Selectively Utilized Sources Patents (Class 141/104)
  • Publication number: 20040099334
    Abstract: A liquid handler system includes a probe transport system that has a plurality of carriages movable along a support. Each of the carriages carries a second support, which in turn carries a third support. A plurality of probes are linked to a movable holder on the third supports. Through operation of a liquid handler system of the invention, liquid may be selectively delivered to one or more of a plurality of liquid receptacles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Applicant: Gilson, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Acker
  • Publication number: 20040094226
    Abstract: The present invention can be characterized as a tamper proof apparatus for dispensing a selected liquid such as a cleaning product in a environment where protection against abuse and vandalism is desired. The tamper proof apparatus includes a cabinet enclosure having an open front for accessing interior components; a hinged faceplate covering the open front of the cabinet enclosure; a mixing unit fastened to an inside surface of the hinged faceplate for dispensing the selected liquid; a filling recess formed in the hinged faceplate for limiting a dimension of a container placed inside the filling recess; a filling nozzle coupled to the mixing unit for dispensing the selected liquid into the container placed inside the filling recess; a pushbutton coupled to the mixing unit through the hinged faceplate for causing the selected liquid to be dispensed through the filling nozzle; and a locking plate that may be detachably coupled to the hinged faceplate for restricting access to the pushbutton individually.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Applicant: Keene Sanitary Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark S. Wertheim
  • Patent number: 6729361
    Abstract: The method of packaging a receptacle (2) with a product comprising different miscible ingredients comprises the steps of filling the receptacles (2) in part with a first portion of the ingredients in a first filling unit (4) comprising a series of filling stations (5), of transferring the receptacles to at least one second filling unit likewise comprising a series of filling stations (9), and of successively finishing off the filling of the receptacles with the remainder of the ingredients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Serac
    Inventor: Laurent Noell
  • Patent number: 6729360
    Abstract: An ink cartridge refilling station incorporates a receptacle for receiving an ink cartridge, a supply of ink and a refilling mechanism for automatically adding ink to the ink cartridge from the supply of ink. An ink cartridge, for use with the cartridge refilling station, includes a reservoir for holding a supply of ink and an input port communicating with the reservoir, the port being configured to receive ink from the automated ink refilling station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Robert M. Sesek, Travis J. Parry, Curtis Reese, Daniel T. Lay, Christopher C. Westlake
  • Publication number: 20040079443
    Abstract: A shear valve assembly for a fuel dispenser that ensures that the energy from an impact to the fuel dispenser causes a shear valve placed inline to the fuel supply conduit to engage if there is a possibility that such impact could cause the fuel supply conduit to break thereby causing a leak of fuel to the environment. The shear valve assembly may be constructed as part of the fuel dispenser during the manufacture of the fuel dispenser, or the shear valve assembly may be constructed separately from the fuel dispenser and attached to the fuel dispenser in the field during installation of a fuel dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden
  • Patent number: 6725889
    Abstract: The equipment comprises: a plurality of containers in the form of bins (19A, 19B, . . . ), at the base of each of which a remotely controlled dispenser (21A; 21B; . . . ) can supply approximate quantities of the product by allowing it to fall from the corresponding container; channels (33A) capable of collecting the products supplied and of discharging them via a deflector (39) toward one or other of two housings (15A; 15B) for a packaging wrapper (5A, 5B) designed to package product received from the hopper, a grinder (15) being positioned above one (15B) of the housings. A computerized apparatus (50) is used for indicating and entering the individual selections and operations to be carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Maria Pilar Perez Vales
  • Patent number: 6715514
    Abstract: A highly efficient apparatus and method for managing the transport, delivery, holding, dispensing, and removal of fluid material from a source to a user is disclosed. Material from the source in bulk form is transported to a customer in the quantity that is transmitted automatically from monitors or indicated manually. At the customer site, material is transferred directly via pipes and couplers, held and monitored at the user site in mini-tanks, and dispensed according to user needs. Data such as material volume in holding and other operational and monitoring data are gathered and transmitted automatically to a central processing center, where re-ordering and delivery planning are performed. These data are also utilized for analysis and business/operational planning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Worldwide Liquids
    Inventors: Frank L. Parker, III, Walter D. Klatch
