Tank Type Manifold (i.e., One Tank Supplies Or Receives From At Least Two Others) Patents (Class 137/263)
  • Patent number: 11939033
    Abstract: A fuel management system including a fuel pump and a flow meter to transfer and control remaining amounts fuel among fuel tanks mounted on a hull of a marine vessel includes first fuel flow channels corresponding to the fuel tanks to connect the fuel tanks to an upstream side of the fuel pump and the flow meter, and second fuel flow channels corresponding to the fuel tanks to connect the fuel tanks to a downstream side of the fuel pump and the flow meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hiroshi Inoue
  • Patent number: 11541747
    Abstract: A motor vehicle with a pressure vessel system includes at least a first pressure vessel arranged in a first region of the motor vehicle and at least one second pressure vessel arranged in a second region of the motor vehicle having a lower intrusion probability than the first region. Fuel is preferentially removed first primarily from the at least one first pressure vessel. When the lower limit of fuel level or fuel temperature is reached in the at least one first pressure vessel, fuel is removed from the at least one second pressure vessel. If the fuel supply rate from the at least one first pressure vessel is lower than an overall fuel supply rate for an energy converter, fuel is removed from the at least one second pressure vessel to meet the overall fuel supply rate needed by the energy converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Lorenz Ehgartner, Andreas Pelger, Klaus Szoucsek
  • Patent number: 11511878
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for maintaining bulk fuel temperatures in an aircraft. In one aspect, a recirculation system causes fuel to be delivered from a relatively low point near the feed hopper of each tank on the aircraft to one or more outboard locations of the wings. Once there, the fuel, due to gravity, flows back over the lower skin of the wing in channels back towards the fuselage, thus cooling the fuel. In other aspects, control systems are disclosed that coordinate the recirculation based on fuel levels in the tanks and fuel temperatures. The control systems also utilize a fuel scavenge system to maintain acceptable temperatures in the tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: TEXTRON INNOVATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas Edward Dwier, Robert G. Wellemeyer
  • Patent number: 11279225
    Abstract: Fuel isolation systems, apparatuses and methods are described. In some embodiments, a system comprises a fuel tank, a fuel pump, an engine, a firewall, a fuel line from the fuel tank to the engine, a connector coupled inline with the fuel line on a cold side of the fuel line, a normally closed valve coupled to the connector, an air feed line coupled to an ullage of the fuel tank and to the valve. In the event of an engine fire condition, a control unit outputs signaling to turn off the fuel pump and open the valve to introduce air from the ullage into the fuel line. The introduced air provides a siphon break in the fuel line such that the fuel cannot be siphoned and the only fuel that can pass the firewall is the remaining fuel in the fuel line downstream of the connector and the introduced air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: GENERAL ATOMICS AERONAUTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Jason B. Newlin, Brett C. Bonner, Graham Feasey
  • Patent number: 10954117
    Abstract: A distribution station includes a plurality of pneumatic valves on a mobile structure. Each pneumatic valve is situated between a manifold and a reel of a plurality of reels. A plurality of secondary valves are connected by an air or gas line to corresponding ones of the pneumatic valves. Each secondary valve is operable between open and closed positions to permit air or gas flow to the corresponding pneumatic valve to open and close the pneumatic valve. A controller is configured to individually open and close the secondary valves responsive to fluid level sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: FUEL AUTOMATION STATION, LLC.
