Automatic Control Of Flow Cutoff Or Diversion Patents (Class 141/192)
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Patent number: 11981454Abstract: An improved fluid transfer accuracy, information collection, and overall management. A system may utilize a pump to transfer fluid from a source to a target vessel, a meter for measuring an amount of fluid transferred, a density meter to detect actual fluid density, and a control unit to determine actual fluid transfer amount based on density. As an example, a fluid flow meter can be coupled with a flow conduit to determine fluid volume, along with the density meter to detect real-time density of transferred fluid. During a fluid transfer event, such as aircraft refueling, LPG fueling, or other refined fuels or valuable liquids, fluid volume can be converted to fluid weight in real-time based on actual density. The real-time fluid weight can be used to determine if a target fluid weight has been reached, and fluid flow can be shut off at the appropriate time.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2020Date of Patent: May 14, 2024Assignee: Advanced Flow Solutions Inc.Inventors: Jeff Hageman, Bryan Haynes, Dan Clevenger, Frank Montalvo
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Patent number: 11930738Abstract: An agricultural harvester has a frame and a spout that is mounted to the frame. A target landing point indicates a position in a receiving vehicle where material is intended to land. A control system detects an actual landing point and automatically controls the spout based on a difference between the actual landing point and the target landing point.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2021Date of Patent: March 19, 2024Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Kellen O'Connor, Jeremy J. Faust
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Patent number: 11912556Abstract: The present specification discloses a method of protecting an inner wall surface of a vessel from damaging interaction with an additive added to the vessel, where the method includes providing the vessel at least part way filled with a liquid product; applying a force on the vessel the force being configured to create a change in shape of a surface of the liquid product; and providing sufficient containment of the additive by the change in shape of the surface of the liquid product to substantially prevent damaging interaction between the inner wall surface of the vessel and the additive for at least an additive reaction time period at the end of which the additive is rendered substantially incapable of producing damaging interaction to the inner wall surface of the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2022Date of Patent: February 27, 2024Inventor: Kevin D. McGushion
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Patent number: 11897438Abstract: A system for a fuel cell vehicle includes a providing fuel cell fuel port, a fuel cell fuel storage tank, a fuel cell fuel flowmeter, and a pressure regulator. The fuel cell fuel storage tank is fluidically coupled to the providing fuel cell fuel port. The fuel cell fuel flowmeter is coupled between the fuel cell fuel port and the fuel cell fuel storage tank and is configured to measure flow of fuel cell fuel from the fuel cell fuel storage tank to the providing fuel cell fuel port. The pressure regulator is coupled between the fuel cell fuel flowmeter and the fuel cell fuel storage tank and is configured to control pressure of fuel cell fuel flowing from the fuel cell fuel storage tank to the providing fuel cell fuel port.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2021Date of Patent: February 13, 2024Assignee: CUMMINS INC.Inventors: Archit N. Koti, Jean-Baptiste Gallo, Joseph P. Chandraraj
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Patent number: 11878904Abstract: The windshield washer fluid dispenser is a self-service station, that is capable of providing a user with high quality windshield washer fluid and the ability to utilize the windshield washer fluid manually. To accomplish this, the device includes a combination of components, that allows one to properly clean the windshield on one's vehicle without the need of an attendant. To accomplish this, the system includes a body, that houses a user-friendly dispenser container, a blend center unit that can instantaneously mix liquids to make a windshield washer solution, and a HID (human interface device) that can dispense the windshield washer solution according to users' needs. Further, the system includes a display device, a payment system, a sign board and necessary accessories that help with the smooth functioning of the system. Thus, the device utilizes simple, user-interactive, and cost-effective technologies to provide the windshield washer fluid dispenser self service station.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2022Date of Patent: January 23, 2024Inventors: Domenico Prevete, Carlos Martin
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Patent number: 11834318Abstract: An automatic liquid filling system includes a machine assembly, a gripping unit, and a controlling unit. The machine assembly has a filling zone for receiving at least one container. The container has an opening. The machine assembly includes a plurality of filling nozzles in the filling zone. The gripping unit in the machine assembly includes a moving track and a robotic arm. The robotic arm is movably disposed on the moving track. The controlling unit in the machine assembly is electrically connected to the gripping unit. When the container is located in the filling zone, the controlling unit controls the robotic arm to move along the moving track and to pick up one of the filling nozzles to fill the container through the opening of the container. A method of filling liquid is provided herewith.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2022Date of Patent: December 5, 2023Assignee: TRUSVAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Shih-Feng Chen, Shih-Pao Chien