  • Patent number: 6708735
    Abstract: A lid closure for dispensing a confection into a refreshment, such as a milk shake, in a container comprises first and second molded lid parts with the first lid part having a central opening into which the second lid part is removably inserted. A sealing layer with a circular tear line encloses the confection in an annular compartment in the first lid part and is attached to the second lid part at the center of the sealing layer. The second lid part has two pockets for engagement by the thumb and forefinger of a consumer. To dispense the confection into the refreshment, the consumer twists the second lid part to tear the sealing layer along the tear line and removes the second lid part and a portion of the sealing layer from the central opening in the first lid part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Antony Austin Kenihan
  • Patent number: 6705358
    Abstract: A solution to the problem of reducing the bulk and weight of detergents for delivery to users by providing in at least one embodiment an in situ, discrete, batch mixing method and system for a diluent and concentrated detergent at a point of dispense. While some systems are designed to mix diluents and detergents, those systems are typically designed for continuous flow, for example, in a manufacturing facility. The present invention provides for mixing the diluent and detergents in discrete batches sized for a user at the point of dispense, using a method and system that can be located even in remote areas without an external power supply. The system and method only needs diluent line pressure in at least one embodiment. Further, the method and system controls access to the batch quantity so that multiple batches are not unintentionally extracted. The method and system can be used with vending machines placed on site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Paul Lee Tortorici, Jr., Michael Joseph Doll, Stephen P. Giles, Kirk Herbert Raney, Kim Colson Millspaugh
  • Patent number: 6701977
    Abstract: A tinting machine system for tinting base paints (2) supplied in containers (1) which paints are suitable for use in coating compositions, which system has a) storage capacity (10) for colorant (11) b) accommodation for the container of base paint c) at least one colorant dispenser (8) and d) a collection of color recipes wherein the system also has e) weighing means (3) for weighing the container of tinted coating composition f) signalling means (4) for signalling the weight of a container of tinted coating composition from the weighing means to the processing means g) processing means (5) able to compare a correct weight stored in the collection of color recipes with a signalled weight and h) means for signalling if the weight of the container of tinted coating composition matches, alternatively fails to match, the corresponding weight stored in the collection of color recipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries, PLC
    Inventors: Celia Charlotte Taylor, Ian David Oakes
  • Publication number: 20040040616
    Abstract: The entire right, title and interest in and to this application and all subject matter disclosed and/or claimed therein, including any and all divisions, continuations, reissues, etc., thereof are, effective as of the date of execution of this application, assigned, transferred, sold and set over by the applicant(s) named herein to Deere & Company, a Delaware corporation having offices at Moline, Ill. 61265, U.S.A., together with all rights to file, and to claim priorities in connection with, corresponding patent applications in any and all foreign countries in the name of Deere & Company or otherwise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventors: Kent Alvin Klemme, Joshua Jacob Engelbrecht
  • Patent number: 6695019
    Abstract: A vending system (1, 1a) for gases and a method for distributing gases using a vending system. The vending system includes a filling station (12) for filling gas bottles (2) with at least one gas, with at least one gas supply means (3) connected to the filling station (12) and control means for control of a gas distribution, which is characterised in a filling mechanism further provided for filling vehicle gas tanks, and which is likewise connected to the at least one gas supply means (3) and which is also controlled by the control means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Karl-Peter Hasenkopf
  • Publication number: 20040020556
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas-venting arrangement in a paint-toning machine. A dispensing device (20) comprises an at least substantially vertical-shafted dispensing pump (20) connected through a suction pipe (13) to the inside of a colour paste container and through a dispensing pipe (17) to a dispensing nozzle. The pump (20) comprises a dispensing cylinder (21) and inside it a reciprocating displacement element (14). The lower end of the displacement element (14) in the lower extreme position of its dispensing movement is either level with or past the upper edge (15) of the dispensing pipe (17) opening into the dispensing cylinder (21), and the positions of the suction and dispensing pipes (13, 17) and the lower end of the displacement element (14) in said extreme position are such that they together form a substantially horizontal flow path or one ascending in the direction (A) of the dispensing flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Pentti Airaksinen
  • Patent number: 6684914
