Portable Systems Or Track Mounted Supply Means Patents (Class 141/231)
  • Patent number: 6260588
    Abstract: A bulk chemical delivery system, that includes a cabinet that houses a delivery system. The delivery system may include a canister within the cabinet that is connected to a manifold within the cabinet that includes at least one output line for providing chemical from the canister outside the cabinet. The delivery system may further include an input system that provides input for operation of the delivery system, wherein the input system is housed in an enclosure, and an inert gas line that connects and supplies inert gas to the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg, Robert M. Jackson, Craig Esser
  • Patent number: 6248242
    Abstract: This invention relates to a Spring Water Delivery System and in particular to a system for bulk delivery of potable spring water to a customer's home. This system includes a bulk water supply truck equipped with a pumping system and an onboard ozone generator for delivery of potable tank water to a customer's supply tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventor: Andrew G. Martin
  • Patent number: 6247510
    Abstract: The transfer device of an agricultural harvester, in particular a self-propelled forage harvester, is controlled to avoid crop loss and improve operating efficiency. The harvested crop is transferred from the agricultural harvester to a transport receptacle via an upper discharge chute. Apparatus controls the pivoting and vertical movement of the transfer device while the crop stream is spewed in a manner to avoid crop loss and improve the filling capacity during the transfer. The angle between the pivotable transfer device and the longitudinal direction of the agricultural harvester is calculated from the quantity of the correcting value to predetermine the direction of travel of the agricultural harvester. During travel, the apparatus is effective even during a curved path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Claas Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Norbert Diekhans, Jochen Huster, Christoph Bussmann, Sebastian Gamble
  • Patent number: 6237309
    Abstract: A sand bagging device comprises a portable support having a hopper mounted thereto to store sand for bagging. The device includes a bagging station mounted to the hopper having a chute extending therefrom. A cartridge of continuous bagging material is removably mounted to the chute. A scale is adjustably mounted below the chute which can selectably accommodate bags of different weights and heights. Sand flows into the chute from the hopper and is allowed to fill the bag material to a predetermined weight. A sealing member cuts and seals the bagging material into a discrete bag of sand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Paul C. DeMarco
  • Patent number: 6237647
    Abstract: An automatic refueling station and method detects the arrival of a vehicle to be refueled at the refueling station. Upon detection of the vehicle, the vehicle is polled by the station to obtain information from the vehicle which identifies the vehicle and the customer associated with the vehicle. The information is stored on an identification transponder or tag affixed to the vehicle windshield. The system uses the identifying information to access a vehicle database and a customer database. The vehicle database can provide information about the vehicle such as the location of the vehicle's fuel filler opening, the size of the vehicle and other information related to a recommended fuel filling rate for the vehicle. The customer identifying information is used to access the customer database to obtain information such as customer billing information and the amount of fuel being purchased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventors: William Pong, Edward Fredkin
  • Publication number: 20010001131
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for preparation of custom blended fuels is disclosed. A bar code on a fuel tank or vehicle, such as an automobile, is scanned by a bar code reader operatively associated with a fuel dispensing means to convey information about a fuel required or desired to a computer controlled customized blender associated with the fuel dispensing means. Multiple fuel components, such as gasoline and replenishable fuel components such as methanol and ethanol may be custom mixed at the point of purchase. Preferably an octane analyzer and other fuel property analyzers, such as RVP analyzers, are associated with individual component or blended gasoline streams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Inventor: Charles B. Miller
  • Patent number: 6209593
    Abstract: A pump system for a helicopter tanker includes an axial flow electric pump coupled to a lower end of a snorkel having a generally tubular pump housing extending along a central axis between an open upper end and an opposite open lower end serving as an inlet of the pump. An in-line electric motor is supported within the housing along the axis and has an output drive shaft mounting an impeller. A filter screen basket is mounted on the lower end of the housing to filter water for filtering the incoming water. An electric power cable extends from the motor through a the housing and is shrouded externally by a protective metal cable guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Carry Manufacturing
    Inventor: Delmar G. Nichols, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6202707
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for unloading a plurality of containers containing pressurized liquefied gas in which the liquefied gas has a temperature above −112° C. A pressurized displacement liquid is fed to a first of the plurality of containers to discharge the pressurized liquefied gas therefrom. The displacement liquid is then pumped from the first container to a second container of the plurality of containers to discharge liquefied gas therefrom. As the displacement liquid is removed from the first container, the space caused by the removal of the displacement liquid is filled with a vapor at a lower pressure than the pressure of displacement liquid. Fluid communication between the first second containers is then severed and the above steps are repeated for all containers in succession, except that for the last container in the series the displacement liquid is pumped therefrom to an auxiliary container for storage rather than to another container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Robert M. Woodall, Moses Minta
  • Patent number: 6202712
    Abstract: A system for delivering fuel comprising a receiver coupled in liquid communication with a fuel tank of a vehicle, a nozzle coupled in liquid communication with a fuel source and interactive alignment structure for mating the nozzle with receiver in response to movement of the receiver and the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Freddie S. Aguilar
  • Patent number: 6186196
