Level Or Overflow Responsive Patents (Class 141/198)
  • Patent number: 7100645
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a filler pipe structure for connecting a filler neck and fuel tank inside of a vehicle, and the filler pipe structure is equipped with a first filler pipe extending from the filler neck; a chamber that is arranged at an end to which the first filler pipe extends, and forms a space fronting the end of the first filler pipe; an inlet check valve attached to the end of the first filler pipe; and a second filler pipe that connects the space of the chamber and the fuel tank inside, wherein an inside section area of the second filler pipe is larger than that of the first filler pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Hasegawa, Yukio Hirata
  • Patent number: 7096898
    Abstract: An automatic liquid filling system including a liquid supply, a liquid-retaining structure, and a filling apparatus in fluid communication with the liquid supply and the liquid-retaining structure. The filling apparatus is configured to automatically supply liquid to the liquid-retaining structure when the liquid recedes below a low level that is based on a position of the filling apparatus in relation to the liquid-retaining structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley
  • Patent number: 7089972
    Abstract: A glycol proportioning station that provides a deicing mixture of glycol and water to tank trucks that in turn spray the deicing mixture onto aircraft. The invention includes a remote control that is positioned where the truck is loaded and which runs in parallel with the controls on the main unit of the system. The proportioning system operates with an economy of parts by employing constant flow rates of both water and glycol. The desired percentage of glycol in the effluent is obtained by initially setting the position of one or more modulating valves provided on each of separate water and glycol lines and then employing a refractometer feedback loop to modulate the flow in one or both of the input lines. A static mixer positioned along the effluent line upstream of the in-line refractometer provides a uniform glycol-water mixture. The system provides other novel features such as a “last fill” option that prevents the system from freezing when it is not being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Edwards Electrical & Mechanical, Inc.
    Inventors: Ken Kneringer, Jessie Nance
  • Patent number: 7089973
    Abstract: An integrated inkjet-cartridge refilling system that is comprised of an arrangement of mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and software elements, which is used by an operator in a retail environment to automatically connect one of many types of inkjet cartridges that are used in printing devices and refill the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Tonerhead, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry E. Nicodem, Timothy Knecht
  • Patent number: 7089974
    Abstract: A fuel storage tank includes an overfill protection device for shutting off the flow of fuel into the tank via a fuel fill tube when the contents of the tank reach an intended maximum fill level. The overfill protection device includes a butterfly valve located within the fuel fill tube and a float, slidably mounted outside the fuel fill tube and operatively linked to the butterfly valve. The float rotates the butterfly valve towards the closed position in response to an increasing fuel level in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Risbridger Limited
    Inventor: Graham Mansfield Stuart
  • Patent number: 7082971
    Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining a liquid level within a receptacle such as a Christmas-tree stand water basin or a pet's water dish includes: a) a liquid reservoir adapted to be positioned above a height of a liquid holding basin of the receptacle, where the reservoir includes an open upper end and a lower end, where the open upper end includes a threaded, cylindrical outer surface and the lower end includes a reservoir outlet orifice; b) a cap including a cylindrical wall having an enclosed top end and an open bottom end, where the cylindrical wall includes a threaded inner surface from gauging with a threaded outer surface of the liquid reservoir; c) a valve assembly provided approximate the reservoir outlet orifice of the reservoir and operatively coupled to the cap to open the reservoir outlet orifice when the cap is threaded downwardly on the reservoir to a valve-open height below an actuating height an operative to close the reservoir outlet orifice when the cap is threaded upwardly to a valve-closed heigh
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Evan Gauthier
  • Patent number: 7066218