    Abstract: A discrete object dispensing system and method dispenses any selected number of objects, up to a maximum number, without a delay associated with counting the tablets. A preset number of objects are counted and stored in dedicated chambers, the combination of the numbers of objects within the chambers being known to comprise any number of objects which is desired for dispensing. According to a preferred system, n chambers are provided, with 20, 21, 22, . . . , 2n−1 tablets provided respectively in the individual chambers. The chambers which together add up to the selected number for dispensing are emptied. Only those chambers which are emptied after dispensing need to be refilled and, as such, only the number of tablets in those storage locations need to be counted. The system may include a plurality of cells, each including a plurality of chambers for a different solid dose medication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Kirby-Lester, Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir Gershman, Aleksandr Geltser
  • Publication number: 20040016474
    Abstract: A multiproduct fuel dispenser for dispensing a plurality of fuels stored in a plurality of reservoir tanks comprising a nozzle for dispensing fuel, fuel delivery lines for delivering fuel from the plurality of reservoir tanks to the nozzle, and a common fuel meter operatively connected to the fuel delivery lines for quantifying the amount of fuel dispensed from the plurality of reservoir tanks, the common fuel meter having an internal volume no greater than 0.1 gallons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Dresser, Inc., a Delaware corporation
    Inventor: John Arnold Todd
  • Patent number: 6679300
    Abstract: A loading station having a dispensing manifold for loading syringe pairs with thrombin and adhesive and clotting proteins for use as a biological adhesive. The resulting loaded syringe pairs are compatible with a variety of biological adhesive dispensers and may be used in a surgical setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: Eric Sommer, Philip Henry Coelho, Phil Kingsley
  • Patent number: 6679302
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for blending butane with gasoline at petroleum tank farms, immediately before distribution to tanker trucks. The invention provides a method for blending gasoline and butane at a tank farm comprising: (a) drawing a gasoline stream from a tank of gasoline; (b) drawing a butane stream from a tank of butane; (c) blending the butane and gasoline streams to form a blend; and (d) dispensing the blend. The blending process can be controlled to ensure that the vapor pressure of the blended gasoline meets vapor pressure requirements of environmental regulations. Information generated by the blending process can be used to efficiently forecast butane purchasing requirements, and to generate regulatory reports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: MCE Blending, LLC
    Inventors: Larry D. Mattingly, Steven M. Vanderbur
  • Patent number: 6675840
    Abstract: A fill probe with an in-line mixer accelerates and facilitates automation of a fill and mix procedure required in formulating certain chemical products. In some formulas, the concentrated chemical components that combine to form the resulting formula (e.g., teat dip) have a wide range of viscosities. The in-line positioning of the mixing attachment with the fill probe on the outside of the fill probe creates a dual action mixing operation that mixes the components as they are deliver to a mixing container and continues to mix them after they are combined with other chemicals within the mixing container. By using a combination fill probe and in-line mixer of the claimed design, a user can automate the fill and mix process, decrease the required mix time, and reduce foaming and spillage of chemicals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Ecolab, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Jungmann, Roy F. Johnson, Richard V. Mullen
  • Patent number: 6672341
    Abstract: Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: IMX Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Julie R. Bartholomew, Richard T. Jobe, Thomas C. Bodiker II, Timothy E. O'Meara, Dave Hanselman, Jim Foley
  • Publication number: 20040000351
    Abstract: A gas cylinder charging system includes (1) at least two gas inlet ports and (2) at least two gas outlet ports, (3) a gas compressor having an input port and an output port, where the input port selectively receives gas from a gas inlet port and selectively transfers the gas to a gas outlet port, and (4) a controller, receiving status signals and transmitting control signals, and connected to and controlling the gas compressor. A method aspect of filling a gas cylinder using the described cylinder charging system further including an input/output selector valve for selecting one of the gasses to transfer to the gas cylinder, includes the following steps. A gas cylinder is connected to one of the cylinder connectors. A user manipulates the selector valve selecting the gas to be transferred to the gas cylinder and activates the cylinder charging system filling the gas cylinder with the selected gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Applicant: Litton Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Tuan Q. Cao, Steven D. Jinks
  • Publication number: 20030230355
    Abstract: A user interactive custom cosmetic powder color and effects dispensing system and method of doing business.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Applicant: IMX LABS, INC.
