Plural Units Patents (Class 137/208)
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Patent number: 11964779Abstract: In order to fill a reservoir while avoiding laborious manual filling operations, there is added to the existing device, including a supply duct, a pump and a measuring probe, a stop valve designed to interrupt the filling as soon as the desired level has been reached, which is detected for example by an air intake which controls the closure of the valve. Two level indicators are added and make it possible to ascertain either that optimum filling has been achieved or that a malfunction is present in the system. Application to the systems for oil filling of aircraft engine reservoirs from another reservoir arranged within the aircraft, generally common to all the engines.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2020Date of Patent: April 23, 2024Assignee: SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINESInventors: Mathieu Jean Jacques Santin, Clément Dupays, Bellal Waissi
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Patent number: 11518543Abstract: There are described methods and systems for supplying water to an aircraft. A water supply assembly is fluidly coupled to a water storage tank via a supply line. An overflow line is fluidly coupled to the water supply assembly. One or more sensors are configured to determine an amount of water in the water storage tank. One or more processors are communicative with the one or more sensors and configured to: determine a desired amount of water to be contained in the water storage tank; determine from the one or more sensors that an amount of water in the water storage tank corresponds to the desired amount of water; and, in response to determining that the amount of water in the water storage tank corresponds to the desired amount of water, transmit an instruction for causing water being supplied from the water supply assembly to the water storage tank to be diverted to the overflow line.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2020Date of Patent: December 6, 2022Inventors: Steven Leonard Bis, Krishnan Ramachandran
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Patent number: 10815007Abstract: There are described methods and systems for supplying water to an aircraft. A water supply assembly is fluidly coupled to a water storage tank via a supply line. An overflow line is fluidly coupled to the water supply assembly. One or more sensors are configured to determine an amount of water in the water storage tank. One or more processors are communicative with the one or more sensors and configured to: determine a desired amount of water to be contained in the water storage tank; determine from the one or more sensors that an amount of water in the water storage tank corresponds to the desired amount of water; and, in response to determining that the amount of water in the water storage tank corresponds to the desired amount of water, transmit an instruction for causing water being supplied from the water supply assembly to the water storage tank to be diverted to the overflow line.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2018Date of Patent: October 27, 2020Assignee: INTERNATIONAL WATER-GUARD INDUSTRIES INC.Inventors: Steven Leonard Bis, Krishnan Ramachandran
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Patent number: 10364137Abstract: This invention is a refrigeration, dispensing, and management system for beverage and beverage containers that includes a tap attached to an upper door and a supply line; a recess base in a recess of a housing; a slide slidably carried by the recess base having a slot; a pressurized gas cylinder connected to the housing and attached to a gas line in fluid communications with the supply line wherein the gas cylinder contains gas selected from the group consisting of O2, CO2, N2 or other inert gas; and, a cap placed on the beverage container so that when the tap is opened, pressurized gas enters the cap and the snorkel through an inlet defined in the cap, forces gas into the beverage container, and forces the beverage out of the outline defined in the cap, through the supply line and out of the tap.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2017Date of Patent: July 30, 2019Inventor: Randy Hollister
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Patent number: 10280067Abstract: A system of multiple non-manifolded fuel tanks on a trailer and preferred embodiments which allow for improved access to the contents of each fuel tank and ability to transport multiple fuel types in a single system.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2016Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: Robinson Metal, Inc.Inventor: Keith Kittoe
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Patent number: 10000331Abstract: A bottle change apparatus includes a change mechanism that changes a bottle, and the bottle includes a bottle cap. The bottle cap includes: a treatment solution straw part that forms a treatment solution flow passage for supplying a treatment solution in the bottle to an outside of the bottle and extends to an inside of the bottle; and a treatment solution connecting part that is provided at an end portion outside the bottle of the treatment solution straw part. The change mechanism includes: a connection mechanism part including a treatment solution pipe which is connected to the treatment solution connecting part of the bottle and through which the treatment solution supplied from the bottle flows; and a bottle mounting part that transfers the bottle to a connection position where the treatment solution connecting part and the treatment solution pipe are connected together.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2014Date of Patent: June 19, 2018Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventors: Arnaud Alain Jean Dauendorffer, Shinobu Miyazaki
