With Signal, Indicator, Recorder, Inspection Means Or Exhibitor Patents (Class 141/94)
  • Patent number: 8708005
    Abstract: A gas filling system includes a vehicle having a gas tank, and a gas station that supplies the gas tank with gas. The vehicle includes a controller having a filling protocol that specifies a method of control on the gas station side that is used when the gas is filled into the gas tank. The gas station controls filling of the gas into the gas tank according to the filling protocol provided by the controller. A filling protocol specific to the vehicle is used and therefore, it is made possible to perform filling adapted to the gas tank of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tomoyuki Mori
  • Patent number: 8708004
    Abstract: A fueling control system for providing fuel from a vehicle to an aircraft, and a method of providing fuel from a fuel vehicle to an aircraft are disclosed herein. The fueling control system includes a pressure transducer for sensing back pressure in a fluid path to a fuel tank of an aircraft, and a digital controller coupled to the pressure transducer for receiving the back pressure in the fluid path and controlling fuel flow in the fluid path to the aircraft. The method includes the steps of sensing back pressure in a fluid path from the aircraft; receiving the sensed back pressure by a digital controller; and controlling fuel flow to the aircraft in the fluid path based on the sensed back pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Owen Watkins
  • Publication number: 20140102582
    Abstract: An ice vending machine automatically provides ice to a customer based upon a request from the consumer for the ice. In some embodiments, the ice vending machine includes an ice bagging system. In some embodiments, the bagging system operates without the use of a counterweight. In some embodiments, the ice vending machine includes a view window to view the ice being bagged. In some embodiments, the ice vending machine is an ice and liquid water vending machine that automatically provides ice or liquid water to a customer based on a request from the customer for the ice or liquid water. In some embodiments, the ice and liquid water vending machine includes an ultraviolet light flushing assembly. In some embodiments, the ice and liquid water vending machine includes a chill tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: ICE HOUSE AMERICA, LLC
    Inventors: Ernest Chip Venet, III, Steven Alan Weeks, Daniel LaDon Dunn, Troy Doom
  • Patent number: 8695646
    Abstract: Sensor system for acoustic detection in a dispensing system of a container having a rim and content includes at least one controller coupled to the dispensing system for selectively triggering on and off the dispensing system, an ultrasound position sensor coupled to the controller for emitting a first ultrasound beam towards a container-receiving location, for receiving ultrasound echoes indicative of a position of the container relative to a dispenser outlet, and for sending a first signal to the at least one controller indicative of the container position relative to the dispenser outlet, and an ultrasound fill sensor coupled to the at least one controller for emitting a second ultrasound beam towards the container-receiving location, for receiving ultrasound echoes indicative of the rim and content surface, and for sending to the at least one controller a second signal indicative of the position of the content surface relative to the rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Sensotech Inc.
    Inventors: Uri Agam, Pino Marcovecchio, Elad Wallach, Guy Mualem
  • Patent number: 8662114
    Abstract: A device for loss-free filling of continuously mixed media in containers may include a mixing tank, a filler valve, and a connecting line. The mixing tank serves to receive and mix at least two different media, of which at least one medium is a fluid, and has a closing device for closing an outlet from the mixing tank. The filler valve serves for filling the mixed media from the mixing tank in the containers. The connecting line is arranged between the outlet from the mixing tank and the filler valve. Here the closing device has a ventilation line that can be connected with the connecting line to ventilate the connecting line to the filler valve. Also a plant may include such a device and a transport device for transporting the containers to the filler valve of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventor: Rupert Meinzinger
  • Patent number: 8665093
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus comprises a main apparatus portion, a unique identification device for attachment in close proximity to the main apparatus portion and an interrogation system provided as part of the main apparatus portion for wirelessly interrogating the identification device such that the main apparatus portion function is enabled only when in close proximity to the identification device. The identification device is adapted to be made disfunctional by detachment or attempted detachment. In this arrangement, the main apparatus portion is the normal electronic apparatus to be protected from theft. It is provided with an interrogation system so that it can be made to cease functioning if not in close proximity to the identification device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventors: Michael M. P. Peeters, Jan L. R. M. Taelman, Frank C. H. Daems, Veroni Ballet
  • Patent number: 8662235
