Interlocked Discharge Means, Support And/or Coupling Patents (Class 141/346)
  • Publication number: 20090145510
    Abstract: A device connects a storage container to a working reservoir for transferring a substance from the storage container to the working reservoir. The device includes a housing which is joined to the storage container with either a fixed connection or a coupling means. A passage opening is formed on the housing, and a shutter that is movably connected to the housing serves to close the passage opening. The shutter has a connector port for each working reservoir. The shutter moves in a rotary or sliding manner relative to the housing between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the passage opening is closed off by the shutter, and in the open position the interior space of the storage container is connected through the passage opening to the interior space of the working reservoir which is seated in the at least one connector port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventor: Paul Luechinger
  • Patent number: 7543611
    Abstract: Method for spill free refuelling includes establishing a liquid tight connection between a refuelling gun nozzle for fuel dispensing and a coupling piece of the fuel receiving object (6), through which fuel is provided to a fuel container (7), detecting a predetermined fuel level (8?) and automatically interrupting the fuel flow when said level is detected. A level detection signalling configuration is established by moving the gun into position for establishment of the liquid-tight connection. The invention further relates to a system for spill free refuelling, a method and a device for detecting a predetermined liquid fuel level and a fuel pipe arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Identic AB
    Inventor: Sylvid Källberg
  • Patent number: 7530374
    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: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Advanced Scientifics, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl Martin
  • Patent number: 7513278
    Abstract: A drinking water pitcher is provided including an upper reservoir and a lower reservoir, and preferably a filter or filter housing. The upper and lower reservoirs are removably mated with one another. The interface between the upper and lower reservoirs restricts or prevents water flow from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir unless the reservoirs are properly mated/seated together, such as by a water restriction means in the upper reservoir. In another aspect, a drinking water purification system is provided including a base unit and a drinking water pitcher. The drinking water pitcher includes an upper reservoir, a lower reservoir and preferably a filter or a filter housing. The base unit can include a sanitization means. The upper and lower reservoirs are removably mated with one another, and the upper reservoir can be removably mated with the base unit. A method of purifying water is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Tersano Inc.
    Inventors: Steve L. Hengsperger, Justin L. Namespetra, Christopher B. Caldwell, Richard S. Zulik
  • 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: 20080272323
    Abstract: The object is to provide a connector to be attached to a liquid tank, which reduces a trouble of arranging a plug, is advantageous in cost and capable of preventing misconnection, is provided by compactly integrating two types of plugs, which are a liquid delivery plug and a gas feeding plug. The connector is to be attached to a liquid tank for delivery of an internal liquid, and is constructed of: a plug (1) fixedly mounted on the tank; and, a corresponding socket (2) connected thereto. The connector is characterized by the plug (1) and the socket (2), wherein: the plug (1) is provided with a liquid passage (8) and a gas passage (12); and, the socket (2) is provided with: a liquid passage (38) communicating with the liquid passage (8); a liquid passage connecting piece (21) communicating with the liquid passage (38); a gas passage (34) communicating with the gas passage (12); and, a gas passage connecting piece (37) communicating with the gas passage (34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2005
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: Surpass Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koichi Abe
  • Publication number: 20080223479
    Abstract: A filling adapter for conveying liquid from a first liquid container to a second liquid container is provided. The filling adapter includes an adapter body having a top end and an opposite button end, the top end adapted for fitting an opening in the first liquid container, the bottom end adapted for fitting an opening in the second liquid container, and an open path in the adapter body from the top end to the bottom end for communicating liquid from the opening in the first liquid container to the opening in the second liquid container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: MBHD, LLC
    Inventors: WADE M. BASSETT, LISA L. BASSETT
  • Patent number: 7389801
    Abstract: A filling system for an anesthetic evaporator allows an adapter neck (5) of a bottle adapter (1), which said adapter neck is coded in an anesthetic-specific manner, to be inserted into the filler neck of a filling device in a simple manner. A hinge (39) is provided between the adapter neck (5) and the threaded sleeve (2) of the bottle adapter (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Drägerwerk Medical AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ahmet Türker, Sven Pasdzior, Dirk-Stefan Reichert, Ernst-Günther Scharmer, Grigory Kholtchanski
  • Patent number: 7377296
    Abstract: A device for packaging and dispensing a product includes: a unit that can be refilled with product using a container having a dispenser member, the unit comprising: a body; an element that can be refilled with product comprising a product application surface; and, a filling valve that is attached to the body and configured to pass from a closed configuration to a filling configuration under the effect of a thrust exerted by the dispenser member, and to return to the closed configuration in the absence of the dispenser member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Gueret
  • Publication number: 20080023500
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a connector (1) able to be mounted on the neck of a container for liquids (100), in the form of a bottler consisting of a main body having, sliding longitudinally therein, a slider provided with a radially expandable bottom portion so as to engage reversibly with a hollow:, probe, in which the hollow probe is able to perform the longitudinal displacement of the the slider and connect the inside of the container (100) with its interior so as to allow the dispensing of liquid from the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Applicant: Guala Closures S.p.A.
