Movable Supply Or Head Patents (Class 141/352)
  • Patent number: 6598630
    Abstract: A spill-proof pour spout for transferring fluid from a container to a vessel comprising a base having an inner sleeve extending outwardly therefrom, a conduit member located in the inner sleeve, and an outer sleeve slidingly engaging the inner sleeve. The conduit member has a fluid tube, and air tube and an end cap. The outer sleeve is in a first closed position wherein the outer sleeve contacts the end cap preventing fluid flow from the pour spout. The pour spout can only be opened by rotating the outer sleeve to a first or second indexing position. By rotating the outer sleeve either clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the inner sleeve, the outer sleeve is adapted to be slid to a first open position permitting fluid to flow at a first flow rate through the fluid tube and out of the pour spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Midwest Can Company
    Inventor: John Trippi, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6585016
    Abstract: A system for facilitating the delivery of a liquid anesthetic agent from an anesthetic bottle to an anesthetic vaporizer. The system includes a bottle adapter, an anesthetic bottle and a filler arrangement positioned on the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter and filler arrangement each include a keyed configuration such that only the correct type of anesthetic agent can be emptied into the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter includes an adapter valve assembly that engages a filler valve assembly contained within the filler. The dimensions and arrangement of the adapter valve assembly and the filler valve assembly insure anesthetic agent is delivered to the anesthetic vaporizer only when the anesthetic agent can safely flow from the anesthetic bottle to the anesthetic vaporizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Datex-Ohmeda, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Falligant, Gordon G. Sansom
  • Publication number: 20030116224
    Abstract: A machine that makes bubbles that are dispensed vertically. A membrane-forming system forms a bubble solution membrane over a bubble ring. Air is passed through the bubble ring by a blowing fan, which is intermittently operated to allow contact between a membrane-forming ring and the bubble ring. Bubble solution is continuously supplied to the bubble rings from a central reservoir. Safety switches prevent operation of the bubble-making machine unless there is bubble solution in the reservoir, the main housing is properly connected to the fan, and the bubble machine is in an upright position (and not tipped over). The present invention provides continuous operation for the duration of the bubble solution supply, and is easily washed, used, maintained, and manufactured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Alan Dale Crawford, Robert A. DeMars
  • Patent number: 6557597
    Abstract: A foodstuff refill (2) intended to be inserted in a foodstuff supply zone of a device for metering, dispensing and/or preparing food products; the refill comprising a container (20) for the foodstuff; a passage (24) for releasing the foodstuff; edges (21) of the device, including at least one pair of first opposed edges (210a, 210b), a film (25) for sealing the passage to form an enclosed space (26); a member (3) for detaching the film from the container; the detachment member including at least one catch member (4) intended to engage a retaining lip of the device when the refill is inserted into the device. The detachment member (3) is secured to the film (25) and is able to be connected to the refill in such a way as to be movable in sliding along the first edges of the device (210a, 210b) to cause the at least partial opening of the film (25) in response to the engagement of the refill in the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventor: Alain Riesterer
  • Patent number: 6530501
    Abstract: A tapping head that is coupled to a disinfectant pump, the tapping head is for tapping beverages pressurized by gas. This tapping head comprises a housing, and a tapping tappet, disposed within the housing. This tapping tappet has at least one channel. There is also an actuating lever coupled to the housing. There is also a beverage closing valve disposed within the housing. Furthermore, there is also a fitting disposed at an end of the tapping tappet. When in operation, a disinfectant for disinfecting an area of the fitting is fed first via the actuating lever wherein the tapping tappet is subsequently moved against a CO2 connector of the fitting area whereby the beverage closing valve is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: IPE Engineering GmbH
    Inventor: Rudolph Till
  • Patent number: 6484765
    Abstract: An automatic shut-off valve assembly having particular utility in a portable container of the type for dispensing fluid, such as fuel into a vehicle gas tank, where speed, safety and convenience are prime requirements. The valve assembly includes a spring biasing mechanism to effect opening and closing of the valve assembly. The assembly further includes a generally circular, hollow housing containing a slidably movable insert, which receives the spring, where the spring effects an automatic closing of the assembly, but yields upon the application of axial pressure to open the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventors: Kody Clemmons, Everett B. James, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6470920
