Abstract: A gas feed device for detecting trouble in a gas pressure sensor fitted to the gas feed device. The presence of trouble in pressure sensors is determined according to whether or not gas pressure values detected by the pressure sensors fitted to branch pipes is within an allowable range when stop valves fitted to the branch pipes connected to the access ports of hydrogen absorbing alloy tanks are fully opened from their fully closed state. When the gas feed device is mounted on a vehicle, no special operation is required for trouble detection because the trouble in the pressure sensors can be detected by fully opening the fully closed stop valves when the vehicle is started and normally the trouble can be judged by the mounted equipment.

Abstract: An unloading system includes a transport for flowable product and an unloading assembly for enabling the flowable product to be removed from the transport without requiring personnel to crawl under the transport in order to connect or disconnect the transport and the unloading assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the balancing of fuel among tanks in a circulating fuel system. The tanks in the system have both a draw conduit and a return conduit mounted to and extending into the tank. Flow restriction devices are mounted in both the draw and the return conduits and are controlled by a fuel level detection system, which detects the fuel in the tank.

Abstract: A transfer line for the transfer of fluid or powder-like substances from one or more sources to an outlet characterized in that the transfer line comprises at least one movable section, optionally including associated equipment such as one or more pumps or filters. The movable line section to be cleaned is coupled to a cleaning station. Water for a first washing is transferred through the movable line section and preferably at least for a part recirculated a number of times. The used water is drained off. Fresh water for a second washing is transferred through the movable line section. After transferring the used water from the second wash tank into the first wash tank, water from a third wash tank is transferred through the movable line section to the first wash tank. The washings collected in the first wash tank can be reused as a first washing for a next movable line section to be cleaned.

Abstract: An assembly comprises a flexible member that extends through an aperture defined by a divider component. A distal portion of the flexible member extends away from the assembly at an angle. A first flexible-member-routing bracket is mounted to the divider component and has one or more guide structures that function to facilitate a gradual transition of the flexible member from the direction it extends in as it passes through the aperture defined by the divider component to the direction its distal portion extends in.

Abstract: In accordance with a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, a sewer line assembly for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle or the like, having a sewer line outlet, includes a housing mounted on the vehicle, and a sewer discharge line mounted in axial alignment with the housing in-fluid communication with the vehicle sewer outlet. The sewer line contracts axially to a short storage configuration to be supported at least partially within the housing. The line expands axially to a long sewage-conveying use configuration. A discharge nozzle connected in fluid communication with the discharge end of the sewer line couples to a remotely located sewer inlet.

Abstract: A fluid flow control mechanism includes a crossover fuel assembly which controls fuel flow between tanks such that an engine fuel intake pipe remains submerged. It is for a work vehicle with a fuel system which has two tanks, three flexible couplings, a tube assembly and a valve assembly. The crossover fuel assembly includes a suction tube assembly, a check valve assembly, a connecting polymeric or elastomeric coupling and multiple clamping mechanisms. The engine fuel intake pipe fluidly connects the crossover fuel assembly to the engine.

Abstract: A system for supplying fluid to a battery, a vehicle and a method for supplying fluid to a battery. The fluid supply system supplies fluid to a battery in a vehicle selectively powered by the battery, the vehicle including a frame supporting the battery, the battery including a battery cell, fluid being transmittable to the cell, gas generated during charging of the battery being transmittable out of the cell. The system is defined as including a tank for holding fluid, and a hydraulic circuit connecting the battery to the tank. The hydraulic circuit is defined as including an inlet conduit connectable between the tank and the cell, and an outlet conduit connectable between the cell and the tank, gas produced during charging causing fluid flow through the outlet conduit and to the tank. In the fluid supply system of the present invention, the gas produced during charging causes fluid flow through the system.