    Inventors: Ricky Dean Shock, Michael Webber
  • Patent number: 10492484
    Abstract: A method of operating a fluid sprayer includes supplying a first fluid selected from a group consisting of larvicide, adulticide, and a barrier repellant to a nozzle assembly at a first regulated pressure. The method further includes changing the first regulated pressure to a second regulated pressure different than the first regulated pressure. The method further includes supplying a second fluid selected from the group to the nozzle assembly at the second regulated pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: CLARKE MOSQUITO CONTROL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Frank Clarke, Grifith Lizarraga, Daniel Fachet
  • Patent number: 10330259
    Abstract: A cryostat includes a coolant tank, a refrigerator, a cylindrical member, and a gas phase volume-varying unit. The coolant tank houses a liquid coolant. The refrigerator is provided above the coolant tank and recondenses the coolant evaporated in the coolant tank. The cylindrical member houses a lower part of the refrigerator and forms a recondensing chamber that communicates with the coolant tank. The gas phase volume-varying unit communicates with a gas-phase space above a liquid surface of the liquid coolant in the coolant tank and varies a gas phase volume in the gas-phase space to cancel out a pressure fluctuation in the coolant tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: JAPAN SUPERCONDUCTOR TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Kazuhito Tago, Yasuhide Nagahama, Kentaro Kominato
  • Patent number: 10213755
    Abstract: A mixer sensing assembly of a mixer for mixing a wellsite fluid in a tank at a wellsite is provided. The mixer includes a shaft driven by a driver and a paddle operatively connectable to the shaft and rotatable therewith. The sensor assembly includes a mount operatively connectable to the shaft, a fluid interface, and a mixing sensor. The fluid interface is responsive to flow of the wellsite fluid passing thereby, and is connectable to the mount. The mixing sensor is connectable to the mount, the fluid interface, and/or the shaft to measure a strain applied to the thereto whereby fluid parameters of the wellsite fluid may be determined. The wellsite fluid may be mixed moving the components in the tank with the mixer, and measuring a strain on the mixer by detecting movement of the sensor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Rajesh Luharuka, Kim Hodgson, Rod William Shampine, Avinash Ramesh, Larry Dale Welch, Mieszko Salamon, Jijo Joseph, Gocha Chochua
  • Patent number: 10202883
    Abstract: A common rail assembly used in a urea injection system, comprising at least a first common rail and a second common rail which are connected to each other, wherein the first common rail comprises a first housing, a pressure detecting device mounted on the first housing and a pressure adjusting device. The first housing comprises a first urea inlet channel, a first urea outlet channel, at least one first feeding inlet connected to the first urea inlet channel and at least one first back-flow outlet connected to the first urea outlet channel. The pressure detecting device is connected to the first urea inlet channel. The pressure adjusting device can connect/disconnect the first urea inlet channel to/from the first urea outlet channel. Also disclosed are a urea injection system and the application of the common rail assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: TENNECO (SUZHOU) EMISSION SYSTEM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zhenqiu Yang, Chao Gong, Gaofeng Fan, Daling Liu, Haitao Zhang, Anzhou Wu, Shuai Guan
  • Patent number: 10197023
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a fuel tank mounted to a vehicle. Specifically, a saddle fuel tank comprising of a primary and secondary fuel compartment, each compartment having a module for mounting a fuel pump, fuel sensor and other accessories is disclosed. A first and second crimped opening formed on a top external wall and bottom internal wall, respectively of the saddle fuel tank may provide means for securely mounting a main and sub-side module to the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Russell Randall Pearce, Scott A. Bohr, Mohammad R. Aghili
  • Patent number: 10146200
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for updating an OS (Operating System) in PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) configured to update an OS in a PLC, and to perform an operation by instantly applying the updated OS to the PLC, and a method using the same, the apparatus including an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a flash memory, a second working memory, and a switching unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: LSIS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jo Dong Park
  • Patent number: 10077871
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a compressed fuel dispensing station having a compressor configured to compress a fuel source, a plurality of fuel dispensing units, at least one low pressure compressed fuel reservoir fluidly connected to the fuel compressor and the plurality of fuel dispensing units, and a plurality of high pressure compressed fuel reservoirs, wherein each high pressure compressed fuel reservoir is fluidly connected to the fuel compressor and at least one fuel dispensing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Nuvera Fuel Cells, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Blanchet
  • Patent number: 9863202