    Abstract: A food substance refill element for an automatic fluid dispensing device. The refill element includes a receptacle containing a quantity of the substance to be refilled into the fluid dispensing device and a closing member that cooperates with the receptacle to form a hermetically enclosed chamber. The closing member includes a detachment portion so that the closing member is at least partially detached from the receptacle when the refill element is introduced into the automatic fluid dispensing device or after the refill element has been introduced in the automatic fluid dispensing device. The invention also relates to a fluid dispensing device for use with the refill element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Jeannin, Petr Masek, Ennio Bardin
  • Publication number: 20020129869
    Abstract: An improved mounting adapter is provided for use in a bottled water cooler of the type having an upwardly open cooler reservoir for receiving a supply of water from a bottle mounted over the reservoir in an inverted orientation to permit water downflow from the bottle to the reservoir. The improved adapter includes a compact and substantially unitized adapter body or shell for removable snap-fit mounting onto the cooler reservoir at the open upper end thereof. The adapter additionally includes an upstanding feed tube or probe for operatively engaging a valved bottle cap mounted on the neck of a water-containing bottle supported in an inverted orientation over the cooler reservoir. In one form, the adapter may carry a seal ring gasket for sealingly engaging an inner wall surface of the cooler reservoir, and an air filter may be provided to filter ambient air drawn into the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Hydak, Declan Laurence Coyle, Stephen John Sabin, Louis M. Busick
  • Patent number: 6408904
    Abstract: A hygienic bottle cap for connection to a fluid container includes a skirt and a crown portion having a cylindrical wall with an upper portion and a lower portion and forms a central well. A flapper forming a portion of the bottom surface of the center well is attached to the cylindrical wall. A score line is formed partially around the perimeter of the flapper between the flapper and the cylindrical wall, and the portion of the perimeter that is not scored remains intact upon insertion of a probe. The flapper may be separated from the cylindrical wall by the probe, and may return to its initial sealed position after the probe is retracted. In one embodiment, a protrusion is supported on an underside of the flapper in order to facilitate separation of the flapper from the cylindrical wall along the score line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Abel Unlimited, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence M. Dushman
  • Patent number: 6397902
    Abstract: A nozzle is provided which includes a nozzle body having a proximal end and an insertion end and defining an inlet orifice at the proximal end thereof and an outlet orifice at the insertion end thereof. The nozzle body is adapted to be attached at the proximal end thereof to an opening of a container and to be inserted at the insertion end thereof into an opening of a receiving vessel for dispensing a first fluid from the container into the receiving vessel from the inlet orifice to the outlet orifice thereof. The nozzle further includes a venting device connected to the nozzle body and defining a vent discharge opening for venting a second fluid from the receiving vessel into the container through the vent discharge opening such that the second fluid is vented through the vent discharge opening of the venting device without traversing the first fluid in the container substantially during an entire time for a dispensing of the first fluid from the container into the receiving vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Michael J. Murphy
  • Patent number: 6394152
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for automatically dispensing paint from an industry standard paint container to maintain a given level of paint in a paint roller tray. An upwardly open vessel, containing a lower surface and a plurality of walls, houses a valve actuator, which contacts a dispensing lid to release paint from an industry standard paint container. The lower surface of the upwardly open vessel is further divided into a lower, paint reservoir surface and an upper, shallow surface. An elevated surface is formed over the paint reservoir surface to support an inverted dispensing lid attached to an industry standard paint container. The dispensing lid contains an inner spring-like flange, which allows the dispensing lid to be attached to an industry standard paint container. The dispensing lid further contains a valve. When the dispensing lid, and attached paint container are inverted and placed upon the elevated surface of the upwardly open vessel, the valve actuator comes into contact with the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Steven Phillip Martin
  • Patent number: 6347651
