Manually Initiated Valve With Both Manual And Level Cut-off Controls Patents (Class 141/206)
  • Patent number: 11919766
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid assembly having an electric motor, a hydraulic pump, hydraulic fluid reservoir, and a hydraulic fluid spill over receptacle engaged to and underneath the hydraulic fluid assembly for capturing spill over hydraulic fluid and directing such spill over to a periphery of the hydraulic fluid spill over receptacle, where the periphery is accessible and away from the hydraulic fluid assembly such that the spill over may be manually wiped up with a cloth rag instead of causing a slippery pontoon boat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: Northern Wholesale Supply, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Gargaro, IV, Thomas M. Kilgriff
  • Patent number: 11905162
    Abstract: A mobile fluid transfer system. The system includes a fluid evacuation system, a fluid refill system, a sensing system and a control system. The fluid evacuation system comprises a first fluid storage container. The fluid refill system comprises a second fluid storage container. The sensing system is coupled to the fluid evacuation system and the fluid refill system. The control system is coupled to the sensing system, the fluid evacuation system and the fluid refill system. The control system is configured to determine an amount of a first fluid in the first fluid storage container based on a first signal from the sensing system, and determine an amount of a second fluid in the second fluid storage container based on a second signal from the sensing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: RPM INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventors: John K. Apostolides, William E. Ryckman
  • Patent number: 11554949
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing nozzle including a nozzle body having a fluid path therein and a valve positioned in the fluid path and configured to selectively prevent or allow a flow of fluid through the fluid path. The nozzle further includes a manually operable actuator operatively connectable to the valve, a spout shell coupled to the nozzle body, and a fluid tube at least partially positioned in the spout shell and in fluid communication with or at least partially defining the fluid path. The nozzle further has a spacer at least partially positioned in the spout shell, a spout tip at least partially positioned in the spout shell, and a seal positioned between the spout tip and the spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: OPW Fueling Components Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Gray, Timothy M. Garrison, Brenton T. Hershner
  • Patent number: 11506322
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement (100) having a liquid tank (10), at least one line (11, 11a, 11b) connected to the liquid tank (10), through which liquid (F) can be transported from the liquid tank (10), and a pump (13) connected to the at least one line (11, 11a, 11b) for conveying the liquid (F) from the liquid tank (10) through the at least one line (11, 11a, 11b) in the direction of flow (R) during an operating phase, wherein a pressure accumulator (14) connected to the at least one line (11, 11a, 11b) is provided, by means of which a pressure can be generated in the at least one line (11, 11a, 11b) outside of the operating phase, and a ventilating element (15, 15a, 15b), which can be transitioned into an open position and into a closed position, is arranged along the at least one line (11, 11a, 11b), wherein, outside of the operating phase, a pressure impulse within the at least one line (11, 11a, 11b) can be generated by the pressure generated by the pressure accumulator (14) and a subsequent tr
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Timm Heidemeyer, Hartmut Wolf
  • Patent number: 11485626
    Abstract: A nozzle for delivering fuel from a fueling station that can be remotely triggered to shut-off prior to the receiving fuel tank being filled. The nozzle includes a valve that can be opened by a lever and latched into the open position for continuous filling. The nozzle handle has an actuator positioned to cause the latch to release the lever and a controller that can energize the actuator in response to receipt of a wireless signal indicating that the delivery of fuel should be terminated. A wireless communication interface of the nozzle is in wireless communication with a fuel management system that can monitor a fuel flow meter to signal the nozzle to shut-off when the amount of fuel that has been delivered reaches a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: New York Air Brake LLC
    Inventors: George S. Benson, Jr., Michael J. Barton, Andrew C. Minor
  • Patent number: 11235966
