Drip Collection Patents (Class 141/86)
  • Patent number: 6719017
    Abstract: The present invention provides a waste collection system including a receptacle housing at least one chamber configured to accept waste and at least one containment layer configured to retain waste within the at least one chamber. The at least one chamber of the at least one containment layer includes a vent to allow gases to escape from the chamber. The at least one containment layer may be configured to quickly deliver waste to an aperture therein. A valve member configured to direct waste into the at least one chamber may be associated with the aperture. A method of using the waste collection system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg McArthur, Fred P. Lampropoulos, Arlin D. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20040065384
    Abstract: A low profile velocity flume and method for collecting machine tool coolant along a machine tool installation uses stepped sidewalls to progressively increase the flow space area above a continuously and smoothly sloping bottom wall. Flushing nozzles are located in lateral segments of the sidewall defining the stepped sidewall shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Jack R. Bratten
  • Patent number: 6715517
    Abstract: An all-steel platform having a fluid-proof floor member with a channel at one side leading into a sump at the end of the channel. Fluid from the floor member flows into the channel and sump, and a pump in the sump for recirculating the fluid into containers on or above the platform. The platform will support a mobile vehicle for receiving fluid for wheeling it to a garden for spraying it. The platform may be used for spray-cleaning articles thereon. The platform is normally stationary but can be moved for re-locating it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy J. Tobin
  • Publication number: 20040060612
    Abstract: The present invention is a drip retainer for liquid dispensers, such as fuel pumps. The device itself has a semicylindrical body adapted for insertion into the nozzle of a fuel dispenser pump. The semicylindrical body is open at the inflow end and has a crescent-shaped lip for restricting fluid flow at the outflow end. The retainer gradually increases in thickness from the inflow end to the outflow end, forming a ramp up to the crescent-shaped lip. The retainer has a slightly smaller radius of curvature at the inflow end than at the outflow end, so that the retainer is inserted into the nozzle, inflow end first, and forms a press fit or friction fit in the nozzle. Fuel under pressure passes over the crescent shaped lip. When the nozzle is shut off, any residual fuel trickling through the nozzle is stopped by the crescent-shaped lip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Curtis E. Dame
  • Patent number: 6708737
    Abstract: A low profile velocity flume and method for collecting machine tool coolant along a machine tool installation uses stepped sidewalls to progressively increase the flow space area above a continuously and smoothly sloping bottom wall. Flushing nozzles are located in lateral segments of the sidewall defining the stepped sidewall shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Jack R. Bratten
  • Patent number: 6708736
    Abstract: A grommet adapted to be inserted in a fueling cavity of housing of an engine driven device. The grommet is design to at least partially seal the fueling cavity to inhibit fluids entering the interior of the housing. The grommet is a one piece structure that has a side section and a lower intermediate section. The lower intermediate section includes an opening to provide access to at least a portion of a filler tube that is used to fill a fuel tank of the engine driven device. The lower intermediate section also includes a lip that extends outwardly from the housing of the engine driven device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Bender
  • Patent number: 6701978
    Abstract: Easy Change Oil System is a unit composed of a disposable plastic bag, jug or bottle adapted to screw directly into the oil drain aperture of fourstroke outboard engines, and/or other small fourstroke engines. The system has a threaded cap or closure to seal the container. The system differs from all previous patents, see cross reference, in that it is threaded, screws directly into the oil drain aperture, is one unit, completely disposable, and requires no additional valves, or nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: William Thomas Buchanan
  • Patent number: 6701982
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus and a method for a cover for placement over a gasoline hose assembly of a gasoline delivery system for a gasoline delivery truck. The cover comprises a hole for placement of the hose therein along with fasteners or a clip for attachment of the cover to the hose having weights stitched or formed into the hem of the cover in such a way to hold the edges of the cover down so as to prevent the entrance of rain or debris into the gasoline tank receiving nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventors: Alvaro A. Ortiz, Charles Lewis Letherwood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6698468