    Abstract: A food substance refill element for an automatic fluid dispensing device. The refill element includes a receptacle containing a quantity of the substance to be refilled into the fluid dispensing device and a closing member that cooperates with the receptacle to form a hermetically enclosed chamber. The closing member includes a detachment portion so that the closing member is at least partially detached from the receptacle when the refill clement is introduced into the automatic fluid dispensing device or after the refill element ha s been introduced in the automatic fluid dispensing device. The invention also relates to a fluid dispensing device for use with the refill element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Jeannin, Petr Masek, Ennio Bardin
  • Patent number: 6321802
    Abstract: An automatic ice and beverage dispensing machine having an ice dispensing chute assembly which is rotatable. As a rotating chute rotates rearward, a lifting motion first moves a locking device which locks a door in place and then elevates the door so that ice can freely flow from an ice storage bin. A switch is contacted which initiates the flow of ice from the ice storage bin. Releasing the rotating chute causes it to rotate (due to gravity) back to its initial, neutral position, disengaging the switch and stopping the flow of ice from the ice storage bin, reversing the lifting action on the door and the locking device, closing the door and locking the door in place to prevent further flow of ice from the ice storage bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Scotsman Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Weeks, Michael J. Zalta
  • Patent number: 6289948
    Abstract: A food substance refill element for an automatic fluid dispensing device. The refill element includes a receptacle containing a quantity of the substance to be refilled into the fluid dispensing device and a closing member that cooperates with the receptacle to form a hermetically enclosed chamber. The closing member includes a detachment portion so that the closing member is at least partially detached from the receptacle when the refill element is introduced into the automatic fluid dispensing device or after the refill element has been introduced in the automatic fluid dispensing device. The invention also relates to a fluid dispensing device for use with the refill element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Jeannin, Petr Masek, Ennio Bardin
  • Patent number: 6279627
    Abstract: A leak proof package for fluid materials in which the end of a tubular nozzle from a container is closed by a wall and dispensing openings are formed in the side of the nozzle to extend radially. The dispensing openings are closed by a sleeve which initially is fixed to the wall. The sleeve is separated from the wall along a line of frangible webs by twisting the sleeve relative to the nozzle to fracture the webs after which the sleeve slides axially of the nozzle between positions opening or closing the dispensing openings in the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: Robert J. Kelly
  • Patent number: 6263928
    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 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6253807
    Abstract: A fully automatic apparatus and process for aliquotting liquid samples from a sample container is provided which includes the steps of creating an opening in the sample container, transferring an aliquot of the sample liquid into an aliquot tube, sealing the container and conveying the aliquot tube to a location for conducting the desired tests on the sample aliquot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: CRS Robotics Corporation
    Inventor: Trevor Jones
  • Patent number: 6220314
    Abstract: A waste-ink collecting apparatus comprises a collection box retaining an absorptive member for absorbing waste inks, a holding case for retaining the collection box in a detachable manner, a nozzle unit rotatably attached to the holding case and a housing for rotatably accommodating the holding case. The nozzle unit has a waste-ink nozzle for disposing waste ink and an air-discharge nozzle for discharging ink mist. When the collection box is installed in the holding case, a pressure surface placed in the holding case is pressed by the collection box via an opening in the holding case and the nozzle unit is rocked against the urging force of an a spring, setting the individual nozzles to a waste position where waste ink and ink mist can be disposed. When the collection box is pulled out of the holding case, the nozzle unit is rocked by the urging force of the a spring, setting the individual nozzles to a standby position where waste ink and ink mist cannot be disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akira Sato
  • Patent number: 6170543
    Abstract: By providing a securely locked product dispensing valve assembly mounted to a product bearing container which requires a specially constructed cooperating adapter for opening the valve assembly, a controlled dispensing system is realized which provides complete controlled distribution of any desired chemical product. By employing the present invention, only authorized personnel are able to open the container incorporating the valve assembly, enabling the contents to be transferred into only suitable containers incorporating the required adapter for unlocking the valve assembly. As a result, control over the distribution of the chemical product is attained and a completely closed loop, spill-free system is realized. In addition, a rinsing head is provided for being cooperatively associated with the product bearing container and valve assembly to enable complete cleaning of the container prior to recycling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Link Research & Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Simmel, Craig A. Baker