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Patent number: 9778571Abstract: A processing liquid supplying apparatus supplies a processing liquid to a process object via a discharging part. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes: a processing liquid source that supplies a processing liquid; an intermediate tank connected to the processing liquid source via a transport line; a feed line provided between the intermediate tank and the discharging part; an evacuating unit that evacuates an interior of the intermediate tank to transport the processing liquid from the processing liquid source to the intermediate tank through the transport line; and a pressure adjusting unit that supplies a gas into the intermediate tank to return a pressure in the evacuated intermediate tank from a reduced pressure to a normal pressure, thereby to place the intermediate tank ready for feeding the processing liquid, having been transported into the intermediate tank, into the feed line.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2014Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventors: Takashi Sasa, Daisuke Ishimaru
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Patent number: 9676605Abstract: A fuel and lubricant refueling vehicle is described. The vehicle has a centralized control panel for monitoring and operating the fuel and lubricant delivery systems. The control panel is operable from ground level. The vehicle is capable of delivering fuels and/or lubricants at 300 gallons per minute. In addition, the vehicle is capable of storing a variety of different fuels and lubricants for servicing multiple types of equipment and work vehicles. The vehicle also has a power generator that supplies 50 cubic feet per minute of air flow to the motor pump assembly of the fuel and lubricant delivery systems.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2013Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: Fluor Technologies CorporationInventors: Bruno Porcile, Italo Avalos
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Patent number: 9221546Abstract: An aircraft hybrid fuel system includes a main tank and a set of flexible bladders, the main tank and the set of flexible bladders defining a fuel containment space. The system further includes a set of pathways coupling the set of flexible bladders to the main tank. The set of pathways is constructed and arranged to vent gas out of the set of flexible bladders into the main tank while fuel from a fuel source is provided into the fuel containment space defined by the main tank and the set of flexible bladders. Along these lines, each flexible bladder can be provisioned with a fuel port to provide fuel, and a separate vent port to vent gas to the main tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2014Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: AAI CorporationInventor: Brandon R. Hall
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Patent number: 8991417Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of controlling pressure maintenance equipment for a cooling and heating system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method of operating and controlling, under optimum conditions, pressure maintenance equipment with multiple sensors so as to check for irregularities in the sensors which measure the same physical parameter. In the present invention, measurement values of two or more sensors are used to detect whether an abnormality has occurred in any sensor. If a sensor is determined to be abnormal, a measurement value of the abnormal sensor is excluded when determining a reference control value. Thereby, the pressure can be precisely and reliably controlled in response to actual conditions of the system.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Flowtech Co. Ltd.Inventors: Jae Gu Yang, Ji Suk Yang, Sang Ki Oh
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Patent number: 8770219Abstract: A device for regulating the gas supply in a gas storage system of a biogas system, wherein the gas storage system has gas stores connected in series in a cascade-like manner with an intermediate chamber between a gas store membrane and a protective cover. The device comprises gas supply mechanisms, intermediate chamber pressure measuring mechanisms and at least one regulating mechanism, each gas store is assigned at least one gas supply mechanism, each gas store is assigned at least one intermediate chamber pressure measuring mechanism with which the gas pressure in the intermediate chamber of the respective gas store can be measured, and the measured values of the intermediate chamber pressure measuring mechanisms are transmitted to at least one regulating mechanism, and the regulating mechanism is designed to regulate the gas pressure in the intermediate chambers of the gas stores by controlling the gas supply mechanisms assigned to gas stores.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2009Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: MT-ENERGIE GmbHInventors: Christoph Martens, Jan C. F. Behrens
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Patent number: 8757189Abstract: A fluid delivery system is described which provides stable flow rates over a range of different flow rates and while multiple fluids are being concurrently delivered. The delivery system includes one or more reservoirs each containing a respective fluid to be transferred. The reservoir(s) are positioned within a secondary fluid selected such that the reservoir(s) and their contents, i.e. the fluids to be transferred, float within the secondary fluid. One end of a flow conduit is submerged in each fluid to be transferred. A pressure differential is then induced in the flow conduit whereby fluid flow therein occurs.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2010Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignees: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of Commerce, The National Institute of Standards and TechnologyInventor: Gregory A. Cooksey