    Inventors: Julie R. Bartholomew, Charles P. Hines
  • Patent number: 6655422
    Abstract: A method of filling a cylinder with a target weight of a gas. The method includes successively measuring weight of the cylinder at periodic time intervals to obtain successive actual weights of the cylinder; opening a first valve and filling the cylinder with the gas at a high flow rate; and closing the first valve after reaching a predetermined weight difference between the target weight and an actual weight. After closing the first valve, the method opens a second valve and fills the cylinder with the gas at a low flow rate. After opening the second valve to fill the cylinder with the gas, the method adjustably controls, via an adjustable valve, the flow of gas to the cylinder. The method differences each successively measured actual weight from the target weight of the gas to obtain multiple first difference values. The method also differences adjacently measured actual weights to obtain multiple second difference values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: ATNL, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert F. Shock
  • Patent number: 6648026
    Abstract: A multi-composition stick product, such as a lip balm, sun screen, deodorant, or glue stick. The multi-composition stick product including a stick composition molded in the container so as to contact the walls thereof and be advanceable or ejected therefrom. The stick composition includes a first composition and a second composition. The first and second compositions differ in at least one component, such as a medicament, colorant, fragrance, flavorant, sunscreen, preservative, conditioner, moisturizer, emollient, or surfactant. Furthermore the first and second compositions are arranged in a predetermined non-random pattern that is reproducible. Also described is the method and apparatus for manufacturing the multi-composition stick product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Wyeth
    Inventors: Jee Loon Look, Paul Joseph Cooper, Khawla Abdullah Abu-Izza, Joyce H. Wilson, Krishna P. Raman, Vincent Hon-Kin Li
  • Patent number: 6644363
    Abstract: Containers are filled with liquids by equipment incorporating a carousel rotatable about a vertical axis, and a number of filler heads mounted to the carousel, each comprising a platform on which to set a container, a nozzle aligned with the platform and serving to direct at least one type of liquid into the container, also a dynamometer associated with the platform and sensing the weight of the container. The equipment includes at least one tank holding at least one liquid to be batched into the containers, and a fixed pipeline of which a first end is connected to the tank and a second end is connected by way of a rotary coupling to a manifold at the top of the carousel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Azionaria Costruzioni Macchine Automatiche A.C.MA. S.p.A.
