, so that the pre-stressing valve is positioned on the upper side of the container and the gas pipe discharges into the container from above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventor: Erwin Knieling
  • Patent number: 7497229
    Abstract: A seal support system (1) for maintaining barrier fluid in a mechanical seal (2) including a vessel (10) for containing barrier fluid, a system for feeding barrier fluid between the vessel (10) and the mechanical seal (2), a system for automatically detecting barrier fluid within the vessel (10) and a system for automatically restoring barrier fluid within the vessel (10), and a system (100) for automatically draining barrier fluid from the vessel (10) after a predetermined period of time. The system for discharging (100) may automatically drain barrier fluid from the vessel (10) for a predetermined period of time. The system of discharging (100) may automatically drain barrier fluid from the vessel (10) with a predetermined rate of discharge. The system of discharging (100) preferably includes a system for draining barrier fluid from the vessel (10) and a valve for automatically controlling the draining of barrier fluid from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: AES Engineering Ltd
    Inventors: Nadim Tahir, Desmond Hall, James Frances McKeever
  • Patent number: 7487806
    Abstract: A source liquid supply apparatus and method that avoids leaving source liquid-and/or cleaning fluid-derived residues in the vicinity of the connection region between the source liquid feed conduit and the source tank. A flow-switching mechanism is attached to the source tank of a source liquid supply apparatus. This flow-switching mechanism has a first port connected to the discharge port conduit of the source tank, a second port connected to a feed conduit, and a third port connected to an exhaust conduit. The first port can be closed by a valve member on a diaphragm disposed within a common compartment while communication is maintained between the second and third ports. A cleaning fluid source and a purge gas source are connected to the feed conduit. Purge gas and cleaning fluid fed into the feed conduit are discharged from the second and third ports and through the exhaust conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme A Directorie et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Olivier Letessier, Masao Kimura, Jean-Marc Girard, Akinobu Nasu
  • Patent number: 7487808
    Abstract: A coupling seal includes a first sealing strip containing first and second bearing elements on opposing ends of a rabbet body and a second sealing strip containing first and second bearing elements on opposing ends of a rabbet body. Interior sides of the rabbet bodies seal against one another, at least in sections, such that the first bearing element of the first sealing strip is arranged adjacent to the second bearing element of the second sealing strip and the second bearing element of the first sealing strip is arranged adjacent to the first bearing element of the second sealing strip. A first flexible element extends between first and second fixing devices of the first sealing strip, and a second flexible element extends between first and second fixing devices of the second sealing strip. The first and second flexible elements, when installed, may have a pre-stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: GEA Niro GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Stoye, Martin Koch, Peter Lais, Christian Greiner
  • Publication number: 20090032136
    Abstract: A fluid-distribution system includes a plurality of fluid-distribution nodes with three-way ports attached to bleed/flush lines and alternate ports attached to vacuum lines. A first pump is used to draw new brake fluid from a new fluid container, push it through the manifold and ports, and through the bleed/flush lines. Fluid flow through the ports is selectively controlled by a computing device. In this manner, a vehicle's brake system including individual brake lines and ABS systems, may be flushed in a prescribed sequence. The vacuum lines are connected to a second pump via alternate ports of the sequential control valve manifold and may be used evacuated air and contaminated brake fluid from the vehicle's bleeder valves or master cylinder. Additionally, the bleed/flush lines may be connected to the alternate ports during priming or purging of the system. This also facilitates storage of the bleed lines as it prevents brake fluid from spilling and prevents air from entering the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Jon A. Petty
  • Patent number: 7467649
    Abstract: A refueling receiver includes an inlet configured to receive a nozzle. A control valve piston is connected to the inlet to allow flow from the inlet to the control valve piston. The control valve piston has an inlet side and an outlet side. An outlet is provided having an outlet fitting and a return fitting. The outlet fitting is connected to the inlet to allow flow from the inlet to the outlet fitting. A sensor is provided having an input connected to the outlet fitting, and an output connected to the return fitting to allow flow from the outlet fitting to said return fitting through the sensor. A pilot valve is in communication with the return fitting to control a pressure differential between the inlet side and the outlet side to move said control valve piston into a first position to allow flow out of the receiver, and a second position to prevent flow from leaving the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Adel Wiggins Group
