In Gas Filled Receivers Patents (Class 141/197)
  • Publication number: 20120216910
    Abstract: There is disclosed a gas charging apparatus including a gas supply source 10; a fuel gas charging line L connected to the gas supply source 10, to charge a fuel gas into gas tanks, respectively; a temperature information acquiring section 48 which acquires temperature information in the gas tanks; a pressure information acquiring section 49 which acquires pressure information in the gas tanks; a relation data acquiring section 47 which acquires correspondence relation data indicating a correspondence relation between a temperature and a pressure in the corresponding gas tank, in a case where a beforehand acquired state of charge of the gas tank becomes a target state of charge; a temperature difference calculating section 52 which calculates, in accordance with the temperature information, a temperature difference between the gas tank having the highest internal temperature and the gas tank having the lowest internal temperature among the plurality of gas tanks; and a control section 55 which performs control
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Shusuke Inagi, Natsuru Miyazaki, Chihiro Uchimura, Akira Yamashita
  • Patent number: 8251111
    Abstract: A balloon inflator includes a nozzle adaptor configured to fit over an outlet of an inflation nozzle. A nozzle receipt is provided by the balloon inflator housing to selectively receive the nozzle adaptor and a switch is provided at the nozzle receipt. The nozzle adaptor is adapted to trigger the switch when received at the nozzle receipt. The switch controls the power supplied to the motor, such that different motor operating parameters are realized when the switch is triggered and when the switch is not triggered. In a particular embodiment, the nozzle adaptor includes vent channels that exhaust a portion of the air to the atmosphere when a balloon is fitted over the alternate outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Premium Balloon Accessories, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Nelson, Martin A. Meluch, Valent L. Meluch, Wesley A. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 8215342
    Abstract: A hydrogen source comprises a first hydrogen reservoir for containing hydrogen in a first form and a second hydrogen reservoir for containing hydrogen in a second form different from the first form. The hydrogen source comprises a means for converting hydrogen from the first form to hydrogen gas and transferring the hydrogen gas from the first hydrogen reservoir to the second hydrogen reservoir. An interface is provided for transferring hydrogen from the second hydrogen reservoir to a hydrogen reservoir in a portable device. The interface comprises a fluidic coupling. The hydrogen source may be used to provide hydrogen fuel to a wide range of portable devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Societé BIC
    Inventors: Gerard Francis McLean, Joerg Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 8181676
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to temporary mobility kits that repair punctured tires. Some embodiments of the kit include an air compressor; a sealant assembly selectively connected to the pump; a sealant hose in the sealant assembly, configured to connect the air compressor to a tire valve; and a first circuit configured to assess a connection condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Ann Steele, Yingchao Guan, Darryl L. Jones, Zhi Qiang He, Sergey Maryanovsky
  • Patent number: 8156970
    Abstract: Method for dispensing a gas comprising (a) providing a gas storage system containing pressurized gas and having at least first and second gas storage volumes, first and second flow control valves in flow communication with the first and second gas storage volumes, respectively, wherein each flow control valve is initially closed, and wherein the first gas storage volume has a smaller volumetric capacity than the second gas storage volume; (b) selecting a reference temperature; (c) measuring the ambient temperature; (d) providing a gas receiving vessel and placing it in flow communication with each flow control valve and with the gas storage system; and (e) initiating delivery of the gas by (i) opening the first flow control valve when the ambient temperature is equal to or greater than the reference temperature or (ii) opening the second flow control valve when the ambient temperature is less than the reference temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: David John Farese, Joseph Perry Cohen
  • Patent number: 8146622
    Abstract: A temporary mobility kit to minimize or prevent the inadvertent outflow of tire sealant is provided. The temporary mobility kit includes a switch-inflator assembly and a removable sealant assembly. The switch-inflator assembly includes an air inflator and an associated hose for inflating a tire. The switch-inflator assembly further includes a diverter switch, a power-on, power-off switch, and an air pressure gauge. The diverter switch is a user-operated switch which moves an associated diverter valve between an air inflation function and a sealing function. The sealant assembly includes a sealant hose having a sealant tire valve connector. Electrical wires are provided in operative association with the sealant hose and electrically connect the sealant tire valve connector and the sealant assembly. A circuit arrangement is provided which prevents the inadvertent outflow of tire sealant through a logic arrangement which includes a reset circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Yingchao Guan, Kimberly Ann Steele, Darryl L. Jones, Zhi Qiang He, Sergey Maryanovsky
  • Patent number: 8113246
