Drain Pan Or Drip Pan Patents (Class 220/571)
  • Patent number: 8210389
    Abstract: The present invention is a drain apparatus and method that is adapted to support a portable machine, the apparatus includes a housing with a base, and a surrounding sidewall extending from the base defining an interior. Further included is a margin platform that includes an inner and outer periphery, the outer periphery is adjacent to the surrounding sidewall, the margin platform is oppositely disposed from the base. Also included is a divider disposed adjacent to the inner periphery, the divider having a convex configuration facing the base, the margin platform and the divider separates the interior into a first region and a second region. The divider having an aperture for communication between the first and second regions, the housing having an opening between the second region and an exterior environment. The margin platform supports the portable machine that is suspended over the divider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: William Treslo
  • Publication number: 20120159981
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a drain pan that comprises a base pan section having a central air flow opening located therethough and an anchoring rim section located along the air flow opening. A condensate deflector is located at the air flow opening and at an end of the at least one anchoring rim section. The condensate deflector and anchoring rim section form a corner, wherein an upper portion of the corner extends along a same side of the opening as the anchoring rim section. The drain pan further comprises a condensate channel located between an outer perimeter of the base pan section and the condensate deflector. The condensate channel extends from one side of the base pan section to an opposing side of the base pan section. A method of fabricating the drain pan is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher D. Beck, Mike Denley
  • Patent number: 8177093
    Abstract: A paint tray and/or paint tray insert and method of manufacturing same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: John R. Paul
  • Patent number: 8171949
    Abstract: A fluid flow method and apparatus are described. The apparatus includes a trough coupled between tanks to provide an air flow down between the tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: WD Media, Inc.
    Inventors: Rhownica Lund, Andreas Parks, Matthew Hendrickson
  • Publication number: 20120061401
    Abstract: One embodiment of a hand-held, drip-catching food cup having a vessel (20) and a flange (22) that are joined along a contiguous connection (40) to form a drip-catching channel (24). The innermost rim (48) of said vessel functions as a scraping surface for the dispensing of food into said vessel. Said vessel and flange are rigidly connected, allowing them to function in one unit as a single cup. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Jennifer Mary Hansen
  • Publication number: 20120061400
    Abstract: The present invention is a paint chip and drip catching ladder accessory, which is used to prevent stray paint particles from hitting the surrounding area while painting. The present invention comprises a trough and two ladder attachments. The trough is used to catch both wet paint drops and dry paint chips from hitting the ground. The trough is also used to carry the stray paint particles to a wastebasket. Each of the ladder attachments have an insert that can be pushed into the outer side of a ladder, which allows the ladder attachments to be properly positioned along the ladder. The two ladder attachments extend away from the ladder in order to support the trough from the bottom. A plurality of grooves, which is located on the two ladder attachments, allows the trough to be adequately situated on the two ladder attachments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Christine RICE
  • Publication number: 20120055465
    Abstract: A condensate pan for a condensing furnace includes a main chamber to receive exhaust gases, a condensate trap separate from the main chamber and internal the condensate pan and a main drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventor: Tabraiz Ali KHAN
  • Patent number: 8104502
    Abstract: A drain water bacteriostatic structure for an air conditioner is provided with a drain pan 8 for holding drain water generated in an air conditioner 1 and an upright antibacterial member 50 which is provided in the drain pan 8. The antibacterial member 50 is provided with an antibacterial agent 50B. The length L3 of the antibacterial member 50 in the up-down direction is set such that the lower end portion 50a of the antibacterial member 50 is immersed in drain water when the drain water is at the minimum water level L1 in the drain pan 8, and the upper end portion 50b of the antibacterial member 50 is exposed above the maximum water level L2 of drain water in the drain pan 8 by a predetermined length H or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Haruo Nakata, Makio Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8104634
    Abstract: A drain pan and drainage system is herein disclosed. The drain pan includes a basin with a wall mount connected to the basin. A drain hole is formed in a bottom surface of the basin. The drain pan also includes at least one side panel connecting the basin and the wall mount. The drainage system includes a wall, drain pan and water containing device. The water containing device is mounted to the drain pan and both are mounted to the wall. The water containing device and drain pan are mounted in such a way that the water containing device is at least partially enclosed by the drain pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Matthew Scott Gregg, Franklin Shearwood Brizendine, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8100140
    Abstract: A multi-level fluid-collecting pan configured for placement under an upright cylindrical hot water heater tank and support thereof. It has a circular bottom surface integral with a raised central hub, multiple raised arcuate spokes extending outwardly from the hub, and multiple elevated risers extending from the perimeter wall toward the hub. A perimeter wall around the bottom surface defines a non-raised fluid-collecting area. Vibration isolators that support a hot water heater tank upon the risers maintain the tank above any accumulated water in the non-raised areas of the bottom surface. Low elevation risers in perpendicular orientation to some risers, a nesting configuration with mismatched indents, sturdy and impact-resistant materials, a drain opening in the perimeter wall, and an upturned lip extending upwardly from the perimeter wall, are also preferred. The hub, spokes, and risers cover much of the pan's bottom surface and force accumulated water toward the perimeter wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
  • Publication number: 20120000231
    Abstract: A drain pain is disclosed. The drain pain includes a base sheet, an extruded covering sheet coupled to the base sheet, the extrusion defining a tube cavity having a heat transfer surface, and a heat tube inserted into the tube cavity. The tube cavity has dimension such that the heat transfer surface is in contact with the heat tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: Refrigeration Kool-Air Inc.