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Patent number: 8651129Abstract: An arrangement and method for generating or depositing a stream of m>1 fluid segments, respectively separated by an intermediary medium which does not mix with the fluid segments. The arrangement includes a molded body having a channel for conducting the fluid stream, from which n?m first access lines and n second access lines branch off. The first and second access lines are configured so to be inserted into n wells. The lengths of the first access lines differ from the lengths of the second access lines, and respectively one first valve is arranged in the channel, between the branching location for each second access line and the branching location for each associated first access line, and wherein respectively a second valve is arranged in each second access line.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Karlsruhe Institut fuer TechnologieInventors: Bastian Rapp, André Schumacher
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Publication number: 20130199620Abstract: A sulfurization facility, where the sulfurizing reaction is conducted in a wet smelting for nickel oxide ore, is improved particularly with the structural modification of its liquid storage vessels so that the consumption of a hydrogen sulfide gas used in a sulfurization step and the consumption of an alkali solution used for processing an exhaust gas can be reduced and the overall cost of operation will thus be minimized.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2011Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicant: SUMITOMO METAL MINING CO., LTD.Inventors: Hiroyuki Mitsui, Osamu Nakai, Moritarou Asatori
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Patent number: 8286659Abstract: Systems and methods for operating a hydraulically actuated device/system are described herein. For example, systems and methods for the compression and/or expansion of gas can include at least one pressure vessel defining an interior region for retaining at least one of a volume of liquid or a volume of gas and an actuator coupled to and in fluid communication with the pressure vessel. The actuator can have a first mode of operation in which a volume of liquid disposed within the pressure vessel is moved to compress and move gas out of the pressure vessel. The actuator can have a second mode of operation in which a volume of liquid disposed within the pressure vessel is moved by an expanding gas entering the pressure vessel. The system can further include a heat transfer device configured to transfer heat to or from the at least one of a volume of liquid or a volume of gas retained by the pressure vessel.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: General Compression, Inc.Inventors: Eric D. Ingersoll, Justin A. Aborn
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Patent number: 8118052Abstract: A method of forming polyurethane foam from a resin component and an isocyanate component includes the use of at least one control valve controlling a flow rate of at least one of the resin component and the isocyanate component. The method includes connecting lines having at least a 1 inch diameter to a housing of the control valve. The method also includes coupling a source of gas pressure to the line. At least one of the resin component and the isocyanate component is pressurized with the source of gas pressure to move the resin and/or isocyanate component through the line and into the flow control device at a flow rate of between 5 and 70 gallons per minute.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: BASF CorporationInventors: John H. Swab, Matthew C. Dunlap, Thomas M. Suggs, Donald E. Weber
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Patent number: 7938959Abstract: A system for fryer oil usage has at least one fryer having a vat and a valved drain, a first oil storage container having an oil delivery line connected with the vat, a second oil storage container connected with the valved drain and vat of the fryer, both containers having an inert gas blanket in a vapor space thereof, a first filter connected with the valve of the drain of the fryer, a pump connected with the first filter and the second oil storage container and in valved communication with the vat, a polishing line connected with the pump and with the first filter, and a three-way valve movable to a first position for blocking the flow of oil, a second position for allowing the flow of oil to the second oil storage container, and a third position for allowing the flow of oil to the vat of the fryer.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Inman Restaurant Solutions LLCInventors: Ronald C. Inman, Joseph N. Judice, Jr.
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Patent number: 7100631Abstract: The present invention is to provide a kind of multifunction passive and continuous fluid feeding system for external systems, the fluid-feed system including a storing and transmitting component, a measuring and regulating component, and a control unit characterized by: pressurizing from above fluid level surface of the feed fluid tank by high-pressure gas supply source to fulfill the passive fluid feeding function, performing the feed fluid measuring and regulating through the flow meter and flow control valve installed on the transmission pipe lines connecting to the external systems, fulfilling function of continuous fluid feeding by switching between two fluid-feed tanks, and combining the feed fluid requirements of the external systems through the control unit to achieve the multifunction fluid-feed art of automatic operation, continuous fluid feeding, and flow rate controlling.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Atomic Energy Council-Institute of Nuclear Energy ResearchInventors: Tay-Jian Liu, Chien-Hsiung Lee, Yea-Kuang Chan
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Patent number: 7044152Abstract: A pressurized delivery system for in-situ delivery of sub-soil remediation compounds to underground contaminated matter includes a liquid diaphragm pump connected to an inflow source of water, the pump being also in fluid communication with a plurality of bioslurry tanks connected in parallel, the bioslurry tanks each having a drain. Valve means are located between the liquid diaphragm pump and each of the bioslurry tanks for controlling either the alternate or simultaneous flow of fluid from the pump to each of the bioslurry tanks. A second liquid diaphragm pump having an inlet port for receiving the combined flow of the bioslurry tanks has an outlet in fluid communication with a system discharge port. The system further includes a source of compressed gas in fluid communication with the discharge port. A discharge rod is connected to the discharge port for delivery of remedial fluids to underground soils.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Innovative Environmental Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael Scalzi, Wade Meese