    Abstract: Systems and methods for using propellant as a force generator in component actuation are disclosed. One embodiment may take the form of a method including deploying at least one component to a subsea location, controlling operation of the at least one component using a control system, and igniting a propellant. The ignition of the propellant actuates the at least one component. Another embodiment may take the form of a subsea system including a control system, a propellant system in communication with the control system, and a component in communication with the propellant system. The propellant system is ignitable by the control system upon receipt of a ignite signal and upon losing communication with the control system after being placed in an armed state by the control system. The component is actuatable by the propellant system after ignition of the propellant system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gary L. Rytlewski, Laure Mandrou, David Allensworth, Quangen Du, Deepak Dcosta
  • Patent number: 9863083
    Abstract: A washing machine appliance and a method for operating a washing machine appliance are provided. The washing machine appliance includes one or more features for dispensing fluid additives using fewer valves. The method includes one or more steps for dispensing fluid additives using fewer valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Boris Leibman, Taranjeet Singh
  • Patent number: 9765932
    Abstract: Gas-filling system including a base manifold having a flow-control component and a manifold body that is operably coupled to the flow-control component. The manifold body includes a fill port and first and second supply ports that open to an exterior of the base manifold. The first and second supply ports are in fluid communication with a common passage within the manifold body such that the gas flowing through the first supply port or through the second supply port flows through the common passage to the fill port. The fill port is configured to be in fluid communication with a container. The gas-filling system also includes an accessory module removably coupled to the manifold body. The accessory module is connected to the first supply port and has an inlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Scott Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon E. Rado
  • Patent number: 9670732
    Abstract: A method of offshore batch drilling includes attaching a first MCD to a high pressure wellhead of a first subsea well and attaching a second MCD to a high pressure wellhead of a second subsea well. The method further includes drilling a section of the first subsea well to below a surface casing of the first subsea well through the first MCD. The method also includes drilling a section of the second subsea well to below a surface casing of the second subsea well through the second MCD. Drilling the section of the first subsea well and drilling the section of the second subsea well are performed from an offshore structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.
    Inventor: Henry Anthony Bergeron
  • Patent number: 9644795
    Abstract: A process plant includes a base having a plurality of module receiving areas, each area configured to receive a supply module. At least one of the receiving areas additionally configured to receive a blender. A plurality of interconnection pipings fixedly arranged relative to the base. Each piping interconnecting each of the module receiving areas to each other; and connections on each of the interconnection pipings at each of the module receiving areas. Each connection configured to selectively connect and disconnect either a supply module or blender within a respective module receiving area from its respective interconnection piping. A method of processing a fracturing fluid is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Blake Burnette
  • Patent number: 9434535
    Abstract: Fuel tanks having at least two adjacent fuel tank compartments integrally connected to one another are disclosed. Methods of making and using fuel tanks having at least two adjacent fuel tank compartments integrally connected to one another are further disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Inventor: Kenneth Sheppard
  • Patent number: 9404674
    Abstract: An absorber tube for solar collectors is provided. The absorber tube comprises a metal tube for carrying and heating a heat transfer medium, a sleeve tube enclosing the metal tube for forming an annular space that can be evacuated, a first container disposed in the annular space and filled with protective gas, an outer ring, and a transition element enclosing the metal tube for sealing off the annular space. The first container includes an outlet opening closed by a closure material, which releases the outlet opening under external actuation for introducing the protective gas into the annular space. The external actuation is applied by an opening unit that is activated for releasing the outlet openings. The first container is fixed in the annular space by a retaining device, which is on the outer ring and/or on the transition element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: SCHOTT AG
    Inventor: Thomas Kuckelkorn
  • Patent number: 9367069
    Abstract: A pneumatic switch is provided for the pneumatic control of process control components, such as valves and compressors. The pneumatic switch utilizes a slide bar operationally connected to a waggle arm to control valves, which control the introduction of compressed gas to the process control components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: KIMRAY, INC.