    Inventors: Claudio Sogliani, Stefano Cavallari
  • Patent number: 6640840
    Abstract: This invention relates to methods and apparatus for delivering liquid precursors to semi-conductor processing apparatus. The liquid precursor delivery system is generally indicated at (10) and includes a source (11), an inlet tube (12), a two-way valve (13), a pump assembly (14), an outlet tube (15), a shut-off valve (16) and a flash evaporator (17). The pump assembly (14) is in the form of a syringe or variable volume pump and is controlled by a combination of a step motor (27) and a linear encoder (30). The arrangement is such that unused liquid precursor can be returned to the source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Trikon Holdings Limited
    Inventor: John MacNeil
  • Patent number: 6637478
    Abstract: A fill station for filling various sizes of containers from a liquid dispensing system includes a first stationary platform and second rotatable platform positioned above the first platform. The second platform is hinged to move between a horizontal loading position and a stowed position to provide access to the first platform. A third platform may be positioned above the second platform, wherein the third platform is hinged at an opposite end from the second platform to move between a horizontal load position and a stowed position. Sensors may be used to detect whether a container is positioned on one of the platforms and to detect the positions of the different rotatable platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Jungmann, Gregory B. Laughland
  • Patent number: 6637471
    Abstract: An automatic hybrid volumetric method of dispensing (HVD) improves on gravimetric dispensing and volumetric dispensing. The method dispenses ingredients for a mixture, according to pre-selected formulations, utilizing a supply of the fluid ingredients, an ingredient container, a power-driven plunger in the ingredient container, a mixture container, and a calibration weight scale. The plunger is movable to expel fluid in the ingredient container. The method includes several steps. The ingredient container is connected to the supply to receive a first ingredient in the ingredient container. The ingredient container is connected to the mixture container for the mixture container to receive ingredient expelled from the ingredient container by movement of the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: GFI Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Luehrsen, Derek P. Pedraza
  • Patent number: 6622757
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and determining fuel vapor recovery performance is disclosed. The dispensing of liquid fuel into a tank by a conventional gas pump nozzle naturally displaces a mixture of air and fuel ullage vapor in the tank. These displaced vapors may be recovered at the dispensing point nozzle by a vapor recovery system. A properly functioning vapor recovery system recovers approximately one unit volume of vapor for every unit volume of dispensed liquid fuel. The ratio of recovered vapor to dispensed fuel is termed the A/L ratio, which should ideally be approximately equal to one (1). The A/L ratio, and thus the proper functioning of the vapor recovery system, may be determined by measuring liquid fuel flow and return vapor flow (using a vapor flow sensor) on a nozzle-by-nozzle basis. The disclosed methods and apparatus provide for the determination of A/L ratios for individual nozzles using a reduced number of vapor flow sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventors: Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas
  • Patent number: 6615881
    Abstract: Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: IMX Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Julie R. Bartholomew, Richard T. Jobe, Thomas C. Bodiker, II, Timothy E. O'Meara, Dave Hanselman, Jim Foley
  • Patent number: 6615880
    Abstract: A process is provided for the mixing of one or more concentrates in a machine, wherein one or more concentrates and/or one or more diluents are mixed together in a mixing chamber; and the product is dispensed from said machine into a storage container. A machine is also provided for the mixing of one or more concentrates, wherein said machine comprises one or more diluent sources and one or more concentrate sources, said diluent and concentrate sources being in fluid communication with one or more mixing chambers. Further, a process is provided for the simultaneous multiple mixing and dispensing of a plurality of products employing a machine comprising one or more diluent sources and one or more concentrate sources, said diluent and concentrate sources being in fluid communication with a plurality of mixing chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Timothy Hewlitt, Steven Kelsey, William Maskell, Jerard O'Brien
  • Patent number: 6609543
    Abstract: A vessel for use on land for the storage and distribution of material such as a dockside storage terminal, comprises a hull which is subdivided into a plurality of hoppers. Each hopper is provided with a discharge opening at a lower end thereof for the gravity discharge of material from the hopper. A passageway is provided in the hull below the discharge openings for the passage of transfer vehicles along the discharge openings for receiving material discharged from the discharge openings. The hull is floatable for transporting the vessel on water from a location of construction to a location of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Seabulk Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Sidney Sridhar