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Patent number: 11613243Abstract: A vehicle control system includes at least one sensor and a power supply control system. The sensor is on board a vehicle system and configured to generate vehicle data relating to a condition or parameter associated with the vehicle system. The power supply control system is configured to control one or more power supplies on board the vehicle system and to receive the vehicle data from the at least one sensor. The power supply control system is also configured to compare the vehicle data to one or more criteria relating to vehicle movement, and, in response to a determination that the vehicle data meets the criteria and receipt of a signal indicative of the vehicle system carrying (or being configured to carry) cargo of a predetermined material, generate a control signal to deactivate at least one of the power supplies.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2019Date of Patent: March 28, 2023Assignee: WESTINGHOUSE AIR BRAKE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventors: Michael A. Naylor, Donald W. Gangemella, Richard S. Klemanski, Carl L. Haas
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Patent number: 11603966Abstract: A method for automatically opening or closing a gas barrel valve, includes: loading and aligning a gas barrel in a cabinet; separating an end cap from the gas barrel; screw-coupling a connector holder to a gas spray nozzle, from which the ends cap has been removed; winding a spring around a first shaft by enabling forward rotation of the first shaft while suppressing reverse rotation of the first shaft, which is installed in a valve handle holder so as to idle; opening a valve by enabling reverse rotation of a valve handle of the gas barrel while preventing forward rotation of the valve handle holder; and automatically closing the valve at the time of replacement of the gas barrel or when a gas leak is detected.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2021Date of Patent: March 14, 2023Assignee: AMT CO., LTD.Inventors: Du Chul Kim, Jong Seong Lee, Won Ho Choi
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Patent number: 11590856Abstract: An attachment module constructed to enable a vehicle charging robot to attach to a vehicle and to thereafter insert its charging connector into the vehicle's charging socket. Once the vehicle is charged and the charging connector is disconnected from the charging socket, the attachment module is further constructed to enable the robot to detach from the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2021Date of Patent: February 28, 2023Inventor: Wesley Zhou
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Patent number: 11427165Abstract: A portable inflation device having a pump, a control device, a user interface, and an inflation indicator. The pump includes an elongated hose with an inflation nozzle. The control device controls operation of the pump and is configured to sense a current pressure of an object, calculate the estimated remaining time to inflate the object to a target pressure, and display the remaining time using the inflation indicator. The user interface is configured to allow a user to enter the target pressure into the control device.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2021Date of Patent: August 30, 2022Assignee: HOPKINS MANUFACTURING CORPORATIONInventors: Lynn Curtis Strong, James Randolph Kingsbury, Chris Auerbach, Patrick Lee Ohm, Stephen LeVeau, Michael Williams
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Patent number: 11239476Abstract: A fuel cell system of a fuel cell vehicle includes an injector device disposed side by side with a fuel cell stack in a stacking direction of a plurality of power generation cells, and a heat exchanger. The injector device includes an injector body, and a support part. The support part has a fuel gas inlet channel, and supports the injector body. The heat exchanger is fixed to the support part.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2020Date of Patent: February 1, 2022Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Ryoichi Yoshitomi
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Patent number: 11162593Abstract: A system for exhausting hazardous stored energy from a pneumatic subsystem of a railcar, comprises: an air supply for delivering air to the pneumatic subsystem of the railcar; and an isolation valve interposed between the air supply and the pneumatic subsystem of the railcar. When the isolation valve is in a normal operating position, a supply port and a delivery port of the isolation valve are in fluid communication with one another, but when the sliding shoe is in the second position, the sliding shoe effectively closes access to the supply port, and the delivery port is in fluid communication with an exhaust port of the isolation valve. The isolation valve further includes a means for locking the sliding shoe in the second position.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2020Date of Patent: November 2, 2021Assignee: Lexair, Inc.Inventors: John Wayne Jennings, Theodore Patrick O'Canna, Scott Gordon Brady
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Patent number: 11092938Abstract: An occupancy sensing lighting control system is disclosed. The occupancy sensing lighting control system includes an electric lighting fixture, a wireless communication unit associated with the electric lighting fixture, an occupancy condition generating device and a load control device configured to control the current supplied to the electric lighting fixture. The wireless communication unit includes a signal-generating device and a signal detector. The signal-generating device generates periodic control signals detectable by a mobile cellular phone device located within the illuminated space and being in a standby or idle mode. The signal detector detects communication signals generated by the mobile cellular phone device. The occupancy condition generating device determines occupancy condition in response to a detection of communication signals from the mobile cellular phone device.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2019Date of Patent: August 17, 2021Assignee: S.V.V. TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS, INC.Inventor: Sergiy Vasylyev