    Inventors: Matt Luntz, Thomas B. Rose
  • Publication number: 20080290118
    Abstract: A stopper for a container having a liquid, such as wine, which is subject to oxidation once opened. The stopper is provided with a neck region for fitting within a bottle and a top for residing outside of the bottle when in use. Pathways for the introduction of an inert gas, such as argon, and for air expelled from the bottle when the inert gas is introduced are selectively closeable. Liquid housed within the bottle can be poured from the stopper without removing it. Thus, an oxidizable liquid can be preserved while decanting the bottle contents at will.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Gregory John Luzaich, Michael Jeffrey Lerner
  • Patent number: 7448418
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector that provides secure and convenient connection to a product container. In one embodiment, an apparatus for providing fluid flow connection to a container opening of a container comprises a connector including a proximal end, a distal end, a flow passageway extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and at least one side opening extending from an external surface of the connector to the flow passageway, the side opening being disposed between the distal end and the proximal end. The connector is configured to be inserted into the container opening and to be movable between a closed position and an open position. The side opening is blocked by an internal surface of the container opening in the closed position. The side opening is at least partially open to an interior of the container to permit fluid flow between the interior of the container and the flow passageway of the connector in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. Tuyls
  • Patent number: 7418983
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser for ejecting a beverage into a receptacle, including a housing including a taking-in/out space, nozzles provided in the beverage dispenser for ejecting the beverage, obstacle detection module for detecting an obstacle around the nozzle, alarm generator for issuing an alarm when the detection module detects the obstacle, and a nozzle cover for covering the plurality of nozzles and the obstacle detection module to partially close the taking-in/out space. The alarm may not be issued from the alarm means when the beverage is ejected or a switch may be provided for causing the alarm generator inoperative. Thereby, those around the dispenser are informed of the fact that an operator has had unauthorized access to the nozzle in the beverage dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Suntory Limited
    Inventors: Yuji Mizuno, Katsumi Takenaka
  • Patent number: 7415995
    Abstract: A canister filling system is provided for independently filling multiple canisters from a common set of storage stations prioritized in a cascaded manner. The system includes first and second fill stations configured to receive and independently fill canisters with pressurized gas. First and second storage stations store gas at corresponding first and second charge pressures, respectively. A supply-chain joins each of the first and second fill stations to both of the first and second storage stations. First and second valve assemblies are provided in the supply-chain to monitor, independent of one another, the canister pressures at the corresponding first and second fill stations. The canister pressures represent the pressure within corresponding canisters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Scott Technologies
    Inventors: Darrill Lee Plummer, Gaylord Kern Posod
  • Patent number: 7357161
    Abstract: A brake fluid flush machine to simultaneously supply fresh brake fluid and vacuum used brake fluid in a vehicle's braking system while being controlled by a processor to allow a single worker to complete the fluid exchange operation. The machine has a used fluid tank, a new fluid tank, a manifold connectable to four secondary brake cylinders corresponding to a front driver's side wheel, a front passenger's side wheel; a rear driver's side wheel, and a rear passenger's side wheel, a suction pump connecting the manifold to said used fluid tank for draining used brake fluid from said four secondary brake cylinders, a pressure pump connecting the new fluid tank to the master cylinder, and a processor. The processor controls the fluid exchange by sequentially opening and closing valves that couple the four secondary brake cylinders with the suction pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Michael Flournoy
  • Patent number: 7353848
    Abstract: A beverage bottling plant for filling bottles with a liquid beverage filling material having a filling device and a filling machine having such a filling device. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: KHS Maschinen-und Anlagenbau AG
    Inventor: Dieter Rudolf Krulitsch
  • Patent number: 7350545
