Abstract: A fuel tank arrangement for a motor vehicle. The arrangement includes a fuel tank containing fuel therein and having a gas space disposed above the fuel, and a venting device connected to the fuel tank. The venting device includes an activated charcoal filter and a venting conduit connecting the gas space to the activated charcoal filter for establishing gas communication therebetween. A stop valve is disposed in the venting conduit and is adapted to open gas communication between the gas space and the activated charcoal filter during refueling. Moreover, a fuel separator is disposed in the venting conduit for separating fuel from a gas flow through the venting conduit thereby yielding separated fuel.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, parts therefor and methods for making the same are provided, the system having a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system, the venturi section having an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a dispensing nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area.

Abstract: In a method for filling bottles or similar containers with a liquid under back pressure, at least a first flushing and a second flushing of the interior of the respective bottle are conducted in chronological sequence during a pre-treatment phase which precedes the actual priming of the respective container, by the timed introduction of a specified quantity of inert gas, with a subsequent evacuation of the interior of the bottle. The introduction of the specified quantity of inert gas takes place in a timed manner during each flushing, and is performed independently of the capacity at which the bottling system is currently being operated.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, parts therefor and methods for making the same are provided, the system having a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system, the venturi section having an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a dispensing nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area.

Abstract: An onboard vapor recovery system for a vehicle fuel system having a fuel tank, a filler neck dynamically sealed by high pressure fuel flow from a filler nozzle, and a vapor recovery apparatus such as a carbon canister. The system includes a liquid level operated control valve which shuts off refueling with a two-stage closing operation providing an initial soft shutoff and a final shutoff. The system also preferably includes a valve in the fuel tank to maintain a predetermined pressure head sufficient to hold the system closed against further refueling at least temporarily, and a positive action, one-way check valve in the lower end of the filler pipe to prevent spitback of fuel from the pressurized tank once refueling has ceased.

Abstract: A system for conveying a fluid through an under-the-ground location and method of making the same are provided, the system comprising a primary flexible conduit for conveying the fluid therethrough and having an outer peripheral surface and an inner peripheral surface, and an outer secondary conduit having at least a portion of the primary conduit removably disposed therein and having an inner peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface that engages the ground in the under-the-ground location thereof, the secondary conduit having the inner peripheral surface thereof comprising a helically disposed and inwardly directed projection thereof that engages the outer peripheral surface of the primary conduit in a spiral manner and cooperates therewith to define a helically disposed passage that extends therebetween throughout substantially the entire engagement area thereof.

Abstract: A fluid extraction hose strider connector coupling assembly for use in a fuel nozzle associated with a coaxial vapor recovery hose. The coaxial hose is operatively connected to the spider connector assembly. The spider connector assembly contains a spider connector and an hose connector mounted in the handle of the fuel nozzle. The spider connector has a fluid flow path formed therethrough terminating in a nipple. A first small bore tubing extends from the nipple into the vapor recovery hose to a point where condensed vapors undesirably pool. The spider connector is rotatably connected to the hose connector while maintaining a fluid pathway between the spider connector and hose connector. The hose connector has a fluid pathway formed therethrough terminating in a nipple. A second small bore tubing extends from the nipple to a venturi in the nozzle.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for preventing the spillage of fuel into the water or onto a marine vessel when filling a fuel tank on the vessel. A vent line is coupled between the fuel tank and a vent port of the vessel, at least one valve assembly is coupled within the vent line, and an overflow container is coupled within the vent line between the valve assembly and the vent port. The valve assembly defines a drain hole for permitting small quantities of fuel, gases and/or vapors to pass through the valve assembly and into the overflow container. A fill container defines an inlet port for receiving a fuel nozzle to fill the fuel tank with fuel, and an outlet port coupled in fluid communication with a fill line for the passage of fuel between the fill container and the fuel tank.