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing nozzle including a nozzle body having a fluid path and a suction path therein. The nozzle includes a suction generator configured to generate a suction force in at least part of the suction path when fluid to be dispensed flows through the fluid path. The nozzle further includes a shut-off device including a suction chamber fluidly coupled to the suction path and configured such that when the suction path is blocked during fluid dispensing the shut-off device moves to a closed configuration to prevent the nozzle from dispensing fluid through the fluid path. The suction path includes a terminal portion in fluid communication with the suction chamber, and the terminal portion has a cross sectional area of at least about 0.015 square inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: OPW FUELING COMPONENTS, LLC
    Inventors: John M. Gray, Timothy M. Garrison, Brenton T. Hershner
  • Patent number: 10370160
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a safety nozzle and safety valve for portable gasoline containers are provided. A safety nozzle for a container can be provided, including a proximal end configured for placement in a safety valve, a distal end having a spout, a housing having an elongated portion extending from the proximal end to the distal end, a sliding bezel extending from an exterior of the housing to a sliding piston in an interior of the housing, a piston head having a first end at the proximal end and a second end for abutment with the sliding piston in the interior of the housing, and a retaining spring configured to maintain a holding pressure on the sliding piston to maintain the piston head in a closed position preventing liquid flow from the proximal end into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Inventor: Stefan Broinowski
  • Patent number: 9890032
    Abstract: The present invention provides a lockable fuel pump dispenser comprising a fuel outflow nozzle, locking means a transferring unit and a converter unit. The converter unit transferring a mechanical motion rendering a locking unit that is having locking means on the fuel outflow nozzle to fixate the fuel outflow nozzle securely inside a fuel tank of a vehicle. The converter unit comprises a battery, a solenoid or an electrical motor, a computer and a transmitter/receiver unit. The converter unit being able to wirelessly communicate with a unit operated from inside the station. The battery is being charged when the fuel pump handle is placed in the pump station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignees: NGC INNOVATION AB
    Inventor: Nils Gunnar Carlsson
  • Patent number: 9790081
    Abstract: Modularized components assembled dispensing nozzle, including operating components in the category of a poppet valve assembly, an automatic shutoff device, a hand operating lever for providing a turn on or shutoff of the dispensing of fluid through the nozzle, and a connected spout that delivers fluid to the fill pipe and fuel tank for a vehicle or fluid accepting container. Each of the identified components having been redesigned for assembly in modularized form, such as a modular cartridge for the poppet valve, a modular cartridge for the automatic shutoff device, a modularized operating hand lever, and a spout and its gland and retaining nut that provide for high speed interconnection with the nozzle body, during assembly, or servicing. Each of these modularized components can be installed, during assembly of the manufactured nozzle, or can be replaced, out in the field, by a service person, as a modularized component or cartridge assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Benscoter, John Sever, Darrell Vilmer, Roger Wiersma, Brian Wolff
  • Patent number: 9759631
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and determining fuel vapor recovery performance is disclosed. The dispensing of liquid fuel into a tank by a conventional gas pump nozzle naturally displaces a mixture of air and fuel ullage vapor in the tank. These displaced vapors may be recovered at the dispensing point nozzle by a vapor recovery system. A properly functioning vapor recovery system recovers approximately one unit volume of vapor for every unit volume of dispensed liquid fuel. The ratio of recovered vapor to dispensed fuel is termed the A/L ratio, which should ideally be approximately equal to one (1). The A/L ratio, and thus the proper functioning of the vapor recovery system, may be determined by measuring liquid fuel flow and return vapor flow (using a vapor flow sensor) on a nozzle-by-nozzle basis. The disclosed methods and apparatus provide for the determination of A/L ratios for individual nozzles using a reduced number of vapor flow sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventor: Robert P. Hart
  • Patent number: 9656851
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for the dispensing of liquids (e.g., fuel) where the apparatus and method include an improved nozzle that reduces residual liquid retained in the nozzle when dispensing is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Dram Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Devindra Ramphal, Chaitram Ramphal, Simon Oomen-Hurst