    Abstract: A filling valve apparatus having a body portion with an inner wall terminating at an aperture to define a sealing seat. The inner wall extends below the seat to define a trap for a fluid. A cage extends from the body portion with the cage having an inner wall mating with the inner wall of the body portion to define a continuous inner surface. A stem, having a seal, includes an outer surface that is complementary in configuration to the continuous inner surface to define a smooth passageway for the fluid as the fluid is directed into the container thereby ensuring a laminar flow of the fluid between the inner and outer surfaces and into the container. The filling valve apparatus also includes a pre-assembled body portion, valve assembly, cap assembly, lower vent tube assembly, and snift valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: ADCOR Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin K. Ruble, Demetrios Stavrakis, Ted McKaughan
  • Patent number: 7343944
    Abstract: An improved elongated fuel inlet pipe having an opening on one end for inserting a fuel source and a plunger valve at an opposite end for permitting fluid to flow into a tank. The pipe has a plurality of slots in a top sidewall of the pipe, a movable closure over the slots and a spring to bias the collar to a closed position. A gate is mounted inside the pipe and is drivingly linked to the closure by a finger that extends through one of the slots for displacing the closure longitudinally toward the plunger valve when there is an increased pressure applied to the gate for permitting fluid flow through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Scott Dennis
  • Patent number: 7328729
    Abstract: A dispenser for holding multiple doses of fluids or other substances, and for dispensing the substances, has a variable volume storage chamber. A filling valve is coupled in fluid communication with the storage chamber and defines (1) a normally closed, fluid-tight position hermetically sealing the storage chamber from the ambient atmosphere, and (2) an open position allowing the passage of fluid through the valve both to evacuate the storage chamber and to introduce fluid through the valve to fill the storage chamber. A dispensing valve is coupled in fluid communication with the storage chamber and defines (1) a normally closed, fluid-tight position preventing the passage of fluid out of the dispenser, and (2) an open position for dispensing fluid therethrough. The sealed, empty dispenser is sterilized, such as by applying gamma radiation thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Medical Instill Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Py, Julian V. Chan
  • Patent number: 7325577
    Abstract: A tank venting system includes a diaphragm valve movable to open and close a passageway leading to a fuel tank. The system also includes a fuel vapor recovery canister used to adsorb hydrocarbons associated with fuel vapor flowing through the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Devall
  • Patent number: 7320347
    Abstract: A tool allowing both the inflation and deflation of air-filled bags such as dunnage bags is disclosed. The tool comprises a sliding control to easily and safely turn the flow of air on and off. The tool is switched from inflation to deflation mode by moving the bag connecting valve from one end of the device to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Sunrise Arkansas, Inc.
    Inventors: J. William Ramsey, Mike L. Smith, James C. Hobbs
  • Patent number: 7302977
    Abstract: A nozzle inhibitor is positioned in a filler neck closure assembly to prevent a user from pumping unleaded fuel into a diesel fuel tank. The nozzle inhibitor blocks full insertion of a small-diameter unleaded fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly yet allows full insertion of a large-diameter diesel fuel nozzle into the filler neck closure assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. King, J Bradley Groom, Poul Hedevang
  • Patent number: 7296598
    Abstract: A vacuum canister includes a storage space and a removable lid. The lid includes a pump housing that defines a pumping chamber within which a sliding piston is disposed. The piston is connected to a handle via a piston rod and features a skirt-like piston valve that seals against the side wall of the pump housing when the piston travels downward but permits air to pass when the piston travels upward. Air is pumped from the canister storage space via the pump. A vacuum indicator and release valve are also positioned in the lid. A bellows communicates with the canister storage space and contracts when a vacuum is present. The bellows is connected to a lever which pivots to extend a button indicating the presence of the vacuum. Pushing the button causes the lever to engage a vacuum release valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Wilton Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Yvonne S. Lin, Steven M. Dibdin, Antonio Carlo Hernandez Celestin, Clay A. Burns
  • Patent number: 7296600
