Interlocked Discharge Means, Support And/or Coupling Patents (Class 141/346)
  • Patent number: 8430139
    Abstract: An agricultural liquid material application system broadly includes an agricultural applicator and a fluid-transferring connection assembly. The connection assembly includes complemental fluid connectors associated with a liquid material source and the applicator. The connection assembly includes a valve operably coupled to a corresponding one of the fluid connectors so as to be automatically shifted out of a closed position when the connectors are in sealing engagement with one another and the connection assembly is in a fluid transfer configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: David Pell, John Peterson
  • Publication number: 20130087247
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing valve for dispensing liquids into a reservoir container, with a main valve and with an operating lever designed for opening the main valve against a force biasing the main valve into the closed position, wherein the valve actuation mechanism has a continuous characteristic with a smooth profile, with which, when subjecting the operating lever to an actuation force at the start of a valve opening stroke, a different opening force is exerted on the main valve than when subjecting the operating lever to the same actuation force during the later course of the valve opening stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventors: Achim Aehle, Stefan Kunter, Matthias Fedde
  • Patent number: 8381763
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas filling and dispensing device that comprises a body to be positioned in the opening of a pressurized gas storage tank, a gas-tapping circuit extending between a first upstream end to be connected to the inside of the tank and a second downstream end to be connected to a gas user, wherein the tapping circuit includes a first insulation valve, the device further including a safety valve subjected to the tank pressure for blocking or selectively opening a passage for the gas from the tank towards a discharge area based on the temperature and/or pressure of the gas in the tank relative to at least one predetermined threshold, characterized in that the discharge area of the safety valve is located upstream from the first insulation valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, SociétéAnonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude
    Inventors: Alessandro Moretti, Philippe Pisot
  • Patent number: 8336587
    Abstract: This document provides connectors such as a connector for enabling fluid transfer between a first fluid container and a second fluid container, which connector comprises a first component that is arranged to be connected to a first fluid container and a second component that is arranged to be connected to a second fluid container. The first component can be non-rotatably connected to the second component before a second fluid container is connected to the second component and/or before a first fluid container is connected to the first component. The connector can comprise a locking and rotation-enabling element that is arranged to be activated once a second fluid container has been connected to the second component, and/or once a first fluid container has been connected to the first component, which locking and rotation-enabling element enables the first component and the second component to rotate freely with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Carmel Pharma AB
    Inventors: Tobias Rosenquist, Johanna Lindstrom, Alexander Cederschiöld, Jonas Leffler
  • Patent number: 8333225
    Abstract: Device for the replacement of sterile containers (1) containing concentrated products in apparatus for the production of beverages from these concentrated products, said sterile containers (1) being provided with a union (3) having a one-way valve for dispensing the product, said device comprising a body (5) with a seat (6) for engagement with said union (3), said seat (6) being in fluid connection with the chamber (4) into which the concentrated product and at least the liquid for reconstituting the beverage are supplied, as well as locking means (15, 16, 17) for keeping the said union (3) in position inside said seat (6). Sensor means (18) are provided between said body (5) with the seat (6) for engagement with the union (3) and said locking means, said sensors (18) detecting the relative position of the said locking means (15, 16, 17) with respect to the body (5) and emitting a corresponding signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventors: Paolo Vecchio, Dario Sala
  • Patent number: 8327892
    Abstract: A vaporizer filling system includes a filler assembly, a sump, and a valve. The valve controls fluid communication into the sump. A retaining device retains the valve in an open position. A delay is connected to the retaining device. The delay controls the operation of the retaining device in order to retain the valve in the open position until the delay detects a release condition. The delay then controls the retaining device to release the valve. A method of filling a vaporizer includes engaging a bottle of liquid anesthetic agent with a filler assembly. The bottle and the filler assembly are moved from a first position to a second position. The bottle and filling assembly are locked in the second position with a retaining device. Then the retaining device is released and the bottle and filler assembly are returned to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ryan W. Rindy, Robert Q. Tham, John R. Pinkert
  • Patent number: 8287513