    Inventor: William David Filler
  • Patent number: 9353912
    Abstract: A dispensing system and a method for dispensing a fluid such as hydrogen to a hydrogen powered vehicle. The dispensing system contains a source of fluid, a valve block, a programmable logic controller and a dispenser. The dispensing system can be expandable by including a second valve block which during normal operation remains closed. When the operator desires to add a second dispenser, the second valve block is opened and connects the fluid source with the second dispenser. The dispensing system can be set up and operated as set up and operated both indoors and outdoors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Richard Kennett, Michael Ciotti
  • Patent number: 9103429
    Abstract: A vehicle hydraulic oil reservoir assembly includes a main reservoir and an auxiliary reservoir. The main reservoir has a lower portion and an upper portion. The auxiliary reservoir has a lower portion and an upper portion. The auxiliary reservoir has a port formed in the upper portion thereof. The lower portion of the auxiliary reservoir is communicated with the lower portion of the main reservoir. A breather vent is in communication with atmosphere. A vent pipe communicates the port with the breather vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Scott R. Wiens, Randall K. Bill, Jarrod A. Lemire
  • Patent number: 9091212
    Abstract: A fuel system for an aircraft comprises a boost pump, a main fuel pump and a motive pump. The boost pump receives fuel from a storage unit. The main fuel pump receives fuel from the boost pump and delivers fuel to a distribution system. The motive fuel pump receives fuel from the boost pump, routes fuel through the storage unit, and delivers fuel to an actuator. A method for delivering fuel in an aircraft comprises pumping fuel from a fuel tank to a distribution system using a main pump, pumping fuel from a fuel tank to an actuator using a motive pump, and routing fuel from the actuator to the main pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Leo J. Veilleux, Jr., Gary M. McBrien
  • Patent number: 9032984
    Abstract: A method for distributing fuel in a fuel system of a motor vehicle. The method may be applied in a fuel system having a first fuel tank, where fuel is confined at a first pressure, and a second fuel tank, where fuel is confined at a second pressure greater than the first pressure. The method comprises releasing fuel already resident in the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank, and admitting fuel to the first and second fuel tanks simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Norman Ulrey, Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 8794259
    Abstract: A fuel system for a vehicle is provided and may include a first housing containing a supply of fuel therein, a second housing containing a supply of fuel therein and coupled to the first housing, and a fuel pump disposed within one of the first housing and the second housing that selectively pumps fuel from each of the first housing and the second housing to the vehicle. A first interface may be associated with one of the first housing and the second housing and may be coupled to a vehicle interface of the vehicle in a coupled state to supply the vehicle with fuel from at least one of the first housing and the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Parviz Daneshgari
  • Publication number: 20140130896
    Abstract: A pressurized storage tank arrangement having at least two pressurized storage tanks, the at least two pressurized storage tanks being configured for connection to one another in a fluid-conducting manner via a connecting device. The at least two pressurized storage tanks are configured for connection to the connecting device in a fluid-conducting manner at a first and a second connecting section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co KG
    Inventor: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co KG
  • Patent number: 8707977
    Abstract: An example valve described herein includes a bonnet having a bonnet cavity defining a bonnet inner surface, a bonnet outer surface, and a first pressure sensing passageway extending between the bonnet outer surface and the bonnet cavity. A base is coaxially coupled to the bonnet and has a base outer surface, a base cavity that defines a base inner surface, a fluid inlet passageway extending between the base outer surface and the base cavity, a fluid outlet passageway extending between the base outer surface and the base cavity, and a second pressure sensing passageway extending between the base outer surface and the base cavity. A valve element within the base and bonnet cavities controls a fluid flow path through the fluid inlet passageway and the fluid outlet passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Tescom Corporation, a Minnesota Company
    Inventors: Paul Thomas Street, Todd William Larsen
  • Patent number: 8701698
    Abstract: The field of transporting hazardous materials and specifically to a pallet that holds containers for receiving a liquid, for example an organic peroxide, which, for safety reasons, can only be transported in small amounts. A device that includes 2 to 20, and preferably 2 to 10, containers attached onto a pallet, said containers being intended to contain a hazardous material in liquid form, the containers all having a volume greater than 100 L and preferably between 120 to 300 L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Arkema France
    Inventors: Martin Möllers, Olaf Tietze, Friedrich Schnell, Philippe Maj
  • Patent number: 8507382
    Abstract: Common sources of different (e.g., concentrated) process materials are controllably supplied to multiple blending manifolds associated with multiple process tools, processing stations, or other points of use, to create an independently controllable process material blend for each tool, station, or point of use. Multi-constituent process materials may be circulated from a supply container through a blending manifold to a return container to ensure homogeneity until immediately prior to blending and use. Such containers may include liner-based containers adapted for pressure dispensation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Foresight Processing, LLC