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a housing having a valve seat defining at least part of a vent passage, a pressure responsive member carried by the housing and defining at least part of a pressure chamber, and a valve carried by the housing and having a closure movable relative to the valve seat between an open position permitting fluid flow through the vent passage and a closed position at least substantially restricting fluid flow through the vent passage. The closure is moved by the pressure responsive member in response to changes in pressure in the pressure chamber. A control passage communicates at one end with a pressure source and at its other end with the pressure chamber and an electrically operated valve is movable from a first position permitting a pressure signal to develop within the pressure chamber and a second position permitting pressure within the pressure chamber to vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: David M. Ferreria, John R. Forgue, Mark R. Johansen
  • Patent number: 7290571
    Abstract: A filling device for an anesthetic evaporator has filling of an anesthetic evaporator is possible. To accomplish the object, an additional vent hole (36), which is opened immediately after the filling in order for excess anesthetic volume to be able to flow out of the filling device into the anesthetic tank (15) of the anesthetic evaporator (2), is provided within the filling device above a fluid channel (14), via which both the gas and liquid exchange takes place during the filling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Claus Bunke, Matthias Witt, Rainer Kunz, Jürgen Müller, Sven Heyer, Dirk Reichert
  • Patent number: 7264024
    Abstract: A valve for closing a container and for enabling the container to be filled has a housing (20) with an inlet port (30) and an outlet port (40). A closing member (60) is provided for sealingly closing the valve at the inlet port (30). At least one valve member (70) is provided for controlling fluid communication between the inlet port (30) and the outlet port (40). The valve member only allows fluid communication when it is in a first position. The valve member (70) is designed in such a way that it is brought into and maintained in said first position only if a predetermined filling condition is achieved. The filling condition is typically achieved, when the filling pressure of a system for filling the container (50) is initially below a first predetermined or predeterminable threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Soda Club (CO2) Atlantic GmbH
    Inventors: Mark Funt, Michel Ben-Simon, Gregory Leved, Avi Cohen
  • Publication number: 20070186994
    Abstract: A check valve for an air-packing device comprises upper and lower check valve films that are placed between upper and lower packing films that form the air-packing device contour. The check valve can be advantageously used for the air-packing device having a multiplicity of air containers. A common air duct that allows compressed air to flow into each air container through the check valve is formed between the upper and lower check valve films independently from other films such that the check valve can be placed flexibly in the air-packing device. Peeling agents are applied between the upper and lower check valve films to create the common air duct by preventing heat-sealing between the films. Air passages are formed in each check valve between air guide seals and separation seals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Inventor: Hidetoshi Koyanagi
  • Patent number: 7252122
    Abstract: The present invention provides a manifold for receiving fluid tubes in a bulk compounder. In its simplest form, the manifold includes a plurality of inlets, each inlet defining an opening to a respective fluid passageway, and each passageway contains a check-valve. Included in this manifold is an outlet in fluid communication with the fluid passageways and an inlet port which is coaxial with the outlet. The coaxial inlet port contains a check-valve. Included as a part of the present invention is a cannula adapted for use with the manifold of the present invention, tube sets for use with the manifold of the present invention, and a method of minimizing error in filling a bag using a manifold in accordance with the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Aleandro DiGianfilippo, Kenneth C. Raines, Joel Bartholomew, Richard S. Pierce, Jeffery Steigerwalt
  • Patent number: 7219704
    Abstract: A fuel tank for a motor vehicle, conveys fuel from the tank to an internal combustion engine of the vehicle, and includes a filling connection with a filling opening. The tank comprises an improved venting arrangement for venting the tank during refuelling and during operation thereof, with at least one fuel vapor filter by way of which the fuel tank is vented. The fuel vapor filter is of a two-stage configuration having first and second filter stages in the direction of flow in venting. A refuelling venting conduit is branched off after the first filter stage and is communicatable with the atmosphere or the tank interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Bolle, Volker Treudt
  • Patent number: 7198072