Abstract: A system for dispensing fuel, a hose assembly therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the hose assembly having a spider to maintain the inner hose thereof concentric within the outer hose thereof, the spider being secured to the inner hose and to the dispensing nozzle so that the nozzle, the spider and the inner hose are adapted to rotate in unison relative to the liquid fuel source unit of the system whereby a tubular unit interconnected to a venturi unit in the nozzle and leading to a drape area within the hose assembly for evacuating any liquid collecting in the vapor recovery passage thereof will also rotate in unison with the nozzle, the spider and the inner hose.

Abstract: A fuel filling assembly for liquid fuel tanks, especially on boats or the like, includes a fill tube adapted for mounting through a deck and a closure cap preferably hinged over the fill tube opening for selective opening and closing. Preferably, a positioning member allows the closure cap to be mounted in various positions with respect to the fill tube to accommodate various mounting locations on a boat. The fill tube may be angled or straight to further accommodate varied mounting positions. In one version, a separate vent tube joins the fill tube to provide continuous fuel tank venting, pressure equalization and return of fuel overflow to the fuel tank in case of tank overfill. In the vented version, a rigid shield on the closure cap extends over the opening to a vent passageway through the cap to restrict the escape of liquid fuel in the event of fuel surge due to extreme boat movements or the like when the closure cap is closed.

Abstract: A fuel recovery system warns a user of an impending overflow of fuel and also provides an overflow chamber into which relatively small amount of overfilled fuel are captured, thus preventing fuel spillage into the surrounding environment. The system is adapted for use with a fuel tank attached to a fuel fill line and an overflow line, and comprises a float assembly adapted to be coupled inline to the overflow line; an overflow chamber coupled via a check valve to the main fuel tank; and an optical/electronic warning system for warning the user when fuel in the float assembly rises to a predetermined level.

Abstract: A refueling vapor recovery system for a vehicle utilizes recirculation of a portion of the displaced vapor and combines a vapor vent valve and a recirculation control into a single differential pressure valve assembly. A vapor vent conduit provides fuel tank vapor pressure to one side of a diaphragm and, through a restricted orifice, to the other side of the diaphragm, the other side being further connected by a recirculation conduit to the tank filler neck. When a gas cap closes the filler neck from the atmosphere, the orifice allows pressure to equalize across the diaphragm; and a spring biases the diaphragm to close a vapor vent valve.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, parts therefor and methods for making the same are provided, the system having a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system, the venturi section having an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a dispensing nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area.

Abstract: A fuel filler module fits in the filler pipe of an automotive fuel tank and includes a spring biased trap door assembly that cooperates with a fuel nozzle restrictor to seal an open end of the filler pipe automatically when a fuel nozzle is withdrawn. The trap door assembly includes positive and vacuum pressure relief valves for maintaining fuel tank pressure within certain limits. The fuel filler module also includes a fuel nozzle guide that is part of a vent system for venting the fuel tank during the refuelling process and a splash guard feature that prevents splash back at the end of the refuelling process. The trap door assembly and an internal valve assembly are designed to be handled and installed as a unit to facilitate economical manufacture.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a vacuum-assisted vapor recovery system for loading vessels with volatile materials such as liquid hydrocarbons, including gasoline and distillates, which system utilizes a series of interlock permissives and vacuum controllers to maintain a vacuum on the vapor header of the vessel being loaded, which vacuum is within a desired, predetermined level. The system is further arranged and adapted to shutdown the filling of liquids into the vessel should a vacuum leak be detected or should any other malfunction of the vapor recovery system or the liquid filling system arise.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle with controlled vapor recovery including a fuel passageway, a main fuel valve in the fuel passageway, a vapor recovery passageway, a main vapor valve in the vapor recovery passageway, a manually operable trigger mechanism for controlling the main fuel valve to control the flow of fuel through the fuel passageway and for opening the main vapor valve, an auxiliary vapor valve in the vapor recovery passageway for controlling the rate of flow of vapor through the vapor recovery passageway when the main vapor valve is open, a fuel flow sensing permanent magnet in the fuel passageway and moveable responsive to the rate of fuel flow, and a follower magnet connected to the auxiliary vapor valve and magnetically coupled to the fuel flow sensing magnet for opening the auxiliary vapor valve an amount correlated to the rate of fuel flow to control the rate and thus the volume of vapor recovered in direct correlation to the rate and thus the volume of fuel dispensed.