    Abstract: A fuel overflow catch for preventing spillage of gasoline on a motorcycle gas tank includes a bowl member having a bottom wall and a peripheral wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. The bottom wall has an opening extending therethrough. An exit conduit is fluidly attached to and extends through the bottom wall. The exit conduit is positioned generally adjacent to the peripheral wall. A hose has a first end and a second end. The first end is fluidly coupled to the exit conduit. The second end of the hose is fluidly coupled to a housing for receiving overflowing gasoline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Chadwick W. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6655418
    Abstract: A drop tube sealing assembly may contain a riser pipe having a proximal end with internal threads and an underground storage tank spaced apart from the proximate end of the riser pipe. The storage tank may contain a threaded inlet which is positioned atop the tank. A pipe nipple may include a first end in cooperation with the proximal end, an opposite end in cooperation with the threaded inlet, and an annular inner surface that forms a conduit. The inner surface may comprise a female thread section. A drop tube adapter fitting may be concentrically disposed within the pipe nipple. The adapter fitting may contain an outer surface containing external threads in cooperation with the female thread section. A seal in the form of an O-ring may be disposed between the adapter fitting and the pipe nipple. A drop tube having a open end may be coupled to the adapter fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventors: Milton Daniel McGill, Thompson William Wyper
  • Patent number: 6651703
    Abstract: A system for the transportation and storage of a product comprising a tank including a cylindrical wall section and two ends which define a cylindrical tank periphery, wherein the tank periphery has an interior and an exterior; a recessed valve box including one or more side walls, a bottom wall, and a removable, sealable top cover which can be attached to the one or more side walls to seal the valve box, wherein the valve box side walls are sealably joined to the cylindrical wall section such that the valve box extends through the cylindrical wall section into the interior of the tank periphery and is partially or totally disposed in the interior of the tank periphery; and one or more valves disposed in the valve box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir Yliy Gershtein, Robert William Ford, Christopher R. Butler, Eugene Y. Ngai
  • Patent number: 6651704
    Abstract: Stationary and pivotable trays for semiconductor wafer transfer are disclosed. A first moving equipment is movable to move a container for holding one or more semiconductor wafers from a wafer loading and unloading position to a wafer tank immersion position. A second moving equipment is movable to move the container from the wafer loading and unloading position to a container loading and unloading position. A stationary tray is located under the wafer loading and unloading position to collect liquid dripping from the first moving equipment. A pivotable tray is located to one side of the stationary tray, to collect the liquid dripping from the first moving equipment when this equipment is moving to the wafer loading and unloading position, such that the pivotable tray is lowered. The pivotable tray is raised when the second moving equipment is moving to the wafer loading and unloading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Yin-Cheng Ma
  • Patent number: 6648007
    Abstract: A process for manufacturing a safety hose system. In one embodiment, the process of the present invention comprises the steps of positioning the inside hose with the outside hose; inserting first and second pre-mold inserts about the first and second end portions of the inside hose; attaching the first and second connectors to the first and second end portions of the inside hose to form first and second crimped portions, respectively; applying an adhesive to the first and second crimped portions; inserting the first and second crimped portions into the connector inlet portions of the first and second pre-mold inserts, respectively; inserting the drain hose into the drain hose inlet portion of the first pre-mold insert; molding a first end-cap member to the first end portion of the outside hose, the first pre-mold insert, and the drain hose; and molding a second end-cap member to the second end portion of the outside hose and the second pre-mold insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Samar Company, INC
    Inventors: William J. Selby, Ronald A. Selby
  • Patent number: 6648008
    Abstract: A portable wash water containment apparatus having a flat ground cover portion surrounded by an integral berm formed from the ground cover material, said berm defines the area of the apparatus in which contaminated are contained. Dual ramp assemblies are provided to allow ingress and egress from the containment mat without damaging the berm or ground cover portions. A pump system is included to provide oil/water separation before discharging waste water into a sewer system. The containment mat may also be equipped with electrical heating elements to facilitate use in extreme cold temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Kerrigan McGrew Price