    Abstract: A female piercing member protection device for connection with a male connection part, and a method for connecting the device to a male connection part. The device includes an outer casing and a connection member at least partly enclosed in the outer casing. The outer casing is moveable between first and second positions. In the first position, the connection member is substantially locked from movement along the longitudinal axis A, and in the second position the connection member is able to move along the longitudinal axis A. The device also has an activated position and an inactivated position. When the outer casing is in the second position, a deformable locking device is prevented from deformation by the outer casing to prevent disengagement of the male connection part. A secure piercing member protection device significantly minimizes the risk for a user to be exposed to contaminants and the piercing member itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Carmel Pharma AB
    Inventors: Anna Ellstrom, Tobias Rosenquist
  • Patent number: 8281824
    Abstract: An instrument (23) for filling a substance supply container (1) of a device (21) for personal care treatment has a filling needle (4) having a proximal end connected or connectable to a storage reservoir (22) and a distal end, a substance transport conduit (9) extending from the proximal end to at least one outlet (10, 11) provided in a radially facing surface portion closely adjacent the distal end of the filling needle (4). A sleeve (14, 15) is arranged around the filling needle (4) and is movable between a first position closing off the at least one outlet (10, 11) and a second position proximally away from the first position and the at least one outlet (10, 11). A system (20) including such an instrument (23), a container (1) for cooperation with such an instrument (23) and for provisioning a device (21) for personal care treatment as well as a device (21) for personal care treatment including such a container (1) are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Jeroen Molema, Wilko Westerhof, Bartele Hendrik De Vries, Reinier Niels Lap, Olaf Martin De Jong, Bart-Jan Zwart, Johannes Rogier De Vrind
  • Publication number: 20120204998
    Abstract: A coupler assembly (6) for use in the transfer of powdered material from a container such as a bag or bottle comprises an active valve assembly (8) having an active valve and docking part and a passive valve assembly (7) which comprises a passive valve and a complimentary docking part, the two docking parts enabling the two assemblies to be secured together such that both the passive valve and active valve can be opened to provide a passage for powder through both valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: EZI-DOCK SYSTEMS LIMITED
    Inventors: Michael Ronald Brimson, Stephen Thomas McAleavy
  • Patent number: 8235079
    Abstract: Provided are adapter caps comprising a housing having a top, a bottom an edge, and a hub at the top of the housing. A plunger is slidably disposed about the hub, and a plurality of lock fingers are pivotally attached to the housing substantially at the edge, the lock fingers being actuable, responsive to movement of the plunger. A guide including an inner circular wall and an outer circular wall with the inner circular wall having a passageway disposed therethrough is present at the bottom of the housing. A cap as provided is selectively attachable to a coupling fitting having a first passage through which a liquid may pass and a second passage separate and distinct from the first passage through which vapor may pass, to provide accurate fuel level readings of a reservoir to which the coupling is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Robert L. Schultz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8235077
    Abstract: A refillable fuel supply assembly for a fuel cell is disclosed herein. The assembly includes a refillable fuel supply adapted to supply fuel to a fuel cell, a refilling fuel cartridge containing fuel to be transferred to the refillable fuel supply, and a lock-and-release device connecting the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply to transport fuel from the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply. The lock-and-release device also retains the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply until the refilling fuel cartridge is substantially free of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Societe Bic
    Inventors: Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks, Michael Curello, David Gray
  • Publication number: 20120186698
    Abstract: A medical liquid transfer system includes a pump configured to transfer liquid between at least two containers. A detachable connector is detachably secured to the pump. The detachable connector has at least one pump passage to transmit pumping pressure from the pump to at least one of the containers. The detachable connector can include one or more liquid impermeable and gas permeable membranes to ensure the liquid is retained in the detachable connector. After the fluid is transferred the detachable connector is removed and replaced by a new one in order to prevent contamination of the pump. An interlock mechanism is used to prevent premature removal of the detachable connector and/or the container being filled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicants: Roche Diagnostics International AG, Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Noël Fehr, Heiner Kaufmann, Rudolf Zihlmann, Sandro Niederhäuser, Christopher Wiegel, Eric Misselwitz, Christoph Rickert
  • Patent number: 8210306
    Abstract: A system for disabling a vehicle carrying a storage tank includes a coupler component supported by the vehicle for receiving a connection from a delivery line. A cap is attachable to an end of the coupler component for preventing connection of the delivery line when the cap is attached. A proximity sensor is disposed outside of the coupler component and senses whether the cap is attached without making contact with the cap. A switch is in electrically connected to the sensor and disables at least one drive element of the vehicle, e.g., the transmission, when the cap is not attached to the coupler component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Company
    Inventors: James C. Zuck, Christopher Fruin, Aaron Zuck
  • Patent number: 8201594