  • Patent number: 9227204
    Abstract: A jetting device comprises a body, and an interior flow path within the body. The interior flow path comprises a flow section, an expansion section, and a shoulder formed at the intersection of the flow section and the expansion section. The length and diameter of the expansion section are configured to allow a portion of the pressure of the fluid downstream of the expansion section to provide power to a fluid flowing through the nozzle when the fluid is flowing through the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jim B. Surjaatmadja
  • Publication number: 20150007907
    Abstract: Modularized components assembled dispensing nozzle, including operating components in the category of a poppet valve assembly, an automatic shutoff device, a hand operating lever for providing a turn on or shutoff of the dispensing of fluid through the nozzle, and a connected spout that delivers fluid to the fill pipe and fuel tank for a vehicle or fluid accepting container. Each of the identified components having been redesigned for assembly in modularized form, such as a modular cartridge for the poppet valve, a modular cartridge for the automatic shutoff device, a modularized operating hand lever, and a spout and its gland and retaining nut that provide for high speed interconnection with the nozzle body, during assembly, or servicing. Each of these modularized components can be installed, during assembly of the manufactured nozzle, or can be replaced, out in the field, by a service person, as a modularized component or cartridge assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Richard Benscoter, John Sever, Darrell Vilmer, Roger Wiersma, Brian Wolff
  • Patent number: 8899282
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a filler device (1) for filling a tank equally well by gravity or under pressure, the device being provided with a gravity filler spout (10) comprising a hollow tube (11). Furthermore, the device includes a pressure filler spout (20) inserted in the gravity filler spout (10) and reversibly fastened thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignees: Airbus Helicopters, Quinson
    Inventors: Elodie Carmona, Jean-Louis Gruyat, Frédéric Courtes
  • Patent number: 8752597
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing nozzle includes a removable valve subassembly that controls the flow of fluid and the recovery of fluid vapor through the body of the nozzle. The subassembly may be pre-assembled and installed within a nozzle body as a single unit. The nozzle may include a vacuum-driven automatic shut-off system which prevents fluid from flowing through the nozzle when the downstream end of the nozzle spout is submerged. The shutoff system may also be magnetically actuated to allow for dry testing in which the automatic shut-off functionality is testing without dispensation of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Franklin Fueling Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Vadim Tumarkin
  • Patent number: 8695648
    Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is a fuel pump nozzle, with an inlet (2), a discharge pipe (3), a main valve for controlling the stream of liquid between the inlet (2) and discharge pipe (3), a switching lever (4) for actuating the main valve, a first automatic safety shut-off which moves the main valve into the closed position if the liquid level in a tank to be filled reaches a filling level sensor arranged in the region of the discharge pipe (3), a second automatic safety shut-off which moves the main valve into the closed position if the liquid pressure at the inlet (2) drops below a minimum value, and a mechanism (13) for prestressing the main valve into the closed position, said mechanism bringing about a variable opening cross section of the main valve depending on the liquid pressure at the inlet (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Elaflex Hiby Tanktechnik GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Heinz-Ulrich Meyer
  • Patent number: 8662118
    Abstract: A coupling has a housing which defines a vacuum chamber and, at least in part, a nozzle chamber. The nozzle chamber forms a valve chamber, an intake chamber, and an outlet chamber. A main valve is in the valve chamber. The main valve is movable between an open and closed position. A poppet valve is in the outlet chamber. An air outlet opens from the vacuum chamber into the nozzle chamber. An opening of an air uptake conduit opens into the vacuum chamber. The air outlet opening is distinct from the opening of the uptake conduit. When the main valve is in the open position the valve chamber is open to the outlet chamber and the outlet chamber is open to the intake chamber. In the closed position, the valve chamber is sealed off from the outlet chamber and the intake chamber is sealed off from the outlet chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: EMCO Wheaton Corp.
