Adjustable Gauge Collar, Displacement Member Or Seal Patents (Class 141/368)
  • Patent number: 11365106
    Abstract: A gaiter seal for shielding a functional element of a container-processing machine extends between parts of a working head of the container-processing machine includes axially-adjacent gaiter modules that extend along an axis and support-and-sliding elements at interfaces between adjacent gaiter modules. The support-and-sliding elements radially support and guide the first and second gaiter-modules along the functional element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventors: Ludwig Clüsserath, Bernd Bruch, Dieter-Rudolf Krulitsch
  • Patent number: 10112753
    Abstract: A lid attachment member includes: a metal plate that is equipped with an attachment hole to which a lid of a container is to be attached; a raised or recessed seal portion that is formed at, and continuously all the way around, an outer peripheral portion of the metal plate; and a resin member that is integrally formed on the outer peripheral portion of the metal plate, covers the seal portion, and has a back surface side that is configured to be welded to an open portion of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignees: NIFCO INC., HINO MOTORS, LTD., KAUTEX JAPAN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Junpei Horikawa, Tomohiro Yamanoue, Yasuhisa Oda
  • Patent number: 9011801
    Abstract: The invention provides for fluidic connections to be established between tubes, ports, fluidic components and fluidic devices. The leak-tight connections are formed through controlled, compressive forces and can be used for both low and high pressure applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Corsolutions LLC
    Inventors: Thomas N. Corso, Colleen K. Van Pelt
  • Patent number: 8936053
    Abstract: A brake fill tool for filling a brake housing in a braking system on a vehicle includes a nozzle housing having a nozzle for filling a reservoir chamber of the brake housing, a manual clamping mechanism connected to the nozzle housing that selectively clamps the nozzle to the brake housing, and a pressurized sealing mechanism that is connected to the nozzle housing. The pressurized sealing mechanism selectively seals the nozzle to the brake reservoir after the manual clamping mechanism clamps the nozzle to the brake housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shannon Ogerly, Masakazu Adachi
  • Patent number: 8864365
    Abstract: A chemical mixing apparatus has a mixing tank having an inlet and an outlet, means for introducing a liquid into the mixing tank, and a tubular conveyor assembly having a first end and a second end. The second end of the conveyor assembly is sealably connected to the inlet of the mixing tank. A portable hopper having a sealable inlet and a sealable discharge conduit is detachably and sealably connected to the first end of the conveyor assembly such that a solid chemical contained in the chemical storage chamber of the portable hopper may be transported within the portable hopper from a remote location and conveyed from the portable hopper to the mixing tank without exposing the area surrounding the mixing tank to the solid chemical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Rodgers Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Troy A. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 8820366
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filling element of a filling machine for filling cans, bottles, or similar containers (2) with a liquid fill material, having at least one dispensing opening (8) for directing the liquid fill material into each container through a container opening (2.1) forming an opening edge, having at least one container contact surface (14) for the opening edge at a tulip (13, 13a, 13b) displaceable on a filling element housing (6) between a raised starting position and a lowered position, and having means for moving the tulip between the starting position and the lowered position and for pressing the tulip against the opening edge of each container with a contact pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter-Rudolf Krulitsch
  • Patent number: 8567458
    Abstract: A fuel filler apparatus of a vehicle of the invention, during normal operation, only permits insertion of fuel dispensing nozzles of a diameter within a predefined range, and prevents insertion of fuel dispensing nozzles whose diameter is smaller a lowest value or larger than a highest value of this range. The fuel filler apparatus includes a manual operation override mechanism which by a manual operation permits the insertion of only fuel dispensing nozzles of a diameter smaller than the lowest value of the range under special circumstances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu Sato, Takeaki Nakajima, Shoichi Hokazono, Shinya Murabayashi
  • Patent number: 8555937