    Abstract: A vacuum fresh-keeping cover includes an upper cover, a top of which is connected with an air suction-ventilation device, a lower rim of which is connected with a soft gasket that can be suppressed on any horizontal surface, and an interior of which is formed with a container space. When a barometric value of the container space gets larger, the air suction-ventilation device is activated to expel out air in the container space continuously, to keep the container space at a near vacuum condition for preserving objects or food. When pulling up a touching element of the air suction-ventilation device, the air in the container space is drained out by the air suction-ventilation device to quickly remove the upper cover, to facilitate consumers for use, and to conveniently separate the air suction-ventilation device from the upper cover, for easily washing the upper cover with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Kuo Chin Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8096328
    Abstract: A tire inflation apparatus for inflating a tire mounted on a rim comprises an inflation head mounted to a moveable inflation shaft of a head position cylinder and an assist cylinder mounted to a frame member, with the frame member and assist cylinder positioned above the inflation location. The assist cylinder includes a moveable assist shaft operatively connected to the inflation shaft by a moveable cross member whereby the head position cylinder and assist cylinder cooperatively operate to selectively position the inflation head. The inflation head is positioned in a retracted position by vertical upward extension of the assist shaft and positioned in a tire engaging position by vertical downward retraction of the assist shaft. A fluid passage in the inflation shaft may deliver pressurized gas into a tire inflation cavity of the inflation head for inflating a tire when the inflation head is sealed against the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Burke E. Porter Machinery Co.
    Inventor: Mark S. Hoenke
  • Patent number: 8091592
    Abstract: A substrate container has a container main body to contain a substrate and a check valve which has a cylindrical housing and a valve disc installed in the housing and controls gas flowing from and to the interior and the exterior of the container main body, and is formed by inserting the housing into a through-hole of the container main body. When an end of the valve located inside the container main body is defined as a front end, a check valve has a fixing ring that is mounted on the rear end side in the manner of being rotatable relative to the housing and fixes the housing to the container main body from rearward, and the housing has a first housing installed on the front end side and a second housing inserted into the first housing at the front end and attached to the first housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Polymer Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshinori Sato
  • Patent number: 8061392
    Abstract: In the present invention methods for storing gaseous hydrogen employing an ionic liquid are disclosed. The ionic liquid is used to displace the volume in the storage tanks. By displacing the volume in the storage tanks with the ionic liquid, the storage pressure can remain constant and the “stranded” gas can be eliminated. This constant pressure will also allow for a reduction in the number of storage tanks needed to provide the required inventory at hydrogen fueling stations. In addition, this constant pressure will provide a complete and fast fill to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Texaco Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel G. Casey
  • Publication number: 20110247723
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for filling vehicle tires with nitrogen and especially to a customer operated tire inflation system for filling vehicle balloon tires with nitrogen. A plurality of tanks of nitrogen are mounted for rotation on a lazy susan and are connected to a hose on a reel having a tire filling valve on the end thereof for unreeling and filling a vehicle tire. A credit or debit card reader controls a hose reel lock and flow from the nitrogen tanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Janice Lachman
  • Patent number: 7975729
    Abstract: An in-structure air delivery system comprises a control panel and a plurality of air delivery lines. The control panel is located at a first location in the structure and has an air supply inlet. Each air delivery line extends from the control panel to a different location in the structure. Valves are configured to selectively control the flow of air through each of the air delivery lines. In a method of use, a high pressure air supply such as a portable compressor is connected to the inlet of the system. Air is selectively delivered to one or more of the delivery lines. A control unit is connected to the outlet of the delivery line. Air is supplied to the control unit. The control unit is used to regulate the flow of air to a component of breathing equipment, such as to a firefighter's breathing equipment air cylinder to be re-filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Richard W. Lisle
  • Patent number: 7967039
    Abstract: A valve system includes a source of pressurized fluid comprising an orifice through which the pressurized fluid flows away from the source, and a poppet comprising a groove and a seal positioned in the groove, wherein the seal plugs the orifice when the poppet is in a closed position, and wherein the poppet and the seal move through the orifice against a flow of the pressurized fluid to allow the pressurized fluid to flow through the orifice and away from the source. The seal may include an O-ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Ausco Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph R. McKee
  • Patent number: 7913724
    Abstract: An inflation device for inflating containers with non-rigid walls such as bags, which includes a body having a venturi shaped air channel. First and second air inlets lead into the air channel, with an outlet being adapted to allow air to exit from the air channel for inflating a container when joined to the outlet. The second inlet is adapted to be closed by a self-closing valve if air does not flow through the air channel. A sensor associated with the body is adapted to detect when a container, such as a bag, joined to the body has been filled to a predetermined degree and then causes the flow of air through the air channel to be interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Stopak (Pty) Ltd.