Abstract: A hose assembly having opposite ends and having a first fluid passage therein for conveying a volatile liquid in one direction from one of the ends thereof to a container adjacent the other of the ends thereof and a second fluid passage therein for returning the vapors of the volatile liquid fuel from the container to the one end thereof, the assembly comprising a flexible inner hose having an outer peripheral surface and defining one of the fluid passages therein, a flexible outer hose having an inner peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface and being disposed around the inner hose, the inner peripheral surface of the outer hose and the outer peripheral surface of the inner hose defining the other of the fluid passages therebetween, the outer hose comprising a corrugated tube that has the corrugations thereof extending throughout the entire length thereof, and a cuff secured to one of the ends of the outer hose, the cuff covering the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface of that

Abstract: A vapor valve for use in conjunction with the fuel dispensing nozzle for capturing vapors returned through the nozzle to a storage area, the nozzle incorporating a body, a spout extending forwardly therefrom, and the nozzle having an operating latch pin and housing for normally providing for opening or shut-off of the nozzle during a dispensing function, a vapor passageway extending through the spout, communicating into the latch pin housing, and extending through the nozzle body for return of vapors back to a storage area, and a latch ring operatively associated with the latch pin and providing for opening or closure to the vapor port of the latch pin housing to furnish its opening while fuel is being dispensed for return of vapors to a storage area, or when the fuel dispensing function is curtailed, providing for an upward shifting of the latch ring within the housing for closure of its associated vapor port and preventing the escape of vapors to the atmosphere.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vapor recovery nozzle with a turbine located in the nozzle. The turbine is driven by the flow of fuel. The turbine rotates an impeller located in the nozzle which draws away the vapor during pumping operations. The nozzle further has a hydraulic system for automatically shutting off the nozzle when fluid is displaced in an accumulator cylinder.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, hose assembly and couplings therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the fuel dispensing system comprising a fuel dispensing nozzle construction having an outer fuel receiving inlet and an inner vapor outlet, a fuel dispensing pump construction having an outer fuel dispensing outlet and an inner vapor inlet, and a hose assembly having a first fluid passage therein for conveying fuel from the outer fuel dispensing outlet to the outer fuel receiving inlet and a second fluid passage therein for returning vapors from the inner vapor outlet to the inner vapor inlet, the hose assembly comprising a flexible inner hose having an outer peripheral surface and defining an inner fluid passage therein, and a flexible outer hose having an inner peripheral surface and being disposed around the inner hose, the inner peripheral surface of the outer hose and the outer peripheral surface of the inner hose defining an outer fluid passage therebetween, the inner fluid passage comprising the

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, parts therefor and methods for making the same are provided, the system having a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system, the venturi section having an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a dispensing nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area.

Abstract: A vapor recovery fuel dispenser includes a liquid fuel pump for pumping and blending liquid fuels from fuel reservoirs along a fuel delivery line to an outlet. A vapor pump returns fuel vapors from proximate the outlet along a vapor return line to a repository. An electric motor drives the pump in response to a signal. An electrically-activatable valve is provided in the vapor return line. A first sensor generates a first pulse train representative of the flow rate of the liquid fuel pump and a second sensor generates a second pulse train representative of the flow rate of the vapor pump.A controller is operably interposed between the liquid fuel pumps and the vapor pump. The controller monitors whether the liquid pumps are operating, whether the vapor pump motor is operating, and the electrical current to the vapor pump motor. It also outputs an electrical signal to open the valve when the motor or liquid fuel pump is operating and to close the valve when motor operation or liquid pumping is not detected.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for efficiently metering and transferring a cryogenic liquid, such as liquefied natural gas, from a storage vessel to, for example, a vehicle fuel tank. The apparatus incorporates a programmable controller, a motor-driven pump and a network of conduits with motor-operated valves and liquid sensors for effecting a priming of the pump with liquid free of vapor and a cool-down of the flow passages prior to a transfer operation for ensuring that a vapor-free liquid is delivered. A pair of flow meters, one for liquid and the other for returned vapor, allows a reliable determination of the amount of liquid delivered to--and remaining in--a receiving vessel. The apparatus employs a delivery nozzle with quick-disconnect valved fittings and a delivery nozzle incorporating features which allow it to be handled by an operator without the use of heavy gloves.