Abstract: A compressed-gas tank system has at least two gas vessels, the gas vessels having a base part and a removal part and openings which are assigned to the removal parts. The removal parts of the gas vessels are directly connected to a connecting rail, without any pipelines therebetween. The openings are in communication with a gas passage which runs inside the connecting rail, the connecting rail being assigned a shut-off valve which is common to all the gas vessels. The gas vessels are mechanically connected to a supporting rail, the supporting rail and the connecting rail forming a holding frame for the gas vessels.

Abstract: A recreational vehicle faucet accessible from outside the vehicle includes a housing having an inlet fitting connected to the fresh water supply. An outlet fitting and valve is provided in the housing interior for delivery of fresh water to the exterior of the vehicle through a hose connected to the valve. The housing includes a cover to close the housing interior and a mounting flange for mounting the housing to the vehicle side wall. In one embodiment of the invention, the housing provides a storage compartment for the hose.

Abstract: In accordance with a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, a sewer line assembly for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle or the like, having a sewer line outlet, includes a housing mounted on the vehicle, and a sewer discharge line mounted in axial alignment with the housing in-fluid communication with the vehicle sewer outlet. The sewer line contracts axially to a short storage configuration to be supported at least partially within the housing. The line expands axially to a long sewage-conveying use configuration. A discharge nozzle connected in fluid communication with the discharge end of the sewer line couples to a remotely located sewer inlet.

Abstract: A waste evacuation system for a vehicle having an extendible and retractable hose for transferring the waste has been described.

Abstract: A combination for supplying fluid to a battery, a vehicle and a method of assembling the combination. The combination includes the battery and a filling pod. The filling pod includes a filling pod housing having a filling pod port fluidly connectable to a fluid source for receiving fluid from the fluid source, a first fluid supply member fluidly connectable to a first cell and for supplying fluid from the filling pod port to the first cell, a second fluid supply member fluidly connectable to a second cell and for supplying fluid from the filling pod port and to the second cell, and an integral channel in fluid communication between the filling pod port, the first fluid supply member and the second fluid supply member. The channel includes a first channel portion in fluid communication between the filling pod port and the first fluid supply member and a second channel portion in fluid communication between the filling pod port and the second fluid supply member.

Abstract: A sewage system for vehicles that includes a waste hose that is extendable and retractable.

Abstract: A locking system for trailer air brakes of the type having a supply air line with a gladhand. The locking system comprises a valve connected to the supply air line. The valve is actuatable between an open position, wherein the valve enables air conveyed in the supply air line to disengage the air brakes from the actuated position, and an exhaust position, wherein the valve exhaust air through an exhaust port thereof from the supply air line such that the air brakes remain in the actuated position. A locking device has a portion being automatically displaceable to a locking position when the valve is actuated to the exhaust position so as to lock the valve in the exhaust position, and being displaceable to a disarmed position by manual disarming means for unlocking the locking device and displace the valve to the open position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus providing a hose access port for a mobile unit configured to provide access for a hose through an exterior wall to extend to a toilet for flushing a holding tank. The hose access port includes a hose-holding duct portion, an outside-mountable flange and a sleeve member. The hose-holding duct portion includes a bore extending between opposite first and second end portions of the duct portion and operable to extend through a hole formed in the exterior wall between an outside surface and an inside surface of the exterior wall proximate the toilet in the mobile unit. The outside-mountable flange extends orthogonally from the first end portion of the duct portion and is operable to be secured against the outside surface of the exterior wall. The sleeve member includes securing structure and is coupled around the second end portion of the duct portion.

Abstract: The present invention includes apparatus for linking a high-pressure gas source to equipment, so that the pressure can be reduced while maximum flow can be maintained. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a motor valve, a control valve, a buffer tank, and an outlet regulator along a gas flow path. Controlling devices are associated with the motor valve and the control valve, and such devices respond pneumatically to pressure in the gas flow path to open or close those valves. The buffer tank operates provides sufficient volume associated with the flow path for stable sensing of pressure in the flow path, and to provide a medium for heat exchange resulting from the reduction in pressure. The apparatus may be mounted in a mobile carrier. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a motor valve, a control valve, a line heater and an outlet regulator along a gas flow path.