    Inventor: Bester Jacobus Pansegrouw
  • Patent number: 7891350
    Abstract: A gas supply system for store ejection from a vehicle comprises a receiver assembly, a compressor connected to the receiver assembly, and a gas storage vessel removably coupled to the receiver assembly, wherein the gas storage vessel is capable of receiving and storing pressurized gas from the compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Ausco, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph R. McKee
  • Patent number: 7832433
    Abstract: A gas-generating apparatus includes a fuel storage chamber having a fuel gas stored within a plurality of microspheres. A releasing mechanism releases the gas from the microspheres, such as by fracturing the spheres or diffusing the gas through the spheres. A ratcheting mechanism controls the release of the gas, such as hydrogen, from the microspheres. The ratcheting mechanism is controlled by either the pressure within the fuel storage chamber or an electronic controller. Additionally, the gas-generating apparatus of the present invention includes a fuel introducing system that has a fuel transporting system that is pressure regulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Societe Bic
    Inventors: Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks
  • Patent number: 7832434
    Abstract: An automated filling system to conduct a filling operation in which a bulk liquid transport vehicle is filled with a bulk liquid and quality assurance tests are performed by a gas analyzer. A programmable logic controller, employed to control the filling operation, is responsive to pressure within a fill line connected to the vehicle and is programmed to determine that there exists sufficient pressure within the vehicle to conduct an initial quality assurance test and that the fill line is properly connected to the fill line, without breaks in its flow integrity. The programmable logic controller also initiates and controls a pressurization process if there is not sufficient pressure to conduct the initial quality assurance test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Carlins, John P. Maitino, Ralph W. Gese, Jesse Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20100286479
    Abstract: An internal pressure detecting device can accurately detect an internal pressure of the inflating and deflating member such as a balloon which is provided at an intracavital insertion tool such as an endoscope, an endoscope auxiliary tool or an endoscope treatment tool, is provided. The internal pressure detecting device has: a pressure detection conduit line which is provided separately from a supply and exhaust conduit line through which a fluid is supplied to or exhausted from an inside of an inflating and deflating member provided at an intracavital insertion tool, and which communicates with the inside of the inflating and deflating member; and a pressure detecting device which is connected to the pressure detection conduit line and detects an internal pressure of the inflating and deflating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi ASHIDA, Shinichi YAMAKAWA, Takayuki NAKAMURA
  • Patent number: 7823609
    Abstract: A source of compressed air, such as one or more air compressors and/or one or more tanks of compressed air, is used to sequentially fill a plurality of compressed air storage cylinders. A plurality of pressure-sensitive, one way check valves cause the storage cylinders to be automatically filled up, one at a time, in a determined sequence. The outputs of the storage cylinders are connected through a plurality of differential air pressure valves to a fill station, to cause the storage cylinders to fill up individual air breathing tanks, in which the storage cylinders are depleted in a determined sequence, one at a time. By depleting first the first to be filled storage cylinder, first in—first out, the same filling procedure can be used to refill the air storage cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Scott F. Wonders
  • Publication number: 20100212773
    Abstract: A method for filling bottles or similar containers with an oxygen sensitive effervescent liquid beverage filling material under counterpressure and filling machine for the performance of this method. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Ludwig Clüsserath, Dieter-Rudolf Krulitsch, Manfred Hürtel
  • Patent number: 7770610
    Abstract: An in-structure air delivery system comprises a control panel and a plurality of air delivery lines. The control panel is located at a first location in the structure and has an air supply inlet. Each air delivery line extends from the control panel to a different location in the structure. Valves are configured to selectively control the flow of air through each of the air delivery lines. In a method of use, a high pressure air supply such as a portable compressor is connected to the inlet of the system. Air is selectively delivered to one or more of the delivery lines. A control unit is connected to the outlet of the delivery line. Air is supplied to the control unit. The control unit is used to regulate the flow of air to a component of breathing equipment, such as to a firefighter's breathing equipment air cylinder to be re-filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Mechanical Contractors Association, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Lisle
  • Patent number: 7762289