  • Patent number: 6135009
    Abstract: A beverage brewing system includes a brewer (30) and a serving cart assembly (62, 70) having a cart (74) for supporting a serving dispenser (64) for rolling movement and having cart guide members (68A, 68A') cooperating with brew cycle members (66A, 66A') to guide the serving cart assembly into proper alignment with an inlet nozzle of dispenser beneath a beverage outlet (60) of the brewer (30) for direct receipt of freshly brewed beverage into the dispenser (66).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Zbigniew G. Lassota
  • Patent number: 6125893
    Abstract: A container (2) for a liquid anaesthetic agent for supplying the agent to an anaesthetic vaporizer comprises a reservoir for the liquid agent, a valve (6) which, when closed, prevents the flow of the liquid agent from the reservoir, a tubular outlet (10) through which the liquid can leave the reservoir when the valve is open. An O-ring (20) at the free end of the conduit provides a sealing surface for forming a seal with a corresponding sealing surface provided at an inlet to a vaporizer to which the anaesthetic agent is to be supplied. A flange (22) engages a guide on the vaporizer, to retain the container in contact with the vaporizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Datex-Ohmeda, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Braatz, Raymond S. Gregory, Robert A. Heaton, Keith Whitaker, David C. Sampson
  • Patent number: 6079444
    Abstract: A probe comprising of a probe body, a probe post positioned in the probe body and having a forward end with a forwardly tapering front face and a rearwardly tapering probe post seat. A probe seal is provided within the probe body having a forward end with a rearwardly tapering probe seal opening forward end of the probe seal has a seal face. The forward end is movable rearwardly from a closed position sealingly mating against the probe post seat to close the probe seal opening to an open position in which the probe seal face is spaced from the probe post seat to allow fluid to pass through the probe seal opening and hence through the probe. A first resilient means for urging the forward end of the probe seal into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Clark Eugene Harris, Jeffrey Charles Robertson
  • Patent number: 6050309
    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: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 5979511
    Abstract: The fuel feeding device includes a fuel supplying tank, the exclusive nozzle for fuel connected to the lower portion of the fuel supplying tank and the nozzle, which also acts as an air releasing passage. When the fuel feeding device is pushed up over the fuel tank, the exclusive nozzle for supplying fuel and the nozzle which also acts as an air releasing passageway are opened or closed by the valves. Concurrently, the exclusive nozzle for fuel is applied as a fuel supplying passage and an inside area of the nozzle also acting as air releasing passageway is made such that about 1/3 of a sectional area of the passage is partitioned to make the air releasing passage and remaining about 2/3 of nozzle is applied as a fuel passage, where the fuel is supplied from it and at the same time air in the fuel tank is discharged out of the air releasing passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Nobuo Ono
  • Patent number: 5975164
    Abstract: A nozzle for a container including an internal ball check valve along with an o-ring sealing structure and angled insertion limitation stops to cooperate with a receptacle to permit the insertion of the nozzle and container only a predetermined distance, while providing for such insertion to effect an opening of the ball check valve, and appropriate sealing o-rings are provided to prevent leakage of the liquid past the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Orange-co of Florida, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Whaley, Donald L. Acker, Conrad L. Williams
  • Patent number: 5967380
    Abstract: A reservoir tank for use with an apparatus to provide liquid thereto, which includes a cylindrical tank open at one end with an end cap removably engaged therewith, which has a spring urged arm with a stem and stopper which normally closes off an opening in the cap, the arm is depressed to allow liquid to enter the tank for filling, and the arm is engaged by an upstanding pin from the apparatus when the tank is inverted and placed in the liquid receiving portion to allow liquid to flow out to fill the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Lasko Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles Litvin
  • Patent number: 5960840
    Abstract: By providing a securely locked product dispensing valve assembly mounted to a product bearing container which requires a specially constructed cooperating adapter for opening the valve assembly, a controlled dispensing system is realized which provides complete controlled distribution of any desired chemical product. By employing the present invention, only authorized personnel are able to open the container incorporating the valve assembly, enabling the contents to be transferred into only suitable containers incorporating the required adapter for unlocking the valve assembly. As a result, control over the distribution of the chemical product is attained and a completely closed loop, spill-free system is realized. In addition, a rinsing head is provided for being cooperatively associated with the product bearing container and valve assembly to enable complete cleaning of the container prior to recycling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Link Research and Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Simmel, Craig A. Baker