    Inventors: Gary Wilson Hunt, Mark Andrew Pettenuzzo
  • Publication number: 20140034191
    Abstract: A vapor-recovery-activated auto-shutoff nozzle comprises a manually operable trigger that permits selective operation of a normally closed valve between a valve-closed configuration and a valve-open configuration. Linkage arms connect the trigger and the valve, and are re-configurable between an enabled configuration and a disabled configuration. In the enabled configuration, the trigger and the valve are operatively connected such that the rest position of the trigger corresponds to the valve being closed, and the in-use position of the manually operable trigger corresponds to the valve being open. In the disabled configuration, the manually operable trigger is precluded from controlling the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Fuel Transfer Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Mark BONNER
  • Patent number: 8631837
    Abstract: A nozzle for dispensing fluid including a nozzle body having a fluid path which is configured to receive fluid therein and a vapor path which is configured to receive vapor therein. The nozzle further includes a main fluid valve positioned in the fluid path to control a flow of fluid therethrough, the main fluid valve including a main fluid valve spring configured to bias the main fluid valve to one of its open or closed positions. The nozzle further has a main vapor valve positioned in the vapor path to control a flow of vapor therethrough. The main vapor valve includes a main vapor valve spring configured to bias the main vapor valve to one of its open or closed positions. At least part of the main fluid valve spring or the main vapor valve spring is positioned within the other one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: OPW Fueling Components Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Lauber, James E. Kesterman, Timothy M. Garrison, Harold M. Schubert
  • Patent number: 8622101
    Abstract: A filler tube assembly is used with a fuel pump nozzle having a pressure sensing port. The filler tube assembly includes a receiver having an inner wall defining an aperture, which receives the pump nozzle. The inner wall defines an orifice and a seal is coupled to the inner wall about the orifice for defining a chamber between the inner wall, the seal, and the fuel pump nozzle when the fuel pump nozzle is disposed in the aperture. A vacuum tube has a coupled end in fluid communication with the orifice and an open end in fluid communication with the fuel tank. The receiver defines a rim for seating the fuel pump nozzle in the aperture to align the pressure sensing port with the orifice. When fuel covers the open end of the vacuum tube, a pressure change is transmitted through the filler tube assembly to the pressure sensing port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventors: Gregory F. Smith, David G. Smith
  • Patent number: 8616252
    Abstract: A nozzle including a dispensing path configured such that fluid is dispensable therethrough and into a vessel, and a sensing path in which a negative pressure is generated when fluid flows through the dispensing path. The nozzle further includes an attitude sensing device configured to sense an attitude of the nozzle. The attitude sensing device is in fluid communication with the sensing path and includes a ball received in a track. The track includes a generally spherical portion configured to receive the ball therein to generally block the sensing path when the nozzle is raised to a sufficient angle. The spherical portion has a radius generally corresponding to a radius of the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: OPW Fueling Components Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan William Clever, Robert William Munch
  • Patent number: 8550129
    Abstract: A vapor-recovery-activated auto-shutoff nozzle comprises a manually operable trigger that permits selective operation of a normally closed valve between a valve-closed configuration and a valve-open configuration. Linkage arms connect the trigger and the valve, and are re-configurable between an enabled configuration and a disabled configuration. In the enabled configuration, the trigger and the valve are operatively connected such that the rest position of the trigger corresponds to the valve being closed, and the in-use position of the manually operable trigger corresponds to the valve being open. In the disabled configuration, the manually operable trigger is precluded from controlling the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Fuel Transfer Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Bonner
  • Patent number: 8539991
    Abstract: A vacuum-assist fuel dispensing nozzle has a body defining a fuel supply passage and a vapor return passage each having a control valve operated simultaneously by a hand actuated lever pivotally connected to an axially movable tubular member retained by a diaphragm actuated clutch. A fuel dispensing spout extends from the body and a fuel responsive poppet valve, and the spout encloses an air bleed passage which actuates the clutch. The housing supports a vapor flow responsive valve within the vapor passage and includes a ferrous valve member or disc movable within retainers between a closed position contacting an annular seat to block the flow of vapor and an open position permitting a free flow of vapor through the vapor passage. A circular magnet is supported by the retainers and magnetically attracts the valve disc to the closed position in response to no flow of vapor through the vapor passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Veeder-Root LLC
    Inventors: Cameron D. Carmack, David L. Imler
  • Patent number: 8528609
    Abstract: A nozzle system including a nozzle body configured to dispense fuel through a fuel path thereof into a vehicle tank. The nozzle body includes a vapor path configured such that vapor recovered from the vehicle tank during refueling is passable therethrough. The nozzle system further includes a main vapor valve positioned in the vapor path and configured to selectively block the vapor path. The main vapor valve is movable to a position wherein the main vapor valve does not block the vapor path. The nozzle system further includes a relief valve in fluid communication with the vapor path. The relief valve is configured to open to allow ambient air to enter into the vapor path when sufficiently low pressure is present in the vapor path, and the relief valve is generally aligned with the main vapor valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Garrison, Matthew R. Lauber, Harold M. Schubert
