Tank With Internally Extending Flow Guide, Pipe Or Conduit Patents (Class 137/590)
  • Patent number: 6161562
    Abstract: A draw and return tube assembly having draw and return tubes welded to a flange at a first end and crossed over each other and welded together at a second end. The openings in the tubes opposite the flange are positioned a distance apart such that fuel returned to the tank through the return tube is not immediately redrawn into the draw tube. The ends of the tubes positioned opposite the flange have a cross sectional area that facilitates placement of the assembly through a flange receiving aperture in a fuel tank such that the assembly may be installed within the fuel tank after manufacturing thereof. Welding of the tubes at their ends opposite the fuel tank provides for a stable assembly without the use of a separate securing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventors: Neal L. Keefer, Kenneth A. Watson
  • Patent number: 6152199
    Abstract: In a filling system for moving a supply of liquid through an automatic nozzle, a filling adaptor affixed to a fill pipe of the container for receiving the automatic nozzle has a safety closure at a discharge end thereof to reduce spillage of liquid from the container upon tipping of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventors: Joseph M. Nusbaumer, Ronald Woods
  • Patent number: 6129338
    Abstract: A fuel line petcock valve including a handle which may be oriented in one of several positions so as to orient the inlet and outlet of the petcock valve to conform to different motorcycle fuel systems and to provide a full shut, full open and intermediate position for permitting reserve fuel to be transferred to the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Ilan Z. Golan
  • Patent number: 6098649
    Abstract: A waste processing apparatus which can easily and efficiently process waste, a waste recovery system using this apparatus and a liquid container ideal for use with the waste processing apparatus and waste recovery system. The waste processing apparatus comprises a processing part for processing supplied waste (for example foam polystyrene) with a processing liquid (for example limonene) and a storing part for storing produced liquid (for example limonene containing dissolved foam polystyrene) produced in this processing part and provided with a removable liquid container constructed to both supply processing liquid to the processing part and receive produced liquid produced by the waste processing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Tsutomu Noguchi, Minoru Matsushima, Hiraku Sugiki, Yasuhiro Hirafune
  • Patent number: 6058964
    Abstract: A multi-level fuel pickup system has a float valve in communication with a first fuel passage having an open end disposed at a first height within the fuel tank spaced from the bottom of the fuel tank to prevent fluid flow through the first fuel passage when liquid fuel is absent adjacent its open end. A second fuel passage communicates adjacent the bottom of the fuel tank and below the first height and fuel is drawn through this fuel passage when a low level of fuel remains in the fuel tank. A fuel control valve is manually adjustable to control through which of the fuel passages fuel is drawn. Preferably, each of the fuel passages is at least partially formed in a valve body mounted within the fuel tank and the float valve comprises a spherical float received in a bore in the valve body and is responsive to the level of fuel within the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Walbro Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Cotton, Ronald H. Roche
  • Patent number: 6056007
    Abstract: Manifolds for mounting in the domed end cap of an air reserve tanks for a truck or the like have bodies which have central openings in communication with an opening formed in the tank end cap and which provide a plurality of outlet passages which are in communication with the inlet opening. The outlet passages may be provided with push-to-connect tube or hose retaining fittings, inlet check valves, pressure relief valves or the like by which the manifolds provide for multiple air line connections to a common tank. Embodiments of the manifold are shown as applied to metal and to composite tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Q.sub.3 JMC, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick C. Gochenouer, Richard C. Pickering
  • Patent number: 6032821
    Abstract: A treatment tank for a water conditioning apparatus includes a tank head with a wall with an interior surface and a noncircular rim that defines a first through hole in the wall. A generally cylindrical flange defines a first aperture and has a first nipple portion with a periphery and a noncircular portion radially extending from the periphery of the nipple portion. The noncircular portion is configured to matingly engage the noncircular rim so that contact between the noncircular rim and the noncircular portion prevents rotation of the flange relative to the tank head. A first fastener is engageable on the first nipple portion to secure the flange on the tank head through contact between the fastener and the tank head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: United States Filter Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley S. Martin, Mark E. Wichmann, Andrew J. Kajpust
  • Patent number: 6014987
    Abstract: The invention is an anti-vortex assembly for mounting at the entrance to the outlet port of a propellant tank. In detail, the anti-vortex assembly includes a hollow cylindrical frame assembly having a longitudinal axis, open top and bottom ends, and top and bottom circular shaped support members connected together by equally spaced vertical support members. A baffle assembly is mounted within the frame assembly and which includes a plurality of perforated baffle plates having first and second ends. The first ends of the baffle plates are joined together at the longitudinal axis of the frame assembly and the second ends are joined to the vertical support members of the frame assembly. A first cylindrical shaped filter assembly is mounted about the frame assembly and a second flat disc shaped filter assembly is mounted over the top opening thereof. Fasteners are used to secure the frame member and the first filter assembly to the tank about the periphery of the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Carl List, Jennifer Erin Kinzy
  • Patent number: 6014957
    Abstract: The automotive fuel pump module includes a sealed housing containing a fuel reservoir and a fuel pump for mounting within the fuel tank of a vehicle. A flange is secured to the wall of the fuel tank and lies in communication with the outlet of the fuel pump by a pair of pivotally connected arms for flowing fuel from the reservoir within the housing to outside of the fuel tank and to the fuel rail. A torsion spring biases the arms such that the reservoir body is referenced to the bottom of the fuel tank from the flange of the module. A pressure regulator may be provided within the housing for returning excess fuel to the reservoir. A mounting cup includes a pocket for receiving a pin on the housing cover for vibrationally isolating the pump and housing from one another and preventing rotation of the pump relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corp.