  • Patent number: 5947171
    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: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 5937920
    Abstract: By employing a product dispensing head assembly securely mounted to a storage container, within which desired flowable material is retained, with the head assembly being movable into a plurality of alternate positions, the controlled, measured, dispensing and delivery of any desired flowable product is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the product dispensing head assembly incorporates automatic locking means which are automatically engaged when the product dispensing head assembly is in the closed position. Furthermore, a special dispensing coupling is preferably employed to effectively disengage the locking means, thereby providing assurance that no individual can obtain unauthorized access to the flowable material stored within the closed and sealed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Link Research & Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Simmel, David R. Auerbach
  • Patent number: 5901761
    Abstract: A spout fitment attached to a liquid filled bag, or other fluid container, of a type having a slidable dispensing valve member to receive a line connector for establishing a fluid path from an interior of the container, through a valve element in the line connector and into a service line attached to the line connector. Although the dispensing valve member is slid into the container when the line connector is inserted therein, the sliding motion does not form the container valve action. The container seal is established by a valve element within the slidable dispensing valve member that is resiliently biased to close an opening therein. The dispensing valve member thus need not be slid in the fitment when the line connector is removed from the dispensing valve member, thereby making it easier to remove and reinsert the line connector. Insertion of the line connector within the dispensing valve member causes their respective valve elements to engage each other to open and form the fluid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Packaging Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Christopher C. Rutter, Lamar Spalding
  • Patent number: 5901747
    Abstract: A system for the filling, transport and emptying of liquid containers which include a novel coupler mechanism for interconnection with a coupler operated extractor valve provided on the liquid container. The coupler includes a novel coupler flow control assembly for preventing liquid trapped within the coupler body from leaking back into the container to which the coupler is connected. More particularly, the coupler includes a novel one-way valve mechanism which permits liquid to be pumped from the container to which the coupler is interconnected, but positively blocks the flow of liquid in the opposite direction toward the container reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Micro Matic U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventor: Henrik Rokkjaer
  • Patent number: 5896898
    Abstract: A dispenser is described having a support for the container to be filled, a source of liquid and a switch controlling the flow of liquid into the container. The container is supported by a support which urges the container up or down. The switch is operated by the container such that when the container is empty it urges against a resilient mechanism which activates the switch. When the container is filled its weight overcomes the resilient mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry William Crossdale, Michael James Stevens
  • Patent number: 5881783
    Abstract: A filler nozzle includes a nozzle body, a connecting ring, an intake nozzle, a securing seat, a securing ring, a valve flap, a positioning element, and a spring. One end of the nozzle body has a connector for connection with the connecting ring and the intake nozzle. The intake nozzle is linked to a snap ring of the connecting ring. The outer end of the connector is provided with two opposed insert pieces for engaging insert seats on the outer periphery of the intake nozzle. The other end of the nozzle body forms an insert connector for receiving the securing seat. The securing seat has a shaft fitted with the spring, the positioning element, the valve flap and the securing ring. By means of the cooperation between the positioning element and the securing seat, the valve flap can be caused to open or close for inflation or deflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Wen San Chou
  • Patent number: 5878798