    Inventors: John E. Q. Hughes, Donald D. Ware, Steven M. Lurcott, Peter Wrschka
  • Patent number: 8491720
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to an HVPE chamber. The chamber may have two separate precursor sources coupled thereto to permit two separate layers to be deposited. For example, a gallium source and a separate aluminum source may be coupled to the processing chamber to permit gallium nitride and aluminum nitride to be separately deposited onto a substrate in the same processing chamber. The nitrogen may be introduced to the processing chamber at a separate location from the gallium and the aluminum and at a lower temperature. The different temperatures causes the gases to mix together, react and deposit on the substrate with little or no deposition on the chamber walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Ishikawa, David H. Quach, Anzhong Chang, Olga Kryliouk, Yuriy Melnik, Harsukhdeep S. Ratia, Son T. Nguyen, Lily Pang
  • Patent number: 8443820
    Abstract: A method for distributing fuel in a fuel system of a motor vehicle. The method may be applied in a fuel system having a first fuel tank, where fuel is confined at a first pressure, and a second fuel tank, where fuel is confined at a second pressure greater than the first pressure. The method comprises releasing fuel already resident in the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank, and admitting fuel to the first and second fuel tanks simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Norman Ulrey, Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 8336507
    Abstract: A heat transfer oil boiler system to minimize heat loss and prevent heat transfer oil from deterioration due to temperature fluctuations includes a high-level tank disposed with a vent, a transfer oil buffer, and an oil-gas separator; the heat transfer buffer includes one or more oil storage unit containing a chamber within; the heat transfer buffer is disposed between the high-level tank and the oil-gas separator; an oil inlet pipe and an oil outlet pipe for directing oil to and from the oil storage unit, respectively, is disposed in the upper and the lower chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventors: Guan-Ming Lao, Yan-Feng Wang, Guo-Sheng Shi, Duo-Fu Hu, Jin-Chang Wang, Rui-Hong Fu
  • Patent number: 8322363
    Abstract: A fuel tank system for a vehicle (1) such as a tractor comprises a first compartment (28) and a second compartment (29) located on a first side of the vehicle. A third compartment (8) is located on a second side of the vehicle opposite the first side and a first pipe (10) is connected between an aperture (12) in the first compartment and an aperture (14) in the third compartment, wherein the first pipe (10) includes a one-way valve (16) which allows fuel to flow from the third compartment (8) to the first compartment (28). A second pipe (20) is connected between an aperture (22) in the second compartment (29) and a junction (25) in the first pipe (10). The junction (25) is intermediate the one-way valve (16) and the third compartment (8) allowing fuel to flow to the third compartment (8) from the second compartment (29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Agco SA
    Inventors: Anthony Cartier, Vincent Chauvel, Geoffroy Husson
  • Patent number: 8286659
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: General Compression, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric D. Ingersoll, Justin A. Aborn
  • Patent number: 8282895
    Abstract: A reagent cabinet for an automated processing apparatus. The reagent cabinet has a housing, and a drawer slidably mounted in the housing. The drawer has a lower deck adapted to receive a fluid reservoir, and an upper deck located above the lower deck and adapted to receive a fluid supply container. A supply connection hose is provided to selectively connect the fluid supply container to the fluid reservoir. A reservoir connection hose is provided to selectively connect to the fluid reservoir and to convey fluid from the fluid reservoir to a downstream location outside the cabinet. A pump is mounted on the drawer. The pump is adapted to convey fluid through either the supply connection hose or the reservoir connection hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Qiagen Gaithersburg, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Matthew Miller, Yancy Kenan Ragin
  • Patent number: 8151834
    Abstract: A hydrogen compressor system comprises a hydrogen generating apparatus for generating hydrogen gas to be supplied to a fuel cell vehicle and a multi-stage reciprocating compressor for pressurizing the hydrogen gas generated by the hydrogen generating apparatus. High pressure tanks having maximum use pressure of 20 MPa are connected to middle stages of the multi-stage reciprocating compressor by gas supplying lines via valves. By opening/closing the valves, hydrogen gas in the high pressure tanks can be selectively supplied to the middle stages of the multi-stage reciprocating compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi Plant Technologies, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichiro Kurita, Shigeru Arai, Akinori Akanuma, Youichirou Fukai, Haruo Miura
  • Patent number: 8056577
    Abstract: An example cascade system includes a manifold having a fluid outlet port to dispense fluid and a fluid valve engaged to the manifold. First and second fluid storage containers are coupled to the manifold. The fluid valve is configured to control a first fluid flow path between the second fluid storage container and the fluid outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Tescom Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Thomas Street, Todd William Larsen
  • Patent number: 8037894