  • Patent number: 8499802
    Abstract: A fuel pump nozzle for delivering fuel, with a manually operated switch lever which is movable between a closed position, in which there is no delivery of fuel, and an open position, in which fuel is delivered, wherein the switch lever is biased by a restoring spring in the direction of the closed position and automatically returns to the closed position when the manual force applied declines, wherein the pump nozzle is provided with a hold-open aid which reduces the force required to hold the switch lever in a particular open position compared to the forces required to hold the switch lever open in other open positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Elaflex-Gummi Ehlers GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Falckenberg, Ulrich Meyer
  • Patent number: 8474492
    Abstract: An automatic shut-off nozzle comprises a liquid delivery conduit and a liquid recovery conduit. A valve has a first movable valve portion movable between a valve closed position whereat liquid is precluded from being dispensed from the liquid-dispensing outlet of the liquid delivery conduit and a valve open position whereat liquid is permitted to be dispensed from the liquid-dispensing outlet of the liquid delivery conduit. A manually operable valve control mechanism is reconfigurable between an operating configuration whereat force can be transmitted from the valve control mechanism to the valve to thereby move the first movable valve portion to the valve open position, and a non-operating configuration whereat force cannot be transmitted from the valve control mechanism to the valve. A liquid sensor has a rest state and an actuated state whereat the liquid sensor reconfigures the manually operable valve control mechanism from the operating configuration to the non-operating configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Fuel Transfer Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Bonner, Gary Underhill
  • Patent number: 8434531
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle includes a main body that receives fuel from a fuel source for dispensing the fuel into a fuel tank, an operating lever associated with the main body, a locking device, and a locking device release mechanism. The operating lever is adapted to be actuated by an operator to dispense fuel from the nozzle. The locking device is associated with the operating lever for maintaining the operating lever in a hold open position such that the nozzle continues to dispense fuel without continued actuation of the operating lever by the operator. The locking device release mechanism is associated with the locking device and is adapted to release the operating lever from the hold open position upon the nozzle being stowed in an associated fuel pump cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Vapor Systems Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Rodger P. Grantham
  • Patent number: 8397770
    Abstract: A non-overflow liquid delivery system comprises a pumping apparatus having a liquid delivery pumping portion and a liquid recovery pumping portion fluidically isolated one from the other. A nozzle has a liquid delivery conduit and a liquid recovery conduit. A liquid delivery hose connects the liquid delivery pumping portion of the pumping apparatus in fluid communication with the liquid delivery conduit. A liquid recovery hose connects the liquid recovery pumping portion of the pumping apparatus in fluid communication with the liquid recovery conduit. A valve has a first movable valve portion for opening and closing the liquid delivery conduit. A manually operable valve control mechanism is connected to the valve for controlling the first movable valve portion, and has a liquid sensor responsive to a threshold condition of liquid in the liquid recovery conduit to thereby cause the first movable valve portion to close the liquid delivery conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Fuel Transfer Technologies
    Inventors: Mark Bonner, Gary Underhill
  • Patent number: 8376001
    Abstract: A fuel lever actuation retention apparatus for retaining the fuel actuation lever of a fuel nozzle in an engaged position includes includes a rectangular bracket that is abuttable against the fuel actuation lever and the guard to support the fuel actuation lever in an engaged position. The bracket has a front wall and a rear wall, a first end and a second end disposed opposite of each other, and a pair of lateral sides. The first end is contactable with the fuel actuation lever and the second end is contactable with the guard to retain the fuel actuation lever in a spaced relationship with the guard. A plurality of retaining members are attached to, and extend outwardly from, the bracket. The retaining members are configured to prevent lateral removal of the bracket when the bracket is disposed between the fuel actuation lever and the guard. The bracket has four corners, each of the corners having a retaining member attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Robert R. Wallauer
  • Patent number: 8347924
    Abstract: The invention relates to a main valve for a fuel pump nozzle, the main valve comprising a shut-off body for closing a fuel line and a displacement space that is configured to avoid undesirable pressure surges during closing of the main valve. The invention further relates to a fuel pump nozzle comprising a main valve according to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Elaflex Hiby Tanktechnick GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Heinz-Ulrich Meyer
  • Patent number: 8302638
    Abstract: An electronically operated fuel nozzle includes a solenoid valve for dispensing fuel, an electronic board for operating the solenoid valve, electric accumulator means for electrically powering the solenoid valve and the electronic board. The solenoid valve includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe connected to the fuel-dispensing pipe to dispense a full flow of fuel for refueling, and a secondary channel integrated in the solenoid valve for dispensing a lower quantity of fuel for topping up, the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe are opened by an electromagnetic operating device. The secondary channel is opened by another electromagnetic operating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Nozzle Eng. S.R.L.