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Patent number: 11027707Abstract: A portable inflation device having a pump, a control device, a user interface, and an inflation indicator. The pump includes an elongated hose with an inflation nozzle. The control device controls operation of the pump and is configured to sense a current pressure of an object, calculate the estimated remaining time to inflate the object to a target pressure, and display the remaining time using the inflation indicator. The user interface is configured to allow a user to enter the target pressure into the control device.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2017Date of Patent: June 8, 2021Assignee: Hopkins Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Lynn Curtis Strong, James Kingsbury, Chris Auerbach, Patrick Lee Ohm, Stephen Leveau, Michael Williams
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Patent number: 10974701Abstract: An inflator includes an inflator housing, a pressure sensor operable to generate a pressure signal related to an outlet pressure of the inflator, a motor within the inflator housing, a battery pack removably coupleable to the inflator housing, and a controller electrically coupled to the motor and the battery pack. The controller is configured to receive the pressure signal from the pressure sensor, determine a rate of pressurization change based on the pressure signal, determine a static pressure value based on the rate of pressurization change, and determine a motor time delay based on a target pressure value, the static pressure value, and the rate of pressurization change. The controller is also configured to generate a control signal when the motor time delay substantially equals zero. The control signal is operable to cause power to the motor to be turned off to stop a pressurization condition of the inflator.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2019Date of Patent: April 13, 2021Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool CorporationInventors: Joseph R. McIntyre, Huang Yan Jian, Xu Wen Chao, Dan Jun Guo, Jonathan M. Mantes
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Patent number: 10960990Abstract: A nozzle adapter for coupling a fueling nozzle to an underwing type servicing adapter having a radially outward extending tab and a notch formed in an open end thereof comprises an outer body including a neck portion having a first conduit formed therein and a substantially cylindrical cap portion, the cap portion including at least one slot formed therein. An inner body has a second conduit formed therein and is disposed within the cap portion of the outer body and an annular channel is formed between the cap portion and the inner body. The at least one tab is received in the at least one slot and a rotation of the nozzle adapter relative to the servicing adapter causes a first aperture configured to receive a locking device therein to be aligned with the at least one notch of the servicing adapter.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2018Date of Patent: March 30, 2021Assignee: GAMMON TECHNICAL PRODUCTS, INC.Inventor: James H. Gammon
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Patent number: 10858235Abstract: An embodiment relates to an automatic water supply device comprising: a container seating portion, one side of which is open such that a container is placed; a water intake member arranged on the upper portion of the container seating portion so as to supply the container with a liquid; a container height measuring unit and a water level measuring unit arranged to be adjacent to the water intake member, respectively; and a control unit for comparing the height of the container, which is measured by the container height measuring unit, and the water level, which is measuring by the water level measuring unit, thereby checking whether the water level inside the container reaches a preset height or not, and adjusting the water level inside the container using the result of the checking, wherein the container height measuring unit comprises a plurality of first optical sensors for sensing both ends of the upper end of the container, and can measure the height of the container in response to the result of sensingType: GrantFiled: July 6, 2016Date of Patent: December 8, 2020Assignee: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.Inventors: Jae Wook Jung, Lee Im Kang, Chang Hyuck Lee
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Patent number: 10724689Abstract: A system is provided for loading one or more transport tank, the system including one or more load lines for connecting between on-site storage tanks or vessels and the transport tanks; one or more vapour return lines for connecting between the transport tanks and an on-site flare or downstream units; an oxygen deficient medium source; one or more oxygen deficient medium blend supply lines connectable to each of the vapour return lines; a HMI/PLC for automation and control of the operations of the system; and a control panel in communication with the HMI/PLC for starting and stopping operation of the system. Gases displaced from the transport tanks during loading can be sent directly to flare or downstream units. A method is also provided for loading a fluid from one or more on-site storage tanks or vessels to one or more transportation tanks.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2018Date of Patent: July 28, 2020Assignee: ROSKA DBO INC.Inventors: Clayton Roska, Duane Edward Weiser, Ronald Michael Kowalyk, Gregory Thomas Nesom, Terry Wesley Quackenbush, Clinton Kent Rowland, Thomas Daniel Eidt, Kelly Murray Gitzel, Connor John Martin, Curtis A. Moore, Stephen Michael LaFond