  • Patent number: 6607013
    Abstract: An automatic device for preparing mixed and non-mixed beverages having a load-bearing structure (22), a conveyor (21) designed to convey containers (26) into a set position under a motor-driven rotary head (12,32) having a plurality of receptacles (13,33) for ingredients to be poured into the containers (26) on the conveyor where each receptacle (13, 33) has an automatic-dosing actuation valve (24, 34) and the said device (10) includes an automatic system (20) for managing positioning of the dispensers over the containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Mauro Leoni
  • Patent number: 6598627
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for providing a customized, personal care product to a consumer at a location, typically the point of sale, that is remote from a second location in which a personal care product base composition is prepared. A selection of customizing agents of different classes with a common vehicle is made available to the consumer for custom formulation of a personal care product with the desired attributes. The apparatus typically includes a plurality of product base dispensers, a plurality of fragrance dispensers, and a plurality of customizing agent dispensers that may contain benefit agents, botanical extracts, active ingredients for skin and hair, and the like. A blank vehicle is substituted if insufficient customizing agents are selected. Efficient mixing mechanisms are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, a division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Paul Manzari, Walter Anthony Biercevicz, Walter Stoeckman, Peter Anthony Divone, Sr., Christy A. Bridges, Kevin Keating, Robert Avena
  • Patent number: 6591872
    Abstract: A process for the dynamic manufacture and packaging of gas mixtures containing a first component and a second component in predefined proportions, the first and second components being chosen from the group formed by O2, N2, He and N2O, in which predetermined proportions of the first and second components are dynamically mixed in order to obtain a gas mixture of the desired composition and the temperature of the mixture is adjusted in order to keep it above the demixing threshold temperature of the mixture. This process is particularly suitable for the production of analgesic gas mixtures that can be used in the medical field, particularly a mixture formed from 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous oxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Air Liquide Sante (International)
    Inventor: Serge Wagenheim
  • Patent number: 6588464
    Abstract: An apparatus for the automated preparation of solutions with combined metering system is provided with a structure with a platform (1) upon which it is possible to position one or more containers for solid products, one or more bottle-like containers for liquid products, one or more containers for solutions and one or more empty and clean bottle-like containers. A carriage (2) is movable onto the platform (1). An apparatus is associated with the carriage (2), for the removal and handling of the bottles and for the removal, handling and actuation of at least the containers for solid products. An apparatus (6) is provided for preparing solutions and/or mixtures starting from the solid substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Tecnorama S.r.l.
    Inventor: Mario Scatizzi
  • Patent number: 6585012
    Abstract: A device and method for retaining pigment-conducting tubes in a paint mixing machine includes a nozzle having an array of holes to accommodate the pigment-conducting tubes and a pair of lock plates, attachable to the nozzle and each having a like array of apertures, as well as offset screw holes. When the lock plates are attached to the nozzle and the screw holes are aligned, the apertures are offset, causing deformation of the pigment-conducting tubes, which deformation serves to retain the pigment tubes in the nozzle. A paint mixing machine having pigment reservoirs and valves for controlling pigment flow also has a movable mounting plate, upon which the nozzle is mounted, and the nozzle is thereby movable under microprocessor control between a dormant position and a dispensing position, which, in combination with a sight, allows more precise alignment of a paint can under the nozzle dispensing location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Ultrablend Color, LLC
    Inventor: Frank Iovino
  • Patent number: 6575208
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for preparing a multi-compartment container having two open ends and a partition wall that forms a fluid-tight seal defining two compartments each holding a separate component to be mixed with one another by the end-user prior to use. The process and apparatus for filling the two-compartment container comprises filling one compartment with material through an opening at one end of the container; sealing the opening; rotating the container; filling the other compartment with material through an opening at the other end of the container; and sealing the other opening preferably with a removable seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: M.L.I.S. Projects Ltd.