    Abstract: A method and related system of filling therapeutic gas cylinders. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are a method comprising determining, by a cylinder fill device, a rated pressure of a therapeutic gas cylinder, and filling the cylinder with the cylinder fill device substantially to the rated pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Respironics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin G. McCulloh, Alonzo C. Aylsworth, Lawrence C. Spector
  • Publication number: 20100108190
    Abstract: The gas which is to be introduced into a compressed gas container (50) is stored in a storage container (10) at a high pressure of approximately 250 bar. A booster compressor (20) is connected downstream of the storage container: The outlet of the booster compressor can be connected to a pre-filling container (30) via a valve apparatus (22). The compressed gas container (50) is filled first of all by the pre-filling container (30). When the pressure of the latter is no longer sufficient, a switchover is carried out, wherein the further filling takes place by the booster compressor (20) via a cyclone tube (40) or an injection device. In this way, a large storage container can be filled in a short time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Klaus Bäumer, Dirk Grulich, Michael Rachner, Norbert Scholz, Herbert Wiengand
  • Publication number: 20100000625
    Abstract: A purge apparatus is provided which can purge with clean gas even in the case where an in-use state is made after a long period of a non-use state. The purge apparatus includes a nozzle which is connected to a container and through which gas passes, a detection unit which detects a connection state between the container and the nozzle, and a flow rate adjustment unit which allows the gas to flow at a first flow rate when the container and the nozzle is in a connected state is detected, and allows the gas to flow at a second flow rate which is lower than the first flow rate, when the container and the nozzle are in a disconnected state is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventors: Fumiki Goto, Naruto Adachi
  • Patent number: 7621302
    Abstract: In a system including a gas source, a target cylinder for receiving gas, a conduit for carrying gas, and a valve for controlling the flow of gas, a method of dosing the target cylinder with gas is disclosed. The method comprises the step of calculating a mass flow rate for dosing the conduit and the target cylinder. The valve is biased to an open position to permit gas to flow through the conduit and into the target cylinder. The mass flow rate and the cumulative mass of gas flowing through the conduit are measured using a mass flow meter. The valve is biased to maintain the measured mass flow rate of gas flowing through the conduit substantially equivalent to the calculated mass flow rate. The valve is biased to a closed position once the measured cumulative mass of gas is substantially equivalent to the pre-determined mass of gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Airgas, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Shock, James Gruenbacher, Steven Weiss
  • Patent number: 7571500
    Abstract: An inflating/deflating device includes a fan unit disposed inside a main housing. A release valve assembly is connected to a deflating port of the main housing for fluid communication with a first air passage of the fan unit. An inlet valve assembly is connected to an inflating port of the main housing for fluid communication with a second air passage of the fan unit. A control unit is provided to control the release and inlet valve assemblies. The control unit is operable to switch a first or a second actuating position. The control unit actuates the fan unit and the inlet valve assembly to perform an inflating mode in the first actuating position, and actuates the fan unit and the release valve assembly to perform a deflating mode in the second actuating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Hsin-Tsai Wu
  • Patent number: 7568507
    Abstract: A diagnostic method for a gas supply system includes: determining a desired ramp rate for filling a vessel from a supply of compressed gas; monitoring the actual pressure of gas entering the vessel; and discontinuing the flow of gas into the vessel when the actual pressure deviates from the intended pressure at the desired ramp rate by an undesired amount. A system for carrying out the method includes a flow controller for controlling operation of the supply system to deliver compressed gas from a source to a vessel through a supply line at a desired ramp rate. The system employs a pressure monitor downstream of a control valve for measuring the pressure of gas directed into the vessel and transmitting pressure-related data to the flow controller, which closes the control valve to discontinue filling of the vessel if the actual pressure exceeds a permissible deviation from the intended pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: David John Farese, Todd Eric Carlson, Joseph Perry Cohen, Amanda Elizabeth Witmer, Keith H. Schultz
  • Publication number: 20090044877
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for filling pressurized gas tanks, characterized in that the filling process is interrupted when the input pressure reaches a maximum filling pressure, the maximum filling pressure in the cylinder being calculated to match the most serious of the two following conditions: nominal filling capacity or design temperature of the cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Jean-Yves FAUDOU, Jean-Yves Lehman, Jaya-Sitra Pregassame
  • Patent number: 7415995