    Abstract: The present invention provides an automated insect control system. The system utilizes a container tank, a canned pump, distribution system, and a programmable digital timer to allow a user to control the times per day and the duration in which to apply insecticide to an area. A remote control is provided which permits a user to commence and terminate spraying of insecticide as the need arises without resorting to reprogramming of the spraying schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: TMC Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: John Fleming, Eileen Fleming
  • Patent number: 7059367
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a plant watering system that is particularly suited for a plant container with a reservoir of water below the plant. The watering system uses a pilot controlled sequence valve to maintain the water level of the reservoir. The sequence valve includes a diaphragm that is pneumatically coupled to a pilot port fixed to the reservoir and submersed in the water. When the water level in the reservoir reaches a lower limit, the reduced pressure on a diaphragm causes it to open a pathway for water to flow from a water supply to the reservoir. When the water level reaches an upper limit, the increased pressure on the diaphragm causes it to close that pathway and shut off the water flow. The water supply can be an elevated tank or the pressurized water system. A pressure regulator can be used to lower the water pressure at the intake of the sequence valve. A nozzle controls the flow rate of water into the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventors: Louis D. Atkinson, Shane T. Bloomer
  • Patent number: 7055559
    Abstract: A system for controlling a networked array of dispensing devices for dispensing particulate matter may include local controllers connected to a parent controller. The parent controller may control an array of local controllers configured according to a network architecture. Each local controller may control one or more local dry chemical dispensing machines. In this way, the parent controller may control multiple dry chemical dispensing units over a network from a central location. In addition, the parent controller may directly control conventional liquid dispensers over the network. The parent and local controllers may be implemented using, for example, programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Rosen's, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank G. Reinsch, John A. Latting
  • Patent number: 7055556
    Abstract: A two-stage pressure differential pressure responsive flow control valve is disposed to provide greater fuel vapor recirculation to a tank filler tube when high vacuum conditions are encountered during refueling from a fuel dispensing nozzle inserted in the filler tube. The pressure responsive valve has an obturator with a passage therethrough for providing a relatively low flow rate when the valve is in the closed condition resulting from a relatively low vacuum during refueling. When a higher vacuum is encountered, the obturator is moved to the open position permitting greater flow. Preferably, the pressure responsive valve is disposed in a common housing with a float operated rollover valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Craig H. Allman
  • Patent number: 7040343
    Abstract: A valve assembly with low gas level signaling and controlling function includes a primary valve threadedly engaged with an outlet of a tank, the primary valve being formed with a recess in which is fitted a plunger having an upper end extending upwardly through the primary valve to engage with a knob, a low level linking device comprising a tubular tube connected with a bottom of the primary valve, a flexible rod having an end extending upwardly through the tubular tube to connect with the primary valve and another end connected with an end of a float rod, and a float connected with another end of the float rod, and a release rod connected a pusher which is operatively connected with the primary valve so that when the release rod is turned, the pusher will move down the flexible rod to open the primary valve, whereby the valve assembly can detect the amount of gas remaining in a gas tank and will close when the level has decreased to a certain level thereby alerting the users and enabling them to replenish th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Grand Gas Equipment Incorporated
    Inventor: Kuo-Cheng Tseng
  • Patent number: 7017624
    Abstract: A device for dispensing particulate matter may include a gravimetric sensor to measure the weight of particulate matter mixed with a fluid carrier. In an illustrative embodiment, a dry chemical inductor includes a bin for containing particulate matter, a conduit for transporting a stream of liquid carrier, and a valve for controllably releasing a particulate matter from the bin into the conduit. The device may further include a gravimetric sensor, such as an electronic scale or a load cell, for measuring the weight of particulate matter released from the bin. A controller may receive signals from the gravimetric sensor and actuate the valve to interrupt the flow of particulate matter when the desired amount of particulate matter has been released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Rosen's, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank G. Reinsch, John A. Latting