    Inventor: Patrice LaFontaine
  • Patent number: 8087535
    Abstract: A serving receptacle dispenses food therefrom onto a diner's plate while overcoming the problem of food being dropped onto the table during dispensing. At least one dispensing ramp is coextensive with the serving dish upper surface and extends upward and horizontally over the edge of a diner's plate. Each ramp has two opposed side edges that extend upwardly from the ramp surface to reduce the chances of food or fluid dropping off the ramp during dispensing. The food is moved onto the ramp and then past the leading edge of the ramp, where it will then fall onto the diner's plate. There may be two opposed ramps that also serve as handles. The ramps have an upper surface that is slightly sloped upwardly as it approaches the outer edge of the ramp. This enables liquids to flow back into the dish instead of dripping over the edge. A drip projection under the free edge of the ramp causes liquid at the edge to drip down onto the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Alvin S. Blum
  • Patent number: 8066145
    Abstract: The invention is a device that is designed to keep foods placed within it cold and the bugs away. The invention has a tub made out of a double layer of plastic. The tub has a drain in the bottom so water from melting ice can be drained off. The double walled construction is design to allow the tub to sit on a flat surface but still allow liquid to be removed by the drain. The tub also contains indentions in the bottom for the placement of the top tubes of a stand. On top of the tub is placed a covering that makes a quarter circle and covers the top. The covering is attached to the tub and stays in place when the tub is in use. The covering can be rotated for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: Cheryl Durbin, David H. Durbin
  • Publication number: 20110259893
    Abstract: The present invention is a drain apparatus and method that is adapted to support a portable machine, the apparatus includes a housing with a base, and a surrounding sidewall extending from the base defining an interior. Further included is a margin platform that includes an inner and outer periphery, the outer periphery is adjacent to the surrounding sidewall, the margin platform is oppositely disposed from the base. Also included is a divider disposed adjacent to the inner periphery, the divider having a convex configuration facing the base, the margin platform and the divider separates the interior into a first region and a second region. The divider having an aperture for communication between the first and second regions, the housing having an opening between the second region and an exterior environment. The margin platform supports the portable machine that is suspended over the divider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: William Treslo
  • Patent number: 8038814
    Abstract: A mat, to be placed beneath an appliance, has a base layer, preferably made of cardboard, a liquid-resistant layer, preferably of plastic, and a layer of batting. The layers are held together by a peripheral rim. The periphery of the mat includes straight and curved portions, such that when two similarly constructed mats are placed in abutment, the curved portions define areas not covered by the mats. Thus, the mats can be placed under an appliance, without disturbing the legs of the appliance, while still covering a majority of the area under the appliance. The mats provide containment for spills of liquid from the appliance, and also define barriers for deflecting food items which might otherwise become lodged beneath the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas J. Cyprich
  • Patent number: 8038027
    Abstract: The fuel cap includes an outer cap as an outer envelope, an inner cap removably fitted in the outer cap through an opening therein, a canister located in a space between the outer cap and the inner cap for adsorbing a vaporized fuel. The fuel cap closes a fuel filler port for feeding a fuel to a fuel tank. The canister adsorbs a vaporized fuel vaporized from the fuel in the fuel tank. At least one of the outer cap and the inner cap defines a communication hole communicating with the space and an exterior. The canister includes a housing; and an adsorbent accommodated therein. The housing defines, on an end surface directed to the inner cap, an inlet for vaporized fuel and on another end surface directed to the outer cap, an outlet for gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Toyo Roki Seizo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Ohsawa, Takashi Sakagami
  • Publication number: 20110223292
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a system and apparatus for holding frozen confections, and for catching and storing the drips or melting confection that results therefrom. The present invention includes a handle and a bowl or funnel-shaped drip catching member, the drip catching member including at least one drip slit or opening for allowing drips to migrate from the drip catching member down into an internal reservoir located within the handle. The internal reservoir stores the drips until emptied. The drip slits or openings are positioned within a drip-pass-through region of the drip catching member for allowing the drips to more efficiently migrate into the reservoir regardless of the angle at which the frozen confection holder is held.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Julie Kushner, Dara Wade