    Abstract: A structure for a fuel filling opening of an automobile is configure such that, when fuel supplied from a fuel supply nozzle flows back to the fuel filling opening side, the fuel flowed back can be slowly discharged to the outside from the fuel filling opening. The structure is provided with ring recesses formed in a ring opening of an operation ring, and also with partitioning recesses formed in an opening in an outer tube partition. The recesses are arranged offset in the circumferential direction to form a labyrinth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinya Murabayashi, Yu Sato
  • Patent number: 8534328
    Abstract: Adapters are provided for establishing fluid communication between an anesthetic agent container and an anesthetic vaporizer having a fluid port. The adapter may be mountable on the vaporizer to cooperate with the spout of an anesthetic agent container or may be mountable on an anesthetic agent container to cooperate with the fluid port of an anesthetic vaporizer to provide a sealing and/or retaining relationship therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare SA
    Inventors: Jerome A. Grunstad, David A. Schuelke, Paul L. Weber, Martin E. Olson Gunderson, Simon Freed
  • Patent number: 8230889
    Abstract: A fluid transfer apparatus includes a cam locking assembly and a cooperating seal member apparatus. The cam locking assembly is in communication with the cooperating seal member apparatus. The cam lock assembly is affixed or connected with the cooperating seal member apparatus through complementary threading in some preferred embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventors: Anthony Pratt, Lee Gagnon
  • Patent number: 8033306
    Abstract: An adapter includes a base connectable to an anesthetic agent container, a spout that extends from the base and defines at least one flow path therethrough, and a valve assembly disposed within the at least one flow path, the valve assembly being moveable between a first open position and a second closed position. The adapter also includes a radially expandable seal disposed about the spout, the seal having a first end, a second end, and an intermediate region between the first and second ends that expands radially outward relative to a longitudinal axis of the spout. The valve assembly has a surface that cooperates with the seal, wherein the cooperation between the surface and the seal expands the intermediate region radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis with the valve assembly in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Simon Freed, Richard Meyst, Roy T. Henderson, Raymond D. Clark
  • Publication number: 20100326567
    Abstract: A universal adapter to be detachably connected to the round fuel cap retaining lip of most any fuel tank filler neck so that smoke (i.e., a vapor) under pressure can be delivered to the fuel tank of a motor vehicle to test the fuel system for leaks. When connected, the universal adapter lies entirely outside the fuel tank filler neck. The universal adapter includes a circular ring-shaped rim that is manufactured from a flexible material having a spring memory. The flexible rim of the universal adapter is stretched and attached in surrounding sealing engagement against the fuel cap retaining lip of the filler neck. The universal adapter also includes a vapor inlet tube to which the nozzle of a vapor supply hose is attached. According to one embodiment, smoke produced by a smoke-generating machine pressurizes the fuel tank by way of a vapor delivery path which includes the vapor inlet tube of the universal adapter and the fuel tank filler neck of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory Micheal McCollom
  • Patent number: 7810527
    Abstract: A machine for the treatment of containers (12) provided with a neck (14), includes at least one, treatment station provided with a nipple (22) having gripping elements (26) in order to seize a container (12), the gripping elements (26) including a tubular supporting cuff (50) which is provided with a series of radial drillholes (52), each intended for receiving a ball (54) movable radially between an inner gripping position and an outer release position, characterized in that the gripping elements (26) include a tubular control cuff (56) which is mounted slideably between a locked position, in which a frustoconical bearing surface (58) cooperates with the balls (54) in order to stress them toward their gripping position, and an unlocked axial position, and in that the nipple (22) includes controlled drive elements (62) capable of causing the sliding of the control cuff (56).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Sidel Participations
    Inventors: Marc Mouchelet, Laurent Danel, Yves-Alban Duclos
  • Patent number: 7784504
    Abstract: Adapters are provided for establishing fluid communication between an anesthetic agent container and an anesthetic vaporizer having a fluid port. The adapter may be mountable on the vaporizer to cooperate with the spout of an anesthetic agent container or may be mountable on an anesthetic agent container to cooperate with the fluid port of an anesthetic vaporizer to provide a sealing and/or retaining relationship therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Simon Freed, Richard P. Meyst, Roy T. Henderson, Raymond D. Clark