Abstract: A mobile water modifying system adapted to be readily interposed into a water pipe structure or network extending between a preconstructed facility and an external water supply is provided. The system can receive water from the water supply, modify the water, and transfer the modified water to the facility. The system includes a plurality of valved connectors to connect to the water pipe structure and control water pressure as the system is interposed into the water pipe structure or network. Different modes of water modification can be effected by incorporating different types of water modifiers in the system. These water modifications include heating water, cooling water and treating water to remove organic and non-organic contaminants. Methods also are provided for correcting an interruption in the supply of usable water to a facility and for avoiding such interruptions during repair or replacement at the facility.

Abstract: A sewage system for vehicles that includes a waste hose that is extendable and retractable.

Abstract: A low profile transportable holding tank for accepting waste from portable toilets. The holding tank is carried on a flatbed vehicle and has a flat deck for cargo, thus effectively increasing the cargo-carrying capacity of the vehicle compared with that available if the vehicle were carrying a conventional holding tank. Internal reinforcement enables the holding tank to withstand a partial vacuum imposed for pumping waste into the tank.

Abstract: A mobile water modifying system adapted to be readily interposed into a water pipe structure or network extending between a preconstructed facility and an external water supply is provided. The system can receive water from the water supply, modify the water, and transfer the modified water to the facility. The system includes a plurality of valved connectors to connect to the water pipe structure and control water pressure as the system is interposed into the water pipe structure or network. Different modes of water modification can be effected by incorporating different types of water modifiers in the system. These water modifications include heating water, cooling water and treating water to remove organic and non-organic contaminants. Methods also are provided for correcting an interruption in the supply of usable water to a facility and for avoiding such interruptions during repair or replacement at the facility.

Abstract: A control handle support and valve linkage assembly for use in a lift truck or like vehicle is provided. The assembly includes a first stationary bracket and a second bracket that pivots relative to the first bracket. At least one, and preferably an array of control handles are coupled to the second bracket. A seat deck on the lift truck includes an actuator for engaging a member projecting from the second bracket. When the seat deck is in the closed position, the second bracket is kept in a first, retracted position, and hence, the control handle(s) are kept close to and within the comfortable reach of an operator seated in the adjacent seat. Then, when the seat deck is opened, such as when the operator desires to access a battery compartment or the like, the second bracket, and hence, the control handle(s) automatically and simultaneously pivot or rotate relative to the first stationary bracket. This moves the control handles out of the path of travel of the seat deck to avoid creating any interference.

Abstract: A waste water disposal system includes a carousel that is driven to extend and retract a hose that is connected on one end to a dumping station and at a second end to pipes connecting to the black and grey water tanks of an RV.

Abstract: A technique of assembling a solenoid operated valve to a hydraulic manifold in which the manifold has provided thereon undercut stanchions disposed on opposite sides of a cavity communicating with fluid valving passages. A U-shaped bracket with a central aperture is received over the solenoid and a first pair of tabs which engage lugs disposed respectively on opposite sides of the valve body function to prevent relative rotation between the bracket and valve. The bracket has a pair of oppositely extending resiliently deflectable spring arms each having a pair of second tabs thereon; and, the spring arms are deflected on the stanchions upon user insertion of the valve body into the cavity. The spring arms resiliently engage the undercuts to prevent removal of the valve, and the second tabs engage the sides of the stanchions to prevent relative rotation of the bracket and valve.

Abstract: The present application is a molding service station for providing accessories utilized in the casting production which includes a sturdy weighted pedestal base, at least a first panel and second panel spaced apart for holding the various accessories and equipment. A column connects the panel to the pedestal base. The molding service station includes an electric power source, a compressed air source and natural gas source all used in the casting process. The panels are constructed in the form of a lattice allowing various hooks and other holding means to be easily attached and removed from various locations.