    Abstract: A system (10) and method for substantially automatically aseptically or non-aseptically filling a container with a fluid. The transfer of fluid occurs via a movable nozzle mechanism (20) substantially automatically inserted into a side opening (32) in a connector (12) attached to the container. More specifically, the side opening (32) in the connector (12) is exposed, the nozzle mechanism (20) is moved into the side opening (32), the fluid is transferred into the container via the nozzle mechanism (20) and the connector (12), the nozzle mechanism (20) is removed from the side opening (32) in the connector (12), and the side opening (32) in the connector (12) is closed. The aseptic transfer of fluid includes a substantially automatic sterilization procedure accomplished by both spray and contact components (54,56).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Scientifics, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl Martin
  • Publication number: 20120103468
    Abstract: A fluid safety dispenser system for use with fluid storage. The dispenser system includes a dispensing valve positionable in the opening of the container, the dispensing valve having a directional chamber capable of rotation between an open position to allow fluid passage through the opening of the container and a closed position to eliminate fluid passage through the opening of the container. A fluid dispenser which assimilates a syringe is releasably securable to the dispensing valve for use in drawing fluid from the container when the fluid dispenser is in the open position. The fluid dispenser has indicia to provide for exact measurement and a locking mechanism to assure the container is closed when the fluid dispenser is detached from the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Terwilliger, Paul Schlie
  • Publication number: 20120103469
    Abstract: A fluid safety dispenser system having a fluid storage container keyed to a fluid dispenser. The container having a valve body positionable in the opening of the container, the valve body having a spring loaded displacement valve to allow fluid passage through the opening of the container when in a displaced and to eliminate fluid passage through the opening of the container when the displacement valve is seated. The keyed fluid dispenser assimilates a syringe and is releasably securable to the valve body for use in depressing the displacement valve by compression of a spring when the keyed fluid dispenser is in position. The keyed fluid dispenser has indicia to provide for exact measurement and can be temporarily coupled to the container to provide a dripless transfer of fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Terwilliger, Paul Schlie
  • Publication number: 20120103470
    Abstract: A fluid safety dispenser system having a fluid storage container keyed to a fluid dispenser. The container having a valve body positionable in the opening of the container, the valve body having a plug member biased to allow fluid passage through the opening of the container when in a displaced position and to eliminate fluid passage through the opening of the container when the plug member is in a seated position. The keyed fluid dispenser assimilates a syringe and is releasably securable to the valve body for use in depressing the plug member by movement of a leaf spring when the keyed fluid dispenser is in position. The keyed fluid dispenser has indicia to provide for exact measurement and can be temporarily coupled to the container to provide ease of fluid transfer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Terwilliger, Paul Schlie
  • Patent number: 8162013
    Abstract: This document provides connectors such as a connector for enabling fluid transfer between a first fluid container and a second fluid container, which connector comprises a first component that is arranged to be connected to a first fluid container and a second component that is arranged to be connected to a second fluid container. The first component can be non-rotatably connected to the second component before a second fluid container is connected to the second component and/or before a first fluid container is connected to the first component. The connector can comprise a locking and rotation-enabling element that is arranged to be activated once a second fluid container has been connected to the second component, and/or once a first fluid container has been connected to the first component, which locking and rotation-enabling element enables the first component and the second component to rotate freely with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventors: Tobias Rosenquist, Johanna Lindstrom, Alexander Cederschiold, Jonas Leffler
  • Patent number: 8141601
    Abstract: A medical liquid transfer system includes a pump configured to transfer liquid between at least two containers. A detachable connector is detachably secured to the pump. The detachable connector has at least one pump passage to transmit pumping pressure from the pump to at least one of the containers. The detachable connector can include one or more liquid impermeable and gas permeable membranes to ensure the liquid is retained in the detachable connector. After the fluid is transferred the detachable connector is removed and replaced by a new one in order to prevent contamination of the pump. An interlock mechanism is used to prevent premature removal of the detachable connector and/or the container being filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignees: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc., Roche Diagnostics International AG
    Inventors: Jean-Noël Fehr, Heiner Kaufmann, Rudolf Zihlmann, Sandro Niederhäuser, Christopher Wiegel, Eric Misselwitz, Christoph Rickert
  • Patent number: 8132639
    Abstract: A system for disabling a vehicle carrying a substance in a storage tank includes a holster defining a cavity for receiving a nozzle in fluidic connection to the storage tank when not in use. The holster includes a main body and a bracket. The bracket is affixable to the vehicle and engagable with the main body at a plurality of positions along the main body. The system further includes a sensor for sensing whether the nozzle is received in the holster. The sensor is also in communication with at least one drive element of the vehicle to disable the at least one drive element when the nozzle is not received within the holster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Company