  • Publication number: 20100089494
    Abstract: A container coupler is disclosed that can be adapted to mechanically engage two containers. The container coupler can include a member that has an arcuate inner surface to engage a neck of the first container and the neck of a second container. The coupler can have a latch and a keeper wherein the keeper is configured to engage the latch and fastening the latch can reduce the inner diameter of the container coupler and tighten the coupler around the neck of each container. In some embodiments the coupler is manufactured in a “C” shape with a gap and in other embodiments the coupler can be two “C” shaped pieces that are hinged together such that a gap between the “C” shaped pieces can be reduced as the coupler is tightened on the necks of the bottles. Inserts can be placed in the coupler to accommodate bottles with different sized necks or mouths. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Pam Brady
  • Publication number: 20100037983
    Abstract: A filling valve device having a gripper and a container mouth seal, in which vertical movement of the gripper holding an empty beverage container relative to a filling valve causes a filling valve container mouth seal to be brought into contact with a neck ring to form a gas seal and fill a beverage containing carbon dioxide. The cross-sectional shape of the container mouth seal approximates an inwardly facing lip shape. Flexibility is imparted in the vertical direction of the filling valve. The inside of the container mouth seal is brought into contact with the neck ring during beverage filling, and a sealing force is applied to the beverage container and the container mouth seal by the gas pressure applied during filling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Hiroya, Kenji Mizukawa, Hirofumi Sato, Shingo Wada, Tsuyoshi Akimoto, Yoshihisa Tachibana
  • Publication number: 20090194197
    Abstract: A gas filling apparatus for connecting a gas feeding device to introduce a gas into a storage apparatus for storing a semiconductor element or a reticle comprises a base and at least one gas filling port, in which the gas filling port comprises a foundation, an elastic element and a fixing element for fixing the elastic element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Yung-Shun Pan, Yu-Ming Chen
  • Publication number: 20090101231
    Abstract: A filling device for container filling machines including an exchangeable centering socket for a mouth of a container, a bayonet joint for mounting the centering socket to the filling device, and at least one permanent magnet for removably fixing the centering socket in a locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventors: Stefan Poeschl, Rupert Meinzinger
  • Publication number: 20090084465
    Abstract: A distribution apparatus for media and, in particular, for beverages may include a vessel suitable for holding the media, a first supply line which supplies the vessel with a first, liquid medium, and a second supply line which supplies the vessel with a second, gaseous medium. The first supply line and the second supply line are arranged in a stationary manner with respect to one another and the vessel is arranged such that it can rotate with respect to the first supply line and the second supply line. The first supply line and the second supply line open into the vessel in a region of the vessel which is above a filling level of the first, liquid medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventors: Berthold Burgmeier, Franz Braun
  • Publication number: 20080271816
    Abstract: A cap-free closeable neck end for a filler neck of a tank of a motor vehicle, the cap-free closeable neck including an upper entry space forming an insertion region for a fuel nozzle and being surrounded by a side wall, a lower sealing flap arranged in the upper entry space and a closing mechanism arranged above the lower sealing flap. The closing mechanism includes an upper filling opening and an upper cover, which in a closed state at least partially covers the upper filling opening and being embodied in such a manner that the upper cover is displaced by inserting an outlet pipe of a fuel nozzle into the upper entry space for releasing the upper filling opening so as to allow for the insertion of the outlet pipe through the upper filling opening and the lower sealing flap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Ralf Gerdes
  • Patent number: 7415997
    Abstract: A seal assembly is provided for a fill pipe of a vehicle fuel system to provide a pliable seal between an end of the fuel pipe and a refueling nozzle inserted in the fill pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Franco A. Cisternino, Bryan K. Happel
  • Patent number: 7343944