    Abstract: A multiply-redundant system that prevents a driver from starting and/or moving a vehicle if a compressed natural gas fill system is not correctly and completely disconnected from the vehicle. One or more sensors in combination with one or more optional microswitches combine to lock-out the vehicle's ignition or otherwise prevent it from starting and/or moving. For different levels of safety, different combinations of sensors can be used with the lowest level having a single proximity sensor sensing the presence or absence of a high-pressure fill hose. The highest level of safety being achieved by having separate proximity sensors on the fuel fill hose fitting, the gas cap cover and a manual safety valve along with a redundant microswitch. An optional override that may be restricted as to the number of times it can be used can allow starting with a faulty sensor in order to allow maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel McNicholas
  • Patent number: 8662115
    Abstract: A fuel gas station, a fuel gas filling system, and a fuel gas filling method which can check whether information on temperature of the inside of a fuel tank is correct, so that a fuel tank is properly filled. The fuel gas station calculates a difference of temperature between a temperature of the inside of the fuel tank and a temperature of fuel gas to be supplied to the fuel tank after supplying of fuel gas for a predetermined length of time. When the calculated difference of temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the fuel gas station determines that the information on temperature of the inside of the fuel tank is abnormal, and reduces at least one of supply flow and supply quantity of fuel gas as compared to when such information is normal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tomoyuki Mori
  • Publication number: 20140053944
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for conducting a refill of a beverage container. A beverage container may be detected at a refill station. The beverage container may be associated with a user account. The refill station may access information stored in the user account to determine if the beverage container is permitted to be refilled. Based on the determination, the refill station may refill the beverage container. Information indicative of the refill process may be displayed on an electronic display of the refill station. The refill station may also capture an image of the user of the beverage container and compare the captured image with an image stored in the associated user account to confirm the identity of the user. The determination that the beverage container may be refilled may be based, at least in part, on the identity confirmation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Anheuser-Busch InBev
    Inventor: Winston Wang
  • Publication number: 20140053943
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for monitoring a fuel delivery system to limit acidic corrosion. An exemplary monitoring system includes a controller, at least one monitor, and an output. The monitoring system may collect and analyze data indicative of a corrosive environment in the fuel delivery system. The monitoring system may also automatically warn an operator of the fueling station of the corrosive environment so that the operator can take preventative or corrective action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Franklin Fueling Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lorraine Vander Wielen Sabo, William Nelson
  • Patent number: 8656938
    Abstract: A method of fueling with compressed gas is described. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a supply of compressed gas; providing a storage tank with a fueling line, and a nozzle in the fueling line, the nozzle movable between at least a flow reduction position and a full fuel flow position; initiating fueling from the supply of compressed gas with the nozzle in the flow reduction position for a predetermined time or until a minimum pressure is obtained; when the predetermined time or the minimum pressure is obtained, moving the nozzle to the full fuel flow position; and fueling the storage tank from the supply of compressed gas with the nozzle in the full fuel flow position until fueling is completed. A vehicle incorporating the nozzle is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Ralph Hobmeyr, Jurgen Thyroff
  • Patent number: 8621879
    Abstract: A method of charging or recharging an air conditioning wherein an initial amount of refrigerant is introduced, followed by additional introductions of refrigerant during injection pulses. The pulse periods are adjusted dynamically during the charging/recharging process based on feedback obtained after each pulse related to how much refrigerant was transferred during the previous pulse. Also, a system for implementing the above-mentioned method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Bosch Automotive Service Solutions LLC
    Inventors: William Brown, Mark McMasters
  • Patent number: 8607829
    Abstract: This invention provides for the fully automated, hands free, packing of chromatography columns by means of delivering a pre-calculated volume of slurry and using two different packing modalities to stop the packing when either 1) this volume has been delivered in the column, or 2) when the adapter is moved to reach a bed height corresponding to the pre-calculated volume. Thus, a chromatography column can be packed in a fully automated fashion and such a column is 1) stable and 2) has the desired performance characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences Corp.