    Abstract: A canister filling system is provided for independently filling multiple canisters from a common set of storage stations prioritized in a cascaded manner. The system includes first and second fill stations configured to receive and independently fill canisters with pressurized gas. First and second storage stations store gas at corresponding first and second charge pressures, respectively. A supply-chain joins each of the first and second fill stations to both of the first and second storage stations. First and second valve assemblies are provided in the supply-chain to monitor, independent of one another, the canister pressures at the corresponding first and second fill stations. The canister pressures represent the pressure within corresponding canisters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Scott Technologies
    Inventors: Darrill Lee Plummer, Gaylord Kern Posod
  • Patent number: 7390346
    Abstract: Provided is a novel system and apparatus for producing primary standard gas mixtures. The system includes providing a gas permeation device having a constant diffusion rate into a temperature controlled enclosure; connecting a supply source of a component to the permeation device; routing the component from the gas permeation device to a product container until a desired amount of said component in the product container is reached; and supplying a balance of purified gas to the product container to obtain a known concentration of component in the primary standard gas mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Leonard Malczewski, Douglas Charles Heiderman
  • Publication number: 20080067902
    Abstract: A surgical console having bottles containing retinal tamponading gases and an automatic gas filling module disposed therein for filling an automatic gas filling consumable is disclosed. The automatic gas filling module includes a pair of gas shutoff valves and a regulator connected in series with a port for connection to the automatic gas filling consumable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Mark A. Hopkins, John C. Huculak, Denis P. Turner
  • Patent number: 7325561
    Abstract: A system for increasing the overall efficiency of a hydrogen fueled vehicle and refilling station infrastructure wherein the process of (1) consuming pressurized hydrogen gas that is stored in on board tanks used to power hydrogen fueled motor vehicles and (2) refueling the vehicle tanks at a hydrogen refilling station after the available on board fuel supply in the tanks is consumed is controlled according to a predetermined sequence involving the utilization of the hydrogen in the on board tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Steven R. Mathison, Shiro Matsuo
  • Patent number: 7198076
    Abstract: An air pump assembly is disposed within an inflatable article, and includes a movable member. When the movable member is moved relative to a base to an inflating position, an outflow outlet in the base is closed, and an inflow valve is activated to open an inflow outlet in the base so as to permit air to be sucked into the inflatable article through an inflow inlet and the inflow outlet in the base by an air pump. When the movable member is moved to a deflating position, the inflow inlet is closed, and an outflow valve is activated to open an outflow inlet in the base so as to permit air to be forced out of the inflatable article through the outflow inlet and the outflow outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: Hsin-Tsai Wu
  • Patent number: 7128103
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are an electrochemical system, a hydrogen gas fueling system, a cascade system, and methods for using the same. The hydrogen gas fueling system comprises a multiple-stage compressor disposed in fluid communication with a hydrogen gas source, the compressor configured to cool hydrogen gas received at a stage of the compressor, a cascade section comprising at least two hydrogen gas storage zones disposed in fluid communication with the compressor at the outlet of the compressor, and a hydrogen gas dispensing section disposed in fluid communication with the cascade section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred Mitlitsky, John F. Boyle, Luke T. Dalton, Blake Myers, Hassan Obahi, Jason K. Shiepe
  • Patent number: 7059364
    Abstract: A method for quick filling a vehicle hydrogen storage vessel with hydrogen, the key component of which is an algorithm used to control the fill process, which interacts with the hydrogen dispensing apparatus to determine the vehicle hydrogen storage vessel capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventors: Kenneth John Kountz, Kenneth Robert Kriha, William E. Liss
  • Patent number: 7044176
    Abstract: A device for controlled activation of the pressurized supply of air for inflating tires in machines for tire dealers comprising air feeders, at least one pair of regulators for air pressure regulation to two predefined extreme values, a first regulator to a minimum value and a second regulator to a maximum value, the regulators being connected in parallel to each other to the air feeders, at least one dispenser for dispensing pressurized inflation air connectable alternately to one of the regulators, at least one selection valve, interposed between the first and second regulators and the dispenser for selecting alternate connection of the dispenser to the regulators, the selection valve being kept, by a return element, normally connected to the first regulator and forcibly temporarily connectable, in contrast with the return element, to the second regulator, interruption of direct actuation causing automatic reconnection of the selection valve to the first regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: SICAM S.r.l.