    Inventor: Barry Robinson
  • Patent number: 6000425
    Abstract: A device comprising a chamber (10) with a maximum fluid level (14) established by an internal drain pipe (62) directing excess fluid to a point of disposal (44) and an internal replenishment fluid supply valve (16) providing any additional fluid required to maintain a minimum fluid level (12). The chamber (10) is remotely connected by unpressurized fluid conduits (32 & 34 & 40) to one or more fluid containers (30 & 38) which are to have maximum regulated levels (72 & 74) and minimum regulated levels (36 & 42) controlled by the device. The chamber (10) is established so that the maximum and minimum fluid levels (14 & 12) are respectively set at the same elevation as the maximum and minimum regulated fluid levels (72, 74 & 36, 42) of the regulated containers (30 & 38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Jeffry H. Steinorth
  • Patent number: 5992219
    Abstract: The leakage inspection for a compressed natural gas (CNG) supply piping system where a filling passage 4 and a supplying passage 5 are provided in a valve body 3 which serves as a block of a CNG fuel container. The filling passage 4 and the supplying passage are provided with a manual stop valves 13 and 7. A solenoid valve 8 is disposed at an open end of the supplying passage 8. A CNG filling inlet 10 is provided at an outer end of a filling conduit 9 communicated to the filling passage 4. A conduit 12 extending to an engine is provided with an inspection gas inlet 14. For the leakage inspection, the stop valves 7 and 13 are closed and an inspection gas is introduced from a leakage inspection gas inlet 14 and the filling inlet 10. It is examined by measuring a pressure change in the conduits 9 and 12 to determine whether or not a leakage problem is occurring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akifumi Otaka
  • Patent number: 5988213
    Abstract: A vehicular fuel supplying apparatus comprising an in-tank type fuel pump mounted within the fuel tank from an opening in a bottom wall of a fuel tank. A fuel flowing out prevention valve 21 is connected between a discharge port 7a of a fuel pump 7 and a vehicle body side pipe 16 to an engine. A valve 25 seating on a seal surface and having a coil spring 28 is disposed within the fuel flowing out prevention valve 21 to provide a valve function, the valve opening pressure of the fuel flowing out prevention valve 21 from the side of the fuel pump is set to be greater than a total maximum value of a fuel head pressure inside of the fuel tank and an internal pressure of the fuel tank and is set smaller than a fuel discharge pressure at the fuel pump 7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yoshioka
  • Patent number: 5924445
    Abstract: A fuel intake device (20) for a fuel system (10) having a fuel tank (14) for containing a supply of fuel (16) and an internal fuel feed line (18) which is disposed internally of the fuel tank (14). The fuel intake device (20) is operative to provide uninterrupted fuel flow in icing conditions and is characterized by a flexible fuel filter (40) having a plurality of primary flow apertures (42) apertures therein for facilitating a primary flow P.sub.F of fuel therethrough, a bypass means (50) for providing a secondary flow S.sub.F of fuel to the internal fuel feed line (18) when an accumulation of ice (80) restricts the primary flow P.sub.F of fuel through the primary flow apertures (42), and force bias means (60) for rapidly reconfiguring the flexible fuel filter (40) for forcibly shedding the accumulation of ice (80), thereby restoring the primary flow P.sub.F of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
    Inventors: Gregg J. Ambrose, John A. Roncallo
  • Patent number: 5845676
    Abstract: A ring float floating in the surface of the ballast liquid is arranged around a pump housing with suction port submerged in a ballast tank. The ring float runs around the pump housing and will form a barrier which prevents a contaminating layer on the liquid surface from being drawn in through the suction port, said barrier preventing the contaminating layer from reaching the port before the suction port loses its suction effect as result of it taking in air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Ola G.o slashed.thesen
  • Patent number: 5810039
    Abstract: A module to be arranged within a hollow vessel for extracting fluid from the hollow vessel is provided, the module comprising a pumping device, at least one filtering device and at least one extension arm which has means enabling connection with the outside of the module.Also provided are a process for fixing such a module inside of a hollow vessel, a hollow vessel comprising such a module and a method for extracting fluid from a hollow vessel wherein the fluid is extracted by such a module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Solvay (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventors: Paul Wouters, Georges Hore, Marc Obsomer
  • Patent number: 5785078