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Patent number: 7001466Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for an automatic and continuous supply of coating material to a coating applicator in optical fiber fabrication. The present invention switches from one coating reservoir to another by way of a transitional period in which both coating reservoirs are supplying coating material to the coating applicator. For example, while an in-use reservoir is supplying the coating material to the coating applicator, a standby reservoir is being filled, settled to off gas air bubbles and then slowly pressurized. A sized orifice is used to slowly bleed off pressure from the in-use reservoir at a rate that does not allow the pressure in the in-use reservoir from falling out of a desired pressure range.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2002Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Fitel USA Corp.Inventors: Siu-Ping Hong, Jason W. Shiroishi, James A. Hudson
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Patent number: 6767188Abstract: A device for conditioning of fluid to minimize pulses from a pump source. A pump drives fluid from a vented fluid reservoir through a system including a combination of an attenuation tank and one or more orifice. Fluid is pumped into a plenum chamber that supplies fluid in a pulse free flow stream. A pressurized head over the fluid in the plenum chamber allows fluid delivery at a selected pressure. A volume sensor monitors the fluid level within the plenum tank and activates the pump if fluid level falls below a specified level.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: David R. Vrane, Pierce Norton
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Patent number: 6736154Abstract: Apparatus and processes are presented to contact a dry, preferably high purity inert gas with a chemical composition in a pressure vessel, or a wetting composition, to form a wet inert gas, which is then used to pressurize the chemical composition out of the pressure vessel. No additional space is needed for an external humidifier. Since a very small amount of vapor is needed to form a wet inert gas, the composition of chemical composition will not be significantly affected.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2001Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: American Air Liquide, Inc.Inventors: Mindi Xu, Hwa-Chi Wang, Herve E. Dulphy
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Publication number: 20040011402Abstract: An arrangement in a fire water system, especially for an offshore platform, wherein the system comprises one or more fire water pumps (6) connected through a pipe system (2-5) to a number of deluge valves (812) coupled to associate with pipe stretches leading to respective fire sections. The arrangement comprises a distribution manifold (2) having an upstream side (3) which is in open connection with the fire water pumps (6) and with a buffer tank (7) for water, and having a downstream side (4) connected to the deluge valves (12) which are coupled to said pipe stretches, and there is also provided a gas supply means (10) connected to the buffer tank (7) and having a pressure which is sufficient to see to it that the water pressure at the upstream side of the distribution manifold does not sink below a predetermined level after activation of the deluge valves (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventors: Finn Wichstrom, Nils T Ottestad
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Patent number: 6615861Abstract: A dispensing system allows cryogenic liquid to be dispensed from either a primary bank manifold and associated cylinders or a secondary bank manifold and associated cylinders. Each manifold includes a gas header and a liquid header. The associated cylinders communicate with the gas header through flexible lines and excess flow check valves and the liquid header through flexible lines and spring-loaded check valves. An automatic control system selects between dispensing from the primary bank manifold or the secondary bank manifold. A pressure gauge detects the pressure of the cryogenic liquid from the dispensing manifold. The pressure gauge is in communication with a controller which opens and closes the appropriate valves to begin dispensing cryogenic liquid from the originally idle manifold if the detected pressure drops below a predetermined minimum. After the manifold is switched over, the controller checks the pressure in the non-selected manifold.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Chart Inc.Inventors: Paul Drube, Paul Sjogren
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Patent number: 6513187Abstract: A carpet cleaning system that delivers heated cleaning water from a truck to a carpet cleaning apparatus and an improved waste disposal tank designed to receive the waste water and deposit it into the toilet or sewer drain when the disposal tank is full. The disposal tank is divided into an upper primary recovery tank and a lower recovery tank. A main vacuum line and waste water return line are connected to the primary recovery tank. Disposed between the primary and secondary recovery tanks is a first check valve that controls the flow of waste water therebetween. Connected over the outlet port on the secondary recovery tank is a second check valve that operates in opposite direction to the first check valve. Attached to the secondary recovery tank is an air control valve that controls the flow of air from the primary recovery tank or the outside air into the secondary recovery tank. A timer or a float valve is connected to the air control valve to selectively control its operation.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Inventor: Donald P. Naseth, Sr.