    Inventors: Alan M. Williams, Kyril Dambuleff, Kathryn Taylor, John Davis, Adam Kaletski, Daniel Go, Scott R. Muller
  • Publication number: 20130319579
    Abstract: Described is a dispensing device for a liquid product filling machine comprising a plurality of the dispensing devices. Each dispensing device comprises a dispensing conduit having a product outlet opening, a shutter for the outlet opening, an actuating unit adapted to move the shutter from a closed position to an open position of the outlet opening and vice versa, a flexible membrane which separates the dispensing conduit from the actuating unit, a product presence detector, indicating when the flexible membrane is broken and connected to a control unit which each dispensing device is equipped with in such a way as to stop dispensing the product from the dispensing device whose flexible membrane is broken.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Arionaria Costruzioni Macchine Automatiche A.C.M.A. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Carrara
  • Publication number: 20130319575
    Abstract: A flexible bag for biopharmaceutical use, includes a shell for receiving, in an inner space thereof, a flowable biopharmaceutical product, and flexible walls joined by fixed and sealed rigid-connection areas, two opposite walls being connected to each other by the peripheries thereof, at least one inlet port and one outlet port, a port being combined with a passage of the shell and mounted thereon by fixed and sealed connection elements, a plurality of similar outlet ports grouped together in a tapping area, a tapping wall provided with at least one opening for the passage and assembly of the outlet port for the similar outlet ports, fixed and sealed port-shell connection elements which are rigidly, fixedly, and sealingly connected to the tapping wall around the at least one opening for the passage and assembly of the outlet port, and an area for folding the two opposite walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: SARTORIUS STEDIM BIOTECH S.A.
    Inventor: Nicolas Mendyk
  • Patent number: 8596308
    Abstract: A method is for handling a sterilized food product and includes securing an aseptic fitment to a filling port of an intermodal container including a rigid shell having an elongate shape with opposed closed ends, and at least one frame assembly supporting the rigid shell. The method also includes sterilizing the intermodal container, and aseptically filling the sterilized intermodal container with the sterilized food product through the aseptic fitment. The method may also include sealing the aseptic fitment after aseptic filling. A related intermodal container and filling station are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: John Bean Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory W. Schrader, Manuele Levati, Paul P. Brocker
  • Patent number: 8590581
    Abstract: A method for filling bottles or similar containers (2) with a liquid filling material comprising at least two components, using a filling system (1) comprising at least one filling element (3) having a fluid channel (6) for the controlled dispensing of the filling material by way of at least one dispensing opening (11), said channel forming said dispensing opening, a liquid valve (13) being disposed in said channel and said channel being connected to a first component supply container or vessel (8) by way of a liquid connection (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
  • Publication number: 20130306190
    Abstract: A rotary-type filling machine includes a rotary body, a liquid distribution chamber, a plurality of filling flow path configuration units, each of which has a fluid path constituted by a liquid path connected to the liquid distribution chamber and a liquid valve and configured to individually introduce a liquid into a container, a filling control device, a liquid supply unit, a pressure difference information detection unit configured to detect pressure difference information between a liquid distribution chamber pressure, which is a pressure of the liquid in the liquid distribution chamber, and a filling atmospheric pressure detected as a pressure of a flow release unit in a filling flow path configuration unit at an arbitrary radial direction position of the rotary body, and a rotation information detection unit configured to detect rotation information of the rotary body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Food & Packaging Machine Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiharu Tanaka, Masayuki Hayashi, Shinji Ishikura
  • Patent number: 8584712
    Abstract: A station for reloading a sprayer is disclosed that includes a tank coupled to at least one coating material circuit by a coupler, a docking unit that is adapted to receive a sprayer; and at least one accumulator having a volume that is greater than or equal to the volume of the tank. Each accumulator is connected to at least one circuit by the coupler. The station also includes a mechanism for pressurizing the accumulator. The accumulator is connected to the docking unit which is, in turn, connected to the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sames Technologies
    Inventors: Patrick Ballu, Thierry Buquet, Cédric Le Strat, Eric Prus, Hervé Walter
  • Publication number: 20130291998
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for filling packages with a bulk cushioning material, in particular foam peanuts, where the cushioning material is conveyed to the package by a feed unit. In order to be able to easily fill the packages in an automated fashion, according to the invention, a measuring device is used to determine a volume of the package to be filled, a variable quantity of cushioning material is poured into a receiving container of the feed unit by means of a quantity-varying unit, and this poured quantity is poured into a package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicants: Koteam Maschinenbau GmbH, B & W Solutions GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Konnerth
  • Patent number: 8573262