    Abstract: An improved elongated fuel inlet pipe having an opening on one end for inserting a fuel source and a plunger valve at an opposite end for permitting fluid to flow into a tank. The pipe has a plurality of slots in a top sidewall of the pipe, a movable closure over the slots and a spring to bias the collar to a closed position. A gate is mounted inside the pipe and is drivingly linked to the closure by a finger that extends through one of the slots for displacing the closure longitudinally toward the plunger valve when there is an increased pressure applied to the gate for permitting fluid flow through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Scott Dennis
  • Patent number: 7328670
    Abstract: A dispenser delivers a pourable material onto the outside of a receiving vessel, for example, a flavorant like granular salt or sugar onto the rim of a beer bottle or margarita glass, or a glue, sealant, or lubricant onto the external threads of a chemical bottle. An external casing containing the pourable material has an opening at the bottom that is normally sealed by a retractable encloser held in place by a closer spring inside the casing. To dispense pourable material, the bottom of the encloser is pressed against the rim of the receiving vessel, lifting the encloser from its normally-closed position and opening an annular path through which the material is released onto the outside of the rim, but not into the interior, of the receiving vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Maria Puentes-Barr
  • Patent number: 7284581
    Abstract: A funnel having a receiving chamber, a neck portion, a valve and a coupler connected to the neck portion, the coupler having a housing having an axial bore formed therethrough and a cam body received therein, the cam body having an axial bore formed there through, where the cam body cams the walls of the housing radially outward between a first diameter and a second diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Easco Hand Tools, Inc
    Inventor: Paul S. Steinweg
  • Patent number: 6817391
    Abstract: A sealed connector assembly (10) includes an insert (12) having an inner bore (26). A rotatable fitting (14) is supported in the inner bore (26). The rotatable fitting (14) has a fluid passageway (72) extending there through. The rotatable fitting (14) has a second passage (64) that extends transversely to the fluid passageway (72) to define an elbow. When the rotatable fitting (14) is inserted into the inner bore (26), a retaining ring (92) on the rotatable fitting (14) snaps into an inner locking groove (46) in an upper threaded portion (16) of the insert (12) and allows the rotatable fitting (14) to rotate in the insert (12). The retaining ring (92) abuts a lost motion device (38) and is compressed radially inward when the rotatable fitting (14) is moved axially inward. During any rotation or axial movement of the rotatable fitting (14) relative to the insert (12), a seal (90) remains in sealing engagement with the inner bore (26) of the insert (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Moeller Marine Products
    Inventor: Tony Riviezzo
  • Patent number: 6672342
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the discharge of flowable material from a first compartment having a discharge opening near a lower end thereof comprises a closure member which is movable by an actuator and an adjusting device between a closed position in which the discharge opening is shut and a raised open position in which a gap of a certain width to said discharge opening is opened to allow the flowable material to flow through the gap and the discharge opening. Adjoining the discharge opening is a conveyor section for providing a predetermined path of conveying the material into a second compartment. The quantity of material flown to the second compartment is determined by a quantity determining means. A control unit controls at least the adjusting device and the width of the gap to achieve a desired degree of delivery to the second compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: AT Anlagetechnik AG
    Inventor: Arthur Nussbaumer
  • Patent number: 6343629
    Abstract: A coupling device for coupling a vial connector to a drug vial, comprising actuating means (112′), for bringing the drug vial and/or the vial connector (105′) into a third position in which a cannula (108′) penetrates a seal (104′) of the drug vial in a direction along an axis (A) substantially perpendicular (&agr;≈90°) to a main plane (P) of the seal (104′), and guiding means (113) controlling the direction. The actuating means (112′) are designed for applying a force on the drug vial and/or the vial connector (105′) enabling the locking means (106′, 107′) to become permanently locked around the neck (102′). The first positioning means (110′) are adjustable for holding drug vials (101′) of several different dimensions and/or the second positioning means (111′) are adjustable for holding vial connectors (105′) of several different dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Carmel Pharma AB
    Inventors: Göran Wessman, Kjell Andreasson, Ingvar Andersson