  • Patent number: 8016150
    Abstract: A grease disposal and storage system for the efficient and safe disposal of hot grease and unhealthy fats from food items. The grease disposal and storage system generally includes a container including a cavity, wherein the cavity is defined within the container. A receptacle is positioned within the cavity of the container. A support is positioned within the cavity, wherein the support is positioned near an opening of the receptacle. A funnel is positioned within the cavity, wherein the funnel is stabilized by the support. The funnel is aligned with the opening of the receptacle so as to guide a disposable substance through the funnel and into the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventors: James H. Bunch, Danny R. Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 8002147
    Abstract: A drip tray trap divides a cavity of the drip tray into an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber. The trap includes perforations to permit the passage of liquids, and to restrict the movement of foreign objects and ice cubes to a drip tray outlet, thereby removing the possibility the foreign objects and ice cubes clogging a drip tray drain. The trap includes at least one angled engagement surface and at least one angled engagement surface. The angle of the engagement surfaces forces the ice cubes and foreign objects to move to lowest positions of the inlet chamber. The rerouted ice cubes melt and move through the perforations of the trap, thereby entering the outlet chamber and moving to the drip tray outlet. In a second embodiment, the trap includes handling features to facilitate the insertion and removal of the trap from the cavity of the drip tray for sanitizing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Lancer Partnership, Ltd.
    Inventors: Leroy Levert Wells, Michael Troy Stuebs
  • Patent number: 7992586
    Abstract: A receptacle for catching and retaining unwanted liquids dropped by a spigot or nozzle. The receptacle is configured to hang on the spigot of a liquid dispenser such as a coffee urn, a water cooler, and the like. Because of the unique configuration of the opening in the back of the device, the device self levels, has the capability of more secure attachment to the liquid dispenser and prevents any unwanted liquids from escaping through the back opening thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Teresa Bovee
  • Patent number: 7938288
    Abstract: An auxiliary drain pan for catching liquid that leaks or overflows from an appliance, system or machinery includes a central well and a pan plate surrounding the central well. The pan plate has a top surface that is sloped downwardly towards the central well such that, when the drain pan is operatively positioned on a generally horizontal plane, liquid on the top surface flows into the confined area of the well, thereby minimizing the weight of liquid collected in the drain pan. The well includes a drain line connection port and a removable wall segment for optional attachment of a water detection device. Parallel score lines in the pan plate, extending both longitudinally and transversely on all sides, define removable areas for adjustment of the overall size and shape of the drain pan, thereby allowing for customized sizing at the installation site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: MSD Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart P. Oakner, Donna Ellen Oakner
  • Patent number: 7934516
    Abstract: This patent discloses a collection system to collect dripped leakage from a toilet discharge flow. The dripped leakage may be from a toilet sealed by a wax ring. The collection system may include a collector, a drain tube, and a catch bottle. The collector may consist of a funnel positioned vertically between a mounting flange and a kick-up. A spout may extend from the funnel at an acute angle to the mounting flange. A wastewater pipe may connect through a center of the kick-up so that a portion of the wastewater pipe resides within a funnel interior of the funnel and a remaining portion resides below the kick-up and outside of the funnel interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Phillip B. Jaynes
  • Patent number: 7921884
    Abstract: An injection-molded load line connection spillage container for catching and retaining liquid spilled when liquids are pumped between storage tanks and tankers provides an injection-molded reservoir and an injection-molded cover attached to the reservoir by hinges. Reinforcing ribs molded into the reservoir provide strength and ruggedness without the need for reinforcing steel collars and saddles. Gussets molded into the reservoir hinge brackets ensure repeated stresses produced by energetic opening of the cover does not result in failure of the hinge brackets. An optional load line mounting assembly permits secure mounting of the load line container directly onto the load line. An optional cleanout assembly provides a valved suction line for removing retained spillage, and an optional sampling assembly provides a valved sample line for sampling the liquid being transferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Anti-Pollution Technology, L.P.