    Inventor: Galliano Bentivoglio
  • Patent number: 8286677
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle includes a main body that receives fuel from a fuel source for dispensing the fuel into a fuel tank, an operating lever associated with the main body, a locking device, and a locking device release mechanism. The operating lever is adapted to be actuated by an operator to dispense fuel from the nozzle. The locking device is associated with the operating lever for maintaining the operating lever in a hold open position such that the nozzle continues to dispense fuel without continued actuation of the operating lever by the operator. The locking device release mechanism is associated with the locking device and is adapted to release the operating lever from the hold open position upon the nozzle being stowed in an associated fuel pump cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Vapor Systems Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Rodger P. Grantham
  • Patent number: 8167003
    Abstract: A refueling system including a nozzle configured to dispense fuel through a fuel path thereof into a vehicle tank. The nozzle includes a vapor path configured such that vapor recovered from the vehicle tank during refueling is passable therethrough. The system further includes a sensing valve disposed in the vapor path, wherein the sensing valve is configured to generally block the associated part of the vapor path when a sufficient vacuum from the vehicle tank is applied to the sensing valve during refueling. The system also includes a regulator valve disposed in the vapor path and arranged in series with the sensing valve, the regulator valve being configured to regulate the level of vacuum applied by a vapor pump to the sensing valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan William Clever, B. Eric Riffle
  • Publication number: 20120073701
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle includes a main body that receives fuel from a fuel source for dispensing the fuel into a fuel tank, an operating lever associated with the main body, a locking device, and a locking device release mechanism. The operating lever is adapted to be actuated by an operator to dispense fuel from the nozzle. The locking device is associated with the operating lever for maintaining the operating lever in a hold open position such that the nozzle continues to dispense fuel without continued actuation of the operating lever by the operator. The locking device release mechanism is associated with the locking device and is adapted to release the operating lever from the hold open position upon the nozzle being stowed in an associated fuel pump cradle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Rodger P. Grantham
  • Patent number: 8061394
    Abstract: A simple and reliable locking device for a quick-action connection coupling for transferring gaseous and/or liquid fluids, especially for refuelling vehicles, is provided. Said device comprises a hand lever (50) for actuating a valve and a lock which is positioned on the end side thereof and engages with a hand grip (45) in the refuelling position. To this end, an unlocking lever (46) which can be pivoted on the hand grip (45) is mounted adjacent to the end region of the hand lever (50). The unlocking lever (46) comprises at least one, preferably two laterally protruding journals (47), arranged inside the hand grip (45), especially for simple handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventors: Erwin Weh, Wolfgang Weh
  • Patent number: 8033305
    Abstract: In order to create a simply designed actuating device with a reliable handling for a rapid coupling (10) for transferring gaseous and/or liquid fluids, comprising a tubular housing (11) and a slide (41), which is mounted in a manner that enables it to be displaced relative to the housing and which is coupled to a lever mechanism (42), the invention provides that the lever mechanism (42) has at least one pivoting lever (43) laterally mounted inside said housing (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventors: Erwin Weh, Wolfgang Weh