  • Publication number: 20030209281
    Abstract: A collector module (1) is described with a collector manifold (20) having two chambers. This collector module (1) has at least one collector tube (2), which has an absorber tube (4) and a tubular jacket (3). A connector (40) for each collector tube is provided which embraces the collector manifold (20) and receives the end of its tubular jacket (3). The connector (40) has a cup-shaped receiving part (41) glued on its collector tube and a U-shaped connecting part (45) formed on the cup-shaped receiving part (41), which engages the collector manifold (20). A sealing device (60) is arranged on the U-shaped connecting part (45). A torsion-stiff, self-supporting device is provided accordingly by this structure, in which each collector tube is not loaded with external forces, during to thermal expansion, transport, mounting or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Gottfried Haas, Nikolaus Benz, Klaus Quast, Michael Reinhard, Frank Schuenzel
  • Patent number: 6640825
    Abstract: A leak identification and containment device (10, 48, 64) is provided which is designed for application to a valve assembly (12) including a conduit (16) and a valve (18) having an operating handle (20) and an outlet (22). The device (10, 48, 64) includes a flexible bag (24, 50, 66) formed of synthetic resin material which is at least translucent (and preferably substantially transparent) with a valve-receiving opening (30, 52) and an absorbent lining (34) on the inner surfaces of the bag (24, 50, 66). In use, the bag (24, 50, 66) is disposed over the valve assembly (12) including handle (20) and outlet (22) and a cinch strap (34, 54) is used to tighten the bag (24, 50, 66) about the conduit (16). The absorbent lining (34) is of a color which contrasts with that of material which may leak from the valve assembly (12), so that the device (10, 48, 64) gives a visual indication of leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Andax Environmental Corporation
    Inventor: Patrick F. McAtarian
  • Patent number: 6637478
    Abstract: A fill station for filling various sizes of containers from a liquid dispensing system includes a first stationary platform and second rotatable platform positioned above the first platform. The second platform is hinged to move between a horizontal loading position and a stowed position to provide access to the first platform. A third platform may be positioned above the second platform, wherein the third platform is hinged at an opposite end from the second platform to move between a horizontal load position and a stowed position. Sensors may be used to detect whether a container is positioned on one of the platforms and to detect the positions of the different rotatable platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Jungmann, Gregory B. Laughland
  • Patent number: 6637469
    Abstract: A container for holding a solid, liquid and/or gaseous phase product therein and for use within a transportable or stationary support structure. The container maximizes the compressed product volume contained therein and prevents liquid and/or contaminant entrainment during gaseous product delivery from liquid phase product. The system allows for product withdraw when the level is above the delivery valves using, at a minimum, two delivery legs linked by a compartment or housing that connects the delivery point and a container head space via a removable manway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven W. Hoffman, Vladimir Yliy Gershtein, Alexandre De Almeida Botelho, Robert William Ford, Paul David Kottler
  • Patent number: 6637453
    Abstract: A device and method for collecting distension media or other fluids discharged during surgical procedures is shown. Also shown is a method for reducing the risk of hyponatremia. The apparatus makes it practical to determine the amount of distension media retained by a patient during hysteroscopic or other surgical procedures, particularly procedures using non-isotonic distension media during monopolar electrosurgery. The apparatus and methods are also useful during a variety of laparoscopic, obstetric, cardiovascular, liposuction, plastic, orthopedic, restorative, and other procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Promethean Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan R. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20030178094
    Abstract: A pipework containment system comprising: (i) an outer containment pipe (14) extending between a chamber and a sump; (ii) a fluid-tight seal between the outer containment pipe and the chamber; (iii) a fluid-tight seal between the outer containment pipe and the sump; (iv) a plurality of flexible supply pipes extending between said chamber and said sump; characterised in that the plurality of supply (12A-12D) pipes are contained within one and the same outer containment pipe, the arrangement of supply pipes within the outer pipe and the flexibility of the supply pipes being such that each individual supply pipe may be withdrawn from the system and/or replaced after construction of the pipework containment system is complete.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Jan Ageheim, Glyn A.V. Owens, Wayne Clifton Augustus Wright