  • Patent number: 6315012
    Abstract: An apparatus for introducing a fluid into a container includes a supply leading into the interior of the container, closed by a bursting disk and connected to a supply line for the fluid. In order to increase the operational safety and to avoid clogging of the bursting disk, the supply is in the form of a telescopic tube which can be extended by the pressure of the fluid into the interior of the container and is mounted above the highest level in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Fried, Gerhard Nestler
  • Patent number: 6199606
    Abstract: An apparatus for handling flowable material, particularly particulate material, which is held in a discharge container such as an IBC having an opening normally covered by a transport cap, comprises a device which is adapted to engage and remove the transport cap and a device to cover at least a rim of the cap during such removal. The problem of contamination is overcome using the apparatus which is in the form of an annular metal (in the embodiment) cowl which has two peripheral spaced apart upstanding walls, the inner wall rising from an internal base in the embodiment and from which also rises the engaging and removing device, which in the embodiment shown comprises a pneumatic piston and cylinder arrangement. The piston carries an extractor in the form of an annular disc or spider having a depending peripheral wall which carries an inflatable ring or tire. The external surface of the inner wall carries at its rim a lip seal which is mounted over an inflatable ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Matcon (R&D) Limited
    Inventor: Ivan Semenenko
  • Patent number: 6095207
    Abstract: In a sealing device for a filling opening, especially for sealing it against the escape of fuel fumes when filling stationary or mobile supply tanks, a seal is located in the vicinity of the filling opening and abuts in a sealing fashion an object such as a filling device that is inserted into the filling opening. The seal automatically controlled by means of a control unit between an inactive resting position and an active sealing position of the seal. As a result, the seal is protected especially well against damage during insertion or withdrawal of the filling device, and reliable sealing can be expected in the long term.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Mannesmans VDO AG
    Inventor: Walter Enders
  • Patent number: 6070622
    Abstract: A filling head apparatus for filling a container in sterile conditions. The filling head comprises a regulating valve displaceable in three positions: open position, closed position, and displacement position. The inner wall of the spout of the container is cleaned by a pushing cylinder of the regulating valve traveling from the closed position to the displacement position. In addition, the filling head can freely move in respect to a sterile filling chamber encompassing the filling tip of the filling head. Furthermore, the filling head of the present invention comprises a diversion path to minimize the "water hammer" effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Packaging Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Christopher C. Rutter
  • Patent number: 6038833
    Abstract: Fill seal structures having an elastomeric seal element contained in a housing for use with a liquid filling machine for bottles having fill necks, wherein lifting mechanisms are employed to move the bottles upwardly toward sealing faces of fill ports on the fill bowl of the machine, and wherein the seal structures are designed to provide for fluid tight seals between the top open ends of the bottle necks and the sealing faces, wherein the seal element consists of a generally tubular wall providing a fluid flow passage having an outlet end section and a complex inlet end section, the outlet end section being formed to provide a first contact surface for engaging and sealing against the top open neck end of a bottle, the inlet end section having a generally radially inwardly directed flexible hinge segment integral with the wall at a hinge seam, an annular crest on a radially inner portion of the hinge segment and extending and facing generally axially outwardly therefrom, the crest being adapted to bear again
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Bernie Beringer
  • Patent number: 6026866
    Abstract: A vapor recovery system nozzle capable of responding to the presence of an onboard vapor recovery system (ORVR) in an automobile. The invention includes a vapor recovery nozzle having a vapor passage in its nozzle spout and a vapor inlet in communication with the vapor passage. The spout includes a moveable seal mounted on the spout with the seal having a first position adjacent to the plurality of vapor inlets and a second position covering the vapor inlets so as to substantially block the passage of vapors through the vapor inlets. The seal may be biased in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 5894872