    Abstract: A safety vent for a railroad tank car has a housing mounted about an opening on the top of the car. The housing body defines a cavity which contains a surge protector and a rupture disk. The rupture disk is designed to open at a known pressure and allow controlled venting of the pressure in the car. A securement cap threaded into the cavity centers the rupture disk in a seat formed in the surge protector. Removal of the securement cap provides quick, easy access to the rupture disk and surge protector for inspection and replacement without removing the housing body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignees: Salco Products, Inc., Gatx Corporation
    Inventors: William F. Burian, Erling Mowatt-Larssen
  • Patent number: 5778471
    Abstract: A device for storing a supply of emergency potable water includes a tank member which is especially configured to store unobtrusively in the home. The tank member is configured to connect into the domestic fresh cold water supply to an automatic clothes washer, and to sit alongside of the clothes washer, possibly in a gap defined between this washing machine and an adjacent clothes dryer machine. The tank member is configured to insure that a circulation of water occurs each time the washing machine draws fresh cold water during operation to wash clothing, and to insure that sediment does not collect in the tank member. Thus, a self-refreshing supply of potable water is provided which is of no significant inconvenience to store in the home. Further, the tank member, or a tray-like member nested atop this tank member, is configured to form a convenient adjunct and continuation of horizontal utility surfaces provided commonly at the top of clothes washers and dryers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Timothy J. Collison
  • Patent number: 5766470
    Abstract: A mobile recovery system is disclosed, for the collection, separation and disposable of wet solid, oily and/or watery waste, which includes a novel form of container for receiving the liquid elements for processing. The container may comprise a conventional 55 gallon drum with an open top. A processing cover is provided, which mounts a structural column, preferably an elongated tube, which extends between the upper and lower ends, when the processing cover is installed in position. The structural column enables the closed drum to withstand partial evacuation during processing operations. The processing cover also carries the necessary fluid inlet and outlet openings for accessing the container during processing. After processing, the container may be closed and sealed by a conventional cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas J. Burns
  • Patent number: 5755264
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting waste material comprising: a support bed; a tank mounted above the support bed for receiving the waste material; a system for generating vacuum and pressure within the tank; an air conduit system; a waste loading system; and a waste discharge system for expelling the waste material from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Guzzler Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Richards, Manikkam Madheswaran
  • Patent number: 5676828
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for modifying waste water to reduce nitrate content and biochemical oxygen demand is provided. The apparatus includes an ammonification and denitrification region having a substantially anaerobic environment, a nitrification region having a substantially aerobic environment, and an effluent drainage region. Effluent circulates through the ammonification and denitrification region and the nitrification region to convert organic nitrogen-containing compounds in waste water to nitrogen gas and carbon dioxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Fluidyne, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Kallenbach, Justin M. Buchanan, Matthew H. Goodrich, Ronald V. Skinner, Greg R. Poncelet, Trina J. Kallenbach
  • Patent number: 5628342
    Abstract: A cylinder for transporting hazardous material such as hypergole material which is fabricated from stainless steel and includes a containment system for containing any spillage in the event of malfunction during loading and unloading. The cylinder also includes a bottom skirt, attached to the lower head of the pressure vessel, and which contains a pocket assembly for the reception of fork lift and pallet lift equipment. A locking system is provided for the valves which will prevent accidental opening or closing of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignees: Olin Corporation, Profile Machine Products, Anderson Columbiana Trading
    Inventors: Richard C. McNealy, Stuart R. Grossberg, Ralph Minore
  • Patent number: 5603433
    Abstract: An anti-graffiti device includes a spray can with an activation base having a recess for receiving the spray can wherein the recess contains a way for controlling the dispensing flow from the spray can. The spray can has a liquid delivery tube for conducting liquid to be dispensed to an outlet and a selectively controllable interruption plunger for preventing liquid dispensing flow from the spray can. The plunger, for selectively preventing liquid flow, is independent from the finger-pressure spray can dispensing valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Albert Rene