Abstract: A gaseous alternative fuels vehicle has a vehicle body with an engine and a gas fuel tank. A gaseous fuel supply system establishes gas communication between the engine and the gas fuel tank. The gaseous fuel supply system includes a valve having a valve body with a housing having a first unvalved port and a second unvalved port. A through-flow channel extends between the first unvalved port and the second unvalved port. The through-flow channel provides continuous gaseous communication between the first unvalved port and the second unvalved port. A valved port is in gaseous communication with the gas fuel tank, and a valving channel extends between the valved port and the through-flow channel. The valving channel provides valved gaseous communication between the valved port and the through-flow channel. A flow controller has a valve element within the valving channel at a valve location.

Abstract: A connector for an RV sewage holding tank includes a water inlet and a rotatable valve connected thereto. The valve has a plurality of positions and a spherical nozzle on the valve allows manual rotation whereby fresh water can be directed towards the holding tank for cleaning and dislodging debris contained therein. By rotating the nozzle to a rearward direction a stream of water can then be directed towards the sewage line for cleaning and draining debris or the like. The connector is molded from plastic, is lightweight and easy to use without tools or detailed training.

Abstract: This attachment assembly comprises a housing with channel-shaped walls with detents to snap over the valve housing. It also comprises an electrically powered rack and pinion drive which is fastened to the handle of the valve.

Abstract: A trailer and fuel tank assembly are disclosed. The fuel tank preferably forms the body of the trailer. The fuel tank may include a recess in the top surface for receiving the motor and/or pump, which may lower the pump closer to the ground to increase the suction performance of the pump. The bottom surface of the fuel tank may be bowed upward. This may cause any contaminants in the fuel tank to collect along the edges of the tank. Drain ports, positioned near the edges of the tank, can then be used to drain the contaminants from the tank. To easily attach accessories to the trailer, one or more track bars may be mounted to the trailer body. The track bars preferably include an elongate channel and an elongate slot. By placing an insert inside of the channel and bolting the accessory to the insert through the longitudinally extending slot, the accessories can be easily attached to the trailer.

Abstract: The sewer hose for a recreational vehicle includes a valve coupling disposed at both ends of the sewer hose so that the body of the sewer hose may be closed off after the sewer hose is used to empty the holding tank of the recreational vehicle. The valve couplings and sewer hose have exterior dimensions small enough to fit in the standard sewer hose storage compartment.

Abstract: A fuel transfer system for transferring fuel from the fuel tank in a boat to auxiliary equipment such as water ski. The fuel transfer system includes a fuel pump, a fuel dispenser that can be attached and removed by means of quick disconnect couplings, and an optional shutoff valve.

Abstract: A hose extending and retrieval system and method used for loose-fill insulation operations that includes a hose member that is taken-up or fed-out from a hose storage container with a gear mechanism. A hose extending and retrieval system includes a hose member having a helical rib traversing therethrough, a hose storage container comprising an aperture forming a conduit, and a gear mechanism including a first gear and a second gear disposed on opposing sides of the hose member, wherein protrusions on the first and second gears interlock with the helical hose member. The gear mechanism interlocks with a helical component on the outside of the hose to provide sufficient operational impetus.

Abstract: A vehicle waste water valve in the form of a gate valve having a retractable gate movable in response to a movable gate which is vertically movably by way of cable pull assembly. The cable pull assembly includes an outer jacket sheath with a solid cable inside the sheath which is axially movable, and has its free end connected to the gate stem. The cable pull sheath is held in an axial manner by way of its connection within a termination block, wherein a threaded member is threaded into the termination block and into the cable pull sheath, where the threaded member extends along an axial length of the cable pull sheath. The termination block in turn can be threadably attached to a cable pull body, which in turn is latchably attached to the valve body.