  • Patent number: 6622750
    Abstract: A liquid diverter system comprising a plastic panel with the collector panel portion angled downward from all corners and sides to a circular recessed drain mounting land to divert liquids to a suitable storage container or disposal area. A perpendicular flange formed at outer edge creates a reservoir capable of holding liquids when immediate drainage is not possible. A non-woven plastic mesh pad in the collector panel prevents debris from clogging the drain, absorbs sound made by falling water and eliminates splashing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: David Francis Bergeron
  • Publication number: 20030172986
    Abstract: An all-steel platform having a fluid-proof floor member with a channel at one side leading into a sump at the end of the channel. Fluid from the floor member flows into the channel and sump, and a pump in the sump for recirculating the fluid into containers on or above the platform. The platform will support a mobile vehicle for receiving fluid for wheeling it to a garden for spraying it. The platform may be used for spray-cleaning articles thereon. The platform is normally stationary but can be moved for re-locating it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy J. Tobin
  • Patent number: 6588463
    Abstract: An oil drip catching apparatus includes a wall mounting bracket having a base portion adapted for attachment to a wall, a top portion, integral with the base portion and adapted for receiving an upper rim of a funnel, and a bottom portion, integral with the base portion and spaced apart from the top portion. A means for receiving a drip catching bottle in dowardly directed and adapted for removable engagement with the bottle. A spring is engaged with the bottom portion, and adapted for directing a spring force upwardly on the funnel, the Drips from the funnel are directed into the drip catching bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Dana Swan
  • Patent number: 6575206
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser for service stations which comprises an integrated catastrophic protection system. The dispenser comprises a leak detector, an impact (or displacement) sensor, and a heat sensor for detecting dangerous conditions in or around the dispenser. The sensors may be connected to a processor within the dispenser or may send signals to a remote processor. Upon detection of any of the dangerous conditions, a system controller can take appropriate action to shut down part or all of the fuel system in the facility to avoid a fuel catastrophe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Environ Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin D. Struthers, Michael C. Webb
  • Patent number: 6568419
    Abstract: A disposable fluid control island for workers is made of a broad, shallow tray or flat open-topped container that is filled with a stiff mesh, grid, grille or net upon which workers may stand. Water, oil, blood and other liquids pass through the mesh easily and are retained in the tray. Workers are supported above the accumulated liquids by the support medium. The apparatus helps to keep the feet of workers dry, reduces the likelihood of slipping, and prevents liquids from dispersing. The disposable fluid control island is particularly well-suited for use during orthopedic surgical procedures, but can be used with other activities including plumbing repairs, handling of hazardous materials, and other medical procedures. Fluid collected by the disposable fluid control island may be removed by vacuum or liquid drains, sealed into containers, and disposed of appropriately given the nature of the materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Promethean Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan Robinson, Dennis Ristvedt
  • Publication number: 20030094212
    Abstract: Stationary and pivotable trays for semiconductor wafer transfer are disclosed. A first moving equipment is movable to move a container for holding one or more semiconductor wafers from a wafer loading and unloading position to a wafer tank immersion position. A second moving equipment is movable to move the container from the wafer loading and unloading position to a container loading and unloading position. A stationary tray is located under the wafer loading and unloading position to collect liquid dripping from the first moving equipment. A pivotable tray is located to one side of the stationary tray, to collect the liquid dripping from the first moving equipment when this equipment is moving to the wafer loading and unloading position, such that the pivotable tray is lowered. The pivotable tray is raised when the second moving equipment is moving to the wafer loading and unloading position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yin-Cheng Ma