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Publication number: 20020185176Abstract: Disclosed is a pressure vessel comprising a pressurized chamber; an overflow chute having an inlet open to an upper level of the chamber, a chute passage extending from the upper level to a lower level, and a chute discharge; wherein the chute passage has a bend to defect a flow in the chute passage before the flow exits the discharge.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2002Publication date: December 12, 2002Inventors: Aaron T. Leavitt, David J. Lebel, Patrick J. Pepin, Helena C. Aguiar, C. Bertil Stromberg, Michael Rutter, Patrick J. Sullivan, Keith W. Flint, James F. Archambault, Leslie A. Rathbun
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Publication number: 20020153041Abstract: A dispensing system allows cryogenic liquid to be dispensed from either a primary bank manifold and associated cylinders or a secondary bank manifold and associated cylinders. Each manifold includes a gas header and a liquid header. The associated cylinders communicate with the gas header through flexible lines and excess flow check valves and the liquid header through flexible lines and spring-loaded check valves. An automatic control system selects between dispensing from the primary bank manifold or the secondary bank manifold. A pressure gauge detects the pressure of the cryogenic liquid from the dispensing manifold. The pressure gauge is in communication with a controller which opens and closes the appropriate valves to begin dispensing cryogenic liquid from the originally idle manifold if the detected pressure drops below a predetermined minimum. After the manifold is switched over, the controller checks the pressure in the non-selected manifold.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2001Publication date: October 24, 2002Inventors: Paul Drube, Paul Sjogren
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Patent number: 6378546Abstract: A fresh water storage apparatus for providing an emergency supply of fresh water. The fresh water storage apparatus includes one or more tanks having a first end and,a second end; and also includes support members upon which the one or more tanks are mounted; and further includes a water inlet assembly being mounted to and extending into the one or more tanks; and also includes a water outlet assembly being mounted to and extending into said at least one tank; and further includes a vent assembly being mounted upon and extending into the one or more tanks through a top thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Inventor: Neil A. Hansen
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Patent number: 6267132Abstract: The liquid to be delivered leaves a container (3A, 3B) maintained at a first overpressure P1, from where it is transferred to an intermediate storage tank (11) maintained at a predetermined intermediate pressure P2>P1. Several small-volume delivery containers (12A, 12B), each of which may be pressurized either to a delivery pressure P3>P2 or to a filling pressure P4<P2, are connected in parallel downstream of this tank. The invention has applicability to the delivery of ultrapure chemicals intended for the microelectronics industry.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2000Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Georges Guarneri
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Patent number: 6167899Abstract: A water transporting device has a sealed water tank, a water channel device, and a pressure reduction tank. The water channel device has a lowest water box, a plurality of water boxes, a highest water box, a plurality of chambers between two of the water boxes, and a plurality of connection pipes. Each connection pipe is connected to two of the water boxes. Each connection pipe has a water outlet hole in one of the water boxes. A water inlet tube is connected to the sealed water tank. A water outlet tube is connected to the sealed water tank and the lowest water box. A connection tube is connected to the pressure reduction tank and the highest water box. A water outlet pipe is connected to the pressure reduction tank.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Inventor: Chung-Min Chen
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Patent number: 6148846Abstract: The waste liquid collection and transfer system includes at least one waste liquid transfer vessel that has a liquid input valve and a liquid output valve for controlling the flow of waste liquid therethrough. A pressurized gas liquid transfer system including at least one control valve is utilized to provide pressurized gas to said vessel to control the flow of liquid therefrom. A liquid drain line is engaged from the vessel to a liquid collection tank, and a liquid level alarm device is engaged to the tank to provide an alarm if the level in the tank becomes too high. An electronic system controller is engaged to the alarm device and to the various valves to control the flow of liquid throughout the system. When an alarm signal is received by the system controller the vessels are first emptied and thereafter allowed to become full, acting in this instance as additional waste liquid storage containers. When the vessels are full, the system controller shuts down the flow of liquid to the vessels.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1999Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: Chemand CorporationInventor: Daniel Schell