    Abstract: A motorcycle gasoline tank filling valve including an outer member secured to an outer surface of a filling opening of a motorcycle gasoline tank. A cylindrical filling tube is slidably disposed within the outer member for communication with the motorcycle gasoline tank. A retention mechanism is secured to a lower surface of the outer member and secured to the cylindrical filling tube for biasing of the cylindrical filling tube to an orientation extended outwardly of the filling opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Michael J. Gale
  • Patent number: 5829495
    Abstract: An adapter for automatically fueling automotive vehicles, primarily cars, wherein a robot which includes a robot head that is movable in relation to the robot and can via a positioning system be docked with the adapter (3). The adapter is intended to be fastened to the upper orifice of the fuel-tank pipe (2) and includes a conical part.The present invention is characterized in that the adapter (3) includes a base part (13) and an adaptation funnel (14), wherein the base part (13) is intended to be fastened to the fuel-tank pipe (2), and wherein the base part has an opening (16); in that the adaptation funnel (14) projects out from the base part (13); in that the adaptation funnel (14) is rotatable relative to the base part about the longitudinal axis (17) of the base part, thereby enabling the adapter (3) to be positioned correctly on the fuel-tank pipe (2) in a rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Autofill Patent AB
    Inventor: Sten Corfitsen
  • Patent number: 5725033
    Abstract: A filling system for robot-capable filling of a motor vehicle with fuel has a filler nozzle and a tank filler neck, with a docking extension provided with a central opening being provided on the neck on the filling side of the vehicle. The extension is rotatable by an upper section around the axis of symmetry to open and close a tank closure. The filler nozzle is dockable by its outlet end to form a positive connection between the filler nozzle and the docking extension. When the filler nozzle is ready for filling, positive elements distributed around the circumference of the filler nozzle and the docking extension mesh positively with one another. In order to achieve a simple docking of the filler nozzle on the filler neck of the vehicle fuel tank for a filling that is always functionally reliable and unimpeded, the positive elements of one docking partner are radially movable and actuatable in the radial direction fluidically, and the positive elements of the other docking partner are rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Mercedes-Bena AG
    Inventors: Reinhard Steinkaemper, Adolf Kremer, Ronald Schmid, Andreas Fischer, Andreas Mueller
  • Patent number: 5676183
    Abstract: A fire protective collar for plastic fittings used in flammable fluid handling equipment is formed in two pieces which fit together around the fitting. Each piece has a semicircular top with a cutout for fitting around a pipe, and semicircular walls for fitting around the fitting. At the ends of each wall is a flange with a hole so that the two pieces can be removably fixed together by bolts and wing nuts. The collar may be used in a system where a containment box for collecting leaking gasoline from gasoline handling equipment, such as a gasoline dispenser, is disposed below the dispenser. The box receives a gasoline supply pipe passing through an aperture, and a fitting is provided for sealing the aperture and adjustably fixing the supply pipe. The fitting includes a main body, a deformable element, a seating piece for seating the deformable element and threaded to the main body, and a clamping piece threadable onto the seating piece to cam the deformable element radially inward to contact the supply pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo
  • Patent number: 5636671
    Abstract: A fuel vapor entrapment device, during fueling of a motor vehicle fuel tank, traps escaping fuel vapors so as to enhance vacuum-assisted vapor recovery system operation. By deflecting fuel vapors and capturing them temporarily until their removed to a vapor storage tank, the device substantially prevents the escape of fuel vapor into the atmosphere and enables the vapor recovery system to capture a higher percentage of escaping fuel vapor. During the fueling process, the fuel entrapment device encircles the vehicle tank filler port, thereby forming a vapor containment area from which fuel vapors are removed, and prevents the ingestion of excessive ambient air into the vapor recovery system. A vacuum relief hole permits the ingestion of a limited amount of ambient air so as to prevent the build up of excessive negative pressure and avert vehicle fuel tank collapse during vacuum-assisted vapor recovery operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventors: David J. Harris, Thomas L. Claussen, John J. VanDaele
  • 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: 5611452
