Ambulant Patents (Class 222/608)
  • Patent number: 5921445
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable dispenser of potable liquid, and includes an insulated container for storing the liquid, and a secondary container connected to the insulated container. A pump is positioned in either the insulated container or the secondary container, and has a suction conduit that extends to the bottom of the insulated container. The pump also has a discharge conduit that is connected to a manifold in the secondary container. A plurality of liquid dispensing conduits are connected to the manifold for communication with the discharge conduit. Each of the liquid dispensing conduits extends from the manifold through a dispenser opening in the secondary container. Means for also provided for activating the pump whereby the liquid stored in the insulated container is delivered to the dispensing conduits via the discharge conduit and the manifold for consumption by a plurality of users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventors: Jon E. Schmitz, Jeffrey B. Howlett
  • Patent number: 5915602
    Abstract: A portable bar capable of having its customer counter either slid backward and the overhanging portion pivoted downward or, alternately, completely removed from a base cabinet in order to allow the portable bar to reduce in width in order to allow it to be rolled through a standard size door frame. The base of the portable bar has a lighted work surface, top opening ice storage bin, and a slanted tower for dispensing cold beer or other beverages on tap. The base of the portable bar also has concealed storage for a CO.sub.2 gas bottle, one or more kegs of beer or other beverages, a weight measuring system for indicating the amount of beer or other beverages remaining within each keg, electrical and water supply connections, a refrigeration unit and a liquid waste storage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Andrew Douglas Nelson
  • Patent number: 5897038
    Abstract: A utility wagon or toy version thereof for containing a source of dispensable liquid and having a pump mounted in the wagon for pressurizing the source of liquid by actuating a reciprocally movable handle, and a wand connected to the source of liquid for selectively dispensing the liquid under pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Jeff D. Myers
  • Patent number: 5894955
    Abstract: A drinking system having a pneumatically charged container, a flow regulating manifold cap, a pull-valve, and nozzle. The flow regulating cap allows the pressurized container to deliver liquid with essentially constant flow as the air expands to fill the volume of the container. The nozzle may be mounted on the handlebars of a bicycle, and when the pull-valve is actuated, directs a liquid stream toward the cyclist's mouth. When on rough terrain, the nozzle may extend from its normal position and be placed between the cyclist's teeth or directed at the cyclist's mouth using a helmet mounted extension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Garrigues
  • Patent number: 5893398
    Abstract: A system and method for servicing aircraft on a flight line away from a maintenance terminal comprises a first set of vehicles for servicing the aircraft directly and a second set of vehicles for servicing the service vehicles. The first set of vehicles requires fuel and oil in order to operate; the second set brings fuel and oil to the first set to make it unnecessary for the first set to halt aircraft servicing in order to return to the terminal. The second set of vehicles includes a trailer with three tanks, one for jet fuel, one for diesel fuel and one for oil. The tanks are placed on a catch basin carried on a trailer. Each has a tapered bottom with a drain and an inlet port at the top with a funnel-shaped collar. Each tank also carries its own transfer hose with a manual pump and has a sight guage, ground cable, lifting rings and lifting handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: Detrolia Garrett, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5878925
    Abstract: A portable drywall joint compound pump workstation supplies joint compound to a workstation outlet that is conveniently located. The workstation includes a joint compound supply reservoir having an open top, a pump that pumps joint compound from the supply reservoir, a portable cart that supports the supply reservoir and the pump, and a removable transport tube that feeds joint compound from the pump to the workstation outlet. With the transport tube in place the workstation outlet is held in a relatively stable position in the vicinity of the open top of the supply reservoir. The pump is located below the joint compound supply reservoir, and is a gravity-fed, pneumatic diaphragm pump. The pump inlet is connected to the bottom of the supply reservoir and the pump outlet is located beneath the pump inlet. The pump is thus self-draining. A compressed air manifold assembly including a plurality of compressed air supply ports is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Apla-Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Denkins, Steven J. Mondlock
  • Patent number: 5873500