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Patent number: 6119735Abstract: A method of and apparatus for filling a volatile liquid into at least one tank (10) of a multi-tank installation having a vent-pipe (11A, 11B . . . 11F) associated with each tank, all of the vent-pipes being connected to a common vent manifold (13) through respective over-pressure valves (12A, 12B . . . 12F). A vapor extraction manifold (16) is also connected to each over-pressure valve (12A, 12B . . . 12F) and during a tank filling operation is coupled to a vapor extraction mechanism. Both the vent manifold (13) and the extraction manifold (16) are provided with pressure sensitive valves (15, 19) respectively to allow air to enter the manifolds from the ambient when the pressure within the respective manifold falls below atmospheric.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: Briggs & Stratton CorporationInventor: Rodney Carter
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Patent number: 6116260Abstract: A liquid material supplying apparatus comprises:vessels 150, 250, each having gas inlet pipe 151, 251, discharge pipe 153, 253, and interconnection pipe 155, 255 capable of making the gas inlet pipe 151, 251 communicate with the discharge pipe 153, 253, the vessels containing a liquid material;a permanent line P comprising gas line connection pipes 113, 213 detachably connected to the gas inlet pipes 151, 251, gas supply pipe 111 connected to the gas line connection pipes 113, 213 and to pressure gas supply 70, material line connection pipes 123, 223 detachably connected to the discharge pipes 153, 253, material supply pipe 127 connected to the material line connection pipes 123, 223 and to vaporizer 91, and by-pass pipes 129, 229 capable of making the gas supply pipe 111 communicate with the material line connection pipe 123, 223; anda vent line 30 comprising exhaust pipes 131, 231 connected to the gas line connection pipes 113, 213 or to the material line connection pipes 123, 223, and a vacuum pump 135 conType: GrantFiled: April 15, 1998Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventors: Kazuhiro Nakagawa, Hiroyuki Hiraiwa
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Patent number: 6098848Abstract: The object of the present invention is to simplify the process of connecting a reservoir for charging and discharging 2 or more fluids with a pipeline for conveying said fluid and to assist the automation of this process.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1998Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Assignees: Nisso Engineering Co., LTD, Kanto Kagaku Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tsutomu Kawashima, Koji Ueda, Tsugio Saito, Kenji Kageyama
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Patent number: 6076541Abstract: A system and method for dispensing an aqueous solution to one or more points of use is provided with one or more pressure vessels that are adapted to be charged with pressurized gas to drive the aqueous solution on to the point or points of use. A humidifier is also employed to humidify the pressurized gas to at least inhibit the pressurized gas from evaporating the moisture from the aqueous solution. In such manner, changes to the make up of the aqueous solution are avoided. Such changes can produce caking and/or changes in chemical properties found in pressure vessels used in dispensing slurries.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1997Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Inventors: Peter M. Pozniak, Duy Khanh Trang, Benjamin R. Roberts
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Patent number: 6056004Abstract: A portable compression system for pipeline purging having a first stage comprising a power turbine which drives an air intake compressor. An air cooler is connected to a recovery plenum line from the power turbine. A drive shaft extending from the power turbine operates a compressor that is connected to the air cooler. An exhaust line is connected to the compressor, so that exhaust gas produced by the power turbine is utilized as a compressed gas. Second and third stages are provided having a plurality of air coolers between compressors that are connected to the first stage, so that the final compressed gas can be utilized for purging pipelines.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1999Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventor: A. Patrick Agnew
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Patent number: 6024113Abstract: A closed tank method for preventing contamination in multiple tank systems. Water and air being the preferred liquids.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1997Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Inventors: Keinosuke Komiya, Ken Komiya
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Patent number: 6019116Abstract: The liquid transfer system includes a liquid supply tank and at least two pressurizable liquid holding vessels. The liquid holding vessels are placed beneath the supply tank, and a liquid supply line connects the supply tank to each vessel. The liquid supply line is operated as a siphon from the tank to each vessel, in order to move liquid from the tank to each vessel. Each vessel is alternately filled and pressurized to dispense liquid from the vessel, such that one vessel is being filled while the other is dispensing liquid, and a constant controllable liquid output flow is achieved. A preferred embodiment includes a liquid recycling line to recycle or constantly move the liquid within the system to achieve thorough mixing, and an in-line filter to improve liquid purity.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1998Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Inventor: Daniel Schell
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Patent number: 6015066Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for supplying a liquid to a plurality of apparatuses which apply the liquid to substrates to process the substrates. The device comprises a tank containing the liquid, a supply passage for supplying the liquid from the tank to the apparatuses, branch passages connected to the supply passage, for supplying the liquid to liquid-applying members provided in the apparatuses, and valves provided on the branch passages, respectively. The valves are controlled each other, for opening and closing the branch passages such that the liquid-applying member of one apparatus applies the liquid to a substrate while the liquid-applying member of any other apparatus remains to apply the liquid to a substrate.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1997Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventors: Yoshio Kimura, Satoshi Morita, Yuji Matsuyama, Norio Semba