  • Patent number: 5597021
    Abstract: A close for allowing the emptying of the contents of a container comprises: a hollow closure member (1) for a container, the closure member having an outlet (2) for the contents; a rotatable plug (3) mounted within the closure member, the plug having a first through-passage (4) for the contents with an inlet (32) and an outlet (34), the plug being rotatable between a first closed position in which the inlet (32) of the through-passage is out of register with the closure member outlet (2) and a second position in which the inlet is in register with the closure member outlet to permit the contents to pass into the passageway; a connector (5) for transfer of the contents out of the container, the connector having means (7) to engage the exposed portion of the plug, and the connector (5) when engaged with the plug (3) can be turned to rotate the plug to the open position, or to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Unilever N.V.
    Inventors: Garry W. Crossdale, Michael Veveris
  • Patent number: 5586586
    Abstract: A unitized tank structure including a vessel having at least first and second compartments. Fill lines are coupled to the vessel providing access to fill the first and second compartments of the vessel. At least one sump riser portion is coupled to the vessel and extends therefrom. At least first and second dispensing lines are disposed within the sump riser portion and penetrate the vessel. Each dispensing line extends within the vessel and within the first and second compartments. Cross-over venting structure is provided within the vessel and is constructed and arranged to provide venting between the first and second compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: Manfred M. Fiech
  • Patent number: 5546774
    Abstract: A dispenser device for use with an automatic washing machine and a wash tub having a drain. The device has an elongated housing having a drain passage disposed therethrough. The housing has a first end provided with a first opening and a second end provided with a second opening, with both openings being connected to the drain passage. A sealing gasket is provided at the second end of the housing around the second opening. A means for mounting the device within the wash tub and means for selectably placing the device into a sealed and an unsealed position are also provided. When the device is in the sealed position, the gasket makes sealing contact with the wash tub around the wash tub drain. Thus, when sealed, fluid that enters the first opening travels through the drain passage and down the wash tub drain, while fluid that enters the wash tub is stored in the wash tub and is prevented from travelling down the wash tub drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Matilda Thompson
    Inventors: Matilda Thompson, W. Grey Williams
  • Patent number: 5538597
    Abstract: An apparatus for the discharge of a mass tower containing medium to high consistency pulp and operable without the need for further dilution includes a vessel for storing the pulp; a suction duct extending from a zone of moving pulp to a region outside of the tower; and a pump attached to the end of the suction duct for discharging the pulp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: A. Ahlstrom Corporation
    Inventors: Arto Koso, Voitto Reponen, Reijo Vesala
  • Patent number: 5522425
    Abstract: A delivery unit has a level transmitter in which it is possible that angular deviations of the flange and/or of the bottom of the fuel tank from the desired position have no no effect on the measuring precision of the level transmitter arranged on the delivery unit. The connection between the flange and the pump holder is longitudinally movable and rotatable, and the lower end of the pump holder can be centered in a swivellable manner on a bottom of the fuel tank or of a baffle pot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AG
    Inventors: Hugo Kroiss, Guenther Tuschl
  • Patent number: 5518017
    Abstract: A marine fuel tank includes a "sump" tank compartment. The sump tank compartment projects from and below a main fuel tank compartment. A bottom cover plate, covering the sump, has a large hole in its center in communication with one end of a connection tube. The bottom cover plate for the sump also includes two small holes directly in front of and behind the connection tube, aligned with each other in a direction of travel. These holes allow fuel to move from the main fuel tank compartment of the fuel tank into the sump tank compartment. As the main fuel tank compartment is filled with fuel, the fuel flows to the sump tank compartment by gravity feed through the holes in the cover plate of the sump tank compartment. A fuel pickup tube extends through the connection tube and into the sump tank compartment and its free end is free to move inside the sump tank compartment as moved by the dynamic acceleration forces acting on the fuel pickup tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Correct Craft, Inc.