    Inventor: Dido Boni
  • Patent number: 7011118
    Abstract: A compressor for natural gas is made in a format suitable for mounting on a wall or upright support at a residential location to permit refilling of the gas reservoir of a gaseous-fueled motor vehicle parked at the residence. The wall-mounted appliance has vibration isolation supports to minimize transmission of noise into the residence. It has a ventilation and air circulation system that allows it to test for the presence of flammable gas both leaking from the appliance and present in the adjacent ambient environment, e.g. a garage. A motor speed control system permits operation of the appliance at speeds which are reduced when approaching the final pressure for the motor vehicle reservoir and at speeds which avoid the natural resonant frequencies of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: 2045951 Ontario Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Chan, Filip Atanassov, Ralph Rackham, Tome Mojsov, Brian Chapnik, Tracey Demaline
  • Patent number: 6992569
    Abstract: A safety shutdown system is provided for use with a fluid delivery system, such as used on a delivery vehicle. The safety shutdown system includes a plurality of sensors for sensing characteristics of a fluid delivery system. A controller includes a query timer function initiated in response to the sensed characteristic of the fluid delivery system and/or in response to activation of selected vehicle functions. The operator may repeatedly reset the query timer before it times out by pressing a button on a wireless transmitter. If the timer times out, however, the controller automatically shuts off a vehicle engine and/or closes a valve to prevent further fluid delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: PGI International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Spencer M. Nimberger, Kevin Cessac
  • Patent number: 6982061
    Abstract: A closed system odorant chamber or wick-style odorizer and method for transferring odorant to an odorant chamber is described. Two cylinders are connected to the odorant chamber, which in turn may be connected to a gas line. The pressure differential between the two cylinders causes odorant to flow into the odorant chamber until an appropriate odorant level is reached. After filling up the odorant chamber, the two cylinders are disconnected from the odorant chamber. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure; and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims under 37 C.F.R. § 1.72.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Natural Gas Odorizing, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Brashear
  • Patent number: 6923221
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser with a booted nozzle for vapor recovery is modified to include check valves in a vapor return path. The check valves selectively allow atmospheric air into the vapor return path to alleviate nuisance shut offs at the nozzle when ORVR vehicle is being fueled. The check valves may be included anywhere in the vapor return path between the nozzle and the vapor recovery vacuum assist pump. The fuel dispenser may further include a pressure sensor in the vapor return line so that the fuel dispenser can determine if the vehicle is an ORVR vehicle or not. If the fuel dispenser determines that an ORVR vehicle is present, the fuel dispenser may modify the operation of the vapor recovery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Riffle
  • Patent number: 6899115
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a filling station for filling a motor vehicle with gaseous fuel. The fuel is compressed, stored temporarily and expanded in the fuel tank of said vehicle. The fuel has a high water content. According to the invention, oil or an oil mixture is added in a dosed manner to said fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Linde AG
    Inventor: Robert Adler
  • Patent number: 6851459
    Abstract: An air sampler for use in analyzing biological or other analytes, comprizes an airflow chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet. An extract from an air mover draws ambient air in through the inlet, and then through the chamber, to discharge it back to atmosphere by way of an outlet. The airflow chamber houses a cyclone air/liquid separator through which the inflowing air is caused to pass. An injector introduces liquid into air flowing through the air inlet. The cyclone separator extracts this liquid and any entrained particles therein and discharges it from the airflow chamber, initially by way of a duct, where it is then conveyed to a collection vessel, by way of a three channel peristaltic pump, and a duct. The collection vessel is housed within a Peltier-cooled holder to maintain the contents of the vessel within the 2-8 degree Celsius range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventors: David James Squirrell, William Hunter Symonds, Hilary Anne Bird, Martin John Berry
  • Patent number: 6827112
    Abstract: System for controlling a hazardous fluid distribution facility wherein a control arrangement is provided at the facility having a power on switch providing for its general energization and de-energization along with a start switch which is actuated by an operator for an interval of time sufficient for a gas pressure control monitor to assume an enable condition causing the actuation of tank valves and the enablement of emergency shut-off valves. A receiver is incorporated with the housing which performs in conjunction with strategically positioned emergency transmitters which are actuated by personnel in the event of a perceived emergency condition. The transmitters transmit an off-state signal which is responded to by the receiver circuit to vent the pneumatic actuation and enablement system as well as to disenable electrical input to pump motors. The transmitters are polled periodically by the receiver circuit to determine their operational status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Tracey T. Lemmon