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Patent number: 10417845Abstract: Monitoring a physical area for unauthorized access by a user of a wireless device includes setting a wireless signal scanning range using at least one wireless scanning device, detecting a wireless signal within the scanning range, determining a status of the wireless device of authorized, unauthorized or unknown, monitoring scan data obtained from the scanning device during the time the wireless signal remains within the scanning range. A scan data pattern based on the monitored scan data is determined and compared to a scan data pattern database containing scan data patterns indicative of suspicious behavior and determining whether the monitored scan data pattern matches a suspicious scan data pattern based on the comparison. The system identifies the wireless device as unauthorized in response to a match with a suspicious scan data pattern and activates a security alert.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2018Date of Patent: September 17, 2019Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: William Lucy, Hank Ibell, John Anthony Feller, Christopher Meyer
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Patent number: 10371318Abstract: A mobile CO2 filling system selectively fills onsite CO2 storage and dispensing systems with CO2. The system includes a mobile platform; a tank holding liquid CO2 mounted on the mobile platform; a flexible dispensing hose coupled to the tank and configured to be selectively coupled to the filling inlet of an onsite CO2 storage and dispensing system; A pump selectively coupled to the tank; and a controller for controlling the filling of an onsite CO2 storage and dispensing systems with CO2 from the tank, wherein the controller is selectively designated by the user to operate in at least one pump assisted filling state and at least one gravity feed filling state.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2015Date of Patent: August 6, 2019Assignee: Green CO2 IP, LLCInventor: Daniel E. Schneider
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Patent number: 10271677Abstract: An espresso machine that includes a group control head for controlling the brewing and dispensing of espresso drinks. The group control head is in communication with a controller and memory. The combination is arranged to selectively record into the memory the brewing parameters during the dosing of espresso. A subsequent operation of the group control head then enables the controller to recall the recorded parameters such that the previous brewing conditions are replicated. Associated methods for recording the parameters under control of the group control head are also described.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2016Date of Patent: April 30, 2019Inventor: Mark Barnett
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Patent number: 10221840Abstract: An electric compressor (7) includes a compression mechanism (3); an electric motor (2) driving the compression mechanism (3), the electric motor having an axis of rotation (X); and an electric motor (2) power supply inverter (1), the inverter (1) being mounted in an inverter housing (10). The compression mechanism (3) is mounted in a compression housing (30), and the electric motor (2) is mounted in a motor housing (20) extending longitudinally along the axis of rotation (X) and having a first end (20P) connected to the inverter housing (10) by a plurality of securing devices (5) extending inside the motor housing (20). The motor housing (20) includes a second end (20S) located opposite the first end (20P) in relation to the electric motor (2) and connected to the compression housing (30) by a plurality of securing devices (6) different from the above-mentioned securing devices (5).Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2012Date of Patent: March 5, 2019Assignee: VALEO JAPAN CO. LTD.Inventors: Imed Guitari, Augustin Bellet, Hironobu Deguchi, Hiroaki Okakura
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Patent number: 10106342Abstract: A system and method are provided for automated engaging of a truck trailer at a loading dock. Sensors measure a distance and an angle of alignment between the incoming trailer and a wall of the loading dock. An outside lighting system guides a truck driver backing the trailer toward the dock door. A vehicle restraint system fixates the trailer within the loading dock in response to signals from the sensors. An overhead dock door opens once the trailer is successfully fixated by the vehicle restraint system. A dock leveler deploys after the overhead dock door opens. An inside dock light indicates to dock personnel that the trailer is ready to be serviced. Once servicing of the trailer is finished, an automated release of the trailer from the loading dock may be initiated by PLC communication.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2015Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: Niagara Bottling, LLCInventor: Robert Paul Avalos
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Patent number: 10034574Abstract: An espresso machine that includes a group control head for controlling the brewing and dispensing of espresso drinks. In particular, the group control head includes a novel arrangement of proximity switches, magnets, and centering post that allows for a more efficient workflow in the controlling, automating, and duplicating the brewing of multiple doses of espresso. An associated method for using the group control head is also described.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2016Date of Patent: July 31, 2018Inventors: Mark Barnett, Eric Schaefer
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Patent number: 9957151Abstract: A fuel hose for delivering multiple-grades of fuel is provided and in one embodiment includes a first hose portion having a first length and a first diameter, and a second hose portion having a second length and a second diameter. The first hose portion includes a first fuel line and a second fuel line, and the second hose portion includes a third fuel line. The first fuel line and the second fuel line can be fluidly connected to the third fuel line. In one embodiment, the first diameter of the first hose portion is larger than the second diameter of the second hose portion. The invention further relates to a fuel dispensing unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2015Date of Patent: May 1, 2018Assignee: Wayne Fueling Systems Sweden ABInventor: Bengt I. Larsson