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically adjusting an ORVR-compatible Stage II vapor recovery system to maintain the air-to-liquid (A/L) ratio within desired tolerances or limits to meet regulatory and/or other requirements. An air flow sensor (AFS) or vapor flow meter measures the amount of recovered vapor for a dispensing point to calculate the recovery efficiency of the system in the form of the A/L ratio. Volume or flow rate measurements can be used. ORVR fueling transactions are either minimized or excluded from the A/L ratio, so that the A/L ratio is not artificially lowered due to a blocked or altered recovery. The A/L ratio is then compared to a desired or nominal A/L ratio. Adjustments to the recovery system are made within prescribed safety tolerances if the A/L ratio differs from the desired ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventor: Kevin Hughes
  • Publication number: 20130276935
    Abstract: There is provided a drug refilling apparatus. The apparatus includes a main body on which a drug cartridge is mounted, a cartridge mounting unit installed on a top surface of the main body to allow the drug cartridge mounted thereon, an unfastening unit unfastening a fastened state of a cover included in the drug cartridge, and a cartridge locking unit locking or unlocking the drug cartridge while the drug cartridge is being mounted on the cartridge mounting unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: JVM CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jun Ho KIM
  • Publication number: 20130269831
    Abstract: An apparatus for filling containers with pharmaceutical articles comprises a transfer element (1) arranged to receive articles from a conveyor (V) and to transfer them to a mouth (I) of an article accumulating conduit (C) positioned above a container. A sensor (8, 9) detects article characteristics and counts the articles. A mobile element (2) has a first curved surface (21) and a second curved surface (22), the element being movable between a first orientation (P1), in which the first curved surface enables an advancement of articles detected as being whole towards the mouth (I) of the accumulating conduit (C), and a second orientation (P2), with the second curved surface (22) arranged to prevent a continuity of advancement for the articles detected as not being whole, diverting these away from the mouth of the accumulating conduit (C).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: Marchesini Group S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giuseppe MONTI
  • Publication number: 20130255827
    Abstract: A system for filling a blow-fill-seal (BFS) container is provided. The system includes a first fluid circuit constructed to selectively deliver a purge fluid to an open BFS container. A second fluid circuit selectively delivers a product to the open BFS container. A third fluid circuit, having a vent line in fluid communication with the open BFS container and to the ambient, directs a bulk fluid comprising at least the purge fluid from the container when the purge fluid is introduced into the BFS container. The second circuit selectively delivers product when the first fluid circuit selectively does not deliver the purge fluid, and the second circuit selectively does not deliver product when the first circuit selectively delivers the purge fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: R.P. SCHERER TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin C. Colangelo
  • Patent number: 8539990
    Abstract: A port door unlatching system is provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel delivery subsystem with a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Willard Ferguson, Daryl Zalan, Andrew Dai, Troy Adam Nergaard, Nicholas Robert Kalayjian, Scott Ira Kohn
  • Patent number: 8539997
    Abstract: A filling head 10 is described for filling in a liquid into a filler neck of a tank 14. To ensure highly reliable operation, a rotary connecting element 26 is provided to form a mechanical connection by rotating in relation to the filler neck of the tank 14. A rotatable operating part 30 serves to rotate the rotary connecting element 26. The operating part 30 is coupled to the rotary connecting element 26 by means of a torque-limiting coupling device 32 that, given a threshold torque, is triggered at least in one direction of rotation and decouples the rotatable operating part 30 from the rotary connecting element 26. A sensor is provided to detect the triggering of the torque-limiting coupling device 32 and to send a release signal for the established connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Walter Söhner GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Driftmeyer, Alex Klatt
  • Publication number: 20130240084
    Abstract: A vending machine for refilling a bottle with liquid is provided. The vending machine includes a refilling station that is configured to receive and refill only bottles from a set of bottles having the same configuration with the liquid. The vending machine includes a liquid source for supplying the liquid and a payment acceptor that is configured to accept payment to refill the bottle with liquid from the liquid source. A respective bottle from the set of bottles is refilled with liquid from the liquid source when received by the filling station in response to the payment acceptor receiving payment to refill the bottle with liquid from the liquid source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Bradley Allen Carter, Neil Robert Bumgarner
  • Publication number: 20130241479
    Abstract: A safety circuit for disconnecting the power feed to an EV (electrical vehicle) charging enclosure or gasoline station fuel pump enclosure in the event that the enclosure is partially or totally dislodged from the foundation and dangerously high voltage has been exposed due to underground conduits being torn apart and electrical cables being exposed and in contact with sheet metal cabinets and other metal parts, thus creating the possibility of an explosion or the electrocution of a user or bystanders. The safety circuit comprises at least two proximity sensors, each of which transmits a signal into a control circuit which causes the power feed to the enclosure to be disconnected at the source when either or both of the proximity sensors inform the control circuit that the station has moved either vertically or horizontally more than a few thousandths of an inch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Robert W. Wright, JR., James E. Maddox