    Abstract: A cart is provided for delivering fluid to vehicles including aircraft. The fluid can be, e.g., engine oil or hydraulic fluid. The cart has a tank, mounted to a carriage mounted in turn to carrying wheels. The cart has as a dispensing means, a hose ending in a nozzle. Fluid, e.g. oil is added to the tank, followed by an inert gas, e.g., N.sub.2, which pressurizes the tank to about 120 psi. The cart is wheeled to an aircraft and oil delivered to its engines through the dispense means. Such delivery system replaces delivery by quart cans or by mechanical pumps, which have had inefficiency, waste and contaminant drawbacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Richard W. Homburg, Jay A. Murray
  • Patent number: 5692647
    Abstract: This invention relates to solar power systems for self-contained fueling stations. More particularly, this invention concerns the attachment to and above such a fueling station of a post-mounted solar power system, including a solar array providing shade for a shielded box holding a battery and a power control system with a wireless-remote-controlled safety power cutoff system. Such post and solar power system may be folded down adjacent the fueling station, thus enabling easier transport of the fueling station. The safety power cutoff system includes a series of relay switches for disabling key-switch control of a fuel pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Richard G. Brodie
  • Patent number: 5667113
    Abstract: A wheeled fuel tank includes an elongated container having a hollow interior enclosed by a bottom wall, two side walls, a front wall, a back wall and a top wall. A fill spout is disposed on the container for filling the container with a fuel. A first opening is located in the container for allowing an outflow of the fuel. A reinforcing chamber extends through the container from the front wall to the back wall for restricting an expansion of the container and increasing its strength. An axle is rotatably mounted on the back wall of the container and a respective one of a pair of wheels is mounted on a respective end of the axle for enabling the container to be wheeled to a desired location. Preferably the container also includes a handle which is integrally mounted thereon. The handle can include first and second rearwardly extending ears, which are defined by the rear wall and a respective one of the side walls of the container, and a crossbar extending between the ears and being of one piece therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Tempo Products Company
    Inventors: John F. Clarke, Ronald R. Eureka
  • Patent number: 5638991
    Abstract: A bottled water dispenser is similar in size to those available on the market today. An upright five gallon bottle slides onto a dolly and is held fast to the dolly by a stretch cord. The dolly with bottle is wheeled into the bottom of the dispenser. Alternately, the dispensing system may be assembled upon the dolly itself. A tube with a rubber stopper at one end and a check valve at the other end is inserted into the bottle. Pushing a button on the face plate of the dispenser cabinet activates an internal electric pump. The pump draws water from the bottle through the check valve and forces it out of the spigot under pressure. Internal solenoid valves force the water through a heating unit, cooling unit or filtration system before exiting through the spigot. Each temperature is achieved by pushing a different colored button on the face plate. The dispenser operates on 240 V AC, 120 V AC or 12 V DC. It has a built in auxiliary battery back up in the event of power outages or for portable use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventors: Terry J. Todden, Richard A. Thornberry
  • Patent number: 5628431
    Abstract: A portable holding and mixing tank system for at least two dissimilar liquids includes a tank having at least two fluid-isolated holding compartments (e.g., separate tank units or a dividing wall within the tank interior space) for holding a respective one of the dissimilar liquids. A manifold assembly defines respective channels for the dissimilar liquids and for pressurizing fluid supplied from a source thereof. The liquid and pressurizing fluid channels are fluid-connected to each of the holding compartments. A pressurizing supply conduit fluid-connects the source of pressurizing fluid to pressurizing fluid channel, while liquid supply risers respectively fluid connect the dissimilar liquids contained in each of the holding compartments to the liquid channel defined by the manifold assembly. A liquid discharge port fluid-connects the liquid channel defined by the manifold assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew N. Roach, Neil Stapensea, Jon Webster
  • Patent number: 5615447
    Abstract: A portable cleaning container assembly having a foot activated valve assembly for selectively opening and closing a drain opening disposed in the bucket bottom wall. A directing member secured to the bucket bottom wall assists in directing the discharging cleaning solution from the drain opening to a floor drain or other drain means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products Inc.