    Inventors: James C. Zuck, Frederick W. Blanchard, Aaron Zuck
  • Publication number: 20120006828
    Abstract: A filler coupling for a pressurized gas receptacle comprising a body defining an internal filler circuit between an upstream end designed to be connected to a packaging connector and a downstream end designed to be connected to a receptacle, the coupling comprising an isolation valve that can move relative to a seat between an upstream position for closing the circuit and a downstream position for opening the circuit, said isolation valve being moved to its upstream position by a return member, the coupling also comprising a dust-prevention valve placed upstream of the isolation valve, said dust-prevention valve being able to move relative to the body between an upstream position for closing the upstream end of the circuit and a downstream position for opening the circuit upstream end, said dust-prevention valve being moved to its upstream position by a return member, characterized in that the dust-prevention valve supports a filter interposed on the path of at least a portion of the fluid that travels betwee
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Antoine FRENAL, Philippe Pisot, Cyril Manscourt
  • Patent number: 8091594
    Abstract: The present invention relates to novel devices and methods of filling tanks designed for holding non-hazardous fluids, especially tanks on recreational vehicles. In a preferred embodiment, the tank to be filled is a water tank. The device of the present invention incorporates several novel and non-obvious features to create a device that permits the filling of tanks in a hands-free manner while keeping water waste to a minimum and preventing the damaging of tank, fill neck or other tank or fill components due to the over filling of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew G. Ray
  • Patent number: 8088117
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for a fill port for a flexible container such as a flexible self supporting dewatering or marine structure. The container includes a flexible material having at least one opening and a fill port having an inner port body and an outer port body. At least one face of the inner and/or outer port body has a plurality of cellular surfaces with cavities that do not extend through the inner and/or outer port body on which they are positioned. The cavities receive a portion of the flexible material when the inner port body, the flexible material, and the outer port body are secured together and in use, thus minimizing stresses on the flexible material surrounding the fill port by equally distributing the forces acting on this material during the filling stage and thus reducing the risk of tears or failure to the flexible container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Nicolon Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Charles Stephens, Edward Warren Trainer
  • Publication number: 20110315273
    Abstract: A single point lube service port component is provided and includes an elongate annular body, which is formed to define a hollow through which fluid is gravitationally drainable from a first to a second passage and first and second apertures, a seal biased to move from a non-seal position toward a seal position at which fluid communication between the first and second apertures is prevented and a chip collector body removably insertable into the hollow to prevent the gravitational fluid drainage and to urge the seal into the non-seal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mathew Slayter, Jeffrey M. Makulec
  • Patent number: 8066038
    Abstract: A device for securing a dispensing nozzle to a fill tank includes a securing mechanism and a means for connecting the securing mechanism to the fill tank's cap chain. After connected to a fuel tank cap chain and upon subsequent attachment to a dispensing nozzle, the device prevents the nozzle from dislodging from the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Ronda Kay Jones
  • Patent number: 7997306
    Abstract: In an inner structure of a filler neck of a fuel filler tube, a nozzle support section for supporting a nozzle of a fuel filling gun at a gas station includes a pipe member having an inner diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the nozzle, and the nozzle is inserted in the pipe member when fueling. Fuel emitted from the nozzle is directed through the pipe member to an outlet end (distal end) of the nozzle support section, at which it starts flowing along an intermediate bent section of the filler tube. Thus, even when the fuel filling gun is not sufficiently inserted in the filler neck, i.e. inserted short of a standard inserted amount, the fuel is allowed to properly jet out in the bent section just as when the fuel filling gun is sufficiently inserted in the filler neck up to the standard inserted amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Kobayashi, Shinya Murabayashi, Yutaka Utsumi, Takeshi Ohishi
  • Patent number: 7975882
    Abstract: A dispenser of a product in powder from, composed of: a case delimiting a housing; a reservoir removably installed in the housing, the reservoir being adapted to contain the product in powder form and having a dispensing orifice; and a device for obturating the dispensing orifice. The device has a blocking member in the form of a shutter mounted to the reservoir for movement between a position for closing the dispensing orifice and a position for opening the dispensing orifice. The housing, the reservoir and the device are constructed to enable the reservoir to be installed in the housing by a vertical linear movement and to cause automatic movement of the shutter from the position for closing to the position for opening in response to the vertical linear movement of the reservoir into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: SEB S. A.