    Abstract: A purgeable manifold system for the movement of low vapor pressure chemicals that may be embodied in a variety of forms. In one embodiment, a container for storing the low vapor pressure chemical has a plurality of ports; a first manifold detachably connects a first port to a source of gas, vent, or vacuum by flow communication through a first diaphragm valve; a second manifold detachably connects a second port to a source of gas, vent, vacuum, or low vapor pressure chemical, or to a process tool by flow communication through a second and a third diaphragm valve, or alternatively detachably connects a third port to the same source by flow communication through a fourth and the third diaphragm valve; and a third manifold, detachably connects a fourth port to a source of gas, vent, or vacuum by flow communication through a fifth diaphragm valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: David James Silva
  • Patent number: 7191807
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for handling bulk particulate material (M) includes a reservoir hopper (16) having a gas-permeable liner (42) and a gas inlet (44) connecting the reservoir hopper (16) to a pressurized flow of gas sufficient to fluidize the material (M). A transition and pipe assembly (18) receives a flow of material (M) from the reservoir hopper (16). The transition and pipe assembly (18) has an outer conduit (54), an inner conduit (52), and at least one gas inlet (64). The outer conduit (54) is substantially impervious to gas whereas the inner conduit (52) is permeable to gas. The inner conduit (52) is disposed within and surrounded by the outer conduit (54). The gas inlet (64) connects the outer conduit (54) to a pressurized flow of gas to fluidize the material (M) within the inner conduit (52). A variable orifice non-contact valve (24) controls the flow of material (M) from the transition and pipe assembly (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Dale A. DeMaison, Jeffery P. Kelsey, Thomas M. Bragg, Raymond G. Poole
  • Patent number: 7182110
    Abstract: Fluid dispensing system 10 dispenses a controlled measure of fluid stock from a stock source 10S into stock receptacles 10C during a fill cycle. Flow manifold 12 receives the stock for distribution to the receptacles. The fluid stock may be pressurized by a gravity pressure head or by stock pump 10P operating between the stock source and the manifold. A fill spout 10F protrudes through system housing 10H for passing the stock into each stock receptacle. Electric solenoids 16, are positioned in the flow paths for providing the controlled measure of fluid stock. Flow adjusters adjust the fluid flow to the desired controlled measure. Fill trays 10L and 10R extend along the lower side edges of the housing, and support the stock receptacles during the fill cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: John T. Roebuck
  • Patent number: 7168464
    Abstract: A dual service system and method for selectively compressing and dispensing methane, hydrogen, and variable mixtures of methane and hydrogen for use as a gaseous fuel. The use of an in-line gas density meter, hydraulic intensifier, pressurized gas cooler, optional intermediate storage and multiple dispensers are disclosed. An inline gas density meter is used in combination with a programmable logic controller and a control valve on the hydrogen supply line to create a closed feedback loop for selectively controlling the hydrogen content of the resultant pressurized fuel gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Pinnacle CNG Systems, LLC
    Inventor: David A. Diggins
  • Patent number: 7163031
    Abstract: An automated bulk dispensing system and a method of use including selectively receiving a predetermined amount of radioactive liquid from a second container into a third container, selectively receiving a predetermined amount of nonradioactive liquid from a first container into a fourth container or directly into the third container depending on whether kits or multi-dose containers of medicine are desired. Preferably, this is for nuclear pharmaceuticals. Displacement mechanisms that are connected to the third container and fourth container are for mixing and dispensing liquid. There is at least one control valve, preferably three control valves, which are each controlled by drive mechanisms. The mixed liquid from the third container can be transferred to a recipient container. There is also a gas vent and bubble detector to eliminate bubbles with a processor that is also utilized to control the displacement mechanisms and the drive mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Mallinckrodt Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Graves, Andrew Williams, Andrew M. Schadt, David M. Wong
  • Patent number: 7156131
    Abstract: A filling device for use to manually or automatically refill a fuel cartridge using a separate fuel container or a second fuel cartridge is disclosed. The filling device provides for the sharing or fuel among numerous fuel containers and fuel cartridges in various consumer electronic devices. Fuel cartridges can be filled in-situ using an adapter for connecting the fuel container to the fuel cartridge. The adapter includes an input connector and an output connector arranged to adapt various fuel containers and fuel cartridges together. The adapter can be arranged as a passive device or as an active device and can include pumps, valves, power sources and control units as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Paul Adams, Andrew J. Curello