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Patent number: 6014995Abstract: An onsite petrochemical storage and transport system comprising a land based facility, which provides storage at a well site for hydrocarbon reservoir products which include gas, oil and water at a high pressure. The pressurized mixture is transferred, by means of pressure equalization, into a truck with multiple pressure containing vessels and transported to a plant suitable for processing the raw hydrocarbon mixture. The well site facility and transport truck are configured to allow for separation of gas and liquids to selectively transfer the gas or liquids as desired. Remote well sites may be periodically serviced by transport trucks while maintaining continuous production.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1998Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Inventor: A. Patrick Agnew
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Patent number: 6009892Abstract: A device for disposal of liquid media such as coolant and lubricant fluids, containing production residues, such as chips from industrial processes in which these media are conveyed from at least one accumulation site through gutters and/or pipes to a recycling container. The media are conveyed from the recycling container through a pipe connected thereto close to the bottom to at least one collecting tank. The device is also intended to convey foamed media from the recycling container to the collecting tank at limited equipment cost. The recycling container is divided by a pressure-tight partition containing an operable valve into an upper supply chamber and a lower delivery chamber. A compressed air line with a switchable compressed air inlet valve and a vent line with a switchable vent valve are connected to the upper area of the delivery chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1998Date of Patent: January 4, 2000Assignee: F + F Filter- Und Foerdertechnik GmbHInventor: Hans-Peter Martinitz
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Patent number: 6000230Abstract: A method for dividing and charging of a non-azeotropic mixed refrigerant filled in at least one refrigerant tank, comprising:a step of successively dividing and charging the non-azeotropic mixed refrigerant filled in the refrigerant tank into a plurality of receivers while maintaining a vapor phase or a liquid phase of the refrigerant in the refrigerant tank in communication with a vapor phase of an adjustor refrigerant in at least one adjustor refrigerant container filled with the adjustor refrigerant having a composition substantially equivalent to that of the non-azeotropic mixed refrigerant.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1997Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: Showa Denko K.K.Inventors: Kiyomitsu Kanno, Toshio Haga
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Patent number: 5868278Abstract: Defects, associated with the presence of microbubbles in the photoresist developer solution, have been largely eliminated by providing an apparatus and method whereby the photoresist developer solution, while on standby status in a buffer tank, is maintained at a negative pressure (about minus 0.5 kg/cm.sup.2). This allows any microbubbles, that were introduced into the solution during the course of conveying it to the buffer, to escape. The negative pressure in the buffer during its refill and standby stages is generated by adding a venturi valve to the existing equipment. This keeps the impact on the control software to a minimum and has little or no effect on the cost of the process.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1996Date of Patent: February 9, 1999Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.Inventor: Yung-Dar Chen
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Patent number: 5832948Abstract: The liquid transfer system includes a liquid supply tank and at least two pressurizable liquid holding vessels. The liquid holding vessels are placed beneath the supply tank, and a liquid supply line connects the supply tank to each vessel. The liquid supply line is operated as a siphon from the tank to each vessel, in order to move liquid from the tank to each vessel. Each vessel is alternately filled and pressurized to dispense liquid from the vessel, such that one vessel is being filled while the other is dispensing liquid, and a constant controllable liquid output flow is achieved. A preferred embodiment includes a liquid recycling line to recycle or constantly move the liquid within the system to achieve thorough mixing, and an in-line filter to improve liquid purity.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Chemand Corp.Inventor: Daniel Schell
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Patent number: 5778922Abstract: A hydraulic system, device and method for dispensing fluids. Water and air are preferred. At least two tanks are preferably used for holding water under air pressure. In a preferred embodiment, one of the tanks is at a higher elevation than the second, so there is an additional pressure drop added to the pressure in the second or lower tank. The tanks have valves for introducing and discharging air under pressure. The tanks further include pipes extending into each to a point proximate one surface, such as the bottom, so that fluid enters and exits the container as close to the one surface as possible. Water is pumped into at least one of the containers to permit transfer of water between the tanks. Air hoses equalize pressure in the two containers. A discharge valve is employed for discharging fluid from one of the tanks under the equalized pressure. Prior to discharging any water, water and/or air is added to one of the tanks. The increase in pressure inside the tank is transferred to the other tank.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Inventor: Carl Louis Schoultz