  • Patent number: 7004206
    Abstract: A fluid exchanger for servicing the fluid circuits of vehicular power steering systems and other fluid circulating or hydraulic circuits. The fluid exchanger uses a float operated fluid control valve to harness fluid pressure provided by a pump of an accessed hydraulic circuit. The fluid control valve uses both negative and positive pressure of the circuit's pump to control fluid flow patterns. The float and fluid control valve are matched to be either mechanical/hydraulic or electrical/hydraulic in design. If the exchanger is provided with a mechanically operated fluid control valve, a mechanical float is provided in the exchanger's fresh fluid reservoir and is directly connected to the valve slide of the fluid control valve. If the exchanger is provided with an electric solenoid operated fluid control valve, a float operated electrical switch is provided in the exchanger's fresh fluid reservoir and is wired to control the solenoid of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventors: James P. Viken, Jon A. Lang
  • Patent number: 7000654
    Abstract: A spontaneous full fuel tank indicator is disclosed that allows an operator stationed at the fuel fill aperture of a motor vehicle to know when the fuel tank is completely filled. The indicator may be a visual display or an audible alert. The indicator may also be the CPU operation of a vehicle member such as the honking of the horn, flashing of the lights, or operation of the vehicle sound system. Alternatively, the indicator may be a visual, audible or vibratory alert at a key fob. The full fuel tank indicator operates in real-time without requiring a key in the ignition switch. A converter kit is also disclosed by which an existing vehicle may be equipped with a spontaneous full fuel tank indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Marc A. Rossi
  • Patent number: 7000656
    Abstract: There are practical difficulties in dosing a component of a composition into its container, such as a personal care product into a hand-holdable dispenser on a filling line, due in part to the short time that is available for the operation. The difficulties can be ameliorated or overcome by employing dosing apparatus in which a metering pump feeds a flowable material such a liquid through a dosing nozzle positioned above a container intended to receive a charge, the nozzle having a plurality of individual spouts spaced apart from each other so as to prevent their individual streams coalescing and the spouts extending sufficiently below its support to prevent droplets from adjacent spouts coalescing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Unilever Home and Personal Care USA Division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Todd
  • Patent number: 6981531
    Abstract: A new and improved waste oil management system is described herein. A remote storage tank, with a control panel and a pumping mechanism is connected to a fryer via metal tubing. The used oil is pumped from the fryer directly to the storage tank. In another embodiment of the system, a storage caddy, equipped with a filtration system, is used to transport the used oil from the fryer to the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Frontline International, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Palazzo
  • Patent number: 6971418
    Abstract: A container for storing food in an air-tight atmosphere includes a housing having a generally rectangular shape and an opening formed therein for providing access to the interior of the housing, secured by a pivoting door. An electrically powered vacuum system is connected to the housing for selectively removing air therefrom. The vacuum system includes an air pump and a control button connected thereto for toggling the system between operable and non-operable modes. A plurality of valves are connected to the air pump for directing air inwardly and outwardly from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: John D. De Costa
  • Patent number: 6968871
    Abstract: A hazardous fluid materials transfer system is automated to control the transfer of the hazardous fluid while maintaining the fluid within a closed environment for providing maximum personal protection to the operators handling the hazardous materials during the transfer, such as those operations in the mosquito control industry. The system includes the transfer of the fluid to storage tanks intermediate the source and target tanks between the transfer is desired. A pre-programmed processor receiving pressure, weights, and connection signals from transducers, such as pressure sensors and load cells, located throughout the system controls the operation of pumps and valves to allow the fluid being transferred to remain within a closed environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Adapco, Inc.