  • Patent number: 6564833
    Abstract: A gas discharge structure for gaseous fuel includes a discharge pipe leading gaseous fuel that has leaked to the outside of a vehicle. A discharge port of the discharge pipe is faced toward a space formed below a gap between a roof and a tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tohru Ono, Yozo Kami, Masami Ogura
  • Publication number: 20030079801
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser for service stations which comprises an integrated catastrophic protection system. The dispenser comprises a leak detector, an impact (or displacement) sensor, and a heat sensor for detecting dangerous conditions in or around the dispenser. The sensors may be connected to a processor within the dispenser or may send signals to a remote processor. Upon detection of any of the dangerous conditions, a system controller can take appropriate action to shut down part or all of the fuel system in the facility to avoid a fuel catastrophe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Applicant: Environ Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin D. Struthers, Michael C. Webb
  • Patent number: 6539989
    Abstract: An oil and liquid manifold drain system is provided as an apparatus that allows plastic oil containers to be drained completely before disposal. A plurality of ports are provided that hold oil cans or bottles in an upside down condition for a long period of time, envisioned to be hours. The ports can be hydraulically connected to a common manifold that would drain by gravity, back to a common container where the contents could be reused, recycled or disposed of properly. While specifically designed for motor oil, the invention could also be used for other liquids that are commonly sold in small size plastic containers and a percentage of the liquid remains clinging to the inside of the can or bottle after pouring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Fred C. Walden
  • Patent number: 6532888
    Abstract: Featured is a fuel spill containment device that collects fuel being spilled from the vent of a fuel tank. The fuel spill containment device includes a first member having a through aperture, a flexible container being attached to the first member so an interior volume of the container is in fluid communication with the through aperture and an adhesive layer. The first member through aperture also is configured and arranged so as to be larger than a structure of the vent as it passes through a surface of a tank support structure. The adhesive layer is applied to a portion of a surface of the first member at an angle to an axis of the through aperture. This portion is set so the first member is removably secured to the tank support structure surface. Also featured is a fuel spill containment device for use in containing spills s from the vent of a motorized water vessel and methods related thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Mark J. Enik
  • Publication number: 20030047238
    Abstract: This invention provides an integrated fluid drip receptacle that prevents the dripping of fluids at line connections. One end of the receptacle attaches to the line that is used to transfer fluid from a storage tank, such as an oil storage tank, and the other end of the receptacle attaches to the line that is used to transfer fluid into a second container, such as a tank on an oil transport vehicle. The receptacle remains attached to both of these lines during fluid transfer. After transfer of the fluid, the receptacle remains attached to the line from the storage tank but is disconnected from the other line. The receptacle collects fluid that leaks and drips from the lines and line connections. Because the receptacle is an integral component of the line from the storage tank, the fluid therein is emptied every time that transfer of fluid from the storage tank to the second container occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: David Henry Prymych
  • Patent number: 6523581
    Abstract: A fuel fluid communication assembly cooperates with a reservoir configured to contain fuel fluids, and includes a spill restrictor that may act as a secondary containment system and which is configured to restrict leakage to the environment of any liquid fuel present in the interior of the spill restrictor. The fuel fluid communication assembly has a first hollow body with an inwardly facing surface, a restrictor end and a reservoir end. The fuel fluid communication assembly may also have a second hollow body having an outwardly facing surface. The second hollow body is received telescopingly within at least the reservoir end of the first hollow body. The inwardly facing surface of the first hollow body and the outwardly facing surface of the second hollow body define an interstitial space. The fuel fluid communication assembly further has an interstitial space seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Pendleton, James E. Kesterman
  • Publication number: 20020179178