Abstract: A system for dispensing fuel, a hose assembly therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the hose assembly having a spider to maintain the inner hose thereof concentric within the outer hose thereof, the spider being secured to the inner hose and to the dispensing nozzle so that the nozzle, the spider and the inner hose are adapted to rotate in unison relative to the liquid fuel source unit of the system whereby a tubular unit interconnected to a venturi unit in the nozzle and leading to a drape area within the hose assembly for evacuating any liquid collecting in the vapor recovery passage thereof will also rotate in unison with the nozzle, the spider and the inner hose.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing volatile liquid fuel with recovery of fuel vapors includes a fuel delivery system having a fuel delivery line and a pump in the line to pump fuel there-along to a nozzle. A vapor recovery subsystem includes a vapor return line from the nozzle and a vapor impulsion means to induce vapor to flow through the vapor return line at a vapor flow rate comparable to the liquid flow rate through the fuel delivery line during most of a fueling operation. A vapor impulsion booster boosts the vapor flow rate above the liquid flow rate early in a fueling operation.

Abstract: An internal gas removal system for a fuel tank is comprised of a venting system and a breathing system, both of which are placed substantially completely inside the fuel tank. The breathing system removes gases from the fuel tank while fuel is introduced into the fuel tank, while the venting system removes gases from the fuel tank while the vehicle is operated and the fuel is not introduced into the fuel tank. Both, the venting and the breathing systems are connected to their respective exit lines which exit the fuel tank through a single dedicated opening or through a filler pipe. A method of making the internal gas removal system comprises introducing the breathing and the venting systems into a blow mold and subsequently blow-molding the fuel tank around these systems.

Abstract: A device for mounting in a fuel dispensing hose that has a flexible inner tube defining the fuel conduit, and a tubular outer sleeve that defines with the inner tube an annular vapor return passage. The device includes a venturi section adapted for serial connection with the inner tube within the outer sleeve. The section comprises a cylindrical block that connects at each end with an end of the inner tube and defines a venturi forming part of the fuel conduit. The block also has an aspirator means that defines at least two radial ports communicating between the venturi throat and the annular vapor passage. Each radial port has a check valve to block fuel flow from the fuel conduit to the vapor passage.

Abstract: A service station dispenser for gasoline with a vapor collection system is disclosed which processes the electrical signal typically produced by the fuel meter which represents the volume flow rate of fuel to the tank to control the displacement volume of an electrically driven vacuum pump so that a simple vacuum intake disposed preferably inside, but not sealed with, the filler neck can be used to collect only the vapors displaced from the fuel tank by the fuel. The vacuum pump is controlled by a digital processor which prestarts the vacuum pump after a customer demands dispensing to establish a vacuum at the vacuum intake is established by the time fueling is allowed to take place so as have an immediate vacuum available to assist recovery of an initial rush of vapor displaced by commencement of fueling. Once fuel flow starts, the digital processor operates the vacuum pump to produce a vapor flow rate having a proportional relationship with the flow rate of the fuel.