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Patent number: 5678591Abstract: A multi-component feed system to feed two fluid materials from a feed tank to a spraygun is described. The combined pressure feed tank comprises a pressure feed tank with a lid. Inside the tank is a removable support structure having a cone-shaped member with a central chamber supporting a second container closed by a lid. A splash-proof membrane extends between the inner wall of container and the outer wall of container to protect a second fluid component, e.g. a catalyst from entering the lower chamber of tank. Air is fed to containers and via a regulator, a regulator pipe and through an aperture in the lid. Pressure air feeds the fluid components via tubes to a spray gun, where the components combine to be sprayed.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1996Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: ITW LimitedInventors: Philip John Merrifield, Bernard Michael Daley
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Patent number: 5492144Abstract: A storage vessel, such as a compartmented vacuum tank or a plurality of vacuum tanks, is connected to a vacuum pump. The vacuum pump is used to produce a vacuum in each compartment of a multi-compartmented vacuum tank or in each tank of a plurality of vacuum tanks such that a suction nozzle extending from each compartment of a compartmented vacuum tank or from each of a plurality of vacuum tanks can remove various operating liquids from fill ports of a salvage vehicle. The liquids are segregated according to type of liquid and fill a compartment of a multi-compartmented vacuum tank or a tank of a plurality of vacuum tanks to a level at which the vacuum to the compartment or tank is terminated by a float valve. During evacuation of the tank compartments or vacuum tanks, fumes drawn off through the vacuum line from the fluids in the compartments or tanks are fed through the vacuum pump to a discharge line and forced towards a vent to the atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1994Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Inventor: George Kriewaldt
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Patent number: 5417346Abstract: The present invention provides improved method and apparatus for the transfer and delivery of very high purity chemicals for use in semiconductor production and similar processes. By employing a series of vessels arranged in parallel, a vacuum system to draw chemical from one or more bulk sources into the vessels, and a pressure system to deliver chemical under pressure from the vessels, chemicals can be easily delivered from any bulk source to one or more end-users. The use of a vacuum system to draw chemicals through sealed conduits eliminates the need for pumps which are a source of both maintenance problems and contamination in the system. Multiple vessels provide for a variety of flow options, which include continuous and uniform chemical delivery to the end-users, recirculation and regular filtration during periods of low use, and built-in redundancy to avoid system shut down if there is a component failure. Computer controlled process systems provides system flexibility and full automation.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1994Date of Patent: May 23, 1995Assignee: Applied Chemical SolutionsInventors: Edward T. Ferri, Jr., J. Tobin Geatz
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Patent number: 5330072Abstract: The present invention provides improved method and apparatus for the transfer and delivery of very high purity chemicals for use in semiconductor production and similar processes. By employing a series of vessels arranged in parallel, a vacuum system to draw chemical from one or more bulk sources into the vessels, and a pressure system to deliver chemical under pressure from the vessels, chemicals can be easily delivered from any bulk source to one or more end-users. The use of a vacuum system to draw chemicals through sealed conduits eliminates the need for pumps which are a source of both maintenance problems and contamination in the system. Multiple vessels provide for a variety of flow options, which include continuous and uniform chemical delivery to the end-users, recirculation and regular filtration during periods of low use, and built-in redundancy to avoid system shut down if there is a component failure. Computer controlled process systems provides system flexibility and full automation.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1992Date of Patent: July 19, 1994Assignee: Applied Chemical SolutionsInventors: Edward T. Ferri, Jr., J. Tobin Geatz
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Patent number: 5316034Abstract: A valve block assembly with internal delivery channels and a common outlet channel is provided. Access of reactants to the delivery channels is controlled by diaphragm valves, preferably equipped with relief grooves to accommodate deformation of the diaphragm. Reservoirs feeding the delivery channels have an inert atmosphere controlled by pressurizing and venting channels in the valve block. Exposure of plastic tubing to oxygen is kept to a minimum. The assembly is particularly adapted for use in a DNA or protein sequencer to supply reactants without cross-contamination or oxidative decomposition.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1992Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Assignee: Porton Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Vincent P. Farnsworth, Paul F. Cartier, III