    Inventors: Jack G. Brewer, Steven L. Shroyer, Darrel B. Fruit, Darrel G. Fruit
  • Publication number: 20110079598
    Abstract: A vented transfer container for household and yard waste is provided that includes ventilation openings to prevent the formation of a vacuum between contents and container upon transfer of contents to a collection bag. An alternative embodiment comprises an internal drain cup that closes the vents in the upright position and collects drainage from the waste, seals in odors and keeps out insects while gravity and vacuum cause the internal drain cup to open the vent openings when the container is inverted for transfer of waste. Alternately, the drain cup is external and comprises extraction handles. Still further, vents may be internal channels within the walls of the transfer container making the container leak-proof. Suction holes in the outer container wall near the rim keep the collection bag in contact with the container wall during transfer so that the collection bag remains open without user intervention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventors: Alexander Bally, Larry Christy
  • Patent number: 7918429
    Abstract: A horizontal fuel tank support system for efficiently supporting a propane tank above the ground. The horizontal fuel tank support system generally includes a support pad including an internal cavity, wherein the internal cavity extends throughout the support pad and wherein the support pad is comprised of an elongated configuration, a platform defining at least a portion of an upper surface of the elongated support pad, wherein the platform extends along a longitudinal axis of the elongated support pad, and an internal ribbing structure extending within the internal cavity and beneath the platform. The internal ribbing structure includes a plurality of outer ribbing portions and an inner ribbing portion, wherein the inner ribbing portion is connected between the plurality of outer ribbing portions. The inner ribbing portion is comprised of a less dense structure than the plurality of outer ribbing portions to distribute the weight of the propane tank directly below the legs of the propane tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce Kleespie
  • Patent number: 7900795
    Abstract: A rugged pan for supporting a fluid-producing unit in fluid collection and overflow applications. The pan has an integrated support system for enhanced material strength, which reduces cracking and premature failure during installation and extended periods of use. Strengthening features include perimeter grommets, angled corners, at least three elongated and longitudinally-extending center supports each having a non-linear perimeter configuration, a corrugated array of laterally-extending uppercuts and undercuts substantially across the pan, and a stress-transferring member connected between adjacent non-linear supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
  • Publication number: 20110042385
    Abstract: The present invention is a drain apparatus and method that is adapted to support a portable machine, the apparatus includes a housing with a base, and a surrounding sidewall extending from the base defining an interior. Further included is a margin platform that includes an inner and outer periphery, the outer periphery is adjacent to the surrounding sidewall, the margin platform is oppositely disposed from the base. Also included is a divider disposed adjacent to the inner periphery, the divider having a convex configuration facing the base, the margin platform and the divider separates the interior into a first region and a second region. The divider having an aperture for communication between the first and second regions, the housing having an opening between the second region and an exterior environment. The margin platform supports the portable machine that is suspended over the divider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: William Treslo
  • Patent number: 7891635
    Abstract: An equipment pad for a condensing unit including a base and at least one substantially hollow riser affixed to the base, wherein the at least one substantially hollow riser extends substantially vertically from the base to support the condensing unit. The equipment pad may be stackable or nestable with a second equipment pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: J.F.R. Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Jay R. Rowland
  • Patent number: 7823744
    Abstract: A storage container for water-endangering liquids comprises a leakage detection and restraint system. The storage container provides a container that allows for a short-notice alarm system and that minimizes the collection volume, that is to ensure that the water-endangering liquid spreads as little as possible, as well as to reduce construction and maintenance costs. The storage container is characterized by the following features: a gutter (4) surrounding the tank (13) that is directly contiguous with the outer wall (2) of the storage container and that collects leaked liquid, at least one gutter outlet (14), at least one liquid collection container (6), and at least one detection system (12) for the water-endangering liquids. The gutter outlet (14) is adapted to guide the liquid collected in the gutter (4) to the liquid collection container (6) that is provided with the detection system (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Ruhr Oel GmbH
    Inventors: Norbert Nagler, Reiner Stolze, Werner Wychlacz
  • Publication number: 20100243661