    Inventors: Doug Hardesty, William A. LaFollette, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5611462
    Abstract: A portable cleaning device dispenses at least a first cleaning fluid and a second cleaning fluid. The device includes at least two user controllable fluid dispensing devices, a frame means, a first fluid reservoir for holding the first cleaning fluid, a first pump for pumping the first cleaning fluid from the first reservoir, and a first manifold for receiving the first cleaning fluid from the first pump, and distributing it to a first line set comprising a plurality of lines. The lines deliver the first cleaning fluid to the fluid dispensing devices. A second fluid reservoir holds a second cleaning fluid, such as water, and delivers it to a second pump which pumps the second cleaning fluid to a second manifold. The second manifold includes a plurality of exit ports for distributing the second fluid to a plurality of second lines which deliver the second cleaning fluid to the fluid dispensing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: Pure Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Barkes
  • Patent number: 5593070
    Abstract: An elongate, closed, fiberglass tank of round or oval cross-section is mounted horizontally on a truck frame. An opening is provided in the bottom portion of the tank wall. A fiberglass sump projects downwardly from the opening and is joined with the bottom wall portion along the periphery of the opening. Liquid may drain from the tank compartment through the opening into the sump. The sump has a generally vertical wall segment at one end. The wall segment faces sideways and forms an outlet. The outlet is positioned above the rails of the truck frame. A discharge assembly, comprising a valve and piping, is connected to the vertical wall segment, communicates with the outlet and extends horizontally above the frame to the side of the tank. By incorporating this design, the tank can be positioned close to the frame and its discharge assembly still remains clear of the frame. The center of gravity of the tank is relatively low and the truck is less likely to overturn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Quicksilver Manufacturing Ltd.
    Inventor: Gary E. Steadman
  • Patent number: 5584256
    Abstract: A tool, for placement of predetermined amounts of granular fertilizer into the soil in a consolidated mass, provides an elongate body with a handle structure in its upper portion and a tubular fertilizer reservoir in its lower portion. The fertilizer reservoir defines an open upper portion for filling and slidably carries an associated tube for adjustment of the volume of a fertilizer charge. An angulated bottom portion of the reservoir allows insertion into the earth and carries a pivotally articulated cover to allow opening of the bottom portion of the reservoir for dispersement of a fertilizer charge. The lower medial portion of the tool body provides a pivotally mounted foot support to aid insertion of the fertilizer reservoir into the earth. Dispersement structure communicates from the pivotally articulated reservoir cover to the handle structure for opening of the cover from the handle area for dispersement of fertilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas E. Fleming
  • Patent number: 5573066
    Abstract: A remote fuel station designed for fuelling of equipment in potentially hazardous situations such as in mines comprises an enclosed container that is adapted to receive a fuel tank or bladder and which includes a containment volume capable of holding the entire contents of the tank or bladder in the event of rupture of the latter. The station also includes a door arrangement adapted to effectively seal the interior to cut off air supply if a fire should develop, and also includes a sprinkler system or a chemical fire suppressant arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Valcom Mechanical Limited
    Inventors: Greg Vaillancourt, Donald Sissons
  • Patent number: 5556012
    Abstract: A portable vessel for containment of environmentally sensitive materials during transportation thereof, and during discharge thereof, comprising a sealable vessel having capability of holding a negative pressure, and including a filter system for drawing out gasses contained in said vessel, and a dual auger vessel discharge system to remove the material from the vessel without the necessity of human contact therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas N. Ramey
  • Patent number: 5553749
    Abstract: A self-contained beverage dispensing system configured for portable or fixed installations. The beverage system is designed to dispense carbonated and noncarbonated mixed beverages, as well as any carbonated and noncarbonated unmixed beverages in liquid form. In particular, the self-contained beverage dispensing system includes a cabinet and a refillable source of CO.sub.2 gas under pressure disposed in the cabinet. A water storage tank is provided for providing flat water and includes a water insolation member, such as a diaphragm, for dividing the water storage tank into a water storage portion and a separate portion, the separate portion designed for either accepting pressurized CO.sub.2 gas or for housing a compression spring for biasing the diaphragm so as to force the flat water out of the water storage portion. An isolation storage tank is provided for storing a non-carbonated beverage. The internal construction of the isolation storage tank is similar to that of the water storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: S.O.B. Partnership
    Inventors: Edward N. Oyler, Harold F. Stover
  • Patent number: 5544791