    Inventors: Gilles Morin, Séverine Miu
  • Patent number: 7967035
    Abstract: A system and method for quickly refilling a pressurized irritant dispenser is disclosed. In the system and method, either the dispensing nozzle or the connection between the dispensing nozzle and the valve assembly is replaced with a quick connect fitting. The quick connect fitting allows for both the quick refill of irritant and the quick attachment (and detachment) of various accessories to the pressurized irritant dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Patent number: 7963954
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to transferring fluidic media from a vial to a reservoir. In various embodiments, fluidic media may be transferred from the vial to the reservoir by moving a housing portion to move a plunger head located in the reservoir to draw fluidic media from the vial to the reservoir. In other embodiments, fluidic media may be transferred from the vial to the reservoir while the reservoir is held by a holding unit and vibrated by a vibrator to remove air from the fluidic media. In some embodiments, fluidic media may be transferred from the vial to the reservoir by moving a handle operatively connected to a bias member for assisting with the transfer of fluidic media. In other embodiments, the transfer of fluidic media may be assisted by a bias member and a needle connecting atmosphere and the vial.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Medtronic Minimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Julian D. Kavazov
  • Patent number: 7913724
    Abstract: An inflation device for inflating containers with non-rigid walls such as bags, which includes a body having a venturi shaped air channel. First and second air inlets lead into the air channel, with an outlet being adapted to allow air to exit from the air channel for inflating a container when joined to the outlet. The second inlet is adapted to be closed by a self-closing valve if air does not flow through the air channel. A sensor associated with the body is adapted to detect when a container, such as a bag, joined to the body has been filled to a predetermined degree and then causes the flow of air through the air channel to be interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Stopak (Pty) Ltd.
    Inventor: Bester Jacobus Pansegrouw
  • Patent number: 7886783
    Abstract: A system for the delivery of a liquid anesthetic agent to a sump of an anesthetic vaporizer includes a filler assembly rotatable about a pivot point. The filler assembly further includes a sump valve that controls fluid communication between the filler assembly and the sump. An adapter is coupled with the filler spout and includes a sealing surface that forms a seal against fluid communication between the anesthetic bottle and the adapter. The filler assembly, the filler spout, and the adapter are rotated about the pivot point along the rail. The rotation of the filler assembly, the filler spout, and the adapter about the pivot point opens the sump valve and the seal between the adapter and the anesthetic bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: The General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ryan W. Rindy, Robert Q. Tham
  • Patent number: 7857016
    Abstract: A plastic adapter for fuel tanks. The adapter includes crimping lugs for fixing the adapter to a pipe or an opening in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Société Anonyme
    Inventor: Patrice Baudoux
  • Patent number: 7854354
    Abstract: A docking station for use with a liquid container which supports the container in a convenient fixed location. The docking station is designed to accept a liquid container having a predetermined height and diameter. The docking station includes a cam operated actuator which is movable between an upper “open” position to a lower “closed” position. When the actuator is moved to its lower closed position, the actuator opens a valve in the liquid container to permit liquid to be drawn from the container. When the actuator is in its upper position, the valve in the container is closed. A manually controlled dispenser is mounted on the upper end of the docking station which is in communication with a source of water under pressure and the liquid being drawn from the container so as to mix the same and to dispense the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Publication number: 20100294276
    Abstract: A system for the delivery of a liquid anesthetic agent to a sump of an anesthetic vaporizer includes a filler assembly rotatable about a pivot point. The filler assembly further includes a sump valve that controls fluid communication between the filler assembly and the sump. An adapter is coupled with the filler spout and includes a sealing surface that forms a seal against fluid communication between the anesthetic bottle and the adapter. The filler assembly, the filler spout, and the adapter are rotated about the pivot point along the rail. The rotation of the filler assembly, the filler spout, and the adapter about the pivot point opens the sump valve and the seal between the adapter and the anesthetic bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: The General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ryan W. Rindy, Robert Q. Tham
  • Patent number: 7825821
    Abstract: A holding rack (101, 201, 301, 401) has individual positions or compartments for dosage units (102, 102?, 202, 302). Each of the dosage units has a supply receptacle (104, 104?, 204, 304) and a dispensing head (103, 103?, 203, 303) that are connected to each other. The holding rack (101, 201, 301, 401) is equipped with a means for active user guidance (105, 105?, 210, 305) which, in a process of dispensing measured substance quantities from the different dosage units into a receiving container (411), directs the user in taking out and returning the different dosage units that are seated in the holding rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Paul Luechinger, Matthias Gietenbruch