    Abstract: A transportable, sealable container, for example a Standard Mechanical Interface (or SMIF) pod, including a box and box door. The box has a first sealing surface and the box door has a second sealing surface. A liner, preferably stainless steel, is attached to the inside surface of the box door. An elastomer sealing material is integrally molded to the liner. The sealing material forms a first seal with the first sealing surface and a second seal with the second sealing surface when the box door is moved in a sealing position with respect to the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony C. Bonora, Robert P. Wartenbergh, Sudhir Jain, Mark R. Davis
  • Patent number: 5579814
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for charging a damper with pressurized gas by forming a flow passage between the dust lip of the oil seal and the piston rod. The flow passage is formed by locally deforming the dust lip under the action of a distortion clamp. A source of pressurized gas is then placed in communication with the flow passage. The pressurized gas causes the oil seal to be displaced away from the piston rod, and the gas enters the damper between the oil seal and the piston rod. When the gas within the damper has attained the desired pressure, the distortion clamp is released allowing the dust lip to return to normal circumferential contact with the piston rod, and the source of pressurized gas is removed. The pressurized gas is retained in the damper after charging by the seal engaging the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Monroe Auto Equipment Company
    Inventors: Gareth M. Jones, Jeffrey A. Jenkins, Michael J. Shnier
  • Patent number: 5529098
    Abstract: A containment box for collecting leaking gasoline from gasoline handling equipment, such as a gasoline dispenser, is disposed below the dispenser. The box receives a gasoline supply pipe passing through an aperture, and a fitting is provided for sealing the aperture and adjustably fixing the supply pipe. The fitting includes a main body, a deformable element, a seating piece for seating the deformable element and threaded to the main body, and a clamping piece threadable onto the seating piece to cam the deformable element radially inward to contact the supply pipe. In another embodiment, the main body and seating piece are combined unitarily. The box has another aperture through which a conduit passes, and there is a universal fitting for sealing that aperture. The universal fitting includes a main body with an external shoulder and a nut which threads onto the main body, with gaskets disposed between the shoulder and box and between the nut and box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo
  • Patent number: 5518051
    Abstract: An adaptive holder for a pump-style dispenser including a holder base and at least two converging side rails slanted from top to bottom and connected to the holder base. The dispenser base slides between and under the top of the converging side rails until it is secured to the holder base by frictional compression forces between the dispenser base, the converging side rails and the holder base. A toothbrush holder system for positioning a toothbrush in proximity to the dispenser is disclosed. A toothbrush holder base is secured in the adaptive holder along with the dispenser. The toothbrush is supported by support base and held in proper position by the side rails. As an alternative, the adaptive holder which includes a support rail can be provided with a toothbrush support base and toothbrush guide rails. The adaptive holder can be provided with support arms and an extension handle arm pivotally connected to the support arms. When the extension arm is depressed the pump actuator is also depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: Wesley W. Wells
  • Patent number: 5469897
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes an apparatus and method for filling grease guns. The apparatus comprises a top member sealingly and slidable engageable with the interior of a grease container having a generally uniform or non-uniform cross-section. The top member including a socket for sealingly and removably receiving a grease gun body, whereby drawing of grease into the grease gun by rearward movement of a piston in the grease gun body provides suction which causes the top member to inwardly in the grease container and the grease top be forced into the grease gun body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventors: Oren Haytner, Avi Haytner
  • Patent number: 5435358