  • Patent number: 7152638
    Abstract: A fuel tank system includes a fill tube in communication with a tank, and a nozzle guide having surfaces oriented so as to guide a nozzle spout in the nozzle tube during a filling operation of said tank with a fuel. The system also includes a sealing device in the fill tube downstream from the nozzle guide, wherein the sealing device includes at least one lip configured to contact an outer surface of said nozzle spout during said filling operation that seals the fill tube from an outside environment during the filling operation. A vent valve is mounted on the tank, the vent valve being open during the filling operation and during periods of normal use of the tank and being closed at least when the tank is upside down or when the fuel reaches a predetermined level in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventor: Patrick Ganachaud
  • Patent number: 7152764
    Abstract: A safety can for storing flammable liquid is disclosed. The safety can includes a receptacle and a valve mechanism. The valve mechanism can include a body assembly, a fill cover assembly, a pour valve assembly, a trigger assembly, and a handle. The body assembly of the valve mechanism can be mounted to the receptacle. The body assembly can include a fill spout and a separate pour spout. The fill cover assembly can be pivotally mounted to the body assembly about a fill cover axis. The pour valve assembly can be movably mounted to the body assembly and be disposed therein. The safety can includes a trigger assembly for convenient multi-functional operation of the safety can. The trigger can be positioned to allow the can to be filled, to pour from the can, and to place the container in a safety position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Justrite Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Donald F. Mack, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7150299
    Abstract: A fluid control and gas delivery assembly and method for containing, receiving and storing hazardous fluids and for dispensing gas comprising a container, a fluid fill path, a gas dispensing path, a first shut-off valve, a pressure reducer, a fluid flow restrictor, a second shut-off valve and a fluid outlet connector. The first shut-off valve is positioned in said gas dispensing path upstream of a pressure reducer. A fluid flow restrictor downstream of the pressure reducer has a fluid flow restriction path configured to restrict the flow of the fluid delivered to the fluid flow restrictor at the delivery pressure to a maximum mass flow rate that is equal to or less than the allowable mass flow rate standard for the hazardous fluid. The second shut-off valve is positioned in said gas dispensing path downstream of said pressure reducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Lee Hertzler, Robert Harrison Shay, Alexandre de Almeida Botelho
  • Patent number: 7147015
    Abstract: A manifold system for retrofitting an electronically controlled, multi-product, multi-hose fuel pump station into an electronically controlled multi-product, single-hose fuel pump station. The manifold system includes multiple partial manifolds that are connected by piping. The system enables connection of at least two existing independent input lines of distinct fuel grades to a common outlet, which is connected to a single existing fueling point Respective fuel grade switches select a fuel grade for delivery from the existing fueling point. An electronic controller ensures that only the selected grade of fuel passes through the outlet of the manifold to the existing fueling point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Graffco, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick L. Durham
  • Patent number: 7114531
    Abstract: A system for purging high purity interfaces connecting a high purity chemical container to process lines comprises a first purging manifold, connected at one end to a first adapter manifold extending from the high purity chemical container, and connected at the other end either to a process tool, to a second high purity container, to a source of gas, or to a source of vacuum on one side, or to a source of vent or to a source of vacuum on the other side; and a second purging manifold connecting the second adapter manifold either to a source of push gas, a source of purge gas, or a source of vacuum; or to a source of vent. A related method comprises blowing purge gas through both the first and the second purging manifolds, and, optionally, applying vacuum to both purging manifolds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: David James Silva
  • Patent number: 7104743
    Abstract: A vacuum receiver for a pneumatic conveyor for conveying, e.g., plastic pellets, having a receiving vessel with a material inlet, a material outlet and a conveying gas outlet. A first valve member is provided for opening and closing the conveying gas outlet, and a second valve member is provided for opening and closing the material outlet. Both valve members are connected to a common valve shaft and actuated by a single actuator mounted on a vessel lid. The vacuum receiver of the invention has the advantage of affording positive control and sealing of the material discharge valve while at the same time being economical to manufacture and easily cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Universal Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald D. Rainville, Robert R. Crawford, Leonard Paquette, William Goldfarb