    Inventor: William N. Snook, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5494199
    Abstract: A suction hose and filter apparatus for retaining an elongated flexible hose and paint filter to a remote container for use with a hand-held paint spray gun, the apparatus including a clip for holding the apparatus to a rim of a paint container, a guide integrally formed with the clip and positioned to extend from the rim into the interior of the paint container for submerging a distal end of the flexible hose and paint filter into a bottom region of the paint container, wherein the guide includes a pair of longitudinally extending ribs and a plurality of cross members forming a passageway for retaining and restraining the hose against the tendency of the hose to recoil via its memory and move the paint filter away from the bottom region of the paint container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Richard P. Anderson, Francis R. Haas
  • Patent number: 5447175
    Abstract: A fuel delivery device is reduced in size by reducing the size of a float, and has reliability in operating its valve means and favorable response of the valve means, and general applicability to various vehicle types. As for a manufacturing method of the device, ultrasonic welding with resin which is the most preferable method considering the material and the cost is employed so that the designed valve opening/closing reliability and response can be easily achieved. For realizing such a device, this invention provides a multi-stage valve assembly in which a plurality of valves are provided, the uppermost valve is connected to a float, and slide members which have stoppers provided on the distal ends thereof and are provided on one of the valves which make a pair, are inserted in guide members provided on the other valve in such a manner that the stoppers can be engaged with the guide members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: OM Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Takaki, Seiichi Takatsuka
  • Patent number: 5392806
    Abstract: An improved foot valve assembly for use with a water intake includes a bucket with an internal conduit having a connector for attachment to a water pump intake pipe at the base of the bucket. Ballast weight added to the bottom of the bucket provides stability. The intake of water occurs at the upper end of the internal conduit, through a vertically supported foot valve. A basket-fitted over the foot valve may support a fabric bag-filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: Mark Gallant
  • Patent number: 5375618
    Abstract: Device for supplying a multiphase fluid comprising at least a liquid phase and a gas phase to a pumping assembly. The device consists of a tank including means for taking samples of the fluid, at least two, extending in the tank so as to run across the liquid-gas interface under normal working conditions, said sampling means comprise sample openings distributed on either side of said interface under normal working conditions, the sampling means being connected to the pumping assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Giannesini
  • Patent number: 5372116
    Abstract: A fuel pressure pulsation dampener valve is disclosed as having a housing with an internal chamber into which inlet and outlet tubes communicate to transfer fuel under pressure to the fuel injectors of an internal combustion engine. The outlet tube of the valve includes a plurality of ports which are positioned in the valve below the normal operating fuel level of the engine while the opening from the inlet tube through which fuel is supplied to the interior of the valve is positioned above such fuel level. A bleed orifice above the inlet tube opening communicates the interior of the valve to the return line of the fuel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: Davco Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Leland L. Davis
  • Patent number: 5368058
    Abstract: A sample port valve for use in a port of a liquid-containing vessel. The valve incorporates a housing that is attachable to a port of the vessel, such as the permeate port of a reverse osmosis pressure vessel. A preferred valve allows a user to insert and retain a sampling tube into the valve to a position less than fully inserted. With the tube in its inserted, retained position the valve can then be fully opened to allow the tube to be fully inserted into the vessel, without the loss of liquid or pressure from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: Goldeneye Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael K. Gold, Mathew J. Gold
  • Patent number: 5353835
    Abstract: An automatic air tank drain is provided by forming a venturi induced suction at the tank outlet which draws liquid out of the tank as the tank air is exhausted past the venturi through a flexible hose positioned by a weight at the tank bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: Floyd D. Mills
  • Patent number: 5339858
    Abstract: The invention provides a device for restoring a fluid level in a fluid receptacle to a predetermined level when the fluid level falls below the predetermined level, said device including: a closed vessel for containing a fluid supply, the vessel having an aperture allowing the fluid supply to be in communication with fluid in the fluid receptacle, and an air inlet tube extending into the vessel; wherein, in use, the inlet tube is positioned such that air is drawn into the vessel when the level in the fluid receptacle falls below the predetermined level thereby allowing fluid to pass through the aperture into the fluid receptacle until the fluid level is restored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Spurion Technology Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Alan B. Giles