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Patent number: 9881432Abstract: A fuel authorization system enables data to be exchanged between vehicles and a fuel vendor, to verify that the vehicle is authorized to receive fuel. Each fuel island is equipped with a camera and a short range radio (RF) component. Participating vehicles are equipped with fuel authorization component including an IR transmitter and a RF component that can establish a data link with the fuel island's RF unit. When the camera senses a vehicle in the fuel lane, an RF query is sent to the vehicle. Participating vehicles respond with an IR transmission. An RF data link is then established between the enrolled vehicle and the fuel vendor to verify that the vehicle is authorized to receive fuel. Once the verification is complete, the fuel dispenser is enabled. In some embodiments, the IR data link is not required, as the camera can distinguish between multiple fuel lanes.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: ZONAR SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Charles Michael McQuade, Rick Fadler
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Patent number: 9809436Abstract: A filling element includes an actuator, a liquid valve, and a gas tube on a plunger that extends into a container. The plunger and the gas tube define a first gas-duct that extends through the plunger and the gas tube. The first gas-duct has ends that extend respectively into a gas-space of a product vessel and the container's interior. A first gas-valve along the first gas-duct has a gas-valve body that interacts with a valve seat in the first gas-duct. The gas-valve body has a second gas-duct formed therethrough. This second gas-duct at least temporarily engages the first gas-duct in a fluid-tight manner. The gas-valve body has a valve face and a valve opening that cooperate to form a second gas-valve through which, when the second gas-valve opens, gas flows through the first and second gas-ducts and enters the container.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: KHS GmbHInventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
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Patent number: 9778033Abstract: A device places a plug and simultaneously checks a correct position alignment of the plug with a holding element for fixing a hollow body. The device has at least one first and one second opening and a plug placement mechanism with which the plug is be inserted into the second opening of the hollow body. The device has a measuring head that is traversed by at least one channel. The channel can be fluidically connected to the first opening of the hollow body. The device can further include a pressure sensor which can be fluidically connected to the channel of the measuring head.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2014Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Assignee: ARNEIMITTEL GMBH APOTHEKER VETTER & CO. RAVENSBURGHInventors: Alexander Glunz, Arno Schroff
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Patent number: 9696701Abstract: An occupancy sensing load control system is disclosed. The occupancy sensing load control system includes a detector unit, an occupancy/vacancy signal generator and a load control circuit. The detector unit detects RF signals emitted by cell phones or similar mobile communication devices within an area being monitored. The occupancy/vacancy signal generator generates a control signal for the load control circuit based on the detection of a qualified RF signal or the absence of such signal within a predetermined time interval. The occupancy sensing load control system may also include a signal-generating unit for generating a pseudo base station signal based on zone information of neighboring base stations for transmission to a mobile phone in the detection area.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2014Date of Patent: July 4, 2017Assignee: SVV TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS, INC.Inventor: Sergiy Vasylyev
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Patent number: 9522791Abstract: First imaging device collects first image data, whereas second imaging device collects second image data of a storage portion. A container identification module identifies a container perimeter of the storage portion in at least one of the collected first image data and the collected second image data. A spout identification module is adapted to identify a spout of the transferring vehicle in the collected image data. An image data evaluator determines whether to use the first image data, the second image data, or both based on an evaluation of the intensity of pixel data or ambient light conditions. An alignment module is adapted to determine the relative position of the spout and the container perimeter and to generate command data to the propelled portion to steer the storage portion in cooperative alignment such that the spout is aligned within a central zone or a target zone of the container perimeter.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Inventors: Zachary T. Bonefas, Mark M. Chaney, Jeremiah K. Johnson, Aaron J. Bruns, Herman Herman, Carlos Vallespi-Gonzalez, Jose Gonzalez Mora
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Patent number: 9522792Abstract: First imaging device collects first image data, whereas second imaging device collects second image data of a storage portion. A container identification module identifies a container perimeter of the storage portion in at least one of the collected first image data and the collected second image data. A spout identification module is adapted to identify a spout of the transferring vehicle in the collected image data. An image data evaluator determines whether to use the first image data, the second image data, or both based on an evaluation of the intensity of pixel data or ambient light conditions. An alignment module is adapted to determine the relative position of the spout and the container perimeter and to generate command data to the propelled portion to steer the storage portion in cooperative alignment such that the spout is aligned within a central zone or a target zone of the container perimeter.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Zachary T. Bonefas, Darin E. Bartholomew