  • Publication number: 20130233437
    Abstract: A container handling installation in which retaining and transport elements transport containers in a transport direction and in which filling stations fill containers with product includes an inspection device for checking the container for unwanted foreign matter. The inspection device is integral with the retaining and transport element and includes a piezo sensor. Also included is an evaluation unit connected to the inspection device. The inspection device is configured to connect to the container such that the container and the inspection device move together in a respective direction of movement and in the transport direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: KHS GmbH
    Inventors: Jürgen Herrmann, Claas Fritsche, Marius Michael Hermann, Alfred Drenguis
  • Patent number: 8528610
    Abstract: A substance communication coupling system includes a substance connector component for communication of a substance with another substance connector component. A substance switch is provided for selectively permitting communication of the substance between the substance connector components. The substance switch is activated to transfer a substance from a substance source to a substance consumer in response to a proximity sensor engaging a proximity target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Steven J. Kuehl, Richard A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 8528607
    Abstract: Liquid beverage filling machine for filling containers, such as bottles or cans, with a liquid beverage, and a method of filling containers with a liquid beverage, in which the flow of liquid is monitored and measured. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Felix Wagner
  • Patent number: 8523065
    Abstract: We provide a system and method for temporarily coupling a beverage purchase with an RFID tag or other media, then recovering the RFID tag or other media for reuse after the beverage has been dispensed. Media may be, for example, but are not limited to cards (including plastic, cardboard, or paper cards), keychains, or key fobs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Validfill, LLC
    Inventors: Jeremy L. Wade, Gregory M. Edelson
  • Patent number: 8522832
    Abstract: Some embodiments disclosed herein related to a device for transferring precise amounts of fluid from at least one source container to a at least one target container. In some embodiments, the fluid is first transferred from the source container (e.g., a vial) through a connector to an intermediate measuring container (e.g., a syringe). In some embodiments air can pass through an air inlet and enter the vial to compensate for the volume of fluid withdrawn from the vial. An air check valve or a bag or a filter can prevent the fluid from escaping through the air inlet. The precisely measured amount of fluid can then be transferred from the intermediate measuring container to the target container (e.g., an IV bag). In some embodiments the connector can include a source check valve and a target check valve to direct fluid first from the source container to the intermediate measuring container and then from the intermediate measuring container to the target container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: ICU Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: George A. Lopez, Thomas F. Fangrow, Jr., Peter Leissling, Matthias Janssen
  • Patent number: 8522834
    Abstract: A gas filling device comprises a gas supplier configured to supply the gas to gas filler passages and a controller configured to separately open and close each of the valves provided in the respective gas filler passages, so as to control a gas flow supplied from the gas supplier, wherein the controller comprises a heat dissipation information acquirer configured to obtain heat dissipation information regarding heat dissipation capacity of each of the plurality of tanks and an in-tank information acquirer configured to obtain information regarding at least one of temperature and pressure in each of the plurality of tanks, and the controller is characterized to cause opening and closing the valves to allow communication between the separate gas filler passages, based on the heat dissipation information obtained by the heat dissipation information acquirer and the information in the tank obtained by the in-tank information acquirer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Eiji Okawachi
  • Patent number: 8522835
    Abstract: A hydrogen source comprises a first hydrogen reservoir for containing hydrogen in a first form and a second hydrogen reservoir for containing hydrogen in a second form different from the first form. The hydrogen source comprises a means for converting hydrogen from the first form to hydrogen gas and transferring the hydrogen gas from the first hydrogen reservoir to the second hydrogen reservoir. An interface is provided for transferring hydrogen from the second hydrogen reservoir to a hydrogen reservoir in a portable device. The interface comprises a fluidic coupling. The hydrogen source may be used to provide hydrogen fuel to a wide range of portable devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Société BIC
    Inventors: Gerard F. McLean, Joerg Zimmermann
  • Publication number: 20130213518
    Abstract: A spout is operably connected to a transferring material for transferring the agricultural material to the receiving vehicle. An imaging device faces towards the storage portion of the receiving vehicle and collects image data. A container module is adapted to determine a container position of the storage portion, or its container perimeter. A spout module is adapted to identify a spout of the transferring vehicle in the collected image data, or to determine a spout position. An alignment module is adapted to determine the relative position of the spout and the container position based on the collected image data and to generate command data or user interface data to facilitate placement of the spout and storage container in relative cooperative alignment for transferring of material from the transferring vehicle to the receiving vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Deere & Company