    Abstract: A pressure gauge may be coupled to a supply line which carries liquid from a bottle to either one or more mixing vessels and/or one or more reactors in a combinatorial processing tool. A control device may monitor the pressure measured by the pressure gauge, and the control device may be configured to change the pressure supplied to the bottle based on a comparison of the measured pressure to a pre-determined pressure value. The control device may adjust the pressure provided to the bottle using a pressure regulator coupled to the pressure source. By changing the pressure provided to the bottle, the control device may maintain a relatively constant flow rate of fluids from the liquid source into one or more mixing vessels and/or the one or more reactors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Intermolecular, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajesh Kelekar, Gaurav Verma, Kurt Weiner
  • Patent number: 7806138
    Abstract: A valve manifold device for coupling a gas operated appliance in fluid communication to gas cylinders, comprising a manifold having at least two inlet ports and an outlet port, at least two inlet valves respectively attached in fluid communication to the inlet ports of the manifold while being releasably attachable in fluid communication to an outlet assembly on the one pound gas cylinders, and an outlet coupling attached in fluid communication to the outlet port of the manifold and releasably attachable, directly or indirectly, in fluid communication to the gas operated appliance. The inlet valves may be check valves having an interior opening that serves as a gas conduit through the valve and into the manifold. The outlet coupling may have an annular outlet collar compatible with a standard POL, Type 1 or 1-20 connector and may include a check valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Party King Grills Company, LLC
    Inventor: Charles G. Frantz
  • Patent number: 7628182
    Abstract: A modular multi-port manifold and fuel delivery system includes a plurality of ports in fluid communication with corresponding compartments of a fuel delivery vehicle, a collector conduit common to the ports, a control valve associated with each port to control flow of the fuel product from the associated compartment to the collector conduit to deliver the product, and a control system for operating each of the control valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Trevor J. Poulter, Francis V. Stemporzewski, Jr., Kevin K. Nussair
  • Patent number: 7568660
    Abstract: Auxiliary fuel tank systems for aircraft and methods for their manufacture and use. In one embodiment, an aircraft can include a fuselage, at least one engine, and a fuel system configured to distribute fuel to at least one of the engine and an aerial refueling manifold. The aircraft can further include an auxiliary fuel tank system operably coupled to the fuel system. The auxiliary fuel tank system can include a master tank assembly and at least one slave tank assembly. The master tank assembly can be removably installed in the fuselage, and can include a master tank body configured to hold fuel. The master tank body can be configured to pass through a door in the fuselage without disassembly. The slave tank assembly can be removably installed in the fuselage at least proximate to the master tank assembly, and can include a slave tank body configured to hold fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Mark E. Howe
  • Patent number: 7465043
    Abstract: A liquid distribution unit for use between a container of a liquid and an apparatus supplied with said liquid, said liquid distribution unit includes a hollow body, a single inlet port provided in the hollow body for connection to the container, the hollow body being supplied with the liquid from the container via the single inlet port, and two or more outlet ports provided in the hollow body for feeding the liquid out from the hollow body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd
    Inventor: Hideki Sueoka
  • Patent number: 7426935
    Abstract: A master/slave tank system for storing a compressed hydrogen gas, where the system employs an electrically driven shut-off valve for each tank in the system. The tank system includes a master tank and a slave tank for storing the gas. A first line is coupled to the master tank for providing the gas stored therein to a fuel cell stack. A master tank shut-off valve is positioned in the first line between the master tank and a pressure regulator. A second line is coupled to the slave tank for providing the gas stored therein to the master tank as the pressure difference between the slave tank and the master tank changes. An electrically driven slave tank shut-off valve is positioned within the second line, where the slave tank shut-off valve automatically closes the second line in response to an increase in the differential pressure across the slave tank valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Mirko Schwan, Holger Winkelmann, Wolfgang Oelerich
  • Publication number: 20080156377
    Abstract: A system allows for the safe, rapid, efficient recovery of a drug solution from sealed vials. The system is closed so that highly potent compounds can later be recovered and reworked without large investment in further engineering controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Brad Mann
  • Patent number: 7219682
    Abstract: A multi-vessel gas storage system and liquid displacement shuttle system that utilizes a liquid-piston shuttled to alternate reservoirs and tank banks to evacuate stored gas or other fluids from storage vessels. Preferably, the gas storage and fluid displacement shuttle system includes multiple pressure storage vessels or tanks arranged in tank banks that are preferably coupled in parallel at one end to a high pressure gas manifold to exhaust the stored gas or other fluids from the vessels and coupled in parallel at another end to separate fluid shuttle circuits. The fluid shuttle circuits include cross-piped fluid fill and drain manifolds that are fluidly linked through interposing reservoirs and pumps. In operation, the stored gas or other fluids are evacuated from the storage vessels by shuttling the volume of displacement liquid between alternating banks of storage tanks and reservoirs with alternating pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: SeaOne Maritime Corp.