    Inventors: Igal Sharon, Michael Inbar
  • Patent number: 6568438
    Abstract: The dispensing apparatus dispenses material into a container (34) having at least one predetermined shape component (40a) which cooperates with the dispensing apparatus to control a dispensing operation. There is a vertically movable support (8) for the container having a first, lower position at which the container is brought into a mounted position on the support and a second, higher position, and actuating means (24a,30) arranged for mechanical engagement with the container during lifting of the container on the support. The actuating device cooperates with the predetermined shape component or components of the container to determine, in dependence on the shape of the shape component the liquid or liquids to be dispensed into the container, and/or the quantity of a liquid to be dispensed into the container. The actuating device (24a,30) lifts cylinders (22,24) to dispense the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry William Crossdale, Roderick Julian McBrien, Cristopher John Webb
  • Publication number: 20030070725
    Abstract: A discrete object dispensing system and method dispenses any selected number of objects, up to a maximum number, without a delay associated with counting the tablets. A preset number of objects are counted and stored in dedicated chambers, the combination of the numbers of objects within the chambers being known to comprise any number of objects which is desired for dispensing. According to a preferred system, n chambers are provided, with 20, 21, 22, . . . , 2n−1 tablets provided respectively in the individual chambers. The chambers which together add up to the selected number for dispensing are emptied. Only those chambers which are emptied after dispensing need to be refilled and, as such, only the number of tablets in those storage locations need to be counted. The system may include a plurality of cells, each including a plurality of chambers for a different solid dose medication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Kirby-Lester, Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir Gershman, Aleksandr Geltser
  • Patent number: 6532998
    Abstract: A modular container filling apparatus includes a simple pilot valve which can be operated by a push button, a bottle-engaging yoke, or a manual valve at the distal end of a bucket filling hose. The modular construction of the apparatus allows a plurality of units to be mounted side by side on a modular water manifold by bayonet-type sealing connections. An anti-foam venturi and spout mixes chemicals with the water and minimizes foaming when filling a bottle. A plurality of chemicals can be selected by a rotational selector without intermixing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Knight, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul M. Beldham, Donald W. Smeller, Christopher W. Nesselroad
  • Patent number: 6527018
    Abstract: Each of the batch processing lines has its exclusive one set material processing line independent from others and is operated according to the special algorithm which changes an amount to be prepared in the batch process in a few batches in the final stage of the downstream process based on a calculated total amount required by the downstream process to complete manufacturing. The method for preparing is capable of easily coping with the change of raw materials or prescriptions for the product without increasing or changing existing pipe lines or chemical liquid stock vessels and almost completely avoiding a waste of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shingo Yamauchi, Shinichiro Kuwabara
  • Patent number: 6527019
    Abstract: Leaktight confinement appliance (1), intended to cooperate with an independent receptacle (3) containing a substance (4), having its own means (8) for transfer into and/or out of the receptacle, and with an independent means (71) for delivery of a material. The appliance includes a handling chamber (2) defined by a wall (13) of flexible material substantially leaktight with respect to the external environment. A pouch is formed within the wall of the handling chamber (2) for retaining an interconnection device. The handling chamber (2) is arranged to connect at least the transfer means (8) of the receptacle (3) to the delivery means (71) through the interconnection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson France, S.A.