    Abstract: A device for containing the spillage of water from an appliance such as a clothes washing machines, dishwashing machines, water heaters, water softeners, water coolers, refrigerators with water supply and other appliances, comprising, a tray having at least one wall and adapted to receive and support the appliance, drainage means in water-tight engagement with the walled tray and a seal engaged with the at least one wall and adapted to engage the appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Ken Upham
  • Publication number: 20100212349
    Abstract: Refrigeration device comprising a water filter, which is housed in a central cavity of a coil condenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Ihle, Andreas Kempte
  • Patent number: 7757705
    Abstract: This is a leak pan device designed to prevent internal damage to cabinetry caused by faulty plumbing, and also by various kinds of construction debris. It has a flat bottom and one or more raised edges to contain leakage, direct it in a prescribed course through a drain or depression in a raised edge, or both. The leak pan device is easily fitted and placed beneath plumbing under kitchen, bathroom and all other plumbing areas such that the leak pan contains leaking water thereby preventing damage including rotted wood, mold build-up and warped cabinet materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Frank Carter
  • Patent number: 7748562
    Abstract: Container device for an environmental humidity absorber with an anti-spill system which comprises A lower receptable to collect saline liquid with a recessed rib that fits into a peripheral flange in an outer part of a wall of a tray for hygroscopic material, disposed over the upper edge of the receptable; A drainage tube that extends vertically inserted in a central drainage hole of the receptable embedded into the base of the tray An upper lid with ventilation holes, a lateral peripheral flap over the tray wall and with a lower peripheral flange Recessed projections that fit into the complementary openings of respective horizontal recessed tongues that emerge from opposite sides of the lid, emerge from at least two respective opposing segments of the wall of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Top Grade, S.L.
    Inventor: Eva Schmidt Dios
  • Publication number: 20100154926
    Abstract: An injection-molded load line connection spillage container for catching and retaining liquid spilled when liquids are pumped between storage tanks and tankers provides an injection-molded reservoir and an injection-molded cover attached to the reservoir by hinges. Reinforcing ribs molded into the reservoir provide strength and ruggedness without the need for reinforcing steel collars and saddles. Gussets molded into the reservoir hinge brackets ensure repeated stresses produced by energetic opening of the cover does not result in failure of the hinge brackets. An optional load line mounting assembly permits secure mounting of the load line container directly onto the load line. An optional cleanout assembly provides a valved suction line for removing retained spillage, and an optional sampling assembly provides a valved sample line for sampling the liquid being transferred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Jack G. Brewer, Steven L. Shroyer, Darrel B. Fruit, Darrel G. Fruit
  • Patent number: 7737372
    Abstract: A scale assembly for weighing potentially hazardous materials comprise a containment deck designed to support a container from which materials are dispensed. The containment deck is preferably provided with sufficient storage capacity to capture spillage or leaks from the container and is supported on a low-profile platform supported in turn by load cells which generate signals indicative of the weight of the contents of the container and of any spillage within the containment deck. The containment deck is further equipped with a level detector typically positioned near the bottom of the deck for generating signals indicating the presence of leakage or spillage from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Scaletron Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Edward M. Dougherty, Jr., Edward M. Dougherty, III
  • Patent number: 7735510
    Abstract: This is a leak pan device designed to prevent internal damage to cabinetry caused by faulty plumbing, and also by various kinds of construction debris. It is composed of two or more parts that fit adjustably together to form a pan that has a flat bottom and one or more raised edges to contain leakage, direct it in a prescribed course through a drain or depression in a raised edge, or both. The leak pan device is easily fitted and placed beneath plumbing under kitchen, bathroom and all other plumbing areas such that the leak pan contains leaking water thereby preventing damage including rotted wood, mold build-up and warped cabinet materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Frank L. Carter
  • Patent number: 7730902
    Abstract: Disclosed is a modular spill containment rail system for containing a hazardous spilled substance from at least one battery. The system has a plurality of containment rails that are connectable to one another to define a perimeter around the battery. Each rail has at least one wall with a first end and a second end. At least one male connection device orthogonally protrudes from the first end and at least one female opening may be provided in the second end. A first end of a first rail may be removably received within a second end of second rail. Upon connecting the rails, at least a part of the first end of the first rail may be in an overlapping relationship with the second end of the second rail. A method for assembling a system and a containment system with a flexible liner and a neutralizing material are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Enviroguard