Abstract: A pressure relief device is placed in line with a water supply hose for a recreational vehicle to facilitate bleeding off back pressure when disconnecting the hose from a water hook-up. The device has a tubular nipple with a needle-valve assembly affixed onto it about midway between threaded fittings on the ends of the nipple.

Abstract: A wastewater drainage system for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle (RV), is provided. The system includes a pump, such as a macerator pump, in selective fluid communication with the black water tank and the gray water tank, and a drainage hose connected to the exit end of the pump for directing wastewater to a wastewater storage area. The system allows the RV user to clean the black water tank using water from the gray water tank, and allows gray water to be stored in the black water tank so that less time is spent draining the tanks and more time is spent enjoying the RV experience.

Abstract: A water storage and dispensing system includes a water storage tank, a dispenser, and a conduit system extending between and fluidly connecting the storage tank and the dispenser. The conduit system includes an outer shell conduit defining a conduit passage therein, and an inner tubing extending through the conduit passage. The inner tubing is in fluid communication with each of the storage tank and the dispenser and is arranged and configured to convey water from the storage tank to the dispenser. Preferably, the inner tubing is formed of instrument grade tubing. Preferably, the shell conduit is formed of PEX.

Abstract: A hose clearing device has a valve assembly at one end thereof, preferably a compressed air receiving valve; and, at the opposing end thereof, an attaching means for attaching the valve assembly to an elongated tube, the elongated tube requiring the substantial evacuation of undesired fluid therefrom.

Abstract: The sewer hose for a recreational vehicle includes a valve coupling disposed at both ends of the sewer hose so that the body of the sewer hose may be closed off after the sewer hose is used to empty the holding tank of the recreational vehicle. The valve couplings and sewer hose have exterior dimensions small enough to fit in the standard sewer hose storage compartment.

Abstract: A portable deployment and retrieval hose reel for deploying and retrieving a continuous hose is disclosed. The hose reel includes an independently rotatable drum member disposed between two flange members, which are preferably in the form of wheels. The wheels are similar to conestoga type wagon wheels. The wheels and drum member define a conduit storage area. Preferably, the spokes of the wheels are canted at least slightly outward from their attachment at one end to a central wheel hub and at their opposite end to the outer peripheral rim of the wheel. The use of the conestoga type wheels allows the hose reel to be transported over non-developed topography and rough surfaces, often unaccessible by land vehicles. The outer peripheral surface of the wheels can be provided with an anti-abrasive surface, such as a rubber coating or urethane.

Abstract: A compressed air distribution and battery recharger is provided in a tool bar handle for a tool cabinet. The tool cabinet handle provides outlets for compressed air which is regulated, dried and lubricated for use with pneumatic tools along with a battery charger for recharging power packs for portable electric tools.

Abstract: An auxiliary fuel tank system includes a permanent pressure tank for natural gas or propane is mounted on a vehicle such as a fork lift truck. The auxiliary tank is connected through fuel lines to a replaceable portable tank which supplies fuel to the auxiliary tank through check valves and a valve mechanism which may be turned on and off. The auxiliary tank is filled upon initial attachment of the portable tank to the fuel line for the truck. After filling the auxiliary tank, the valve mechanism is closed only to be reopened upon exhaustion of fuel from the portable tank. Fuel lines connect the respective tanks to the engine thereby permitting operation of the engine, even upon exhaustion of fuel from the portable, replaceable tank.

Abstract: The invention relates to a power source for supplying water-based liquid to a system, the power source comprising a container (5) for the water-based liquid and a pump unit (6) which comprises a pump (7) and a power source (8) for the pump, the pump unit being arranged to supply the water-based liquid from the container to the system via a pipe system (4) which is filled with a liquid.

Abstract: A portable erectable tower has a body, typically a tank, a base frame, and forward and rearward pairs of legs, the legs of each pair disposed on opposite sides, and a brace with two sections hinged for one-way articulation to extend coaxially to prevent downward movement of the body and to articulate upwardly to enable lowering of the tower body with actuators to act on the pairs of legs and the brace sections for raising and lowering the tower.