  • Patent number: 5327871
    Abstract: A fuel tank and filler system for an internal combustion engine includes a fuel tank, a filler pipe extending into the fuel tank, and a check valve comprising a collapsible, normally open tube secured around the outlet of the fuel filler pipe within the tank. Fuel entering the tank passes through the filler pipe and collapsible tube unimpeded. The collapsible tube has sufficient flexibility, however, to collapse upon itself in the event that fuel begins to flow outwardly through the filler pipe, thereby preventing fuel from leaving the tank through the filler pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: William S. Gryc
  • Patent number: 5307782
    Abstract: A fuel pressure pulsation dampener valve is disclosed as having a housing with an internal chamber into which inlet and outlet tubes communicate to transfer fuel under pressure to the fuel injectors of an internal combustion engine. The outlet tube of the valve includes a plurality of ports which are positioned in the valve below the normal operating fuel level of the engine while the opening from the inlet tube through which fuel is supplied to the interior of the valve is positioned above such fuel level. A bleed orifice above the inlet tube opening communicates the interior of the valve to the return line of the fuel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Davco Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Leland L. Davis
  • Patent number: 5297578
    Abstract: A fuel supply system for supplying fuel from a fuel source to an internal combustion engine includes a valve assembly having a shut-off valve automatically responsive to negative pressures transmitted from an engine. The shutoff valve is diaphragm responsive and moves in the same direction as the flow of fuel in order close the valve assembly, thereby retaining the content of a fuel receptacle infinitely. The shutoff valve is adapted to withstand pressures which may develop in a fuel receptacle without opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Assignee: Tillotson, Ltd.
    Inventors: William A. Scott, Gary L. Baumbarger
  • Patent number: 5293899
    Abstract: A fuel tank includes an inlet port communicating with a fuel decelerating section of the tank in which the inflowing fuel is decelerated. The decelerated fuel is delivered to a fuel intake compartment of the tank which contains a filter. The filtered fuel is then delivered to a fuel storage area of the tank which includes a hose leading to an outlet port. A buoyant member is mounted on the inlet end of the hose to enable that inlet end to rise to or near the surface of fuel in the tank. Sediment drains are provided in the bottom of the tank for removing sediment from the fuel intake compartment and the fuel storage area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Oh-Kyoung Kwon
  • Patent number: 5293895
    Abstract: In a liquid storage tank 10 for use on a spacecraft, a transfer apparatus 15 (comprising gathering vanes 33, an elongate array of fins 32, and a sponge structure formed from panels 31) functions to transfer liquid from the inner surface of the tank 10 to the vicinity of an outlet line 40. A screen 23 is disposed between the panels 31 and the outlet line 40. When wetted with liquid, the screen 23 prevents gas and/or vapor in the tank 10 from passing to the outlet line 40. A perforated plate 22 disposed between the screen 23 and the outlet line 40 causes liquid to pass from the tank 10 to the outlet line 40 in a regular and generally unbroken flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: Lockheed Missiles & Space Company, Inc.
    Inventors: R. K. Grove, Ronald W. King, Julie M. L'Heureux
  • Patent number: 5279323
    Abstract: In a liquid storage tank 10 for use on a spacecraft, a transfer apparatus 15 (comprising gathering vanes 33, an elongate array of fins 32, and a sponge structure formed from panels 31) functions to transfer liquid from the inner surface of the tank 10 to the vicinity of an outlet line 40. A screen 23 is disposed between the panels 31 and the outlet line 40. When wetted with liquid, the screen 23 prevents gas and/or vapor in the tank 10 from passing to the outlet line 40. A perforated plate 22 disposed between the screen 23 and the outlet line 40 causes liquid to pass from the tank 10 to the outlet line 40 in a regular and generally unbroken flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Assignee: Lockheed Missiles & Space Company, Inc.
    Inventors: R. K. Grove, Ronald W. King, Julie M. L'Heureux
  • Patent number: 5263329
    Abstract: In a tank 10 for cryogenic liquid to be used in a low-gravity environment (e.g., on a space vehicle), a liquid transfer apparatus 15 (which comprises an elongate array of fins 32 and a sponge structure formed from panels 31) functions to transfer cryogenic liquid from the interior of the tank 10 to a bowl structure 20 defining a reservoir region adjacent an outlet of the tank 10. A perforated plate 22 disposed between the sponge structure and the outlet of the tank 10 causes cryogenic liquid to pass through the outlet into an outlet line 40 in a regular and generally unbroken flow. To prevent any substantial amount of heat transfer into the reservoir region of the tank 10, the bowl structure 20 is separated from the inner surface of the tank 10 by a capillary distance in order to provide a thermally insulating space therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Assignee: Lockheed Missiles & Space Company, Inc.