  • Patent number: 8028727
    Abstract: A simple design of an actuating device for a rapid coupling used for transferring gaseous and/or liquid fluids includes a tubular housing and a slide which is movably mounted relative to the housing and is coupled to a lever mechanism that is provided with at least one pivoted lever laterally mounted on the housing. At least one connecting lever extends to the slide on the pivoted lever, thus also obtaining safe handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventors: Erwin Weh, Wolfgang Weh
  • Patent number: 7987878
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle has a body defining a fuel supply passage and a vapor return passage each having a control valve operated by a hand actuated lever pivotally connected to an axially movable tubular member retained by a diaphragm actuated clutch. A fuel spout extends from the body and is surrounded by an annular plastic socket assembly to define therebetween a vapor return passage. The socket assembly includes a first socket member supporting an annular vapor seal for engaging a fuel tank fill tube. The first socket member is supported for universal free tilting movement by a second socket member supported by the body for axial movement. The second socket member supports a pin connected to a crank arm for blocking operation of the clutch, and an annular flexible cover surrounds the socket assembly to protect the socket members which provide unrestricted flow of fuel vapors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Catlow, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Imler
  • Patent number: 7882862
    Abstract: A filler neck closure assembly is provided for a fuel tank filler neck. The closure assembly is configured to receive a fuel-dispensing pump nozzle and to regulate discharge of liquid fuel and fuel vapor from a fuel tank filler neck to the surroundings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Stant USA Corp.
    Inventors: Dennis M. DeCapua, Timothy J. King, Bradley L. Steusloff, J Bradley Groom, Chad A. McClung, Lowell R. Bell
  • Patent number: 7757729
    Abstract: A filler tube assembly is used with a fuel pump nozzle having a pressure sensing port. The filler tube assembly includes a receiver having an inner wall defining an aperture, which receives the pump nozzle. The inner wall defines an orifice and a seal is coupled to the inner wall about the orifice for defining a chamber between the inner wall, the seal, and the fuel pump nozzle when the fuel pump nozzle is disposed in the aperture. A vacuum tube has a coupled end in fluid communication with the orifice and an open end in fluid communication with the fuel tank. The receiver defines a rim for seating the fuel pump nozzle in the aperture to align the pressure sensing port with the orifice. When fuel covers the open end of the vacuum tube, a pressure change is transmitted through the filler tube assembly to the pressure sensing port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventors: Gregory F. Smith, David G. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100154923
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle system including a spout configured to dispense fuel flowing therethrough, and a flow shaper positioned in the spout such that fuel flowing through the spout passes through the flow shaper. The flow shaper includes a central cavity and a plurality of outer cavities positioned about the central cavity. The central cavity and the plurality of outer cavities each have a L/D ratio, wherein the L/D ratio of the central cavity is less than the L/D ratio of each of the outer cavities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: DELAWARE CAPITAL FORMATION, INC.