    Inventor: Piero Battegazzore
  • Patent number: 7258146
    Abstract: A bridge and adapter system for a bag-in-box packaging filler is shown to include an adapter providing a quick connection between the supply line and the dispensing member of the bag-in-box packaging. A bridge is adapted to sit longitudinally across the box of the bag-in-box packaging and is adapted to engage with both the adapter and the dispensing member of the bag-in-box packaging in order to provide support of the adapter and dispensing member, therein. The adapter includes air vents which facilitate the escape of air in the bag-in-box while it is being displaced with other contents from the supply line. The upper end portion of the adapter includes a cam lock connector for connecting the supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Tropicana Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Williams, William A. Cataldo
  • Patent number: 7073546
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application system includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 7070589
    Abstract: A connection system including at least a male connecting element and a female connecting element which can be connected to each other, as well as the male connecting element and the female connecting element. The location of contact of the two connecting elements is preferably provided with a disinfecting adhesive so that an aseptic or sterile connection can be established. Therein both connecting elements have predetermined breaking points which in the connected state are arranged one above the other so that only one breaking point within the tube is obtained via which an aseptic fluid guidance through two tubes from one sterile system to another sterile system can be carried out. Thereby a particularly simple and cost-saving connection is created which fulfills the highest sterility requirements. Furthermore, also the use of such a connection system is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Fresenius AG
    Inventors: Houshang Lolachi, Hans-Jürgen Neumann, Siegfried Ebner
  • Patent number: 7000657
    Abstract: Drive off is prevented by having a grasp assembly engage the restrictor plate of the fill pipe of a motor vehicle when the nozzle spout is inserted. After the fuel pump is started and pressure is placed on the fuel, fuel is admitted into the nozzle by pressing on the hand lever to open the poppet valve. Fuel pressure in the nozzle activates a lock actuator system, to prevent removal of the spout from the fill pipe, by a lock system that prevents a grasp assembly latch from retracting from the fill pipe restrictor plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventors: Douglas G. Thorpe, Norwood Thorpe
  • Patent number: 6981534
    Abstract: A bridge and adapter system for a bag-in-box packaging filler is shown to include an adapter providing a quick connection between the supply line and the dispensing member of the bag-in-box packaging. A bridge is adapted to sit longitudinally across the box of the bag-in-box packaging and is adapted to engage with both the adapter and the dispensing member of the bag-in-box packaging in order to provide support of the adapter and dispensing member, therein. The adapter includes air vents which facilitate the escape of air in the bag-in-box while it is being displaced with other contents from the supply line. The upper end portion of the adapter includes a cam lock connector for connecting the supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Tropicana Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Williams, William Cataldo
  • Patent number: 6962321
    Abstract: A two-part coupling structure (22, 32) includes a male coupling part (32) and a female coupling part (22) which are mutually engageable to open fluid communication between the coupling parts (22, 32). For example, the coupling parts (22, 32) may be used to establish fluid communication between a container (12) and a conduit (14). The coupling parts (22, 32) are disengageable from one another to discontinue fluid communication between them, and also to close communication between ambient and each of the container (12) and the conduit (14). The male coupling part (32) includes a mounting structure (44a-44e) for supporting on the female coupling part (32), and also includes a guide structure (44) effective to guide a male probe portion (36) of the male coupling part (32) into engagement with the female coupling part (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Scholle Corporation
    Inventors: Chester Savage, Mark Anderson, Silvio Sandvoss
  • Patent number: 6942127
    Abstract: A valve assembly for a container with an inner bag for receiving beverage, in particular carbonated beverage such as beer, wherein a beverage valve is provided with a communication with the inner space of the bag and a device for operation of the beverage valve by a tapping device in which the container is receivable, the beverage valve being partly surrounded by an upstanding first apron which is gas-tight, while, spaced therefrom, a second gas-tight apron is situated, and between the first and the second apron a bottom wall with at least one gas passage opening is provided which during use is in communication with the space enclosed between the inner bag and the container, such that during use between the two aprons a chamber is formed through which gas under pressure can be forced through the gas passage opening, separately from the beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Heineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventor: Paul Henri Raats