    Inventors: Avron I. Bryan, Robert D. Husband, Larry D. Heller
  • Patent number: 6966346
    Abstract: This gas supply apparatus supplies a gas by vaporizing a liquefied gas filled in a gas container. This apparatus includes an installation stand having an upper surface on which the gas container is placed; at least one nozzle which discharges a heating medium towards a bottom surface of the gas container and is provided in a hole formed in the installation stand; and a heating medium discharge path which discharges the heating medium from a space between the bottom surface of the gas container and the upper surface of the installation stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Nippon Sanso Corporation
    Inventors: Junichi Tanaka, Takashi Orita, Makoto Echigojima
  • Patent number: 6953050
    Abstract: A float, particularly for level control in bottles of liquefied gas and the like, comprising a float body associated with an element for connection to a valve unit, the float body being constituted by an internally hollow element made of plastics whose shape is defined by a plurality of mutually intersecting spherical bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Cavagna Group Switzerland SA
    Inventor: Davide Cavagna
  • Patent number: 6945287
    Abstract: A backflow blocker prevents backflow of gas to a lower pressure first stage of a system for processing particles from a downstream higher pressure second stage of the system. The blocker comprises an upright duct connecting the first stage to the second stage. The duct is at least partly filled with a column of particles passing from the first stage to the second stage. By properly selecting the duct dimensions and by controlling the flow rate of particles into and from the duct, the velocity of downwardly moving particles in the duct can be made to exceed the velocity at which the gasses flow through the particles in the duct. This prevents gasses from flowing from the lower pressure downstream stage to the higher pressure upstream stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Crown Iron Works Company
    Inventor: George E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6938633
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for supplying process liquid s for a machine tool, which are able to reduce the consumption power and power factor of the pump 21 to a large extent in comparison with prior arts while maintaining the effects of process liquid s according to prior arts. The invention is embodied so that process liquid s such as coolant or cleaning fluid is supplied to necessary points by causing the process liquid s to flow down, which is stored in a sub tank 20 installed at a suitable height in a machine tool, by a gravity action when intermittently supplying the process liquid s such as coolant or cleaning fluid to the necessary points such as a workrest 2 and a workpiece w fixed thereon; the supplied process liquid s is collected into a main tank 19 on the other hand; and the process liquid s stored in the main tank 19 is transferred into the sub tank 20 by the pump 21.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Horkos Corp.
    Inventors: Shinsuke Sugata, Tadashi Makiyama, Takanori Miyata
  • Patent number: 6932123
    Abstract: This drop tube loading arm assembly is adaptable for loading asphalt into tank trailers at marketing terminals. The telescoping drop tube employs guides made of polymers such as fluorocarbon polymers and aluminum. The guides are located in the annular space between the tubes in combination with increased radial clearance between the tubes or sleeves and in combination with protection for the overfill probe. With the addition of vapor control systems and overfill protection probes, the telescoping drop loading spouts are less susceptible to cold weather sticking problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Marathon Ashland Petroluem LLC
    Inventors: Jon Craig, Mike Malec, Mike Harmon, Jeff Pulter
  • Patent number: 6929037
    Abstract: A vapor pressure equalizer system for reducing the pressure of a storage tank that contains volatile liquid or fuel. A conduit is connected to the storage tank that draws vapors present in the ullage of the storage tank into the conduit. The vapors are circulated through the conduit to cool the vapor and return the vapor to the storage tank. In this manner, the pressure of the storage tank is reduced since the vapors being returned are cooler and smaller in volume than when the vapors entered the conduit. The conduit may be an open system that circulates vapors, or may be a closed system that circulates a cooling media through a radiator in the ullage of the storage tank. An electronic controller controls the operation of the system according to measurements that indicate an overpressure condition or a likelihood of future over-pressurization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6929038