  • Patent number: 6786245
    Abstract: A mobile self-contained self-powered station having a plurality of vessels delivers a pressurized fluid to a receiving tank (e.g., a fuel tank of a hydrogen-powered vehicle) without using mechanical compression, external electric power, or other external utilities. The station includes first and second vessels, a conduit in fluid communication with the receiving tank and each of the first and second vessels, means for transferring at least a portion of a quantity of the pressurized fluid from the first vessel to the receiving tank, means for measuring continuously a pressure differential between the increasing pressure in the receiving tank and the decreasing pressure in the first vessel, means for discontinuing the transfer from the first vessel when a predetermined limit value is reached, and means for transferring at least a portion of a quantity of the pressurized fluid from the second vessel to the receiving tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Paul Eichelberger, David John Farese, Joseph Perry Cohen, Richard Layton Colwell
  • Patent number: 6788209
    Abstract: A software driven, solid state controlled, electro-mechanically operated system to monitor volatile liquid fuel or other hazardous liquids and provide emergency shut-off if the delivery system is ruptured. A computer receives input from transducers monitoring the flow rate of the liquid through the line and a pressure sensor insures the system is prepared to function. The monitoring apparatus presets a condition based on current environmental conditions. Measuring the flow rate provides input to software that validates all other entries. Delivery quantities allowing point of delivery control to vary the delivery quantity to individual locations. The software options are: Preset conditions; Owner/operator input via external computer for loading delivery and trip instructions; Instructional output on LCD screen to driver on customer information and scheduling; Data download to owner/operator on billing information, driver daily activities and volume of propane remaining in vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: BR&T Technology Development Corporation
    Inventors: Tony J. Cothern, Ronald H. Bindl, Rodney O. Craig, Don Cream, George B. Freeman
  • Patent number: 6729110
    Abstract: A dunnage bag includes a sealed, flexible bag, and a rigid valve assembly connected in fluid communication to the flexible bag. The valve assembly has a rigid collar which mounts in an opening in a wall of a container to receive an exit end of a fill nozzle of an inflating system which supplies pressurized gas for inflating the flexible bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Laurence B. Sperry, Eric Kane
  • Patent number: 6722401
    Abstract: A paintball cylinder refilling apparatus for installation and use at a paintball field or tournament includes a housing, a high-pressure and a low-pressure fluid source. The housing has a paintball cylinder refill circuit that includes a high-pressure circuit adapted to refill a paintball cylinder and a low-pressure circuit that operates to open and close the high-pressure circuit. The high and low-pressure circuits are also adapted to safely vent into the atmosphere any pressurized fluid that may be resident in either circuit following the termination of a cylinder refilling operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Bauer Compressors, Inc.
    Inventor: Otis G. Brock
  • Patent number: 6705360
    Abstract: An air compressor for use with direct source current sources such as the typical cigarette lighter found in most motor vehicles. The device is made up of an electrically powered air compressor which is controllable by a removable programmable controller. This removable programmable controller is configured to be removable from the compressor to measure an amount of air pressure within an item, and to be programmed and placed upon the compressor to activate the compressor to deliver a desired amount of air to the item being inflated, and to deactivate the compressor when a desired amount of air pressure has been reached within the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Bon-Aire Industries
    Inventor: Robert L. Bonzer
  • Patent number: 6698463
    Abstract: System and method for controlling a hazardous fluid distribution facility wherein a control arrangement is provided at the facility having a power on switch providing for its general energization and de-energization along with a start switch which is actuated by an operator for an interval of time sufficient for a gas pressure control monitor to assume an enable condition causing the actuation of tank valves and the enablement of emergency shut-off valves. A receiver is incorporated with the housing which performs in conjunction with strategically positioned emergency transmitters which are actuated by personnel in the event of a perceived emergency condition. The transmitters transmit an off-state signal which is responded to by the receiver circuit to vent the pneumatic actuation and enablement system as well as to disenable electrical input to pump motors. The transmitters are polled periodically by the receiver circuit to determine their operational status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Tracey T. Lemmon
  • 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