  • Patent number: 6929151
    Abstract: A water squirting toy including a freestanding base upon which a water gun is supported. The toy includes a garden hose connector to facilitate connection of the toy to a household water supply. The gun can be operated to discharge water directly from the household supply while supported upon the base. The toy may be provided with couplers for releasably joining the gun to the base, and the gun may include a water storage reservoir, so that the gun can be separated from the base and independently operated to discharge water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Richard A. Clayton
  • Patent number: 6913048
    Abstract: A device couples two storage and/or transport units with a security device. By alternately using a single actuating device, the security device and a pivoting device react in such a way that connecting branches of the units which are coupled are placed in a lock position by the security device and are firmly locked with respect to each other such that it is not possible to separate them. Closing valves in the connecting branches insure that the connecting branches are sealed from each other. By subsequently rotating the drive shaft, it is possible to open the closing valves using the pivoting device in order to enable a transfer process to occur. By rotating the drive shaft back, the closing valves are re-closed. Also by rotating the drive shaft, the connecting branches can be separated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: GEA Buck Valve GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Bernd Elsässer
  • Patent number: 6893000
    Abstract: A spout for a flexible bag adapted to hold a liquid, the spout adapted for coupling with a connector having a rotatable spout adapter with an internal thread. The spout has a substantially cylindrical body with an outer surface, a spout opening, and a spout axis. The spout further has at least one flexible tab attached to and protruding radially distal from the outer surface of the cylindrical body of the spout. The tab has a top side that is substantially perpendicular to the spout axis, a bottom side opposing the top side, and a leading edge for engaging the thread. Additionally, the spout, has an undeformed tab length that typically deforms upon engaging the internal thread of the spout adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: DS Smith Plastics Limited
    Inventors: Christopher C. Rutter, Lamar Spalding
  • Patent number: 6871679
    Abstract: A bag with a flexible wall which delimits a closed chamber of the bag for a store of a substance, for example a liquid, gaseous, pasty or pulverulent substance, for example a bag with a wall made from single-layer or multilayer (plastic) sheet material. A female element with a body through which a bore extends is attached to the inner side of the wall, which bore extends from an insertion opening for a male element, which is covered in a sealed manner by the wall of the bag, in the vicinity of the wall of the bag, to an opening in the chamber of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: IPN IP B.V.
    Inventor: Laurens Last
  • Patent number: 6866161
    Abstract: A fueling device 10 of a fuel tank comprises a cover 20 which is provided with an operation lever 26 operated to open and close a filling opening SCc, and which opens and closes the filling opening SCc according to the opening/closing operation of the operation lever 26, a fuel cap 30 having a structure such that it is fitted in a buried state in an inlet pipe IP and taken out from the inlet pipe, a gasket GS interposed between the fuel cap 30 and the inner wall of inlet pipe IP, and a spring 70 interposed between the fuel cap 30 and gasket GS and pressing the gasket GS against the sealing surface by a force acting in the direction of closing the cover 20 via the fuel cap 30, while increasing the pressing force. The fueling device 10 has high sealing property against large external forces applied to the upper part of fuel filler pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Patent number: 6843285
    Abstract: The object of this invention is to improve safety by preventing the leakage of liquid caused by the internal pressure of a container. A liquid path plug in which a pipe is provided in the lid section of the plug, and a gas path plug which does not have a pipe are attached to openings of the container. The engaging groove section is formed on the end surface of the liquid path cap which closes the through hole provided in the liquid path plug section of the liquid path plug. The engaging protrusion section and the engaging hole section are formed on the end surface of the gas path cap which is provided in the gas path plug section of the gas path plug and closes the through hole. The gas path cap is detached by engaging the engaging pin of the detaching fixture on the engaging hole section of the gas path cap and by turning the gas path cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Surpass Industry Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshihiko Ozawa
  • Patent number: 6837262
    Abstract: A refueling system for vehicles including a dual valve receiver connected in fluid communication with the fuel tank, and a jet sensor inside of the fuel tank and in fluid communication with the receiver. The refueling system further includes a relief valve vent in fluid communication with the fuel tank to vent the fuel tank and to relieve pressure that may otherwise build up inside the fuel tank during refueling. When refueling with an automatic shutoff nozzle, the sensor detects when a desired fuel level has been reached, and then informs the receiver to prevent fuel flow into the tank. When this occurs, the pressure inside the receiver and automatic shutoff nozzle increases, causing the nozzle to shut off automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Adel Wiggins Group