Abstract: A liquid fuel tank filling and venting device includes a hollow body member containing a chamber, an inlet opening for supplying fuel downwardly into the chamber, a fuel outlet opening for supplying fuel from the chamber, and a vent opening connected with the chamber, each of the fuel outlet and vent outlets being independently connected with the fuel tank, whereby overflow fuel is returned to the chamber via the vent outlet. A fuel cap is provided for closing the inlet opening, the fuel cap containing a vent passageway including both a back-flame arresting screen and a fuel surge protector, so that the tank is normally vented to atmosphere when the fuel cap is in the closed position, but the venting passageway automatically closed upon the occurrence of a fuel surge, thereby avoiding undesirable fuel leakage.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for preventing the spillage of fuel into the water or onto a marine vessel when filling a fuel tank on the vessel. A vent line is coupled between the fuel tank and a vent port of the vessel, at least one valve assembly is coupled within the vent line, and an overflow container is coupled within the vent line between the valve assembly and the vent port. The valve assembly defines a drain hole for permitting small quantities of fuel, gases and/or vapors to pass through the valve assembly and into the overflow container. A fill container defines a first aperture for receiving a fuel nozzle to fill the fuel tank with fuel, a fitting portion for seating the fill container within a fuel fitting coupled to the fuel tank on the vessel, and a second aperture for permitting fuel to pass between the fill container and the fuel tank. Upon filling the fuel tank with fuel, the overflow fuel is collected within the fill container, thus signalling to the attendant to turn off the fuel nozzle.

Abstract: An automotive fuel tank filler pipe contains a two-piece tubular or hollow, opened ended, nested housing in which is fixed an essentially solid disk blocking the opening therethrough and containing a fuel nozzle opening therethrough closed by a spring biased sealing flap door, and including a pair of oppositely acting one-way vacuum-break and pressure relief valves for automatically controlling the pressure conditions in the fuel tank, the structure preventing the unwanted discharge of fuel vapors/liquid into the atmosphere in the event that the fuel cap or closure member normally closing the upper end of the fill pipe is accidentally left off or not replaced or damaged after a refueling operation.

Abstract: A non-aerating fluid dispensing nozzle for dispensing fluid into a receiving tank has a vapor control and containment mechanism for vapors formed in the receiving tank. The mechanism has a chamber disposed within the housing of the nozzle and a gas passage that has a first end connected to the chamber and a second end connected to an intake aperture disposed near the distal end of the discharge nozzle. A pump is disposed in fluid flow communication with the chamber for pumping gases from the fluid receiving tank into the chamber through the gas passage during fluid flow through the nozzle.

Abstract: An auxiliary vapor recovery device is described for use with a fuel dispenser for delivery of fuel from tanks into a vehicle and a recovery apparatus for return of hydrocarbon vapor/air mixture displaced by fuel delivery to ullage spaces of the storage tanks interconnect by a piping manifold. The auxiliary vapor recovery device includes a vacuum pump and a canister containing a substance for removal of molecules of hydrocarbon from a vapor/air mixture. The device also has a system of conduits, including between the vacuum pump and ullage space piping system for flow to and from the ullage space, to the canister, between the vacuum pump and canister, and from the canister for release of air.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system has a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system and the venturi section has an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area, the inlet unit comprising a tube unit interconnected to the venturi section and having a plurality of inlets respectively disposed in different axial positions in the vapor recovery fluid passage along the length thereof.

Abstract: A vapor recovery system for a fuel filling installation in which the recovered air-vapor mixture is pumped to the submerged end of a discharge pipe. The discharge pipe is connected to a closed tube which extends along the bottom of an underground fuel tank. The closed tube has a porosity that generates very small bubbles from the air-vapor mixture that flows through the fuel within the tank. A vent pipe for the underground tank separates air from the air-vapor mixture through decreasing density separation by means of a large cross-section for the vent pipe and by providing baffles in the pipe interior.

Abstract: An apparatus for introducing fuel having a volatile hydrocarbon component into an on-board fuel storage tank of an automotive vehicle with reduced discharge of fuel vapors into the surrounding atmosphere, the apparatus including a fuel filler cap having at least one centrally positioned aperture extending therethrough through which a suitably configured fuel directing nozzle can pass. The fuel directing nozzle includes a vapor conveying line located in the interior of the nozzle capable of being brought into fluid communication with a vapor collection chamber located in the fuel filler cap such that, when engaged, a circuit is completed, fuel can be introduced into the on-board fuel storage tank of the automotive vehicle and any fuel vapors generated or displaced during the operation can be returned to the remote storage site or another suitable vapor collection facility remote from the automotive vehicle without contacting the surrounding environment.