    Abstract: A fuel fluid communication assembly cooperates with a reservoir configured to contain fuel fluids, and includes a spill restrictor that may act as a secondary containment system and which is configured to restrict leakage to the environment of any liquid fuel present in the interior of the spill restrictor. The fuel fluid communication assembly has a first hollow body with an inwardly facing surface, a restrictor end and a reservoir end. The fuel fluid communication assembly may also have a second hollow body having an outwardly facing surface. The second hollow body is received telescopingly within at least the reservoir end of the first hollow body. The inwardly facing surface of the first hollow body and the outwardly facing surface of the second hollow body define an interstitial space. The fuel fluid communication assembly further has an interstitial space seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: David R. Pendleton, James E. Kesterman
  • Patent number: 6484762
    Abstract: A filling system that fills beverages into containers and includes a valve for controlling the feed of filling material and mounted a distance above the discharge aperture to define a discharge surface between the valve and the discharge aperture. The filling system also includes a post-dripping precluding device preventing post-dripping of the filling material when the valve is closed. The post-dripping precluding device enhances the drop detachment of the filling material from the discharge surface of the discharge zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Alfill Engineering GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jörn Richard Fehland, Jens H. Pöpplau
  • Publication number: 20020148530
    Abstract: A secondary containment cap apparatus for a turret of a hazardous fluid primary container having a primary container wall with a primary container turret opening having a turret opening perimeter wall, the secondary containment cap apparatus including a valve mounting plate extending over and covering the turret opening in sealing relation with the perimeter wall, the valve mounting plate having at least one valve port fitted with a fluid passing container valve; a containment cap including a cap wall with a concave cap interior and a cap abutment port, the cap abutment port having a cap abutment port rim, the containment cap being secured onto the valve mounting plate so that the container cap covers and encloses the fluid passing container valve, the cap abutment port rim being sealingly retained to the valve mounting plate; and a cap attachment structure securing the valve mounting plate to the perimeter wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Rudolph Caparros
  • Patent number: 6463966
    Abstract: A fuel absorbent device for maintaining fuel spills and preventing overflow, spillage, and splashes of liquid, fuel, and/or lubricant during a liquid, fuel, and/or lubricant filling process from contacting surfaces adjacent a liquid, fuel, and/or lubricant filler entrance. The fuel absorbent device has absorbent material, an opposing non skid surface, which is substantially impervious to liquid strikethrough, and a hole therethrough. Liquids, fuels, and lubricants contacting the absorbent material are typically contained within the absorbent material, and prevented from reaching adjacent surfaces by the opposing non skid surface, which is substantially impervious to liquid, fuel, and/or lubricant strikethrough. The opposing non skid surface also substantially prevents slippage of the fuel absorbent device thereon surfaces that the fuel absorbent device is removably placed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: John A. Goodger
  • Publication number: 20020139436
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for a liquid filling system is herein disclosed incorporating means for generating greater overall production rate efficiencies (i.e. number of filled containers per minute per filling station) for automatic systems utilizing diverter valve and/or walking beam (i.e. continuous-motion) filling technologies with, for example, non-traditional ratios between the number of filling stations and the number of filling nozzles. The methods/apparatus disclosed herein also incorporate means to more efficiently changeover and clean up, in either a clean-in-place (CIP) or clean-out-of-place (COP) configuration, the product contact parts that become “dirty” when used in a production environment. Finally, an improved method and apparatus designed to provide a means for priming and air purging the product contact path of liquid filling machinery, a fill volume calibration procedure, and a fill weight verification cycle is also herein described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventors: Robert A. Rosen, Joseph Spiteri-Gonzi, Richard N. Bennett, Timothy McGrath, Shailendra K. Parihar, George R. Dold, Richard Mozelack
  • Patent number: 6453954