  • Patent number: 7757731
    Abstract: The invention relates to an adapter cartridge for supplying fuel to a device set up for fuel cartridge operation alternatively to the fuel cartridges, also by means of an external tank or an external supply pipe. The adapter cartridge comprises a fuel feed device and an interface on the load side for releasing the fuel, which is formed according to the corresponding interface of the fuel cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG
    Inventors: Jens Müller, Manfred Stefener
  • Patent number: 7703486
    Abstract: An apparatus for the handling of hazardous fluids includes a collection vessel, a collection vessel connector, a dose control connector, a unit dose container, a delivery control connector, and a delivery site access device. The collection vessel contains the fluid prior to dispensing, the unit dose container contains a predetermined amount of the fluid for dispensing, the delivery site access device provides access to an intended delivery site, and the connector attaches pieces of the apparatus to one another. The method of the invention allows needle-free connections to be made for the apparatus, using a predetermined arrangement of the pieces of the apparatus, and in one embodiment, employs deformable elastomeric valves capable of creating a decreased pressure at a valve surface, so that upon closure of said valves, a fluid on the surface on the valves is withdrawn within the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 414, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry Costanzo
  • Patent number: 7690406
    Abstract: A hazardous material transfer system for the transfer of waste from a containment cell through a transfer port to a storage vessel. A port door in the containment cell is movable between a open and closed positions relative to the transfer port. The port door has a closure face with a first connector set. A storage vessel sealed by a storage vessel cover is provided for receipt of waste transferred through the port. The cover has an outside face that carries a second connector set that interlocks with the first connector set on the port door. The inside face of the vessel cover has a third connector set. A fourth connector set is located on the storage vessel and mates with the third connector set to lock and seal the cover to the vessel. The connector sets are the variety that engage and disengage upon rotational motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Isaac M. Giesen
  • Publication number: 20100059143
    Abstract: A tire repair solution can includes a body and a cap closed on the body. The cap is provided with an intake, an outlet, and a guide tube extending from the underside of an intermediate portion into the body. Then an exterior tube is connected with the intake and also with an air compressor. A one-way air valve is fitted in the intake, and the guide tube has a through hole in its wall, and a slide block is fitted on the through hole to close it up. The outlet has a back-pressure valve fitted inside, and is connected with a connect tube for connecting with a joint to be connected with an air valve of a tire. Then the tire repair solution can is possible to be used in a normal position and in an inverted position, convenient to operate and saving time and labor largely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Min-Hsieng WANG
  • Publication number: 20100028748
    Abstract: A refillable fuel supply assembly for a fuel cell is disclosed herein. The assembly includes a refillable fuel supply adapted to supply fuel to a fuel cell, a refilling fuel cartridge containing fuel to be transferred to the refillable fuel supply, and a lock-and-release device connecting the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply to transport fuel from the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply. The lock-and-release device also retains the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply until the refilling fuel cartridge is substantially free of fuel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: SOCIETE BIC
    Inventors: Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks, Michael Curello, David Gray
  • Patent number: 7647954
    Abstract: A connector apparatus for controlling fluid dispensing/transmission that includes a control component for communication between couplers thereof. A first coupler has a transmitter, and is releasably connected with a mating reader coupler that has a transmitter and fluid control device to exchange information with the transmitter of the first coupler. The transmitters communicate and are operated by wireless means such as by RF devices. Upon confirming that the first coupler is properly coupled to the mating coupler and that the first coupler has a proper identification, the fluid control device controls fluid flow, using the transmitters of the first coupler and the mating reader coupler, under predetermined parameters, e.g., pressure, temperature, duration, and flow rate, as indicated in the first coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventors: Richard Stewart Garber, Charles Peter deCler, David W. Meyer
  • Patent number: 7631783