    Inventor: Douglas Frazier
  • Patent number: 7726620
    Abstract: A vertical fuel tank support system for efficiently supporting a vertical propane tank above the ground. The vertical fuel tank support system generally includes a support pad including an internal cavity, wherein the internal cavity extends throughout the support pad, an inner platform defining a first portion of an upper surface of the elongated support pad, wherein the inner platform is comprised of circular configuration, an outer platform defining a second portion of an upper surface of the elongated support pad, wherein the outer platform is comprised of circular configuration and an internal ribbing structure extending within the internal cavity and beneath the inner platform and the outer platform. The internal ribbing structure includes a first ribbing portion and a second ribbing portion, wherein the first ribbing portion interconnects with the second ribbing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce Kleespie
  • Publication number: 20100124507
    Abstract: A fluid catchment system for a wind turbine is provided. The wind turbine has a nacelle mounted to a tower. The fluid catchment system includes at least one fluid accumulator in fluid communication with the interior of the nacelle and configured to receive fluid exiting from the nacelle. The fluid accumulator is configured to be positioned at least partially beneath the nacelle and to be attached to at least one of the tower and the nacelle. An oil absorbent material may be retained by the fluid accumulator. A fluid collector may be provided to collect fluid from the fluid accumulator. A fluid catchment system having a fluid accumulator located on a wind turbine blade is also provided. Further, a wind turbine including a fluid catchment system is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Jack Wallace, Mark Dawson
  • Patent number: 7673658
    Abstract: An injection-molded load line connection spillage container for catching and retaining liquid spilled when liquids are pumped between storage tanks and tankers provides an injection-molded reservoir and an injection-molded cover attached to the reservoir by hinges. Reinforcing ribs molded into the reservoir provide strength and ruggedness without the need for reinforcing steel collars and saddles. Gussets molded into the reservoir hinge brackets ensure repeated stresses produced by energetic opening of the cover does not result in failure of the hinge brackets. An optional load line mounting assembly permits secure mounting of the load line container directly onto the load line. An optional cleanout assembly provides a valved suction line for removing retained spillage, and an optional sampling assembly provides a valved sample line for sampling the liquid being transferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Jack G. Brewer, Steven L. Shroyer, Darrel B. Fruit, Darrel G. Fruit
  • Patent number: 7673646
    Abstract: A fluid-collection pan configured for supporting a unit or system responsible for fluid damage risk to its surroundings. Multiple large egg-shaped supports upwardly extend from the pan's bottom surface and are integrated with it. They also each have an arcuate top surface that is transformed into an elliptical base as it meets the pan's bottom surface. Each support also has an upwardly-tapering protrusion with a convexly-shaped top edge that extends centrally from one of the longer sides of the elliptical base toward the support's top surface. The protrusion and the narrow sides of the elliptical base form a substantially triangular shape, which broadens the weight distribution of the supported fluid-causing unit across the pan's bottom surface. The top surface of each support also has a central indentation configured for receipt of a vibration isolator that provides contact with the supported unit. Optional stress-transmitting ribs may extend between adjacent egg-shaped supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
  • Publication number: 20100018980
    Abstract: An auxiliary drain pan for catching liquid that leaks or overflows from an appliance, system or machinery includes a central well and a pan plate surrounding the central well. The pan plate has a top surface that is sloped downwardly towards the central well such that, when the drain pan is operatively positioned on a generally horizontal plane, liquid on the top surface flows into the confined area of the well, thereby minimizing the weight of liquid collected in the drain pan. The well includes a drain line connection port and a removable wall segment for optional attachment of a water detection device. Parallel score lines in the pan plate, extending both longitudinally and transversely on all sides, define removable areas for adjustment of the overall size and shape of the drain pan, thereby allowing for customized sizing at the installation site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Stuart P. Oakner, Donna Ellen Oakner
  • Patent number: 7637387