    Inventors: Philippe Laurent, Jean-Pierre Grimard
  • Patent number: 6527020
    Abstract: An oil supply station system of the present invention includes a plurality of oil supply apparatuses standing within an oil supply station, and each having at a body case thereof a self-service oil supply mechanism and a touch-activated operating panel and having a printer for recording any change on a slip for a cash transaction. The system further includes a change dispenser disposed in a vicinity of an office of the oil supply station, for reading the slip and discharging change. Also, a POS terminal is connected in a data communicable manner with the plurality of oil supply apparatuses and the change dispenser, for providing permission to the change dispenser to dispense change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Tatsuno Corporation
    Inventors: Akifumi Kanamori, Kengo Yamazaki, Masahiko Araki
  • Publication number: 20030019538
    Abstract: A vessel for use on land for the storage and distribution of material such as a dockside storage terminal, comprises a hull which is subdivided into a plurality of hoppers. Each hopper is provided with a discharge opening at a lower end thereof for the gravity discharge of material from the hopper. A passageway is provided in the hull below the discharge openings for the passage of transfer vehicles along the discharge openings for receiving material discharged from the discharge openings. The hull is floatable for transporting the vessel on water from a location of construction to a location of use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: SEABULK SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventor: Sidney Sridhar
  • Patent number: 6474372
    Abstract: The apparatus is for batching different flowable materials, e.g. “small chemicals” in the correct proportions by weight. A plurality of bulk material supply stations 14 are connected to a compact, space filling array of weighing hoppers 18 via relatively short screw 20 and/or vibratory conveyors 22. As shown, two conveyors serve each weighing 10 hopper 18. The weighing hoppers 18 are mounted upon off-centre load cells 24 and discharge into a containment cone 36 and a discharge funnel 37 for leading the weighed material batches into bagging apparatus 38.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: BMH Chronos Richardson Limited
    Inventors: Albert Michael Sanderson, Eric William Loydall
  • Publication number: 20020148528
    Abstract: A system for periodically maintaining non-fuel fluids required for proper performance by various apparatus and for reporting non-fuel fluid maintenance action taken. Maintenance systems include means for replacing, replenishing or renewing non-fuel fluids or renewing non-fuel fluid filters. Reporting systems include means for communicating information between on- and off-apparatus sub-systems and for generating reports that document non-fuel fluid maintenance actions taken.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventors: John H. Matthews, L. William Silzle, John R. Martin, Albert L. Ruff
  • Patent number: 6463967
    Abstract: A system for automatically and simultaneously diagnosing apparatus performance and safety condition, maintaining on-apparatus components and sub-systems, and reporting apparatus condition and maintenance action taken during apparatus refueling. Diagnostic sub-systems include means for determining the condition of fluids or components that are consumed or deteriorate during use. Maintenance sub-systems include means for replacing, replenishing or renewing non-fuel fluids or components that are consumed or deteriorate during use. Reporting sub-systems include means for communicating information between on- and off-apparatus sub-systems and for generating reports that document apparatus performance and safety condition and the maintenance actions taken during refueling. A report can be presented to the apparatus operator, apparatus maintenance technician and/or to a central reporting facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: The Lubrizol Corporation
    Inventor: Frederick P. Boyle
  • Patent number: 6463964
    Abstract: A method of operating a carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, with a beverage, and also a carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, with a beverage. The beverage in the corresponding container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, is carbonated in the container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, while the container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, is being filled in the carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: KHS Maschinen- und Anlagenbau AG
    Inventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
  • Patent number: 6457494
    Abstract: A chemical delivery system which utilizes multiple techniques to achieve a suitable chemical purge of the chemical delivery system is provided. A purge sequence serves to purge the manifold and canister connection lines of the chemical delivery system prior to removal of an empty chemical supply canister or after a new canister is installed. More particularly, a purge technique which may utilizes a variety of combinations of a medium level vacuum source, a hard vacuum source, and/or a liquid flush system is disclosed. By utilizing a plurality of purge techniques, chemicals such as TaEth, TDEAT, BST, etc. which pose purging difficulties may be efficiently purged from the chemical delivery system. The chemical delivery system may also be provided with an efficient and conveniently located heater system for heating the chemical delivery system cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: John N. Gregg, Craig M. Noah, Robert M. Jackson
  • Patent number: 6457496
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing and metering system including a tubeless dispensing module is disclosed. The liquid dispensing and metering system includes a turntable table supported and rotated by a driving mechanism. A plurality of solution bottles are positioned on the turntable table, each of which being mounted with an electromagnetic valve. At least one actuating unit is arranged to energize the electromagnetic valves of the solution bottles to allow the liquid material contained in the solution bottles to be flowed out via the electromagnetic valves. At least one electronic scale with a beaker is arranged under the turntable table for measuring the liquid material received in the beakers. The driving mechanism includes a liftable supporting mechanism for moving the turntable table upwardly or downwardly with respect to the electronic scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Copower Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsu-Chen Chuang