    Abstract: A grease pumping assembly includes a drum for receiving grease therein, the drum has a central hole defined in a bottom thereof and is disposed to a base, the base having a first recess, a second recess and a second hole defined therein, the first recess communicating with the central hole of the drum and a motor disposed with the second recess, a first hole defined in the base and communicating with the first recess, a bottom plate disposed to a bottom of the base and the bottom plate having a reduction device disposed therein which is engaged to the motor and the reduction device having an eccentric rod inserted into the second hole of the base for being engaged to a pushing rod, the pushing rod movably disposed between the second hole and the first recess such that the grease drops into the first recess via the central hole of the drum and is pumped by the pushing rod through a first hole defined in the base to a grease gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventor: Chen-keng Chih
  • Patent number: 5494191
    Abstract: A container and dispenser for fluids, especially hydraulic and engine oil fluids for aircraft. The container, which is preferably made of a recyclable polymer such as high density polyethylene, is rectangularly parallepipedal, with a crowned top to minimize contamination by water or particulate matter. A pump is mounted on the top of the container, and various filters, check valves, and quick disconnect couplings are provided to further minimize contamination. In use, the container is mounted on a 2-wheeled cart that is especially designed to accommodate it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Core Incorporated
    Inventor: Robert D. Benson
  • Patent number: 5411179
    Abstract: A self-contained beverage dispensing system configured for portable or fixed installations. The beverage system is designed to dispense carbonated and noncarbonated mixed beverages, as well as any carbonated and noncarbonated unmixed beverages in liquid form. In particular, the self-contained beverage dispensing system includes a cabinet and a refillable source of CO.sub.2 gas under pressure disposed in the cabinet. A water storage tank is provided for providing flat water and includes a water insolation member, such as a diaphragm, for dividing the water storage tank into a water storage portion and a separate portion, the separate portion designed for either accepting pressurized CO.sub.2 gas or for housing a compression spring for biasing the diaphragm so as to force the flat water out of the water storage portion. An isolation storage tank is provided for storing a non-carbonated beverage. The internal construction of the isolation storage tank is similar to that of the water storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: S.O.B. Partnership
    Inventors: Edward N. Oyler, Harold F. Stover
  • Patent number: 5411184
    Abstract: An actuator and corresponding base assembly, as well as related systems for applying a mark onto a surface. The actuator has at least one pair of wings which extend from the actuator body, wherein the entire lower edge of each wing curves continuously outwardly and upwardly from the body. The base assembly comprises a base surface at least partially disposed in a base plane and an opening therethrough, at least one wall extending upward from the base surface and defining two actuator-orienting guides, the guides being defined by substantially arcuate-shaped profiles substantially disposed in respective guide planes, the guide planes being disposed at an angle to one another of less than 180.degree. and at an angle of less than 90.degree. to the base plane, the guides being capable of contacting an actuator as it is received in the base assembly and disposed relative to one another such that they rotate an actuator into a seated position in the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Thomas J. Smrt
  • Patent number: 5390825
    Abstract: A self-contained device for dispensing two-part adhesive comprising a cart, first and second cartridge holders on the cart, each holder having an adhesive dispensing outlet and a seal-piercing die at the lower end, and an opening at the upper end for receiving a pre-filled adhesive cartridge sealed at its discharge end. A plunger assembly having first and second plunger is mounted at the cartridge receiving openings of the cartridge holders. The plungers are operatively connected to a hydraulic cylinder so that the plungers and hydraulic cylinder move in unison. The plunger assembly is pivotable from locked to unlocked position to permit loading and unloading of pre-filled cartridges. Each plunger has an expandable plunger cup which engages the adhesive component in the associated cartridge as the plunger moves downwardly in the cartridge, thereby forcing the adhesive and seal against the die to rupture the seal and discharge the adhesive component through the dispensing outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Inventor: Christopher M. Rockel
  • Patent number: 5390834
    Abstract: A trolley is described, which is designed for conveying products, in partlar foods and drinks for sale, and which has plural containers which can be placed one above the other in a frame. The frame is provided with wheels and has a fixed water supply container with insulation and heating means and a battery-supplied pump for conveying the water heated in the supply container to one or more tap points. The plural containers are selected from: (i) an insulated, heat-conserving container with heating means; (ii) an insulated cooling container which may optionally have cooling means; (iii) an additional insulated hot container which may be coupled to the fixed water supply container and which may optionally be provided with heating means; and (iv) a supply container which can optionally be insulated. The heating means, cooling means and/or containers can be exchangeable for each other. A lifting device with scissor mechanism and belt drive for raising the trolley to a desired height is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits et du Tourisme, S.A.