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Patent number: 9511958Abstract: A single imaging device collects image data of a storage portion. A container module identifies a container perimeter of the storage portion in at least one of the collected image data. A spout module is adapted to identify a spout of the transferring vehicle in the collected image data. An arbiter determines whether to use the image data based on an evaluation of the intensity of pixel data or ambient light conditions. An alignment module is adapted to determine the relative position of the spout and the container perimeter and to generate command data to the propelled portion to steer the storage portion in cooperative alignment such that the spout is aligned within a central or target zone of the container perimeter.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Zachary T. Bonefas
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Patent number: 9463939Abstract: First imaging device collects first image data, whereas second imaging device collects second image data of a storage portion. A container identification module identifies a container perimeter of the storage portion in at least one of the collected first image data and the collected second image data. A spout identification module is adapted to identify a spout of the transferring vehicle in the collected image data. An image data evaluator determines whether to use the first image data, the second image data, or both based on an evaluation of the intensity of pixel data or ambient light conditions. An alignment module is adapted to determine the relative position of the spout and the container perimeter and to generate command data to the propelled portion to steer the storage portion in cooperative alignment such that the spout is aligned within a central zone or a target zone of the container perimeter.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: October 11, 2016Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Zachary T. Bonefas, Darin E. Bartholomew
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Publication number: 20150123462Abstract: An unmanned self-sustained fuel dispensing station for fuels of all sorts (gasoline, pesticides, water, fertilizers etc.) a tank, docking, and coupling system for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) of the vertical takeoff types. The station can be independent of public power and communication utilities and can operate by remote control without an on-site attendant. The preferred system has a central command center with a control computer in communication with a station control computer located at one or more satellite stations through a communications link. The station control computer can be controlled remotely by the command center. The station control computer programming has control over the activities of the station through an electrical generation subsystem with a solar array, battery bank, battery charger and standby generator; a fuel dispensing subsystem; a security subsystem with video cameras; a communications link and a status sensor subsystem.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2013Publication date: May 7, 2015Inventor: Brian Kamradt
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Patent number: 8973624Abstract: A fill control system includes a fuel storage vessel, a fuel inlet in fluid communication with the fuel storage vessel to provide fluid communication between a fuel source and the fuel storage vessel, and a fill control valve disposed between and in fluid communication with the fuel inlet and the fuel storage vessel, an actuation of the fill control valve causing a pressure level upstream thereof which emulates a full condition of the fuel storage vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Jörg Schulze
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Publication number: 20150013825Abstract: Zero waste dosing method for filling containers of liquids which provides to use, at a delivery station of the liquid product, at least a volumetric pump with a rotor and stator, associated with a tank of the liquid to be introduced into said containers.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2013Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Claudio Trebbi, Ivan Ragazzini
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Patent number: 8910674Abstract: Methods and systems directed to dispensing fluids, such as beverages, using wireless technology are provided. Aspects relate to a container, such as a beverage cup, having a wireless transceiver configured to transmit and/or receive wireless signals to a second wireless transceiver associated with a dispenser. The wireless transceiver may be configured to transmit electronic signals indicative that the container is validated to receive a beverage and whether it is properly located to receive the beverage from a valve of the dispenser. Further aspects of the invention relate to a beverage dispensing system having a wireless transceiver. In one embodiment, the dispenser is configured to receive a return signal from a container indicative that the container is validated to receive a beverage and whether the container is properly located to receive a beverage from a valve of the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2010Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: William W. Segiet, Alex L. Gray, Fernando A. Ubidia, Aaron M. Stein, John F. Lewis