    Abstract: A probe and a valve, which may be used together in a valve assemblage, and a method of using them. The probe has a body and a post having a forward end with a front face and a rearwardly tapering probe post seat. A resilient probe seal has a forward end with a rearwardly tapering probe seal opening, the forward end being movable between an open position and a closed position in which it mates against the probe post seat to close the probe seal opening. The valve has a body with a forward end having a forwardly tapering valve body opening defined by a valve seat. A valve seal in the valve body has a forward end with a forwardly tapering valve seating portion, which is movable between an open position and a closed position in which the seating portion sealingly mates against the valve seat. A resilient means urges the forward end of the valve seal into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Clark Eugene Harris, Jeffrey Charles Robertson
  • Patent number: 5875823
    Abstract: The siphoning device, with measuring indicators, is used for liquid--liquid separation. The body member has an outlet with an open tip; the outlet can have a peripheral rim with notches proximate the open tip. A two-way liquid valve contoured to approximate the contour of the interior of the outlet, controls liquid flow out of the body and permits flow into the body. A stem portion affixed to the liquid valve extends through and beyond the open tip of the outlet. Pressure on the stem places the valve in an open position and permits liquid to be discharged. An air pump interacts with the body to expel air and draw in the liquids. Generally the air pump is a flexible bulb with a one-way air valve to restrict air flow into the hollow body while permitting air flow out. The hollow body can be in two parts which are removably connected to one another. The travel of the liquid valve within the hollow body is limited by stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignees: National Safety Advisors Inc., Barbara Y. Porter
    Inventor: Jerry Porter
  • Patent number: 5868281
    Abstract: A two-piece cap for a water bottle comprises a main cap which has an annular top disk formed with a depending central well having three levels, each of a slightly smaller diameter. The main cap skirt which depends from the periphery of the top disk has an upper cylindrical portion formed with a truncated internal screw thread which merges into a horizontal bead extending about 180.degree. around the interior of the cap and terminates in a reverse thread portion which extends upward to merge with the leading edge of the truncated screw thread. A first vertical score line extends from the bottom edge of lower skirt portion to the upper edge of the slanted portion. A second vertical score line, spaced a short distance from the first vertical score line, extends from the bottom edge of the lower skirt portion to the top disk. A plug having a closed bottom and a smooth exterior fits into the bottom of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Portola Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Bietzer, Brian M. Adams, Daniel Luch
  • Patent number: 5782277
    Abstract: A contamination-free freight and storing system for containerized bulk goods adapted to the freight and storage of granular or powdered goods, comprises an improved container satisfying ISO standard, an unloading tank with a top opening, a lifting device within the unloading tank, a suction filter device and a container freight device. The bottom board of the container comprises two separate bottom panels, which are placed above the top opening of the unloading tank while unloading, and are activated by the lifting device and elevated inwardly to expose the two sides of the base of the container so that the granular goods inside the container can slide into the unloading tank. The powder formed from the material seepage can be drawn and filtered by the suction filter device and then released into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Lu-Hsiung Ung
  • Patent number: 5762117
    Abstract: A hollow tube attachable at one end to a container of fluid is provided at the other end with a fluid conduit termination disk separated from the end of the hollow tube by a space that defines a fluid discharge opening. A slide valve on the exterior of the tube is biased into a closed position engaging the fluid conduit termination disk and precluding fluid transfer until the discharge opening is inside a receiving vessel. A barricade is disposed across the interior of the tube at an inclination relative to the longitudinal axis thereof. Formed through the barricade is at least one elongated aperture extending continuously from a first longitudinal position in the tube to a second longitudinal position in the tube that is located further from the container of fluid than is the first longitudinal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Verl Law
  • Patent number: 5725034
    Abstract: A pressurized fluid dispensing nozzle (110') such as for LPG is screw-threadedly engageable with a tank inlet (192) such as on a vehicle. A sealing sleeve (154) carrying a nose piece (140') is biassed into abutment with a gasket (194) on a seal face (196) of the tank inlet and is urged rearwardly by the abutment. The sealing sleeve (154) is slidably mounted on a sealing member (136') which is urged rearwardly with the sealing sleeve (154) into a valve actuating condition. A trigger (118') is actuated to open a valve assembly (120') by shifting the valve assembly forwardly to bring a valve body (126') into abutment with an actuator (132') on the sealing member (136) which lifts the valve body off a valve seat (128'). The pressurized fluid passes along a passage (146') through the sealing member (136') to be dispensed but part of it enters a chamber (150) through ports (134').