  • Patent number: 7104293
    Abstract: In a coupling element for decanting, filling, or emptying of containers, a first sealing strip a flank piece comprising elastic as a first mounting element at a first end defining a first inner space for retaining a first axis, and a second mounting element on a second opposite end defining a second inner space for retaining a second axis. A second sealing strip comprising elastic has a first mounting element on a first end which defines a first inner space for retaining the second axis, and a second mounting element on a second opposite end which defines the second inner space for retaining the first axis. Inner sides of the flank pieces of the first and second sealing strips are attachable to one another to form a seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: GEA Buck Valve GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Lais, Joseph Sywalla, Joachim Stoye, Martin Koch
  • Patent number: 7100645
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a filler pipe structure for connecting a filler neck and fuel tank inside of a vehicle, and the filler pipe structure is equipped with a first filler pipe extending from the filler neck; a chamber that is arranged at an end to which the first filler pipe extends, and forms a space fronting the end of the first filler pipe; an inlet check valve attached to the end of the first filler pipe; and a second filler pipe that connects the space of the chamber and the fuel tank inside, wherein an inside section area of the second filler pipe is larger than that of the first filler pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Hasegawa, Yukio Hirata
  • Patent number: 7093624
    Abstract: A liquid pumping device includes a barrel, a cylinder, a conducting rod, a piston, an operation lever, and a cover. Thus, the liquid pumping device is operated automatically by the power source or operated manually by the operation lever to suck the liquid from the suction pipe into the inside of the barrel rapidly, so that the liquid pumping device is operated automatically and manually, thereby greatly enhancing the versatility of the liquid pumping device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Yo Lee Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Chi-Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 7073545
    Abstract: A tool allowing both the inflation and deflation of air-filled bags such as dunnage bags is disclosed. The tool comprises rotatable controls to easily and safely manipulate both the flow of air into the device and the mode of operation between inflation and deflation. A venturi tube is used to draw air rapidly from a bag when the tool is deployed in deflation mode, while a radial vent system dissipates the force of the air exiting the device during deflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventors: Mike L. Smith, John R. Leszczyna
  • Patent number: 7036537
    Abstract: The present invention provides a manifold for receiving fluid tubes in a bulk compounder. In its simplest form, the manifold includes a plurality of inlets, each inlet defining an opening to a respective fluid passageway, and each passageway contains a check-valve. Included in this manifold is an outlet in fluid communication with the fluid passageways and an inlet port which is coaxial with the outlet. The coaxial inlet port contains a check-valve. Included as a part of the present invention is a cannula adapted for use with the manifold of the present invention, tube sets for use with the manifold of the present invention, and a method of minimizing error in filling a bag using a manifold in accordance with the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Aleandro DiGianfilippo, Kenneth C. Raines, Joel Bartholomew, Richard S. Pierce, Jeffery Steigerwalt
  • Patent number: 7011120
    Abstract: A liquid filling enables liquid, especially high consistency liquid, to be filled in a constant quantity without bubbles and without drops of the liquid. In the liquid filling device for receiving liquid into a cylinder and feeding it into a container, a three-way valve is provided for changing over between inflow and outflow of the liquid into and from the cylinder. A pouring port through which the liquid fed from the cylinder is poured into the container and a check valve on the pouring port to be opened by pressure of the liquid fed to the pouring port are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Daisey Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Nakabayashi, Kimihiro Tanaka, Kazuhiko Goto
  • Patent number: 6997219