    Inventors: Jose Cortez, David Wicke
  • Patent number: 6810932
    Abstract: A seal within the filler neck of a fluid reservoir is configured to provide fluid channels into the reservior while in the at-rest position, but seals the filler neck when deformed by an externally directed insert in the filler neck. The seal is a hollow bulb with a frusto-conical surface spaced from a parallel frusto-conical surface of the filler neck by a plurality of ribs therebetween. The gap between the ribs, and between the surfaces of the seal and the filler neck, from fluid channels for replenishing the reservoir. A plunger inserted into the filler neck deflects the seal outwardly into contact with the filler neck, closing the fluid channels and preventing matter from entering the fluid reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: David Corven, Grigory Yezersky, Thomas S Moore, Gerald Cilibraise, Edmund Tworkowski, William W Doolittle, III
  • Patent number: 6807979
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for coupling two storage and/or transport units with a cleaning device. In one cleaning position, either before or after a transfer process, an area is provided between two connecting branches and at least one part of front flaps of two closing valves and the connecting valves which is embodied as a cleaning chamber enclosed on all sides, and which can be sealed with respect to the outside atmosphere and product area. The cleaning space is protected against unintentional opening as a result of at least partial locking of the connecting branches with respect to each other. Cleaning occurs using the cleaning fluid without any danger of contamination be it from transfer product and/or the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: GEA Buck Valve GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Bernd Elsässer, Klaus Moeller
  • Publication number: 20040173286
    Abstract: A device for transferring a fluid contained in a closed container comprising a substantially tubular connecting element that has a first end that can be inserted hermetically in the container and a second end that is open, and pumping elements that have an inlet, which can be associated hermetically with the second end, and an outlet, and are adapted to draw the fluid from the container in order to transfer it into an external user device; the transfer device is assembled monolithically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: SIDAM DI AZZOLINI GRAZIANO E C. S.A.S.
    Inventor: Graziano Azzolini
  • Patent number: 6779567
    Abstract: A transfer port apparatus (10) is provided to enable a worker to transfer one or more objects through a sealed passageway provided in the apparatus (10) from one sealed chamber into another sealed chamber. Transfer port apparatus (10) is adapted to be coupled to a movable canister (12) and a stationary isolator (16). Expandable airtight seals (72, 120) are deflated, doors (30, 40) are removed and an object (20) is transferred into the airtight clean working environment established in the isolator (16) through the sealed passageway established in transfer port apparatus (10) following coupling of canister (12) to isolator (16) using transfer port apparatus (10). After the object (20) is moved, doors (30, 40) are replaced and expandable airtight seals (72, 120) are inflated creating a substantially airtight seal. Movable canister (12) can be uncoupled from the transfer port apparatus (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: La Calhene, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Szatmary
  • Patent number: 6752180
    Abstract: A device for bidirectional transfer between a vial and a carpule. The device having a body fastened to the vial, a hollow needle, a moving element which is displaceable with respect to the body along the axis of the needle, a carpule reservoir constrained to moved axially in the direction of the axis of the needle, and a distance sleeve interposed between the body and the puncturable piston of the carpule. The distance sleeve forms a limit stop for the puncturable piston with respect to the body. The hollow needle is rigidly joined to the body and is axially fixed with respect to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Sedat
    Inventor: Jean-Pascal Delay
  • Publication number: 20040112462
    Abstract: A shuttle container (2) is used in conjunction with a dispenser (22) to receive a metered dose of a liquid from a reservoir (26). The dispenser (22) includes a metering chamber which is filled and emptied by a pair of valves (43 and 58) operated by a common shaft (40). The shuttle container (2) has a locating sleeve (12) which engages with a locating slot (36) in the dispenser (22) to axially align the shuttle container (2) with the dispenser. The shuttle (2) carries a spigot (14) engage the shaft (40) to effect a discharge of liquid into the shuttle container (2). The collar (6) of the shuttle container (2) has a pair of dogs (8) which engage respective slots (38) in the outer circumference of the dispenser (22). Before the dogs (8) can engage the slots (38), the profiled end of the spigot (14) must engage a matingly profiled recess in the shaft (40). Before the shaft (40) can be displaced, it must be rotated to move a projection (52) on the shaft out of alignment with an abutment (50).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Stephen Frederick Kelsey, John Madoc Kelso, Gerard Michael O'Brien