Abstract: A vapor recovery nozzle having a turbine located in the nozzle portion which is driven by the flow of fuel. The turbine rotates an impeller also located in the nozzle which draws in the vapor during pump. The nozzle also has a hydraulic system which automatically shuts off the nozzle when fluid is displaced in an accumulator cylinder.

Abstract: An extended flexible polyurethane inner hose defines a fuel supply passage and is surrounded by an unbonded braided nylon reinforcement filament. The inner hose extends within a molded polyurethane and flexible corrugated outer hose which defines an annular fuel vapor return passage around the inner hose. Corresponding end portions of the hoses are connected to a fuel dispensing nozzle by a tubular metal inner coupling member, a tubular nylon outer coupling member, and a nylon nut. A small flexible fuel evacuation tube extends within the lower portion of the vapor return passage adjacent the inner hose, and an annular rotary coupling or union member and ring seals are confined between the inner and outer coupling members to define a fuel evacuation passage which connects the evacuation tube to a corresponding tube within the dispensing nozzle.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, hose assembly and couplings therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the fuel dispensing system comprising a fuel dispensing nozzle construction having an outer fuel receiving inlet and an inner vapor outlet, a fuel dispensing pump construction having an outer fuel dispensing outlet and an inner vapor inlet, and a hose assembly having a first fluid passage therein for conveying fuel from the outer fuel dispensing outlet to the outer fuel receiving inlet and a second fluid passage therein for returning vapors from the inner vapor outlet to the inner vapor inlet, the hose assembly comprising a flexible inner hose having an outer peripheral surface and defining an inner fluid passage therein, and a flexible outer hose having an inner peripheral surface and being disposed around the inner hose, the inner peripheral surface of the outer hose and the outer peripheral surface of the inner hose defining an outer fluid passage therebetween, the inner fluid passage comprising the

Abstract: An automotive reservoir arrangement is provided which, in a preferred embodiment, includes a reservoir body capable of holding fluid to a first elevation, a vent cap connected with the reservoir body above the first elevation, a conduit connected with the reservoir at a level below the first elevation, a cylinder fluidly connected with the conduit at a second elevation below the first elevation, the cylinder having a flange, a filler tube sealably slidably inserted within the cylinder being spring biased to extend to a third elevation higher than the first elevation, and a cap for sealing the filler tube and the cap engaging with the flange of the cylinder to retain the filler tube at a fourth elevation below the first elevation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for recovering hydrocarbon vapors in fuel delivery systems comprising a proportional throttle valve which is mounted in a vapor recovery line to a tank, with the valve being controlled by an error signal which is a function of the fuel volume flow and the vapor volume flow. Accordingly the vapor volume flow returned by a vacuum pump to the container is controlled. The invention further relates to the structure of the proportional throttle valve, including a tandem piston arrangement.

Abstract: An apparatus for pumping recovered vapor in a vapor recovery liquid fuel dispenser includes a liquid fuel dispenser apparatus adapted to dispense liquid fuel to a liquid fuel dispenser nozzle proximate a fuel vapor passage. A transducer associated with the dispenser apparatus generates a liquid fuel flow signal indicative of the rate of liquid fuel flow therethrough. A vapor pump driven by an electric motor is arranged to pump vapor from the vapor passage through a vapor pump inlet to a vapor pump outlet and has a characteristic that the flow rate through the vapor pump at a given vapor pump operating speed is inversely proportional to the difference between the vapor pump inlet and outlet pressures. Sensors associated with the inlet and outlet ascertain inlet and outlet pressures and generate signals representative thereof. A controller for the vapor pump includes vapor recovery control electronics and motor drive electronics.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system and method of making the same are provided, the system comprising a storage tank for the fuel and being disposed in the ground, a dispensing pump disposed above the ground, a first flexible hose construction having an inner surface and being disposed in the ground for conveying fuel from the tank to the pump, and a second flexible hose construction having opposed ends one of which is interconnected to the pump, the second hose construction being disposed above the ground for dispensing fuel from the pump into a fuel container of a transportation vehicle or the like through a nozzle interconnected to the other of the ends thereof, the second hose construction having electrical conductor structure extending therealong for dissipating static electricity from the nozzle to the pump, the first hose construction having leak detection structure for detecting leakage of the fuel therein through the inner surface therof and for providing an electrical conductor structure therealong for dissipa

Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle includes a nozzle body and a projecting spout and surrounding bellows which define a fuel supply passage and a vapor return passage connected to corresponding concentric passages within flexible coaxial hoses. The body supports a manually actuated control valve within the fuel passage, and a pressure responsive check valve is also located within the fuel passage adjacent the spout. The check valve includes a valve member normally biased against a tapered valve seat, and a first venturi suction passage extends from the valve seat to control a pressure responsive diaphragm mechanism for automatically closing the manually actuated valve when fuel blocks a suction vent line within the of the spout. A second venturi suction passage extends from the valve seat through the nozzle body and connects with a fuel evacuation passage within a flexible tube which extends downwardly into the vapor passage within the coaxial hoses.

Abstract: A bellowless gasoline dispensing nozzle having coaxial conduits to reduce the vapor leakage from gas tank vent tubes. The reduction in vapor leakage is accomplished by a set of holes in the outer conduit sized and positioned to draw in vapors from the outlet of the gas tank vent tube on vehicles in which this outlet is placed outside the no-lead restriction plate.

Abstract: A valve device for controlling fuel vapor in a fuel tank is provided with a fuel-cut valve which is disposed between the fuel tank and a charcoal canister, and between a filler tube of the fuel tank and the charcoal canister. The fuel-cut valve is provided with a casing including upper and lower chambers. A lower float is disposed in the lower chamber and arranged to close the communication between a fuel tank and a charcoal canister when fuel height level in the fuel tank is raised to a first predetermined level. A upper float is disposed in the upper chamber and arranged to close the communication between the filler tube and the charcoal canister when the fuel height level in the filler tube is raised to a second predetermined level.

Abstract: In an air breather system for the fuel tank of a vehicle, a mechanical seal is provided at the mouth of a filler pipe for preventing overflow from the mouth when filler gun is inserted into the mouth for fueling. The mouth is communicated with a canister for adsorbing the vapor of the fuel through an air breather passage. Even when negative pressure occurs under the mouth, normal fueling is performed without functioning the automatic stop of the filler gun.

Abstract: A nipple is attachable to the outer end of the fill pipe of a motor fuel tank and contains a closure flap and a number of other valves performing various functions. The nipple therefore can have unified in it mechanisms performing most or all of the functions required in association with the tank and can be made as a pre-assembled unit quickly and easily attached to a fuel tank in the manufacture of a vehicle to minimize the number of required assembly procedures.

Abstract: A sealing unit effects a connection between a loading boom and a manhole on a tank car. Liquids are delivered through the boom into the tank car. Vapors displaced from the tank are transmitted, through the sealing unit, to conduit means, which enable disposal of the vapors without contaminating the atmosphere. The unit comprises an upper plate which rests on the manhole. A sleeve is connected at its upper end to the upper plate and, at its lower end, to a lower plate. A pneumatic motor is actuated to draw the lower plate upwardly. When this occurs, the sleeve is bulged outwardly into sealing engagement with the manhole. Column springs are provided to assure that the central portion of the sleeve will bulge outwardly and provide sealing engagement with manholes of different diameters.

Abstract: The invention incorporates a high flow, pilot actuated pressure relief/rollover valve into a refueling vapor recovery system having a vapor vent line for recirculating vapor past the aspirator of a refueling nozzle and a nozzle seal for engaging a refueling nozzle in an airtight manner. All vapor of evaporative hydrocarbons created during the act of refueling are routed directly to an onboard storage canister.