Abstract: On a recreational vehicle, a water supply coupling is provided to permit the hookup of an external water supply to the plumbing of the recreational vehicle. The coupling selectively permits one-way flow into, but not out from, the plumbing, thereby maintaining the pressurized integrity of the plumbing system. The coupling has a movable check member which may be seated against an annulus to create a seal. In various disclosed embodiments, the check member may be a check ball, a mushroom-shaped check member having a hemispherical seating portion and a stem, and a two-piece check member.

Abstract: A roll-off self-powered fuel dispensing platform system which is transportable, deployable, and made operable by a single individual, from a vehicle such as a truck and which includes a roll-off platform assembly, a roller assembly, and a large planar base. A plurality of essential and sensitive components including a fuel vessel, a fuel pumping and metering unit, a pivotally collapsible gravity operated fuel distribution hose support, a fuel distribution hose having a fuel nozzle, and an area lighting apparatus including a pivotally collapsible light standard and a light are mounted on the large planar base. These essential and sensitive components are all confined within a security fence which is mounted on the large planar base around the perimeter thereof. The security fence includes front and side access doors or gates.

Abstract: Novel combination conduit and reservoir connector adapted for connecting to and/introducing compressed air to purge water from a plumbing system and to then introduce antifreeze into said plumbing system in a simple and expeditious manner.

Abstract: A receptacle mounted on the outside of a recreational vehicle (RV) is provided for stowing an RV's compressible waste drain hose. The stowage receptacle comprises a housing for receiving and storing the hose in a compressed configuration, and supports for mounting the housing to the outside of the vehicle. The stowage receptacle is mounted preferably under the vehicle, in a location where excess moisture can drain from apertures in the receptacle, and where airflow from the vehicle's movement can pass through the apertures and facilitate drying any residual moisture left in the receptacle or drain hose. Typically, the housing is mounted to an appropriate fame or chassis member, proximate the drain port for the vehicle's waste holding tank(s). When needed, the drain hose may be released and removed from the stowage receptacle.

Abstract: A golf cart, powered by a plurality of electrolytic, lead-acid batteries has an on-board battery water replenishing system. Each battery includes a manifold that feeds water to each battery cell and is capable of transmitting out of the manifold gas generated during recharging. The watering system includes a water storage tank positioned above the batteries, with inlet and outlet tubing connecting each battery manifold to the tank in a separate, parallel circuit. The outlet tubing has a critical size of internal diameter (ID) to assure the formation of gas generated during recharging as bubbles in the outlet tubing so as to trap liquid between bubbles and to cause flow of liquid back to the tank. A one-way flow control valve is positioned in the inlet tubing to assure unidirectional flow. The outlet tubing ID must be less than ⅜ inch, with a preferred size being ¼ inch.

Abstract: A mounting assembly for mounting a composite pressure vessel to a vehicle includes a saddle having a curved surface extending between two pillars for receiving the vessel. The saddle also has flanged portions which can be bolted to the vehicle. Each of the pillars has hole in which is mounted the shaft portion of an attachment member. A resilient member is disposed between each of the shaft portions and the holes and loaded by a tightening nut. External to the holes, each of the attachment members has a head portion to which a steel band is attached. The steel band circumscribes the vessel and translates the load on the springs into a clamping force on the vessel. As the vessel expands and contracts, the resilient members expand and contract so that the clamping force applied by the band to the vessel remains constant.

Abstract: A combination of a water tanker and a water treatment system containing an oyxgen generator, an ozone generator and a tank mixing eductor for in-transit treatment of water. At least the ozone generator is supported by an air suspension system which is specifically designed to eliminate vibration which may otherwise damage the ozone generator. A pump re-circulates water from the tank, through an ozone injector and back in to the tank through the mixing eductor. The invention provides at least two distinct operating modes which include complete water sterilization using ozone and simple water oxygenation followed by tank sterilization after livestock transport.