  • Patent number: 6732772
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application system includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Publication number: 20040084107
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a temporary closure device for a throughway comprises a sleeve to fit in the throughway and a core located in the sleeve. The core has an annular rupturable connection locating the core in the sleeve to prevent flow of fluids through the sleeve. The annular connection is rupturable by displacing the core axially in the sleeve to allow fluid to flow through the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: John Guest International Limited
    Inventor: John Derek Guest
  • Publication number: 20040050450
    Abstract: A cryogenic coupling device includes a valved receptacle and a valved nozzle. Rollers in an outer collar of the receptacle are received in helical channels along a collar of the nozzle. A notch or detent in each of the channels provides a vent position to vent fluid before the nozzle is fully disconnected from the receptacle. Interface seals on the nozzle include first and second annular seals that function as ice and containment scrapers, as well as fluid seals. The nozzle has a rotatable handle assembly, isolated from the fluid path, which provides easy connect and disconnect of the nozzle from the receptacle. The handle assembly includes a thermal break, and is easily removable from the nozzle, along with other parts of the nozzle and receptacle, for service and maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: Todd D. Lambert, Keith J. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6691738
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filler assembly for dispensing liquid to and from a container capable of storing an indicated liquid. The filler assembly has a portable part and a stationary part cooperating to provide a sealed dispensing means for communicating an indicated liquid from an indicated liquid source to a container and for safely communicating the indicated liquid from the container to another location. The portable part and the stationary part are adapted to sealably mate together and further provide means for preventing misassembly of the two parts. The portable part provides dispensing means capable of communicating the liquid from the stationary part to a remote location. The stationary part is adapted to further sealably mate and communicate with a container capable of storing an indicated liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wen-Chang Kuo, Szu-Yao Wang, Wen-Hsiang Tseng
  • Patent number: 6691746
    Abstract: A filling apparatus for, a filling system for and a method of introducing into a container a suspension or solution of a substance, in particular a pharmaceutical substance, in a propellant under pressure, the filling apparatus comprising: a main body (4) including a passageway (20) for communicating, in use, with a valve stem (144) extending from a head (141) of a body (139) of a container (138); a fill actuator (7) comprising a filling valve assembly (29) in communication with the passageway (20) for selectively introducing thereinto propellant under pressure containing a substance in a suspension or solution; an exhaust actuator (10) comprising an exhaust valve assembly (48) in communication with the passageway (20) for selectively exhausting therefrom propellant under pressure containing substance; and a container-engaging body (16) in communication with the passageway (20) for receiving, in use, the head (141) of the body (139) of the container (138), the container-engaging body (16) including a chamber
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: John Brennan, Roger Matthews, Stephen Metcalf
  • Patent number: 6648180
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a duplex stopper-type water dispensing and water bottle supporting apparatus which is adapted to a water bottle-type water dispensing apparatus in which a water bottle is mounted in an upside down configuration for thereby effectively dispensing water. The above apparatus is formed of an upper water bottle receiving portion and a lower water draining pipe portion and is sealed by an O-ring. A water draining pipe formed of a plurality of guide plates is provided in a center of the water draining pipe portion, so that it is possible to implement a continuous and enhanced water draining operation based on a concurrent exchanging operation of water draining and air inflow in one pipe for thereby implementing a simple construction and easier cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Clover Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Young Mu Moon, Son Kyu Lee, Hyung Min Park
  • Patent number: 6644367
    Abstract: A two-part connector structure (22, 32) includes a male connector part (32) and a female connector part (22) which are mutually engageable to open fluid communication between the connector parts (22, 32). For example, the connector parts (22, 32) may be used to establish fluid communication between a container (12) and a conduit (14). The connector parts (22, 32) are disengageable from one another to discontinue fluid communication between them, and also to close communication between ambient and each of the container and the conduit. The male connector part (32) includes a mounting structure (32a) for supporting on the female connector part (22), and also includes a guide structure (44) effective to guide a male portion (36) of the male connector part (32) into engagement with the female connector part (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Scholle Corporation