    Inventor: Bryan William Clever
  • Patent number: 7673659
    Abstract: A system for preventing overflow in a storage tank which is fillable via a nozzle inserted in a fill passage includes a nozzle stop such that when an end of the nozzle contacts the nozzle stop, the nozzle is in a fill position. The system also includes a sealing device within the fill passage, which forms an inner sealing space via a first seal around the nozzle below a hole in the nozzle and a second seal around the nozzle above the hole in the nozzle. An airtight passage connects the inner sealing space to an interior of the storage tank. The system may also include a venting system including a tank vent passage between the storage tank and an end of the fill passage and an atmospheric vent passage between the tank vent passage and the external atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Steve Burkholder
  • Patent number: 7588060
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and means are disclosed for a modular backpressure sensor configured for use with a fluid delivery nozzle. The modular backpressure sensor may be installed and removed using simple tools and may optionally include an activator handle attachment. The system may optionally include a protective end plug for the fluid delivery nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Flomax International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jay Arthur Ballard
  • Publication number: 20080295916
    Abstract: A vapor-recovery-activated auto-shutoff nozzle comprises a manually operable trigger that permits selective operation of a normally closed valve between a valve-closed configuration and a valve-open configuration. Linkage arms connect the trigger and the valve, and are re-configurable between an enabled configuration and a disabled configuration. In the enabled configuration, the trigger and the valve are operatively connected such that the rest position of the trigger corresponds to the valve being closed, and the in-use position of the manually operable trigger corresponds to the valve being open. In the disabled configuration, the manually operable trigger is precluded from controlling the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Bonner
  • Publication number: 20080283142
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering biomass fuel to a structure through an external wall of the structure is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a hopper disposed within a delivery vehicle. The hopper includes an inlet disposed on its top surface to receive biomass fuel and an outlet located proximate the bottom of the hopper to release the fuel by opening a gate valve. A delivery hose is connected to the hopper outlet at one end and is sealably connectable at its other end to an externally accessible coupling disposed on an external wall of the structure to which fuel is to be delivered. The coupling is connected on the interior side of the external wall to a delivery pipe that connects to a fuel bin for storing the biomass fuel. Sensors within the bin can signal the operator when the level of fuel within the bin reaches a preselected level, allowing the operator to stop delivery when the bin is full.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffl, Joel W. McCoy
  • Publication number: 20080264516
    Abstract: An improved fuel filling apparatus (1) or motor vehicles is described. The fuel filling apparatus comprises a receiver assembly (2) suitable for locating within a filler neck of a fuel tank (33) and a fuel filling nozzle assembly (3). By incorporating vents (14) within the receiver assembly an exhaust means for gases located within the fuel tank is provided and so the effects of foaming of the fuel are reduced. Various automatic cut off mechanisms (6) for the fuel filling apparatus system are described which allow the operator to be confident that a fuel tank has been filled to capacity while reducing the detrimental effects of fuel spillage. As a result the apparatus finds particular application in the field of diesel fuel filling apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: SOLUTION SPECIALISTS LIMITED
    Inventor: Graham McGee
  • Patent number: 7406988
    Abstract: An interconnect for a fuel dispensing nozzle which provides for sustained shut off of a nozzle when its spout is not inserted into the fill pipe of a fuel tank. When the spout inserts within the fill pipe its bellows or splashguard is forced rearwardly, for urging an interconnecting rod to move rearwardly, against the bias of a spring, to force a pivotal link to disengage from the automatic shut-off diaphragm, to allow it to function normally. But when the nozzle is removed from the fuel tank, the pivotal link contacts against the diaphragm structure, of the automatic shut-off, and prevents the nozzle from dispensing or delivering any fuel from the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas O. Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20080035239
    Abstract: A nozzle attachment for a conventional pump nozzle for preventing dripping or leaking of liquid after a pre-determined amount of liquid has been dispensed. The attachment is configured for telescopically mounting on a dispensing end of a standard pump nozzle. The nozzle attachment has a hollow body and a spring-mounted valve moving in the hollow body between a normally closed position and an open position, allowing a flow of liquid, such as gasoline fuel, to be dispensed through a central opening of the nozzle attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: John S. Treen
  • Patent number: 7270154
    Abstract: A fuel storage and dispensing system is provided that is effective in reducing the emission of harmful volatile organic compounds. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a fuel storage and dispensing system is provided comprising at least one storage tank, an air exhaust port, at least one fuel dispenser, a fuel dispensing nozzle, a rigid, fuel dispensing spout, a boot, a pressure relief chamber, a filter system, and at least one pump. The rigid, fuel dispensing spout further defines a non-coaxial fuel tube. The boot is configured to maintain a sufficient level of vacuum within the fuel storage and dispensing system. The boot is further configured to prevent fresh air from entering the fuel dispensing nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Vapor Systems Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn K. Walker, Rodger P. Grantham, Ken Allen
  • Patent number: 7255140
    Abstract: An automatic shut-off nozzle having an operating lever pivoted at its forward end to a plunger, a clip pivoted to the lever, the clip engaging a holding structure and holding the lever open when the plunger is elevated and the lever lifted, and at least one protrusion on the lever or the clip for mechanically forcing the clip out of engagement with the structure when the plunger drops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: M. Carder Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: E. Leonard Poli