    Inventors: R. K. Grove, Ronald W. King, Julie M. L'Heureux
  • Patent number: 5249594
    Abstract: An in-take fuel supply system for a fuel tank that tilts in service comprising a manifold and a plurality of suction pipes that are pivotally attached to inlet ports of the manifold. Each suction pipe extends outwardly of the manifold and has a float valve at the remote end for closing the suction pipe in the absence of sufficient fuel to prevent ingestion of significant amounts of air and vapor. The suction pipes are biased to a horizontal position by springs that allow a fold down configuration for installing the fuel supply system in a fuel tank through a small installation hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas L. Kizer
  • Patent number: 5244003
    Abstract: This is a drain hose for a tank such as on a floor scrubbing machine and a means for attaching it to the tank. When not in use the hose is stored inside the tank, where it is protected from damage such as may occur to externally stored hoses. When it is to be used the hose is pulled from the tank and extended to a suitable site such as a floor drain and the contents of the tank are emptied through it. After use the hose may be pushed back into the tank again. The means for attaching the hose to the tank may include a cover over an opening in the tank which is amply large to permit cleaning out the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignee: Tennant Company
    Inventor: Steven L. Boomgaarden
  • Patent number: 5240038
    Abstract: The surface tension tank is designed to feed a liquid propellant to a main engine and to at least one auxiliary engine or receiver of a space vehicle or satellite. The tank comprises a common shell containing at least two compartments of different sizes that are separated by a diaphragm provided with at least one strainer for providing communication between the large compartment and the small compartment. A pressurization gas feed orifice opens out into the large compartment. A liquid expulsion device is placed in the small compartment, and means for delivering liquid to the members to be fed are essentially disposed along a direction that differs little from the direction of the main acceleration imparted by the main engine, in such a direction as to accelerate liquid flow therealong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Societe Europeenne de Propulsion
    Inventor: Frederic Canedi
  • Patent number: 5236000
    Abstract: An in-take fuel supply system for a fuel tank that tilts in service comprising a manifold and a plurality of suction pipes that are pivotally attached to inlet ports of the manifold. Each suction pipe extends outwardly of the manifold and has a float valve at the remote end for closing the suction pipe in the absence of sufficient fuel to prevent ingestion of significant amounts of air and vapor. The suction pipes are biased to a horizontal position by springs that allow a fold down configuration for installing the fuel supply system in a fuel tank through a small installation hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Inventor: Thomas L. Kizer
  • Patent number: 5232017
    Abstract: A gas cylinder has mounted therein a venturi device through which the constituents of a gas mixture pass when the cylinder is being filled with gas. The venturi device causes rapid and thorough mixing of the various constituents of the gas mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: The BOC Group plc
    Inventor: Simon A. Jolley
  • Patent number: 5217044
    Abstract: Agricultural chemicals, such as herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers, are typically sold as a liquid concentrate and are transported in plastic tanks which commonly range from 15-160 gallons in size. Often these tanks are manufactured using conventional rotational molding techniques from a thermoplastic such as high density polyethylene (HDPE). When full of liquid these tanks are heavy and are typically moved using a forklift or other suitable powered apparatus. The bottoms of these tanks flex up and down when full and further vary in size due to manufacturing variances and the physical properties of the plastic itself. The flexible suction pipe is typically installed in one of these tanks and is designed to keep the inlet of the suction pipe at or near the bottom of the tank despite flexing and other variables to maximize withdrawal of fluid from the tank. The flexible suction pipe includes an elongate flexible bellows which expands and contracts as the situation may demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Assignee: Great Palins Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel L. Schulte
  • Patent number: 5213054
    Abstract: An emergency bulk liquid handling system for tankvessels suffering damage which incapacitates their primary liquid cargo system wherein valving in the normal cargo loading drop lines, deck headers and tank walls combined with means to prime the deck headers and drop lines provides a backup cargo offloading path which bypasses the damaged system and allows movement/offloading of liquid cargo despite the otherwise incapacitating damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Inventors: John J. Gallagher, Paul S. Smith