    Inventors: Chester Savage, Mark Anderson, Silvia Sandvoss
  • Patent number: 6641565
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drug delivery device for mixing and delivering a drug by injection. The device includes a housing having a first port or opening therein that receives a first container that contains a fluid or powdered drug, for example a lyophilized drug. The housing can also include a second port or opening that receives a second container that contains a fluid to be mixed with the drug to form an injectable fluid. The device includes a manifold having a channel that fluidly connects the first and second containers. A penetrating membrane such as a needle is used to inject the drug into a patient which is in fluid communication with the first container. The needle is movable from a storage position in the housing to an injection position extending through the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Elan Pharma International Limited
    Inventors: Gilad Lavi, Gil Yigal, Izrail Tsals, Joseph Gross
  • Patent number: 6637725
    Abstract: A single service package coupling and valve includes a fitment having a spout and a sliding tubular valve member mounted therein for receiving a cooperating dispensing connector of a liquid distributing and dispensing system, and an external adapter ring designed to cooperate with the mounting mechanisms of a plurality of conventional commercially available dispensing connectors. An internal adapter sleeve is mounted with in the sliding tubular valve member to provide a tight seal with any of the conventional dispensing connectors. The external adapter ring is provided with a pair of radially extending flanges adapted to accept and position different dispensing connectors. At least one of the radially extending flanges is provided with at least two wings to engage a threaded mounting collar of a service line connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Liqui-Box Corporation
    Inventors: Samuel N. Davis, James W. Johnson, Kevin Bergenthun, Timothy Frasier
  • Publication number: 20030188800
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application system includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6612344
    Abstract: A vent and fluid transfer fitment for sealing and transferring a fluid from an inverted fluid-filled container without premature leakage to a receiver attachment, has a transfer check valve and a venting check valve which are preferably duckbill valves. The transfer check valve is attached to the fitment for allowing fluid to be transferred from the container when the receiver attachment engages the transfer check valve. The venting check valve is also attached to the fitment for allowing air to displace the fluid as the fluid exits the container, wherein both the transfer check valve and the venting check valve have an inherent sealing pressure created by the static pressure of the fluid within the container. In addition, the inherent sealing pressure of the venting check valve is less than the inherent sealing pressure of the transfer check valve which allows air to enter the container due to the pressure differential created as the fluid is displaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Phillip Gene Nagel, James Christopher Bailey, Gordon Edgar Atkinson, Arnold George Benecke
  • Patent number: 6612545
    Abstract: An improved screw-on assembly for coupling line connectors with spouts has been invented. The invention can be used with bag-in-box packaging or with a variety of other applications requiring fluid coupling. In one embodiment, threading is accomplished by mating internal threads on a line connector with flexible tabs located on the spout. Deformation of the tabs during threading provides a restorative force that stabilizes the assembly during threading. Cooperation of the deformable tabs with structures near the end of the thread provides for self-locking of the assembly. In addition, the tabs are situated on a flange, providing compatibility of the present invention with prior art line connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: David S. Smith Packaging Limited
    Inventors: Christopher C. Rutter, Lamar Spalding
  • Patent number: 6612345
    Abstract: An apparatus for replenishing paint into a paint cartridge (25), which is capable of putting paint in respiratory circulation while the cartridge is in a waiting state. The apparatus includes a replenishing valve (61) which is capable of feeding paint to and from a paint chamber (30) of the paint cartridge (25) which is set on a replenishing stool (52), and a respiratory paint circulation valve (91) which is capable of feeding paint-extruding thinner to and from a thinner chamber (31) of the cartridge. After switching the replenishing valve (61) to a drain or discharge side, paint-extruding thinner is supplied from the respiratory paint circulation valve (91) to push paint out of the paint chamber (30) of the cartridge (25). Then, after switching the replenishing valve (61) to the side of a paint supply source, paint-extruding thinner is discharged by way of the respiratory paint circulation valve (91) to suck paint into the paint chamber (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: ABB K.K.