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Gogas (Australia) Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: David Andrew Fry, David Richard Brooks
  • Patent number: 5704408
    Abstract: A hollow tube attachable at one end to a container of fluid is provided at the other end with a fluid conduit termination disk separated from the end of the hollow tube by a space that defines a fluid discharge opening. A slide valve on the exterior of the tube is biased into a closed position engaging the fluid conduit termination disk and precluding fluid transfer until the discharge opening is inside a receiving vessel. A barricade is disposed across the interior of the tube at an inclination relative to the longitudinal axis thereof. Formed through the barricade is at least one elongated aperture extending continuously from a first longitudinal position in the tube to a second longitudinal position in the tube that is located further from the container of fluid than is the first longitudinal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Vemco, Inc.
    Inventor: Verl Law
  • Patent number: 5697410
    Abstract: A spout fitment attached to a liquid filled bag, or other fluid container, of a type having a slidable dispensing valve member to receive a line connector for establishing a fluid path from an interior of the container, through a valve element in the line connector and into a service line attached to the line connector. Although the dispensing valve member is slid into the container when the line connector is inserted therein, the sliding motion does not form the container valve action. The container seal is established by a valve element within the slidable dispensing valve member that is resiliently biased to close an opening therein. The dispensing valve member thus need not be slid in the fitment when the line connector is removed from the dispensing valve member, thereby making it easier to remove and reinsert the line connector. Insertion of the line connector within the dispensing valve member causes their respective valve elements to engage each other to open and form the fluid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Packaging Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher C. Rutter, Lamar Spalding
  • Patent number: 5687782
    Abstract: A transfer valve for permitting fluent particulate materials to flow from a closed transport container, having a bottom wall with an outlet aperture, into a closed base container having a top wall with a sealed inlet aperture adapted for sealed engagement with the bottom wall of the transport container; the transfer valve permitting operation without exposure of an operator to contact with the fluent particulate materials, comprises a transfer valve member having provisions for occluding the outlet aperture of the transport container; a further provision for latching and disabling the transfer valve member in a closed position; and another provision on the sealed base container, for enabling the disabled transfer valve member when the base container is in sealed engagement with the transport container. The base container is also equipped for dispensing particulate material from the base container at a controlled rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Dresser Pump Company
    Inventors: Bruce W. Cleveland, Albert M. Benedetti, Jr., Richard Simon, Paul A. Nolte
  • Patent number: 5669426
    Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing pressurized gas from a canister includes a first, outer valve having a valve body disposed within a chamber of a housing and an annular valve stem extending away from the valve body through an opening of a formation of the canister. The outer valve is movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the interior region of the canister and a chamber of the outer valve body is achieved, and a closed position. A spring is provided for biasing the outer valve to its closed position. A second, inner valve is disposed within the outer valve, the inner valve having a valve member and a valve stem extending away from the valve member. The valve stem of the inner valve is disposed within the valve stem of the outer valve and extends coaxially therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Colibri Corporation
    Inventor: Walter G. Fontaine, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5638872
    Abstract: The siphoning device, with measuring indicators, is used for liquid-liquid separation. The body member has an outlet with an open tip; the outlet can have a peripheral rim with notches proximate the open tip. A two-way liquid valve contoured to approximate the contour of the interior of the outlet, controls liquid flow out of the body and permits flow into the body. A stem portion affixed to the liquid valve extends through and beyond the open tip of the outlet. Pressure on the stem places the valve in an open position and permits liquid to be discharged. An air pump interacts with the body to expel air and draw in the liquids. Generally the air pump is a flexible bulb with a one-way air valve to restrict air flow into the hollow body while permitting air flow out. The hollow body can be in two parts which are removably connected to one another. The travel of the liquid valve within the hollow body is limited by stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: National Safety Advisors, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry Porter
  • Patent number: 5628352