    Abstract: A oil drainage re-directing device for preventing oil from dripping on a U-joint when an oil filter is removed. The oil drainage re-directing device includes a panel having a top surface, a bottom surface, a back edge, a front edge, a first side edge and a second side edge. The panel is divided into a left portion and a right portion along a longitudinal axis of the panel. The left portion is in an angular relationship with the right portion such that the top surface of the panel defines an angle generally between 120 degrees and 150 degrees. The panel comprises a substantially rigid material. A foot is attached to the bottom surface of the panel and is positioned generally between the front and back edges. The panel is positioned on a U-joint of a vehicle and under an oil-filter for preventing oil from falling on the oil-filter when the oil filter is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher A. Carroll
  • Publication number: 20020079019
    Abstract: The present invention provides a waste disposal system through the use of a receptacle for catching waste having an opening allowing a user to work within the receptacle in order to service aircraft lavatories. The waste disposal system further includes a conduit attached to the receptacle for transporting waste and debris, and also includes at least one hole disposed through a portion of the receptacle to drain any waste that has fallen into the receptacle. Through the use of the waste disposal system 14, the ramp attendant, the aircraft ramp, baggage and other property on the ramp is protected from contamination with human waste and chemical solutions used to deodorize and sanitize aircraft lavatories.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Applicant: Airworld Tech Corporation
    Inventor: Ricky D. Duncan
  • Patent number: 6408898
    Abstract: An oil recovery device for removing oil lining the interior of oil containers. The oil recovery device includes a housing having a front wall having a plurality of openings therein. Each of the openings has a drawer therein hingedly coupled to the front wall. Each of the drawers has a plurality of compartments therein. Each of the base walls has a pipe attached thereto. The pipes are in communication with the compartments of the attached drawer. A tube is fluidly coupled to the housing and extends into the bottom wall. Each of a plurality of oil containers may be positioned in one of the compartments such that oil within the oil containers may be drained into the pipes. The oil may then be removed from the housing through the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventors: Edward S. Huss, Pamela J. Huss
  • Publication number: 20020069934
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a refuelling nozzle 100 comprising a housing 102 which is of a “dry breaks” construction. The rear end of the nozzle housing 102 includes a rear chamber 104 in which a piston 106 is housed for axial reciprocation. The refuelling nozzle 100 is provided with a spring 118 which operatively cooperates with the piston head 106 so as to urge the valve into the “on” position wherein the refuelling nozzle 100 is open. An end cap 109 is fitted to the rear end of the nozzle housing 102 wherein the rear chamber is enclosed. The spring 118 is generally elongate and at one end bears against the piston head 106 whilst an opposite end is retained by a spring retaining element 120. The end cap 109 includes a plurality of spaced apart and coaxial annular grooves such as 122 each being adapted to removably receive a locking element in the form of a C-clip 124 which bears against the flange of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Adam Robert Peattie
  • Patent number: 6401770
    Abstract: A fluid shielding and collection tool for use in temporarily protecting a vehicle's components while maintaining the vehicle. The shielding and collecting tool includes a collecting planar surface, the collecting planar having a raised border and a downspout extending from the raised border. Additionally, a mounting mechanism adapted for mounting on the vehicle's components to be shielded and to support the collecting planar surface at the needed orientation to cause the fluids to be collected and diverted towards a final collecting device is attached to the device to support the planar surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Robert L. Eimer
  • Patent number: 6386225
    Abstract: A modular catch pan for wellheads includes a rigid pan body consisting of two detachably coupled sections, the body having a circular opening. A plurality of split annular adaptor collars are provided. Each of the adaptor collars has the same outer diameter so that any one of them can be fitted into the circular opening. Each of the adaptor collars has an outer circumferential sealing surface adapted to form a seal with the circular opening of the body. Each of the adaptor collars has an inner circumferential sealing surface. The size of the inner circumferential sealing surface and the distance of the inner circumferential sealing surface from the outer circumferential sealing surface varies between adaptor collars. The modular catch pan can be adapted to fit any installation by selecting a suitable adaptor collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Quinn Holtby
  • Publication number: 20020046781