  • Patent number: 8511348
    Abstract: A system and method for dispensing a beverage are provided. The system includes a liquid dispensing machine having a dispensing area capable of receiving a container, a scanner adjacent to the dispensing area, a container that is capable of being placed in the dispensing area, and annular barcode indicia extending around an exterior surface of the container and centered around a generally vertical axis of the container. The scanner can read the annular barcode indicia when the container is placed in the dispensing area at any rotational orientation relative to the scanner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Insight Beverages, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald W. Lillard, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130206279
    Abstract: A fluid delivery nozzle for wireless communication to either an active or a passive device located on a vehicle and for wireless communication from the fluid delivery nozzle to a central location for storage of vehicle data. Upon initiation of a fluid delivery transaction, a communication link is established between a vehicle communication device and the central location and between a fluid container of the vehicle and the fluid delivery nozzle. The information received from the vehicle and container is relayed to the central location to authorize delivery of a fluid to the vehicle. Information is also transferred from the central location back and forth to the fluid delivery nozzle to update and store information regarding the fluid delivery transaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Michael C. Ryan
  • Patent number: 8505593
    Abstract: A refrigerator having a dispenser that includes an outlet and that is configured to dispense content through the outlet and along an output flow path. The refrigerator also includes a detection unit configured to detect user activity that is indicative of a desire to fill a container with content using the dispenser. The refrigerator further includes an optical system that is configured to, in response to detecting the user activity, direct a beam of light along at least a portion of the output flow path of the dispenser to assist a user in positioning a container to receive content dispensed along the output flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Jason Adam Denise
  • Publication number: 20130199660
    Abstract: A communication device or auxiliary ECU is activated when a fuel door of a fuel cell vehicle is open. Upon closing the fuel door, the communication device/ECU is shut off. The communication device/auxiliary ECU is operational regardless of whether the keys in the vehicle or not. This assures that communication of information can occur when a refueling station is most likely to request the information, i.e. when the fuel door is open. A temperature measurement device may monitor a vehicle tank temperature, communicate the tank temperature data to a filling station, and confirm that the tank temperature data is associated with the tank being filled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventors: David W. Cun, Ryan Douglas Roy Harty
  • Publication number: 20130186515
    Abstract: The device (1) according to the invention for metering and in particular compressing bulk material (2) comprises a conveyor for metering the bulk material. The device (1) further comprises a measuring device for measuring a measuring variable and a receiving device (20) for receiving a container, in particular a bag (22). The conveyor has an outlet (12) for the bulk material (2). The container has a filling opening (23). The receiving device (20) and the outlet (12) can be positioned relative to each other dependent on the measuring variable during the metering of the bulk material (2) into the filling opening (23). In particular, the outlet (12) and the receiving device (20) can be positioned in a manner that can be controlled and/or regulated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: Buhler AG
    Inventors: Andreas Kleiner, René Haid
  • Publication number: 20130180622
    Abstract: A cup beverage vending machine having a beverage dispensing assembly with fluid dispensing nozzles located over respective cup stands; a beverage selection device; a lighting device for lighting the cup stands; and an electronic control unit connected to the beverage dispensing assembly, the beverage selection device and the lighting device, and so configured that, in response to selection of a beverage, the lighting device only illuminates the cup stand on which a cup for the selected beverage is to be deposited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: N&W GLOBAL VENDING S.P.A
    Inventor: Mauro SCOTTI
  • Publication number: 20130146612
    Abstract: A dispensing unit is operatively associated with a refrigeration appliance for selectively dispensing water and ice at a dispensing station. The dispensing unit includes an actuator that is movable to selected positions in order to support the dispensing of the water and ice. The dispensing unit can include a passageway through which ice is dispensed, and an ice door can be provided for selectively opening and closing the passageway to the dispensing of ice. In one aspect, the ice door can be opened and closed mechanically and in another aspect, the ice door can be opened and closed electromechanically. The dispensing unit also can provide for the position of a water-dispensing nozzle to be adjusted for the purpose of dispensing water to receptacles outside a recessed area at which the nozzle is located and to provide for the activation of illuminating devices to indicate operating conditions at the refrigeration appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130146179