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Patent number: 8869844Abstract: An apparatus includes means for providing one-way degassing valves to be installed on corresponding containers; means for placing a viscous liquid in each of the plurality of one-way degassing valves to provide a corresponding plurality of installable one-way degassing valves; means for capturing an image of at least a portion of at least some of the plurality of installable one-way degassing valves; and control means for automatically and non-destructively determining for the at least some of the plurality of installable one-way degassing valves, prior to installation on the corresponding containers, by using the image, whether the viscous liquid has been properly placed.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2013Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Kraft Foods Group Brands LLCInventors: Arthur A. Sagy, Julio A. Gonzalez
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Publication number: 20140261883Abstract: A system for facilitating the manual filling of a pharmaceutical tray is provided. The system includes an electronic display device configured to display information adjacent the wells of the pharmaceutical tray. The system includes a controller configured to control the electronic display device to display information representative of a first type of pharmaceutical adjacent to a first well to direct manual placement of the first type of pharmaceutical into the first well and to control the electronic display device to selectively display information representative of a second type of pharmaceutical adjacent to a second well to direct manual placement of the second type of pharmaceutical into the second well.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventors: Jacob A. Dent, Syed Sabih Jafri, Michaela McGill
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Patent number: 8820365Abstract: A machine for the automatic preparation of an intravenous medication is provided. In one implementation the machine has a chamber with a starting products area where at least one receptacle is disposed with a base product from which the intravenous medication is generated, a transfer tools area where at least one transfer tool that is used to prepare the required medication is disposed, a prepared products area where at least one container to house the prepared medication is disposed, and a first robot to handle the transfer tool, the first robot being adapted to transport the transfer tool between the transfer tools area, the starting products area and the prepared products area in order to prepare the intravenous medication.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Kiro Robotics, S.L.Inventors: Jean-Philippe Aguerre, Borja Lizari Illarramendi, Susana Soto Iglesias, Naiara Telleria Garay, Gerardo Cajaraville Ordoñana, Maria José Tamés Alonso
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Patent number: 8813794Abstract: A dispensing system includes one or more digital image capture devices for capturing images in a dispenser well and a digital image analyzer operatively coupled to the digital image capture device(s) for analyzing the images for use in regulating a dispensing operation. The digital image analyzer evaluates digital images captured by the digital image capture device(s) to determine various characteristics of a container placed in the dispensing well, such as the height and position of the container.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Whirpoll CorporationInventors: Farhad Ashrafzadeh, Kevin M. Chase, Brian P. Janke, Shreecharan Kanchanavally, James Kerner
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Patent number: 8757226Abstract: A device for filling containers, includes a storage container in which a fluid that is to be bottled in the containers can be accommodated, a filling device which fills the fluid into the containers, and a transport line for transporting the fluid from the storage container to the filling device. A valve device is arranged in the transport line between the storage container and the filling device, which valve device automatically switches between an open and a closed state depending on a flow rate of the fluid within the transport line.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2008Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Krones AGInventors: Stefan Poeschl, Rupert Meinzinger
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Patent number: 8720500Abstract: A system and method for waking up a vehicle controller during a hydrogen gas refueling process for a high pressure hydrogen storage tank on a fuel cell vehicle. The system includes a first temperature switch mounted to the high pressure tank and enclosed within an insulation housing for monitoring the temperature within the tank and a second temperature switch for monitoring the temperature of the hydrogen gas at the refuel receptacle, where the second temperature switch is also enclosed within an insulation housing. If the temperature within the tank increases above a predetermined temperature, the first switch will close, and if the temperature at the refueling receptacle falls below a predetermined temperature, then the second switch will close, which causes a wake up signal to be provided to the controller to allow the controller to monitor the temperature of the tank.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Oliver Maier
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Patent number: 8720499Abstract: A fuel quality monitoring system and method to automatically and/or continuously monitor quality of fuel dispensed and control the operation of the fuel dispenser. The control system monitors fuel quality to prevent unsafe refuelings when the fuel quality is unacceptable. In one embodiment, a combination of a differential pressure sensor, a water detector, and/or a particle monitor is employed inline the fuel flow path of a fuel dispenser, and in particular an aviation refueling truck, to monitor the quality of the fuel. If fuel quality is at an acceptable level although not ideal, the control system can allow fueling with the generation of reports and alarms. If the fuel quality is unacceptable, fuel flow can be stopped. If the differential pressure across the filter indicates a high degree of debris and/or water retention, the control system can automatically lower the flow rate to reduce the risk of filter breakdown without completely preventing fueling until the filter can be replaced.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2008Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignees: Fuel Guard Systems Corporation, Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Christopher K. Kastner, Kevin G. Jensen, Phillip A. Wetmore