    Inventors: Patrick A. Agnew, Ian Morris, Bruce Hall
  • Patent number: 7201178
    Abstract: A method of providing a continuous, sequential, and cyclic, if desired, liquid feed to a processor from a plurality of containers, which comprises feeding the liquid from a first of the containers through a first conduit to a reservoir having a float valve, to keep the level of the liquid in the reservoir high enough to maintain the float valve in an upper floating position that closes the float valve. The first conduit is uncontrolled by the float valve. The float valve controls a second conduit which connects with a second container. As liquid is withdrawn from the reservoir for processing, liquid from the first conduit and container replenishes the reservoir until it is exhausted. Then, the liquid level drops, and the float valve opens the second conduit for replenishing the reservoir with liquid from the second container. A crossover valve may be used so that the float valve controls flow from either container connected to the second conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Amit Gupta, David A. Grattan
  • Patent number: 7168464
    Abstract: A dual service system and method for selectively compressing and dispensing methane, hydrogen, and variable mixtures of methane and hydrogen for use as a gaseous fuel. The use of an in-line gas density meter, hydraulic intensifier, pressurized gas cooler, optional intermediate storage and multiple dispensers are disclosed. An inline gas density meter is used in combination with a programmable logic controller and a control valve on the hydrogen supply line to create a closed feedback loop for selectively controlling the hydrogen content of the resultant pressurized fuel gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Pinnacle CNG Systems, LLC
    Inventor: David A. Diggins
  • Patent number: 7104727
    Abstract: In a pipeline system having a plurality of pipe segments joining a fluid supply tank to a fluid dispenser, the invention includes a pipe coupling assembly for use on at least one terminal end of a fluid transfer pipe, where the transfer pipe has an inner tubular member for transferring fluid and an outer tubular member and an interstitial space there between. The coupling assembly comprises a transition coupling for attachment to the pipe segment to provide a first path for the fluid in the inner tubular member and a second path for the interstitial space. The coupling assembly further comprises a transition tube assembly for attachment to the transition coupling to provide separate paths for the transfer fluid and the interstitial space, where the interstitial space provides a means for performing leak detection or fitting integrity tests during application of either a vacuum condition or pressurized gas input via such selective access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Michael C. Webb
  • Patent number: 7013911
    Abstract: An improved valve and manifold for use in conjunction with inflatable devices such as life rafts, escape slides, white water rafts, kayaks, etc. The invention is specifically an internal cross over valve for inflatable rafts and the like where the valve fluidly connects at least two separate compartments in the inflatable device thereby allowing inflation of the multiple compartments while also providing control of fluid flow therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventors: Lloyd G. Wass, Corey Krantz
  • Patent number: 6736155
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for the filling of pressurized lubricant reservoirs such as is found on air oilers and the like. A storage tank of lubricant capable of being pressurized for the delivery of the lubricant to the individual lubricant reservoirs on one or several pieces of machinery or tools. The storage tank is connected with at least a line and a valve to a source of pressurized air that will be used to overcome a threshold pressure required to move the lubricant from the storage tank to the individual lubricant reservoirs. The storage tank may be connected to a piping manifold with valves to isolate lines leading to individual lubricant reservoirs. Check valves may be used as appropriate to prevent backflow of lubricant from an individual lubricant reservoir to the manifold, other commonly connected individual lubricant reservoirs, the storage tank, or the source of pressurized air, such as an air compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keith Johnson, Don Ingles