    Inventors: Jacobus M. Bitter, Camille W. van den Brande, Reinardus L. M. Hazelebach, Niklaas E. van Hylckama Vlieg, Andries Rijfers, Johannes J. Smits, Theodorus J. H. v. Steenbergen, Jacco M. Van Stenis
  • Patent number: 5366309
    Abstract: An apparatus for administering an adhesive for attaching carpet to undercushion and ceramic tiles and other flooring to a substrate. The apparatus includes a reservoir for holding the adhesive, support rails, a pressure tank, a conduit for conducting a gas from the pressure tank to the reservoir, a pressure regulator in series with the conduit and an applicator head for dispensing the adhesive to the substrate. The applicator head may be pivoted into an inoperative position for preventing discharge of adhesive therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Inventor: Ernest G. L. Springall
  • Patent number: 5349992
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for distributing and dispensing a potable liquid are claimed. The apparatus comprises a faucet, and a storage tank. A conveying channel is provided for sanitarily conveying potable liquid from an outside source to the tank. The conveying channel includes a sanitary fitting containing an inlet channel. The fitting provides a detachable sanitary connection between the conveying channel and the source. A mechanism for draining free-standing liquid from the inlet channel is also provided. The inlet channel of the fitting terminates at a first coupling which contains an acme sanitary thread. A flow producing mechanism cooperates with the tank and the faucet for causing a flow of liquid from the tank upon the opening of the faucet. A discharge channel is connected to the faucet at one end and connected to receive the flow of liquid at its other end. The discharge channel conveys the flow of potable liquid to the faucet. The source comprises a vehicle with a supply tank mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Inventors: Steven P. Gallo, Jack Fiorelli
  • Patent number: 5335854
    Abstract: An electrically isolating pressure feed paint reservoir suitable for holding electrically conductive paint applied with an electrostatic spray gun. A paint container is located in an electrically insulated housing which is mounted on a dolly for portability. The housing also mounts a pneumatically operated paint pump for delivering pressurized paint to the spray gun. When a lid to the housing is removed the high voltage power source is turned off and any high voltage present in the housing is discharged through a resistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: Ransburg Corporation
    Inventors: David M. Seitz, Michael D. Elbertson
  • Patent number: 5323833
    Abstract: A portable potable water system comprises a tank assembly and system component housing, both mounted on a base structure for ease of transportability. The potable water system includes a circulation system to maintain potability of the water and prevent freezing. A delivery system is provided which supplies the potable water to a user or site. The potable water system components are enclosed in the housing to protect the system from adverse climatic conditions and provide a more secure environment. The system is constructed of components which maintain the potability of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Emergency Water Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Kirkmyer
  • Patent number: 5318314
    Abstract: A paint hopper assembly, capable of allowing a paint pump assembly with a suction tube located between two support legs to withdraw paint directly from the paint hopper assembly, has an elongated bin with a front portion capable of fitting between the support legs and a bottom surface which slopes toward the front portion, a hopper handle and a support including a plurality of wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Norman A. Cyphers, Dwaine D. Straight, Larry M. Berens
  • Patent number: 5287998
    Abstract: An actuator for use with an aerosol container, the actuator having a passage therethrough which terminates in an orifice, the passage being configured such that the contents of the aerosol container may be communicated through the passage and discharged from the actuator at the orifice, comprising an actuator body, and one or more pairs of wings secured to the body, each wing having a bottom edge located proximate to the orifice and peripheral edges which are adjacent to and intersect the bottom edge, wherein at least a portion of the peripheral edge of at least one of the wings, from a point wherein said edge intersects the bottom edge of its respective wing, angles away from the body. There is further provided a base adapted for accepting such an aerosol container actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Fox Valley Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Smrt
  • Patent number: 5273298
    Abstract: This invention relates to an improved compartmentalized carrier and storage device for baseball and softball team equipment for its easy transport and use. The carrier is comprised of two separate enclosures which are detachably combined, the first for storage of the team equipment and the second for lining the base lines and distances of the bases for standardized field playing conditions. The carrier is wheeled for easy transport and for forming the straight base lines of the playing field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1993
    Inventor: Donald C. Brown, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5224635