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Patent number: 8714210Abstract: A select-fill dispensing system and method for a dispenser assembly utilizes a camera to sense a desired fill level based on the location of a user's finger with respect to a container. In use, a consumer places his or her finger along a container to indicate the desired fill level of the container. Image data from the camera is transmitted to a controller and processed for distortion correction, edge based image segmentation and morphological operations are carried out to remove background noise. The processed image data is utilized to detect the presence of the container, as well as the shape of the container, the position of the container opening, and the top and bottom points of the container. The controller provides a means for controlling the dispensing operation, including a fill rate, based on the desired fill level and the shape of the container.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Farhad Ashrafzadeh, Kevin M. Chase, Brian P. Janke, Shreecharan Kanchanavally, Ronald L. Voglewede
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Patent number: 8708004Abstract: A fueling control system for providing fuel from a vehicle to an aircraft, and a method of providing fuel from a fuel vehicle to an aircraft are disclosed herein. The fueling control system includes a pressure transducer for sensing back pressure in a fluid path to a fuel tank of an aircraft, and a digital controller coupled to the pressure transducer for receiving the back pressure in the fluid path and controlling fuel flow in the fluid path to the aircraft. The method includes the steps of sensing back pressure in a fluid path from the aircraft; receiving the sensed back pressure by a digital controller; and controlling fuel flow to the aircraft in the fluid path based on the sensed back pressure.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2010Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Inventor: Owen Watkins
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Patent number: 8684028Abstract: A fuel quality traceable and remote system for monitoring and controlling fuel characteristics during transport from a fuel supply to a supplied device is provided. The system includes one or more subsystems that include at least one sensor monitoring the characteristics of the fuel. The sensor operably sends the data relating to the characteristics to a data register-transmitter which sends the data to a base station that uploads the data to a remote server. The remote server is remotely accessible by a user. The system can also generate warning messages to warn a user when the characteristics are outside a tolerable range. Further, the system can automatically or manually interrupt fuel transport when the characteristics are outside a tolerable range.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Pecofacet (US), Inc.Inventor: Camilo Vazquez Pérez
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Patent number: 8662115Abstract: A fuel gas station, a fuel gas filling system, and a fuel gas filling method which can check whether information on temperature of the inside of a fuel tank is correct, so that a fuel tank is properly filled. The fuel gas station calculates a difference of temperature between a temperature of the inside of the fuel tank and a temperature of fuel gas to be supplied to the fuel tank after supplying of fuel gas for a predetermined length of time. When the calculated difference of temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the fuel gas station determines that the information on temperature of the inside of the fuel tank is abnormal, and reduces at least one of supply flow and supply quantity of fuel gas as compared to when such information is normal.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Tomoyuki Mori
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Patent number: 8656938Abstract: A method of fueling with compressed gas is described. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a supply of compressed gas; providing a storage tank with a fueling line, and a nozzle in the fueling line, the nozzle movable between at least a flow reduction position and a full fuel flow position; initiating fueling from the supply of compressed gas with the nozzle in the flow reduction position for a predetermined time or until a minimum pressure is obtained; when the predetermined time or the minimum pressure is obtained, moving the nozzle to the full fuel flow position; and fueling the storage tank from the supply of compressed gas with the nozzle in the full fuel flow position until fueling is completed. A vehicle incorporating the nozzle is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Ralph Hobmeyr, Jurgen Thyroff
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Publication number: 20140027013Abstract: An automatic supply system of a consumable material includes: an automatic supply device that automatically supplies a consumable material to a vehicle capable of being loaded with a cargo; and a control device that obtains loading information indicating whether or not the cargo is loaded on the vehicle, and is able to control an automatic supply of the consumable material to the vehicle based on the obtained loading information, wherein, when the control device determines that the cargo is loaded on the vehicle from the obtained loading information, the control device controls the automatic supply device not to perform the automatic supply of the consumable material to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2012Publication date: January 30, 2014Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.Inventors: Masanori Tojima, Kouichi Yamashita, Tsugio Sudou, Koji Takeda