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a fresh food compartment and a door pivotally mounted to the cabinet and including an interior surface in communication with the fresh food compartment when the door is closed. A liquid dispenser is arranged on the interior surface of the door, and a container is supported on the door and configured to receive liquid from the liquid dispenser. A sensor is configured to sense a property of the container, and a control is in communication with the sensor. The control is configured to regulate dispensing of liquid into the container based upon the sensed property of the container. In one example, the sensor is resiliently biased into contact with the container to sense a property of the container. In another example, the control indicates a stale liquid condition if a timer expires before the container has been removed from the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8459313
    Abstract: [Problem to be Solved] A gas fuel vehicle capable of detecting a gas leakage on the back side of a fuel fill port (inside of a vehicle body) extremely easily is provided. [Means for Solving the Problem] The gas fuel vehicle includes: a gas filling port that receives a supply of a gas fuel from a fuel supply device on the outside of a vehicle body; a communicating hole that connects the inside of the vehicle body and the outside of the vehicle body; a shielding member that shields the fuel fill port and the communicating hole from the outside of the vehicle body; and a gas fuel storage unit that stores the gas fuel supplied from the fuel supply device through the fuel fill port. A rod portion of a gas leakage detector is inserted into the communicating hole from the outside of the vehicle body, thereby detecting a gas leakage inside the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Iida, Keiichi Kondo
  • Patent number: 8441349
    Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting one or more changes in a monitored environment are provided. A method includes transmitting interrogation signals to sensors distributed in a monitored environment at a substantially constant power. A first set of the interrogation signals is transmitted to a first sensor. The method also includes receiving first response signals from the first sensor in response to the first set of interrogation signals transmitted to the first sensor. The method also includes determining an average parameter of the first response signals from the first sensor. The method also includes comparing the average parameter of the first response signals to an average parameter of baseline signals corresponding to the first sensor. The method also includes determining a statistical significance of the average parameter of the first response signals based on the comparison, and generating a change detection indicator based on the statistical significance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Vibeke Libby
  • Publication number: 20130105036
    Abstract: An apparatus for packaging of loose product includes a loading station, a box forming station and an uploading station. The loading station includes moveable chutes in spaced apart relation. Each chute has an open top, an open upstream end, and an open downstream end. The open top is configured to receive loose product while moving along a first feed path. The box forming station is operable to partially erect boxes in spaced apart relation with first and second open sides and align the first open side of each box with the downstream end of a corresponding chute while moving along a second feed path. The unloading station includes a stationary vacuum head in communication with the second open side of each box. The vacuum head provides a continuous vacuum source along the second feed path operable to move loose product from the chute into the boxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventor: Philip Morris USA Inc.
  • Patent number: 8430135
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus is provided having a platform for receipt of a container such as a wine glass. The platform is connected to a transducer which is sensitive to weight on the platform and which produces an electrical signal dependant on the magnitude of that weight. Electrical outputs from the transducer are connected to a control unit over connections. The control unit includes a keypad and a display. Control signals from control unit are supplied over electrical connections to a solenoid valve. The control unit controls the flow of material by opening and closing solenoid valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Autopour Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Marshall Thomas Waters
  • Patent number: 8429095
    Abstract: A fluid delivery nozzle for wireless communication to either an active or a passive device located on a vehicle and for wireless communication from the fluid delivery nozzle to a central location for storage of vehicle data. Upon initiation of a fluid delivery transaction, a communication link is established between a vehicle communication device and the central location and between a fluid container of the vehicle and the fluid delivery nozzle. The information received from the vehicle and container is relayed to the central location to authorize delivery of a fluid to the vehicle. Information is also transferred from the central location back and forth to the fluid delivery nozzle to update and store information regarding the fluid delivery transaction. A keyboard and display are provided on the fluid delivery nozzle to provide an operator interface during the fluid delivery transaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Michael C. Ryan
  • Patent number: 8418732
    Abstract: Compressed gas delivery system and process for use thereof wherein compressed gases are withdrawn from compressed gas storage vessels, passed through pressure regulated flow control valves and critical flow venturis to control the mass flow rates of the compressed gases forming the blend of the compressed gases prior to dispending the blend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Perry Cohen