    Abstract: A vapor pressure equalizer system for reducing the pressure of a storage tank that contains volatile liquid or fuel. A conduit is connected to the storage tank that draws vapors present in the ullage of the storage tank into the conduit. The vapors are circulated through the conduit to cool the vapor and return the vapor to the storage tank. In this manner, the pressure of the storage tank is reduced since the vapors being returned are cooler and smaller in volume than when the vapors entered the conduit. The conduit may be an open system that circulates vapors, or may be a closed system that circulates a cooling media through a radiator in the ullage of the storage tank. An electronic controller controls the operation of the system according to measurements that indicate an overpressure condition or a likelihood of future over-pressurization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6913047
    Abstract: Drop tube assemblies are provided and adapted for use with a liquid reservoir. One exemplary drop tube assembly includes a first conduit, a second conduit and a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve member, a float, and a linkage device pivotally connected with respect to the valve member. The linkage device is adapted for communication with the float such that the float may facilitate in adjusting the position of the valve member with respect to a first end portion of the second conduit in response to a liquid level in a liquid reservoir. The drop tube assembly further includes an adjustable stop member engaging the second conduit and adapted to engage the linkage device to limit a movement of the linkage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher A. Kane, James E. Kesterman
  • Patent number: 6910499
    Abstract: A valve assembly for a pressurized fluid vessel such as a propane tank has a housing defining a main fluid passageway therebetween with a valve seat (734) defined in the main passageway, a main valve member (742) movable against the valve seat (734) to block the passageway, an insert (738) defining an internal chamber within the interior of the housing within which the main valve member (742) is disposed, a secondary fluid flow passageway through the insert (738), through a conduit (748) connected to the main valve body, and through openings (751) in an end of the conduit (748) facing second ports opening into the vessel, and a secondary valve member (760) movable to block the openings (751) under the action of a float (721) on a predetermined fluid level being reached, thereby exposing the main valve member (742) to a pressure differential to close the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Foster Wheeler Corporation
    Inventor: Yet Chan
  • Patent number: 6910509
    Abstract: A windshield washer fluid dispenser apparatus is described for selectively filling a vehicle windshield washer fluid reservoir. In another aspect, a process for refilling a windshield washer fluid dispenser apparatus is also described. As a third aspect, a process for discharging a quantity of windshield washer fluid directly into a vehicle windshield washer fluid reservoir is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventors: Loyde A. Wheeler, David A. Wheeler, Cynthia M. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6908380
    Abstract: A hinged unloading auger for an agricultural combine that reduces the portion of the unloading auger that extends beyond the rear end of the combine when the unloading auger is in its storage position. The horizontal section of the unloading auger includes a hinged joint that connects a first segment and a second segment. In the storage position, the joint is separated to provide a compact storage package. In the unloading position, the second segment is rotated around the hinge so that the axes of the first and second segments are coaxial.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Dennis P. Silver
  • Patent number: 6889732
    Abstract: A vapor recovery spout for a portable fuel container. The spout includes an inner sleeve attached to the container to provide a fuel flow passage through the spout. The passage has an outlet port for fuel to flow through into a tank. A sliding sleeve is mounted on the inner sleeve for sliding axial movement from an outwardly extended position to a retracted position. A radially extending annular seal is mounted on the sliding sleeve for sealing the fuel tank opening when the spout is inserted. Vapor recovery passages are provided between the inner sleeve and the sliding sleeve for displaced vapor to flow from the tank to the container. The sliding sleeve closes the fuel passage and the vapor recovery passageways when in its extended position and opens the fuel passage and the vapor recovery passageways when in its retracted position. A spring urges the sliding sleeve to its extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Clifford Harry Allen
  • Patent number: 6886705
    Abstract: The fuel tank includes a tank main body, a filler pipe, a first breather pipe, and a second breather pipe. The tank main body stores fuel therein. The filler pipe supplies fuel to the tank main body. The first breather pipe connects the upper space of the tank main body to the neighboring portion of a fuel supply opening. The second breather pipe connects the middle portion of the filler pipe to the neighboring portion of the fuel supply opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Satoshi Souma, Osamu Kondo, Hisayuki Goma, Shoji Uhara, Naoki Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 6877530
    Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment, an automated means for withdrawing a syringe plunger a method for just-in-time extension of the plunger to permit filling the syringe with a prescribed dose of medication are provided. The method includes the steps of: (1) inputting a desired volume of the prescribed dose of medication; (2) inputting syringe identifying information; (3) calculating a distance that the plunger is to be extended based on the inputted desired volume and syringe identifying information; (4) calculating drive parameters for a controllable drive that causes extension of the plunger when actuated and ensures that the plunger is extended the desired distance; and (5) controlling the drive in view of the calculated drive parameters to cause the plunger to be extended the desired distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: ForHealth Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel A. Osborne, William C. Aven, Dennis Tribble
  • Patent number: 6874528
    Abstract: A fill valve assembly comprises a valve body extending along a longitudinal axis and defining a fluid inlet, a valve seat and at least one fluid outlet, an axially slidable valve element arranged for axially slidable movement along the longitudinal axis, into and out of sealing engagement with the valve seat, the axially slidable valve element defining a first upstream conical surface having a first surface area and a second downstream conical surface having a second surface area, greater than the first surface area, and a fill sensor operative below a predetermined fill threshold to prevent the axially slidable valve element from establishing sealing engagement with the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: K.C. Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Meir Kozik, Mordechai Avnon
  • Patent number: 6874529
    Abstract: The invention concerns a level limit valve for the fuel tank of a vehicle. Such valves serve the purpose, that upon the filling of the fuel tank, the filled quantity of the fuel is limited. The proposed level limit valve possesses a valve body 1 which can be positioned within the fuel tank at the end of a filling pipe. The valve body is equipped with an intake port 22 which is connectable with the said filling pipe and an outlet port 21 emptying into the interior of the fuel tank. Further, in the valve body 1 is found a flap 4, which is pivotally movable between a position tightly sealing the outlet port 21 and a position wherein this is opened. The float 3 is movably connected to said flap 4 by means of a lever rod 5. The lever rod 5 penetrates the outlet port 21 at least in the opened position of the flap 4 and is connected by means of linkage with that outer side 28 of the flap 4 which is proximal to the outlet port 21.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Alfmeier Prazision AG, Baugruppen und Systemlosungen
    Inventors: Markus Gebhardt, Helmut Kalb, Günter Strauss, Stefan Kirchdorfer, Thomas Theuer
  • Patent number: 6871678
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for filling a wine barrel is disclosed. The apparatus has a nozzle (4) connected to a hollow handle (15) where the upstream portion of the handle is connected to a hose from a wine supply. Supply of wine in the apparatus is controlled by a control button (17) on the handle (15) which opens an upstream solenoid valve. The apparatus (1) has a locating lug (6) and arm (7) on the nozzle portion to allow generally vertical location of the nozzle in a barrel bung hole. The apparatus has a non-return valve (14) to prevent wine flowing from the hose to the apparatus when the upstream solenoid valve is closed. The apparatus has a conductivity sensor (9) to cause closure of the upstream solenoid valve when the wine in the barrel reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Jim Guszlovan
  • Patent number: 6863095
    Abstract: An evaporative fuel control system is provided which includes a canister, and a fill-up control valve disposed in a vent line that communicates a fuel tank with the canister for controlling fill-up of the fuel tank. The fill-up control valve includes a casing, a float disposed in a space formed in the casing such that the float is movable up or down in the space, and a valve body provided in an upper portion of the float. In the evaporative fuel control system, the fill-up control valve is located outside and above the fuel tank, and a head difference is provided between a full level of the fuel tank and the fill-up control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Kyosan Denki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Osaki, Takehiro Nagase
  • Patent number: 6857454
    Abstract: A fuel tank and a canister are connected to each other by a first evaporated-fuel passage and a second evaporated-fuel passage, and a valve chamber of a float valve separate from the fuel tank is disposed at an intermediate portion of the first evaporated-fuel passage. Thus, there is no limitation in the positional relationship between a filled-up liquid surface in the fuel tank and a valve seat of the float valve. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the vertical dimension of the float valve. Moreover, since the valve chamber is provided separately from the fuel tank, it is unnecessary to define an opening for mounting the valve chamber to the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Taiki Yanase, Tsuyoshi Chou, Hisayuki Goma
  • Patent number: 6854492