    Abstract: An integral double wall hopper for handling, storing and dispensing dry flowables such as capsules, tablets, and powders in the pharmaceutical industry, comprises an outer shell having a bottom wall and four walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall, an inner shell having a frustoconical bottom wall and four walls extending upwardly from the frustoconical bottom wall, a lip along the upper edges of the upwardly extending walls connecting the outer shell to the inner shell, four downwardly extending legs formed in the bottom wall of the outer shell forming supporting members for the hopper, a discharge opening molded in the center of the frustoconical bottom wall of the inner shell and in the bottom wall of the outer shell, and a closure member positioned on the discharge opening for opening and closing the discharge opening to dispense the contents of the hopper when desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Assignee: Plastech International Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas W. Wise
  • Patent number: 5201442
    Abstract: A remotely actuated apparatus is provided for delivering a liquid to a desired location, particularly for use with a bicycle. The invention includes a reservoir, a pump adapted to receive liquid from the reservoir regardless of the orientation of the reservoir, a delivery tube for delivering liquid from the pump to a desired location, and a remote actuator for remotely actuating the pump. Also included in a preferred embodiment is a manifold which receives liquid from the pump. The manifold has a plurality of outlet ports to facilitate attachment of the delivery tube thereto regardless of the orientation of the apparatus. The actuator is disposed remotely from the reservoir and sends a signal which is received by a receiver means which actuates the pump to dispense refreshment liquid through the manifold to a delivery tube and then to a dispensing tube which is in close proximity to the mouth of the bicycle rider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventor: Aram Bakalian
  • Patent number: 5193720
    Abstract: A vehicular cart with a lifting collar is rolled over a plurality of containers located on a floor of a work site. The lifting collar is lowered onto the containers and is raised along with the containers to an operating position. Mixing and dispensing equipment carried on the cart are removably connected to each container. Computer control for the mixing and dispensing operations is provided, and interfaces with the mixing and dispensing apparatus coupled to each container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Fluid Management Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Charles C. Mayberry
  • Patent number: 5154314
    Abstract: A secure control system for delivery, dispensing and inventory of several liquid fluids (products). A stocked liquid delivery vehicle 100 provides coordinated and measured filling of liquids through a site dispensing subsystem 200 to site storage containers 302. The liquids from the storage containers are subsequently delivered under inventory control, and in measured amounts, back through the fill lines to the dispenser. The dispenser CPU records the amounts of each liquid dispensed to each user through various spouts 224. Users are identified by a code number entered into the dispenser unit via a keyboard 208 or card reader. The dispenser CPU 202 contains program information to identity authorized users of the system. The system respnds to user solicitation of liquids by verifying the user's identity, querying as to which liquid is desired, the amount desired (if variable) and enables a control switch/indicator 232 to indicate the dispensing port 224 and readiness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Inventor: Roger Van Wormer
  • Patent number: 5154317
    Abstract: The invention relates to portable liquid dispensers for transporting large quantities of liquid to a predetermined location and for dispensing the drinking liquid on demand. The liquid dispensing unit provides for the use of a hand truck which supports and carries an insulated hollow container suitable for retaining the drinking liquid. A rechargeable battery is positioned in a housing, the latter being detachably secured to the frame of the hand truck. A pump, electrically connected to the rechargeable battery, has a pressure switch which is activated when a drop of pressure in the fluid line is detected. The intake side of the pump is connected by a flexible hose to the interior of the container and the discharge side of the pump is connected to a manifold carried by the frame of the hand truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Inventor: Michael A. Roppolo, III
  • Patent number: 5143390
    Abstract: A pressure chamber is formed interiorly within one or more of the hollow tubular members of a cycle frame. Pressurized fluid, such as air, is supplied from the pressure camber by conduits through a pressure regulator and a control valve to a cycle mounted accessory, such as a pressurized fluid container or an inflatable seat. In one embodiment, the fluid container includes an expandable bag which expands as pressurized fluid is supplied thereto. The expandable bag pressurizes the liquid contents of the container to facilitate the discharge of the liquid through a discharge conduit which terminates adjacent the cyclist's face. The pressurization apparatus may also be employed to inflate an inflatable cycle seat or the cycle tires, or to pressurize the cycle frame for stiffness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Inventor: Patrick M. Goldsmith
  • Patent number: 5139278