    Abstract: A closure for a fuel tank filler neck has a closure cap which is swivel-mounted on the upper side of the said closure and can be opened from the closed position by the effect of force on a lever arm arranged on the far side of the swivel axis. A pawl for locking and unlocking of the closure cap is swivellable and prestressed in the closing sense or direction by spring force and has an outwardly extending lever arm for mechanically lifting the pawl against the spring force. To ensure a permanent and reliable closing function of the closure cap, the filler neck bears an axially accessible adjusting ring which is arranged coaxially with respect to the cap. The ring is mounted rotatably on the outer circumference of the latter and/or on the axial end face of a shoulder thereof, and has on its upper side, at least in a subregion, a spiral toothing. A toothed segment is arranged on the lever arm of the closure cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Kempka, Uwe Kreckel, Oliver Meister
  • Patent number: 5413156
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for filling insulating glass panes (10) with filler gas comprises two plates (1 and 2) and an endless conveyor belt (9) provided at the lower rim of the plates (1 and 2), on which the insulating glass pane (10) stands with its lower, open edge. Sealing devices (30 and 31) that can be brought into contact with the vertical edges of the insulating glass pane (10) are provided between the plates (1 and 2) in order to seal the interior of the insulating glass pane (10). The sealing device (30) is associated with a connection (50) for feeding filler gas into the interior of the insulating glass pane (10). Air and air-gas mixtures can be removed from the insulating glass pane (10) via a channel formed between the other vertical edge of the insulating glass pane (10) and a sealing device (31) applied at that location, whereby air or air-gas mixture can flow out over the entire height of the open, vertical rim of the insulating glass pane (10) from the interior of the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: Peter Lisec
  • Patent number: 5341857
    Abstract: A containment box for collecting leaking gasoline from gasoline handling equipment, such as a gasoline dispenser, is disposed below the dispenser. The box receives a gasoline supply pipe passing through an aperture, and a fitting is provided for sealing the aperture and adjustably fixing the supply pipe. The fitting includes a main body, a deformable element, a seating piece for seating the deformable element and threaded to the main body, and a clamping piece threadable onto the seating piece to cam the deformable element radially inward to contact the supply pipe. In another embodiment, the main body and seating piece are combined unitarily. The box has another aperture through which a conduit passes, and there is a universal fitting for sealing that aperture. The universal fitting includes a main body with an external shoulder and a nut which threads onto the main body, with gaskets disposed between the shoulder and box and between the nut and box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo
  • Patent number: 5285829
    Abstract: A containment box for collecting leaking gasoline from gasoline handling equipment, such as a gasoline dispenser, is disposed below the dispenser. The box receives a gasoline supply pipe passing through an aperture, and a fitting is provided for sealing the aperture and adjustably fixing the supply pipe. The fitting includes a main body, a deformable element, a seating piece for seating the deformable element and threaded to the main body, and a clamping piece threadable onto the seating piece to cam the deformable element radially inward to contact the supply pipe. The box has another aperture through which a conduit passes, and there is a universal fitting for sealing that aperture. The universal fitting includes a main body with an external shoulder and a nut which threads onto the main body, with gaskets disposed between the shoulder and box and between the nut and box. The main body has an integrally formed internal shoulder for supporting sealing compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo
  • Patent number: 5256203
    Abstract: Apparatus for applying an anaerobic adhesive to the inside of the necks of cartridge cases preparatory to insertion of bullets therein to provide a seal between the inside of the necks and the bullets, the cases being held standing on end, mouth end up, in a holder arranged in a rank and file format, the holder being indexed to bring successive rows of cases under a set of adhesive dispensing nozzles which are lowered for entry of the tips of the nozzles into the upper ends of the cases in a row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Thomas B. Moore Co. Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas B. Moore, Kevin E. Craig, Gerard J. Gragnani
  • Patent number: 5246041
    Abstract: Apparatus for providing a dust free environment in the filling and discharge of bins and other containers is disclosed. The apparatus includes a dual seal which seals directly against a gate assembly. The invention also provides for the introduction of air between inner and outer seals to prevent contaminants from reaching the product. Dust covers are employed on the fill station and discharge station and also on the fill and discharge ends of the bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Custom Metalcraft Inc.
    Inventor: Delmar R. Wiese