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filling system filling beverages into containers and comprising a valve controlling the feed of filling material and mounted a distance above the discharge aperture in order that there shall remain a discharge surface between the valve and the discharge aperture, further comprising a post-dripping precluding device preventing post-dripping of the filling material when the valve is closed, and it is characterized in that the post-dripping precluding device enhances the drop detachment of the filling material from the discharge surface of the discharge zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Applicant: Alfill Engineering GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jorn Richard Fehland, Jens H. Popplau
  • Patent number: 6367522
    Abstract: A system and method for the safe conveyance of fuel from the shore to a floating watercraft refueling dock. A cable is stretched between a floating dock to a cable support structure on the shore which contains a reel for adjusting the length of the cable in response to changes in floating dock position, as in response to changing water levels. A fuel hose is suspended underneath the cable by removable lanyards. The fuel hose is connected on the shore to a hose reel which allows the length of hose to be adjusted in accordance with the cable length. Fuel is supplied through the hose on the hose reel along the suspended span of fuel hose to fuel dispensers on the floating fuel dock. The suspended fueling system retains the fuel hose off the terrain and is capable of being retracted or extended to accommodate the rise and fall of the floating dock in response to the water rising and falling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: FCI Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Tyer
  • Patent number: 6367518
    Abstract: The present invention provides a waste disposal system through the use of a bag 14 with removable glove members 20, 22, a removable and replaceable splash shield 17, a drain line tube 32, and a refill tube 48 in order to service aircraft lavatories. Through the use of the bag 14, the ramp attendant, the aircraft ramp, baggage and other property on the ramp is protected from contamination with human waste and chemical solutions used to deodorize and sanitize aircraft lavatories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Airworld Tech Corporation
    Inventor: Ricky D. Duncan
  • Publication number: 20020036026
    Abstract: A gas discharge structure for gaseous fuel includes a discharge pipe leading gaseous fuel that has leaked to the outside of a vehicle. A discharge port of the discharge pipe is faced toward a space formed below a gap between a roof and a tailgate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Publication date: March 28, 2002
    Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tohru Ono, Yozo Kami, Masami Ogura
  • Patent number: 6354340
    Abstract: A hazardous material catcher, which maintains hazardous material spills and prevents spillage of hazardous materials during coupling, uncoupling, loading and unloading processes. The hazardous material catcher has absorbent material associated therewith to absorb excess hazardous materials and prevent hazardous materials from contacting neighboring areas. The hazardous material catcher is light weight, portable, easy to mount, easy to transport, and has absorbent material associated therewith that is easily disposable in a safe and environmentally sound manner, and is useable in a variety of hazardous material loading and unloading applications, including vehicle to vehicle, vehicle to stationary, stationary to vehicle, and stationary to stationary applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventors: Edward M. Craine, Dan Friedman, Gary J. Parnahay
  • Patent number: 6349752
    Abstract: A device for the retention of multi-fuels which may be built in or used in a portable mode. It will seal at the top of the fuel fillpipe and allow for the insertion of a utility hose nozzle into the top of the fuel fillpipe. When fluid comes out of the fillpipe, it will be contained by deflection shields while still allowing air to escape due to the arrangement of the shields and basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: John Harold Roberts, Jr.
  • Patent number: RE37566
    Abstract: A holding device for collecting adjacent an outlet spout the residual contents from a container for eventual complete consumption of said residual contents, comprising a hollow rigid base portion; a flexible conical-shaped hollow upper portion; and the smaller first end aperture at the apex of the flexible conical-shaped upper portion being inserted into the upper end aperture of the rigid base portion and concentrically engaged with the upper edge of the base portion. The device further includes a plurality of concavities at a predetermined radially spaced apart relationship along a bottom edge of the base portion. The upper portion is made from a foam rubber material and the rigid base portion is made from a plastic, a ceramic, a metal, a nylon, or a durable hard-rubber material .
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventors: Denise M. Cristea, Mary A. Marszalek