    Abstract: A pour spout for conducting fluid from a container to a receptacle. The pour spout includes a conduit member having a first end interconnectable with the container and a second end having a discharge opening and a vent opening, and a closure member positioned adjacent to the discharge opening. The closure member is movable relative to the conduit member between a first position where the discharge and vent openings are closed, a second position where the vent opening is open, and a third position where the discharge opening is open. A closure locking device prevents bypassing the second position during movement of the closure member from the first position to the third position. A vent locking device prevents movement of the closure member from the first position to the second position when the container is tipped beyond a predetermined angle. Another device retains sub-ambient pressure within the container when closure member is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: Gary J. Gracyalny, John H. Thiermann
  • Patent number: 5617906
    Abstract: A container (2) for a liquid anaesthetic agent for supplying the agent to an anaesthetic vaporiser comprises a reservoir for the liquid agent, a valve (6) which, when closed, prevents the flow of the liquid agent from the reservoir, a tubular outlet (10) through which the liquid can leave the reservoir when the valve is open. An O-ring (20) at the free end of the conduit provides a sealing surface for forming a seal with a corresponding sealing surface provided at an inlet to a vaporiser to which the anaesthetic agent is to be supplied. A flange (22) engages a guide on the vaporiser, to retain the container in contact with the vaporiser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Assignee: The BOC Group plc
    Inventors: Robert E. Braatz, Raymond S. Gregory, Robert A. Heaton, Keith Whitaker, David C. Sampson
  • Patent number: 5609192
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle and a method utilizing that dispensing nozzle, are provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing a sealing means effective to mate in a sealing relationship with a fuel tank inlet, the sealing means comprising a boot having an elastomeric sealing surface, a source of pressurized gas, a channel providing communication from the source of pressurized gas to outside of the boot wherein pressure on the elastomeric sealing surface restricts flow through the channel, and a means to block fuel flow through the fuel dispensing nozzle when a threshold pressure or greater exists at the source of gas supply, the threshold pressure indicative of a sealing relationship between the sealing surface of the boot and a fuel tank inlet; mating the sealing surface to the fuel tank inlet; and passing fuel into the fuel tank only when the pressure within the gas supply conduit exceeds the threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Scott R. Anderson, Jesse S. Houle, David A. Besler, Andrew E. Loen
  • Patent number: 5540265
    Abstract: The invention concerns a bag to accommodate solid or fluid concentrate which is used to prepare dialysis fluid using a dialysis machine. The bag consists of a bag body and at least one opening, whereby the opening is sealingly surrounded by a plug component (220). In the coupled state with a second plug component (210), the plug component (220) forms a flow connection with the interior of the bag. The plug component also has coupling means (276, 278) which are suitable to be connected with a second complementary plug component (210), which is disposed on the dialysis machine. By means of the plug connector, in the coupled state, a first flow path is formed from the dialysis machine to the interior of the bag and a second flow path is formed back from the interior of the bag to the dialysis machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: Fresenius AG
    Inventors: Hans-Dietrich Polaschegg, Walter Pieper, Daniel Weber
  • Patent number: 5540263
    Abstract: The production of hot soup from soup concentrate involves the use of an apparatus that includes a housing having a refrigerated first section and a second section. A soup concentrate container is positioned within the refrigerated section for receiving soup concentrate and a discharge device is operatively associated with the soup concentrate container for discharging a predetermined amount of soup concentrate from the soup concentrate container. A nozzle which is adapted to be connected to a source of hot water is positioned in the second section of the housing for producing a stream of water. A movable tray is also positioned in the second section for receiving a cup or the like in which is to be mixed hot water and soup concentrate. A tray driving device is connected to the tray for moving the tray between various positions at which a cup is placed on the tray, soup concentrate is discharged into the cup and hot water is dispensed into the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignees: H. J. Heinz Co., Welbilt Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Hustvedt, James R. Cowles, James T. Peel, Robert J. Alvarez
  • Patent number: 5456297
    Abstract: A detergent dispenser having a support for the dispenser may be filled with liquid from a suitable source. A switch controls the flow of liquid into the dispenser. The support, which may be a cradle from which the dispenser hangs or a platform on top of which the dispenser sits, holds the dispenser in conjunction with a resilient urging mechanism. The switch is activated by an empty dispenser urging against the switch. The switch is deactivated by the weight of the dispenser being filled, thus overcoming the urging mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Assignee: Diversey Corporation
    Inventors: Garry W. Crossdale, Michael J. Stevens