    Inventors: Toshio Hosoda, Tomoaki Takeda, Shinji Tani, Kimio Toda, Takanobu Mori, Isamu Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6591876
    Abstract: A transfer guard for use by an individual for transferring contents from a supply container into a receiver container includes a supply adapter, a receiver adapter, a support structure and a fluid conducting element. The supply adapter connects the supply container to the transfer guard, and the receiver adapter connects the receiver container to the transfer guard. The support structure couples the supply adapter with the receiver adapter, and supports the fluid conducting element which, passes through the supply adapter and the receiver adapter. The fluid conducting element provides a passage for the contents to transfer from the supply container into the receiver container. The fluid conducting element also includes at least one pointed end that is substantially protected by the transfer guard from contact with the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason H. Safabash
  • Publication number: 20030106610
    Abstract: A valve arrangement for dispensing liquid from a flexible container (124) is disclosed. It includes a container dispenser body (106) connected to a flexible container (124) for containing a liquid and a first biasing means (168) adapted to bias a first closing member (110) to close off a first passage (107) in the container dispenser body (106); and a valve body (118) with a second biasing means (120) adapted to bias a second closing member (116, 118) to close off a second passage (119) defined in the valve body (118); and a dispensing member (122) operatively connected to the valve body (118); and operating means (114, 198, 136) which moves the two bodies (118, 106) into an operative position, against the two biasing means (168, 120) to open the two passages (107, 119) allowing liquid to flow from the flexible container (124) along the first passage (107) and out of the second passage (119).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventors: Paul Francois Roos, David William Connelly
  • Patent number: 6571834
    Abstract: A gas charging device reversely supplies fresh gas from a gas outlet (7b) of a pressure reducing valve (7) to a gas inlet (7a) thereof. A pressure reducing member (17) of the pressure reducing valve (7) has a communication passage (30) which places the gas outlet (7b) with an actuation chamber (29). The communication passage (30) has a peripheral wall (30a) provided in its end surface with a portion (43) to be sealed, which faces the gas outlet (7b). A charging nozzle (34) has an interior area provided with a charging passage (35) in communication with the gas outlet (7b). A push member (37) is attached to the charging nozzle (34) and is provided with a projection (40) which sticks out toward the pressure reducing member (17). The projection (40) has a sealing means (41). The sealing means (41) is directed from the gas outlet (7b) to the actuation chamber (28) so that it comes into sealing contact with the portion (43) to be sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: The BOC Group plc
    Inventors: Masaru Takeda, Teruo Hatori
  • Patent number: 6561237
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method for urging fluid from a charging system to a pressurized system. The apparatus has a rigid body with a conduit defined therein. The body is mounted between, and connected to, a charging system containing pressurized fluid and a pressurized system. More specifically, a retractable discharge tube for actuating a first valve to allow the release of fluid held within the charging system, is inserted into a first end of the body. A depressor mounted at a second end of the body is inserted into a tubular fitting connected to the pressurized system. The fitting has a retractable pin for actuating a second valve to permit entry of the fluid into the pressurized system. Once the body is connected to both the charging system and the pressurized system, a force is applied on the charging system toward the pressurized system. The force causes the charging system and the pressurized system to mate with the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Brasscorp Ltd.
    Inventors: Jack Brass, Jim Resutek
  • Patent number: 6543496
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6539985
    Abstract: Ink is filled in an ink cartridge having a housing communicating with ambient air through an air communicating hole, a porous member impregnating with ink, an ink supply port, and a valve device including a valve body always urged by a spring and a valve seat abutting against the valve body, and ink is filled in the housing of the ink cartridge through the ink supply port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Shinada, Yuichi Nakamura, Hisashi Koike, Yukiharu Suda
  • Patent number: 6536687
    Abstract: An assembly for feeding liquid to the inlet port of a gravity feed sprayer. The assembly includes (1) a mixing cup of a known type commonly used to mix paint with solvent that is of stiff polymeric material and bears indicia on its side wall indicating the levels to which a plurality of different liquids should be sequentially poured into the cup to achieve a predetermined ratio between the liquids; (2) a first adapter comprising a central portion having a through opening and a transverse portion including a peripheral part defining a groove along its inner surface adapted for sealing engagement.with a top end of the mixing cup; and (3) a second adapter having a through opening, a first end portion of which second adapter is adapted to releasably engage the inlet port of a gravity feed paint sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Keith C. Navis, David C. Roeker