    Abstract: An electrically operated valve is connected in the vapor recirculation line from a float operated vent valve, or a direct vapor recirculation line from the tank top to the upper end of the tank filler tube. The electrically operated valve is actuated by an electronic controller (ECU) which receives a fuel level signal either from the float operated level sender or from a thermistor located in the tank adjacent the top wall of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 6848483
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a plant watering system that is particularly suited for a plant container with a reservoir of water below the plant. The watering system uses a pilot controlled sequence valve to maintain the water level of the reservoir. The sequence valve includes a diaphragm that is pneumatically coupled to a pilot port fixed to the reservoir and submersed in the water. When the water level in the reservoir reaches a lower limit, the reduced pressure on a diaphragm causes it to open a pathway for water to flow from a water supply to the reservoir. When the water level reaches an upper limit, the increased pressure on the diaphragm causes it to close that pathway and shut off the water flow. The water supply can be an elevated tank or the pressurized water system. A pressure regulator can be used to lower the water pressure at the intake of the sequence valve. A nozzle controls the flow rate of water into the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventors: Louis D. Atkinson, Shane T. Bloomer
  • Patent number: 6837262
    Abstract: A refueling system for vehicles including a dual valve receiver connected in fluid communication with the fuel tank, and a jet sensor inside of the fuel tank and in fluid communication with the receiver. The refueling system further includes a relief valve vent in fluid communication with the fuel tank to vent the fuel tank and to relieve pressure that may otherwise build up inside the fuel tank during refueling. When refueling with an automatic shutoff nozzle, the sensor detects when a desired fuel level has been reached, and then informs the receiver to prevent fuel flow into the tank. When this occurs, the pressure inside the receiver and automatic shutoff nozzle increases, causing the nozzle to shut off automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Adel Wiggins Group
    Inventors: Jose Cortez, David Wicke
  • Patent number: 6837263
    Abstract: A liquid level control system including a tank; a source of liquid in communication with the tank; a pressure fluid actuated valve for controlling the flow of liquid to the tank from the source; a pressure sensor disposed in the tank to monitor the hydrostatic pressure determined by the quantity of liquid in the tank. A source of pressure fluid is provided which is normally vented to the atmosphere. A pressure fluid amplifier is coupled to the pressure fluid actuated valve and to the source of pressure fluid. When the pressure sensor sensed an increase of pressure caused by an increase in the liquid level in the tank, the pressure fluid amplifier is effective to actuate the valve to close and militate against flowing into the tank to maintain the liquid at a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: DistaView Corporation
    Inventor: Richard H. Kramer
  • Patent number: 6837256
    Abstract: A spring loaded valve member with a poppet on one end is disposed in a fuel tank with the inlet end connected to the filler tube. The valve member has a spool valve attached to the poppet. The poppet is opened by fuel discharging from a refueling nozzle and the valve member movement limited by a float operated latch such that fuel flows through the spool valve ports. Upon the float rising in the tank, the latch is released permitting the force of the flowing fuel to further move the valve member to close the spool valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 6823886
    Abstract: A sump for inhibiting leakage of liquid includes a double wall for at least part of the sump, and an interstitial space between the double wall. An indicator liquid is located in the space, and a sensor is in fluid communication with the space such that a change in the pressure or liquid level in the interstitial space causes the sensor to indicate leakage into or from the interstitial space. The double wall includes a base, a wall directed upwardly from the base of the sump, and the upwardly directed wall includes an angular portion being directed at an angle from the base greater than 90 degrees relative to the base. A remote location of that portion is connected with a substantially upright wall portion for the sump. An aperture for an electrical conduit is located in the angular portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: S. Bravo Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Sergio M. Bravo, Don K. Mukai
  • Patent number: 6823890
    Abstract: A water-intake control valve including an upper valve base, a lower valve base, a valve tappet and a ball connect rod. The upper valve base is combined with the lower valve base to form a valve chamber with a sealing neck. The valve tappet is movably disposed inside the valve chamber. The valve tappet connects with a slide block and a valve stopper for sealing the sealing neck. The slide block linearly moves along a guiding slot hole of the lower valve base. On one end of the ball connect rod is mounted with a float ball and on another end of the ball connect rod is formed with a degressive arc end. The degressive arc end passes through the guiding slot hole and the through hole of the slide block to pull or push the slide block for linearly moving the valve tappet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Biing-Yih Hwang