    Abstract: A twenty five gallon fuel container has wheels and a handle to facilitate its transporation over a support surface. A trailing tangential point on the wheels is in vertical alignment with a trailing edge of the handle so that when the container is laid down on its back, its front and back walls are parallel to the ground. A vented fill spout is mounted at a forty five degree angle relative to both the front wall and a top wall of the container so that the fill spout is disposed forty five degrees relative to the ground when the container is upright and when the container is in its reclining position. Thus, fuel cannot spill when the container is in either position. Indentations formed in the container strengthen it and provide a place to position hold down straps when the container is strapped in position aboard a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Inventor: Lewis J. Vlasicak
  • Patent number: 5086816
    Abstract: A fluent material is transferred from at least one first vessel into at least one second vessel by being advanced at first into a metering vessel arranged ahead of the second vessel and weighed therein. There is an inlet for the fluent material to and an outlet for the fluent material from the metering vessel, through which on the one hand the metering vessel is loadable from the first vessel and dischargeable into the second vessel.The metering vessel has a degree of freedom of displacement only in the direction of its weight force component measurable by the forces measuring device in view of the support plane. The section of the inlet conduit either enters the inlet of the metering vessel contact-free or is connected thereto resiliently or is connectable thereto, and the section of the outlet conduit from the metering vessel either emerges therefrom contact-free or is resiliently connected thereto or is connectable thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: Otto Tuchenhagen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hans O. Mieth
  • Patent number: 5016789
    Abstract: A mobile dispenser for granular safety material and having a container with an upper end and a lower end, a floor at the lower end, wheels on the floor, a dispensing opening at the front of the container with a dispensing tray extending forwardly from the opening, front and rear baffle plates fixedly secured in the container, and angled towards each other and creating a flow restricting gap at their free edges which gap opens towards the rear of the container so as to direct flow of granular material away from the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Inventor: Ramnaraine Singh
  • Patent number: 4988020
    Abstract: An improved portable fueling facility for aircraft or ground vehicles includes at least one storage tank, an outer tank for providing secondary containment about the storage tanks, a number of saddle members for supporting the outer tank on a flat horizontal surface and at least one pump for dispensing fuel. A deck compartment is provided beneath the pumps for providing secondary containment about the supply pipes which are used to supply the pumps and the refueling tubes which are used to refuel the storage tanks. The entire facility is portable, so that it may be redepolyed at different locations or airports as needed. According to one novel aspect of the facility, a control system is provided which permits self-service use of the facility in a manner which requires only the use of a commercial credit card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1991
    Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 4978041
    Abstract: A receptacle and dispenser for tennis balls and the like including, a portable barrel-like receptacle mounted upon a tubular wheeled frame. The lower edge of the receptacle at its foremost point is removed so as to present a dispensing mouth of a size greater that the diameter of a single tennis ball. A spring tension hinged tray extends beyond the circumference of the barrel to one side of the dispensing mouth so as to receive a plurality of tennis balls as they gravitate out of the receptacle, with the tray adapted to be manually pivoted about its hinged connection so as to expose the tennis balls therein for removal therefrom. A stop is placed in the path of pivotal travel of the tray to restrict its movement relative to the receptacle opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Inventor: Bill Richter
  • Patent number: 4928853
    Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing soft drinks comprises a cabinet placed on the end of a conventional grocery store aisle. The cabinet has three sections; an upper section, a central section, and a lower section. Containers of soft drink syrup are removably located within the lower section of the cabinet and connected to the remainder of the apparatus by tubing. The upper section includes a conventional carbonation factory connected to a source of water remote from the apparatus. Water entering the apparatus passes through a cooler and the carbonation factory to produce carbonated water. Also disposed within the interior of the upper section are a plurality of pumps. The pumps are placed in communication with each source of syrup to force the syrup upwardly through the device by way of a syrup line, which is in turn placed in communication with the source of carbonated water to form a soft drink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Assignee: Fountain Fresh, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Isham, E. Brent Cragun, Christopher Gault, William J. Wermeling
  • Patent number: 4913318