    Abstract: A one-size-fits-all pan configured for supporting a fluid-producing unit. It has a perimeter wall spaced apart from a raised central structure to provide a moat-like area for flow of collected fluid toward a wall-mounted shut-off switch. When a desired maximum amount of fluid collection is exceeded, an electrical signal is sent to stop fluid production. The raised central structure comprises a hub with radially-extending ribs that each widens into a bent distal end having non-uniform height and width dimensions, and top indentations for receipt of vibration isolators that support the fluid-producing unit at a height above that of the perimeter wall. The non-raised areas around the ribs are all connected to the moat-like area to facilitate even fluid distribution within the pan. The pan further has an up-turned perimeter lip, staggered gussets, and angled corners for added strength, and may optionally have a nesting configuration for compact storage and transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
  • Patent number: 7621422
    Abstract: A spill containment assembly includes a support structure or grate, and a flexible containment bag disposed beneath, and secured to, the grate. Fluid filled containers are placed on the grate. The bag defines an available containment volume sufficient to retain a quantity of liquid stored within the containers supported by the grate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Polyflex, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Timothy D. Reed, Douglas M. Horner, Thomas G. Carter, Scott Janda
  • Publication number: 20090261108
    Abstract: The operation of certain appliances and machinery includes the flow of water through the appliance or storage of fluid within the appliance, leading to the risk of significant fluid leakage. An overflow pan may be provided beneath the appliance to contain any fluid leakage. The overflow pan may include a movable portion which is configured to permit passage of a horizontally-extending portion of the appliance, such as a drawer. This movable member may be biased to return to a closed position when the horizontally-extending portion of the appliance is retracted, so as to form a fluid-retaining seal with the remainder of the overflow pan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Leonard Steinberg
  • Publication number: 20090261109
    Abstract: A drain pan including a reservoir, a tray extendable from the oil pan, retractable legs of the bottom of the reservoir and a drain near the bottom of the reservoir. When oil is being drained into the reservoir, the tray catches spills and channels spilled liquid into the reservoir. When the reservoir is to be emptied, the legs are extended, allowing simplified flow from the drain to a storage container for used drained fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Hameed N. Mirza
  • Publication number: 20090218367
    Abstract: A drip tray trap divides a cavity of the drip tray into an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber. The trap includes perforations to permit the passage of liquids, and to restrict the movement of foreign objects and ice cubes to a drip tray outlet, thereby removing the possibility the foreign objects and ice cubes clogging a drip tray drain. The trap includes at least one angled engagement surface and at least one angled engagement surface. The angle of the engagement surfaces forces the ice cubes and foreign objects to move to lowest positions of the inlet chamber. The rerouted ice cubes melt and move through the perforations of the trap, thereby entering the outlet chamber and moving to the drip tray outlet. In a second embodiment, the trap includes handling features to facilitate the insertion and removal of the trap from the cavity of the drip tray for sanitizing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Leroy Levert Wells, Michael Troy Stuebs
  • Publication number: 20090212057
    Abstract: A frame assembly for anchoring a containment box with a top opening in a surrounding driveway surface and for removably attaching one of a plurality of different product dispensers to the containment box. The frame assembly includes an anchor frame attached to the top opening of the containment box wherein the anchor frame is configured to be removably attached to any one of a plurality of different dispenser frames and a dispenser frame removably attached to the anchor frame, the dispenser frame including a plurality of frame walls having a frame area larger than an area of the top opening of the containment box such that the frame walls define an offset opening adjacent to the top opening of the containment box, wherein the dispenser frame is adapted to be mounted to one of the plurality of different product dispensers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Sergio M. Bravo, Don K. Mukai
  • Patent number: 7533685
    Abstract: An apparatus for collecting lubricant, such as from a vacuum pump, is disclosed. In certain embodiments the apparatus includes a cabinet for retaining a vacuum pump and a variable depth basin beneath the cabinet for collecting lubricant from a vacuum pump. In specific implementations the variable depth basin is deepest proximate the front of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Dallas Ricker, Viet X. Nguyen, Bernard John Permar, Jerome M. Szczepaniak, Lindy T. Miller, Eric Alan Schneider, Bill Van Ocker
  • Patent number: 7530366
    Abstract: An cabinet for retaining a vacuum pump. The cabinet includes, in certain embodiments, removable access panels that allow access to the interior of the cabinet and to a vacuum pump placed within the cabinet. In certain embodiments the cabinet includes a top surface and at least one side surface. Portions of these top and side surfaces are removable from the cabinet to allow access to a vacuum pump that can be placed within the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Dallas Ricker, Viet X. Nguyen, Bernard John Permar, Jerome M. Szczepaniak, Lindy T. Miller, Eric A. Schneider, Bill Van Ocker