    Abstract: A docking station for use with a liquid container which supports the container in a convenient fixed location. The docking station is designed to accept a liquid container having a predetermined height and diameter. The docking station includes a cam operated actuator which is movable between an upper “open” position to a lower “closed” position. When the actuator is moved to its lower closed position, the actuator opens a valve in the liquid container to permit liquid to be drawn from the container. When the actuator is in its upper position, the valve in the container is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Patent number: 7628299
    Abstract: The present invention provides a spout for use with a container for holding and dispensing a fluid. The spout comprises a generally cylindrical body having an external surface capable of mating with a collar of a dispensing connector. The external surface has at least one threaded portion that is capable of mating with the internal surface of a collar of a dispensing connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Liqui-Box Corporation
    Inventor: James Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090236009
    Abstract: Device for the replacement of sterile containers (1) containing concentrated products in apparatus for the production of beverages from these concentrated products, said sterile containers (1) being provided with a union (3) having a one-way valve for dispensing the product, said device comprising a body (5) with a seat (6) for engagement with said union (3), said seat (6) being in fluid connection with the chamber (4) into which the concentrated product and at least the liquid for reconstituting the beverage are supplied, as well as locking means (15, 16, 17) for keeping the said union (3) in position inside said seat (6). Sensor means (18) are provided between said body (5) with the seat (6) for engagement with the union (3) and said locking means, said sensors (18) detecting the relative position of the said locking means (15, 16, 17) with respect to the body (5) and emitting a corresponding signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Paolo VECCHIO, Dario Sala
  • Patent number: 7575028
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle is provided with fuel activated levers that engage the vehicle fill pipe to prevent drive-off without paying. Fuel pump pressure acts on plungers to pivot fill pipe levers, against spring pressure, to lock the two together. Movement of the levers is initially prevented by a trigger that is spring biased forward on the nozzle spout. Since the fill pipe is not large enough to pass the trigger, insertion of the spout into the fill pipe moves the trigger against spring pressure to uncover the levers. The levers are locked to the fill pipe as long as pump pressure is present. Removal of fuel pressure allows the levers to be withdrawn by spring action. A breakaway joint is provided to stop fuel flow in the event of drive-off with the fuel nozzle in a fuel filled pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventors: Douglas G. Thorpe, Norwood Thorpe
  • Publication number: 20090194197
    Abstract: A gas filling apparatus for connecting a gas feeding device to introduce a gas into a storage apparatus for storing a semiconductor element or a reticle comprises a base and at least one gas filling port, in which the gas filling port comprises a foundation, an elastic element and a fixing element for fixing the elastic element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Yung-Shun Pan, Yu-Ming Chen
  • Publication number: 20090194189
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for filling a receptacle (200) with carbon nanotubes from another receptacle (106) whereby the CNTs are passed from one receptacle to the other by means of a coupling (300) comprising a double-valve device (30), each valve being coupled to one of the receptacles, the valves (31, 32) closing independently and tightly and being openable only when they are coupled to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventors: Serge Bordere, Patrice Gaillard
  • Publication number: 20090178725
    Abstract: A extraction device for extracting liquid from a container that permits precise measurement and transfer of such liquid. The container is automatically sealed upon removal of the extraction device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Troy Sonnier
  • Publication number: 20090167019
    Abstract: The aim of the invention is to create a simple design of an actuating device for a rapid coupling used for transferring gaseous and/or liquid fluids, said actuating device comprising a tubular housing (11) and a slide (41) which is movably mounted relative to the housing and is coupled to a lever mechanism that is provided with at least one pivoted lever (43) laterally mounted on the housing (11). Said aim is achieved by mounting at least one connecting lever (57) which extends to the slide (41) on the pivoted lever (43), thus also obtaining safe handling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Erwin Weh, Wolfgang Weh
  • Publication number: 20090165891
    Abstract: Socket for reservoir or container, able to be associated to a specific nozzle which fills reservoir or container with suitable substances, provided with a mechanical device for avoiding the introduction of substances of nature different from those of the specific nozzle, characterized by fact that said device comprises a socket closure system maintained in the closure position by blocking means, that in the same socket deblocking means are present which are activated by means of the introduction of the specific nozzle having the external diameter section corresponding to that of internal section of the socket where the deblocking means are placed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Franco Candelise