    Abstract: A portable beverage dispenser houses a pair of plastic tanks divided by a partition, with each tank being able to heat or cool its contents. The housing also contains hand pumps for pressurizing the tanks, dispensing taps, and a padded lid which can be used as a seat. Heating tubes for each tank are attached to electrical heating elements, while independent tank cooling tubes are attached to thermoelectric cooling elements. The heating and cooling elements are independently connected to a rechargeable battery which is designed to operate under its own power, or connect to a conventional automatic cigarette lighter plug using a connecting wire with cigarette lighter plug members at each end. The beverage dispenser housing also houses radio speakers which are designed to plug into a small, portable radio which can be detached from the dispenser housing. Legs are attached within wells to guide tracks by guide runners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Inventor: Thomas L. Forrester
  • Patent number: 4886282
    Abstract: A hydrant refueler for aircraft is provided with a plurality of decks each at a different fixed height above ground to enable the refueler operator to connect to the fuel tanks of aircraft having wings at different heights above ground. The uppermost deck is provided with foldable side guard railings which when lowered will permit the refueler vehicle to clear the wing of a low wing aircraft and which when raised will provide necessary safety protection to a refueler operator as he services a high wing aircraft. A rigid cross bar guard is provided at at least one end of the foldable side guard railings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: General Transervice, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Wilkinson, Robert G. Watkins, Jr., Edward A. Sell
  • Patent number: 4880144
    Abstract: A console unit for holding and housing a plurality of lubricant dispensers, lubricator hoses attached to the dispensers, and one or more vacuum units on rollers. The console unit includes a podium-like structure having a front wall, two side walls, a top wall and an open bottom. The console has a lubricator hose housing attached to the front wall of the podium-like structure which has a front wall spaced forward from the front wall of the podium-like structure, a top wall having apertures therein, and side walls. The console unit includes a bracket for releasably holding the dispensers mounted on the front wall of the podium-like structure above the top wall of the hose housing with the lubricator hoses extending down from the dispensers through the apertures in the top wall of the hose housing. The console unit further includes a lower compartment in the podium-like structure for housing one or more vacuum units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1989
    Assignee: McNeil (Ohio) Corporation
    Inventor: Robert F. Shea
  • Patent number: 4848605
    Abstract: An integral double wall hopper adapted for use in the manufacturing of pharmaceutical tablets comprises an outer shell which forms outer walls, four legs and two runners, and an inner shell which forms inner walls, and has a frustoconical lower portion with a discharge opening molded in the bottom of the frustoconical lower portion. A detachable iris valve is positioned on the discharge opening for opening and closing the discharge opening to dispense the contents of the hopper when desired. The runners allow the tines of a forklift to pick up the hopper from the side without damaging the discharge opening or the detachable iris valve. The hopper includes a cover which has a manway formed therein, a lid for the manway, and a plurality of towers formed on the cover for protecting the manway of a lower stacked hopper and detachable iris of an upper stacked hopper from being damaged by the tines of a forklift when the hoppers are moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Assignee: Plastech International Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas W. Wise
  • Patent number: 4638948
    Abstract: A liquid chemical applicator for treatment of a horizontal surface is provided and consists of a mechanism that can accomplish a uniform coating of the liquid chemical by keeping a plurality of spray nozzles at a constant height, at a constant pressure and at a proper angle from the surface being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1987
    Inventor: Edward Marlek
  • Patent number: 4632157
    Abstract: A service truck for servicing tires on off the road vehicles such as agricultural tractors includes an engine and an air compressor selectively operable by the engine. The vehicle includes a liquid tank for receiving and temporarily holding a liquid removed from such tires. A vacuum may be applied to the interior of the tires being serviced to withdraw the liquid for placement in the tanks by taking advantage of the vacuum present at the inlet of the compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1986
    Assignee: Iowa Mold Tooling Company, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Bunkofske
  • Patent number: 4541549
    Abstract: Agricultural hopper structure for containing two different granular materials such as seed and fertilizer. Two molded plastic containers are nested together and supported on a frame. The nested ends of the containers are concave and convex, respectively, to provide a symmetrical appearance while establishing unequal container capacity. The nested containers include a downwardly directed ledge structure freely resting on a corresponding upwardly facing load-bearing surface of the frame to reduce the number of fixed attaching points. The upper portions of the containers extend above the frame and have outwardly convex sidewalls. The hopper structure is fabricated by first nesting the containers and then lowering the nested containers onto the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1985
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Howard C. Hadley, Marvin L. Bigbee