  • Patent number: 6820661
    Abstract: A solid chemical dissolver for making liquid solutions from solid chemicals packed in small containers is disclosed. The solutions are used for cleaning tanks, boilers, cooling towers and similar equipment internally. The dissolver has at least one bowl for receiving and holding one or more of the small containers of solid chemical. A spray nozzle aimed at the solid chemical directs fluid under pressure at the chemical to dissolve some of it and form a cleaning solution. A reservoir is provided to hold the solution prior to use, and a drain member leading away from the reservoir is provided for withdrawing the solution and using it to clean the tanks or other equipment. A fluid level detection switch assembly is disposed in the reservoir to control the amount of fluid from the nozzle and the level of the solution in the reservoir. Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: AP Tech Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert C. Heimert
  • Patent number: 6820662
    Abstract: A machine that makes bubbles that are dispensed vertically. A membrane-forming system forms a bubble solution membrane over a bubble ring. Air is passed through the bubble ring by a blowing fan, which is intermittently operated to allow contact between a membrane-forming ring and the bubble ring. Bubble solution is continuously supplied to the bubble rings from a central reservoir. Safety switches prevent operation of the bubble-making machine unless there is bubble solution in the reservoir, the main housing is properly connected to the fan, and the bubble machine is in an upright position (and not tipped over). The present invention provides continuous operation for the duration of the bubble solution supply, and is easily washed, used, maintained, and manufactured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Original Ideas
    Inventors: Alan Dale Crawford, Robert A. DeMars
  • Patent number: 6817386
    Abstract: A liquid passage 4 for filling which communicates with a liquid supply piping 6 for filling is formed within a valve housing 2 and carries a filling nozzle 31 at its lower end. The liquid passage 4 is opened or closed by a liquid valve. A packing 38 which seals the mouth of a vessel B, a cylinder 42 which elevates the packing 38, a flow meter 33 which detects a filled content of the liquid which is filled into the vessel B, and an exhaust passage 44 formed in the valve housing 2 are provided. The exhaust passage 44 has an opening disposed toward the vessel which is disposed outside an opening of the filling nozzle 31, and the opening of the filling nozzle 31 is maintained above the elevation of the liquid level which is filled into the vessel B during the filling operation. The filling valve assures a sanitary excellence and is usable with vessels B of differing sizes and shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Tsukano, Katsunori Tanikawa, Taro Kitayama
  • Patent number: 6814110
    Abstract: A novel technique and apparatus for dispensing viscous fluids such as epoxies, urethanes, plastic adhesives, silicones and the like and particularly two-component fluid materials, that enables the injection of such fluid materials into grooves and closed cavities and the like to a defined pressure that insures complete filling, and that, additionally, provides the capability to create constant flow rate through fluid delivery through flexible hoses, particularly where the dispensing head is some distance from the fluid pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Stainless Steel Coatings, Inc.
    Inventor: Ivan Gardos
  • Patent number: 6810905
    Abstract: An overflow protection device includes a valve body having an inlet conduit passing vertically therethrough. The inlet conduit includes an outlet end below a valve chamber. A valve within the valve chamber is movable between and open and closed position. A float is pivotally mounted below the valve and the float cams, an actuator upwardly when the float experiences a less than full tank and cams the actuation downwardly to permit the valve to move downwardly when the float rises to a predetermined level as it floats on the liquid within the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Raall Corp.
    Inventors: Virgil Allen Watson, Raymond Simon Hodyniak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6802347
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided to fill liquids in a water jacket of an enclosed chamber. A valve, such as a solenoid can be actuated remotely to open and allow liquids to fill the water jacket. A sensor, such as a fill level sensor can sense and can communicate the amount of liquid in the water jacket to a controller. The controller or an actuator can be used to actuate the solenoid. The controller can actuate the solenoid at a period of time, at an event or at any other desired time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Kendro Laboratory Products, L.P.
    Inventor: Jeff Buckner