    Abstract: A dispenser for holding multiple doses of fluids or other substances, and for dispensing the substances, has a vial, a flexible bladder received within the vial, and a variable volume storage chamber formed between the bladder and vial. A filling valve is coupled in fluid communication with the storage chamber and defines (1) a normally closed, fluid-tight position hermetically sealing the storage chamber from the ambient atmosphere, and (2) an open position allowing the passage of fluid through the valve both to evacuate the storage chamber and to introduce fluid through the valve to fill the storage chamber. A pump is coupled in fluid communication with the storage chamber for pumping fluids out of the storage chamber. A dispensing valve is coupled in fluid communication with the pump and defines (1) a normally closed, fluid-tight position preventing the passage of fluid out of the dispenser, and (2) an open position for dispensing pumped fluid therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Medical Instill Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Py, Julian V. Chan
  • Patent number: 6966348
    Abstract: A container having two ports; first block valve having two diaphragm valves, each valve having a valve seat side and a diaphragm side, each valve seat side faces the other valve seat side, and connected to the first end of a dispense conduit, one diaphragm side connected to a first port, and another diaphragm side connected to vent and or vacuum; a second valve connected to a push gas conduit and a second port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Andrew Steidl, Gildardo Vivanco, Charles Michael Birtcher
  • Patent number: 6951228
    Abstract: The present invention provides a manifold for receiving fluid tubes in a bulk compounder. In its simplest form, the manifold includes a plurality of inlets, each inlet defining an opening to a respective fluid passageway, and each passageway contains a check-valve. Included in this manifold is an outlet in fluid communication with the fluid passageways and an inlet port which is coaxial with the outlet. The coaxial inlet port contains a check-valve. Included as a part of the present invention is a cannula adapted for use with the manifold of the present invention, tube sets for use with the manifold of the present invention, and a method of minimizing error in filling a bag using a manifold in accordance with the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: B Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Steigerwalt, Kenneth C. Raines, Richard S. Pierce, Aleandro DiGianfilippo, Joel Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 6945287
    Abstract: A backflow blocker prevents backflow of gas to a lower pressure first stage of a system for processing particles from a downstream higher pressure second stage of the system. The blocker comprises an upright duct connecting the first stage to the second stage. The duct is at least partly filled with a column of particles passing from the first stage to the second stage. By properly selecting the duct dimensions and by controlling the flow rate of particles into and from the duct, the velocity of downwardly moving particles in the duct can be made to exceed the velocity at which the gasses flow through the particles in the duct. This prevents gasses from flowing from the lower pressure downstream stage to the higher pressure upstream stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Crown Iron Works Company
    Inventor: George E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6945290
    Abstract: A check valve assembly is designed for insertion in an existing fuel tank filler tube having a mechanical nozzle seal and a vapor recirculation port. The insert has an integrally formed ground strap/tab for grounding a refueling nozzle and an attached flexible flapper positioned adjacent the recirculation port by an integrally formed spring tab. The insert has friction tabs for engaging the inner surface of the filler tube for retaining the check valve assembly in the filler tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Darryl C. Weber, Steven H. Verzyl
  • Patent number: 6941978
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser with a booted nozzle for vapor recovery is modified to include check valves in a vapor return path. The check valves selectively allow atmospheric air into the vapor return path to alleviate nuisance shut offs at the nozzle when an ORVR vehicle is being fueled. The check valves may be included anywhere in the vapor return path between the nozzle and the vapor recovery vacuum assist pump. The fuel dispenser may further include a pressure sensor in the vapor return line so that the fuel dispenser can determine if the vehicle is an ORVR vehicle or not. If the fuel dispenser determines that an ORVR vehicle is present, the fuel dispenser may modify the operation of the vapor recovery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Riffle
  • Patent number: 6938650
    Abstract: A filling apparatus for attachment to a neck of a fluid reservoir is disclosed. The apparatus has a container for fluid and a stem projecting from the container. Two passages extend through the stem. One of the these passages allows fluid from the container to flow into the reservoir and the other passage allows air to flow into the container to prevent the formation of a partial vacuum in the container. The apparatus includes a tap movable between an ON and an OFF position to allow and prevent the flow of fluid through the passages. The apparatus has a mount for releasably securing the apparatus to the fluid reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Private Brand Tools (Australia) PTY LTD
    Inventor: David Mitchell