    Abstract: A refuelling system for use with an aircraft, and a related a hand-held control apparatus for use in an aircraft refuelling system. The hand-held control apparatus for use in the aircraft refuelling system is intended for use in refuelling systems in which fuel is delivered to an aircraft from a location remote from the aircraft via a refuelling nozzle at an end of a hose, which is wound upon a hose reel at the remote location. The hand-held control apparatus, includes a control trigger for transmitting of an activation signal for activating a refuelling process, so that fuel is delivered from the refuelling nozzle at the end of the hose to the aircraft, along with a device for transmitting a fault signal for shutting down fuel delivery. Additionally, included is device for changing the control trigger from transmitting the activation signal to a hose reel re-wind mode, so that activating the control trigger causes a signal to be transmitted for effecting a re-wind of the hose reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: National Valve & Engineering Co. Pty. Limited
    Inventor: Arthur Donald Leigh
  • Patent number: 6182710
    Abstract: An improved aboveground system for storing a combustible fluid such as gasoline includes a storage tank that is constructed and arranged to store a combustible fluid such as gasoline and an outer tank to provide secondary containment. An interstitial space is defined between the outer tank and the storage tank. A pipe for communicating with the storage tank extends through the wall of the storage tank, into the interstitial space and through the interstitial space for a distance so as to extend substantially parallel to at least one of the walls of the outer tank and the storage tank, and then through the wall of the outer tank, whereby fluid may be supplied to or withdrawn from the storage tank. Advantageously, access structure is provided for gaining access through the wall of the outer tank to the portion of the pipe that extends through the interstitial space for a distance so as to extend substantially parallel to at least one of the walls of the outer tank and the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc. (NV)
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 6179023
    Abstract: An air blower comprises a first unit having means for producing compressed air and a reservoir for storing the compressed air and a second unit including a portable storage tank for holding compressed air, and means for releasing the compressed air from the storage tank. Means for charging are provided whereby compressed air in the reservoir of the first unit is transferred to the storage tank of the second unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Air-Jet, Inc
    Inventor: Daniel W. McGee
  • Patent number: 6176279
    Abstract: A motor truck has a frame supporting a fuel tank, an oil tank and a water tank along with a container for sand for servicing a rail locomotive located at a remote location or rail yard. Pumps mounted on the frame move the fuel, oil, and water from the tanks through hoses to tanks on the locomotive. A hoist on the truck moves the sand container from the truck to a location adjacent the locomotive to allow sand to flow into a sand hopper on the locomotive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: M-Bar-D Railcar Tech., Inc.
    Inventors: William G. Dahlin, William S. Pladson
  • Patent number: 6176275
    Abstract: A system for recovering fuel vapor during delivery of fuel by a mobile fueler includes a storage tank covered with a layer of insulation, a supply pump connected to the storage tank for delivering fuel therefrom, and a fuel dispensing assembly, preferably a coaxial hose and nozzle, including a supply outlet for delivering fuel to a vehicle being fueled, and a vapor recovery inlet proximate the supply outlet. A diverter valve diverts a portion of the fuel in the supply line, and a vacuum jet pump is connected to the storage tank and, by a vapor line, to the vapor recovery inlet, which is driven by the diverted fuel to create a vacuum in the vapor line to draw vapor into the vapor recovery inlet, through the vapor line, and into the storage tank. A vapor pot is provided in the vapor line for separating liquid fuel from vapor in the vapor line and for returning separated liquid fuel back into the supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Bob J. Hill
  • Patent number: 6161600
    Abstract: A filling device (1) for filling bags (5) with bulk material (6), which filling device (1) comprises a carrier (3) which is adapted for fixing to a lifting device (2) and which is provided with a number of load hooks (4) for fastening thereto of a bag (5), which bag (5) is provided for this purpose with fastening means (7) such as loops (7) or eyes (7), characterized in that the load hooks (4) are formed such that during operation a wholly or partially filled bag (5) is automatically released from the load hooks (4) by setting down the bag (5) and moving the lifting device (92) away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Aloys Borkes
  • Patent number: 6152197
    Abstract: A portable fuel dispensing system which eliminates the need for underground storage tanks that are subject to leaks resulting in contamination of the stored fuel, soil and ground water creating costly environmental hazards. A semi-tractor trailer supported fuel receptacle has a plurality of metered fuel dispensers along the sides thereof allowing several customers to park along side the trailer and fuel their vehicles. The trailer may be taken to a central location for filling and then transported to a convenient retail location for dispensing the fuel to customers' vehicles. When empty, the trailer is returned to the central location for refuelling. During this return trip, the tank may be connected to a fuel/air inlet of the tractor so fuel vapor remaining in the tank may be burned rather than escaping into the atmosphere. The system is a completely closed system with no venting of fumes into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Nolan P. Gerardot
  • Patent number: 6138721
    Abstract: A tilt and go assembly included as part of a load port interface assembly is disclosed for providing quick and easy attachment and adjustment of the load port interface assembly to a BOLTS interface. When a load port interface assembly according to the present invention is positioned adjacent to a BOLTS interface, the assembly is tilted away from the BOLTS interface, so that a socket in the load port interface assembly may raise upward slightly and be seated on the ball joint. Thereafter, the upper portions of the load port interface assembly may be tilted upward so that the assembly is roughly parallel and adjacent to the BOLTS interface. Once the load port interface assembly is seated on the ball joint of the BOLTS interface, the vertical and lateral positions of the load port interface assembly may be adjusted as desired with respect to the BOLTS interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony C. Bonora, Edward J. Cortez, John D. Kyffin, Michael Ng
  • Patent number: 6135009
    Abstract: A beverage brewing system includes a brewer (30) and a serving cart assembly (62, 70) having a cart (74) for supporting a serving dispenser (64) for rolling movement and having cart guide members (68A, 68A') cooperating with brew cycle members (66A, 66A') to guide the serving cart assembly into proper alignment with an inlet nozzle of dispenser beneath a beverage outlet (60) of the brewer (30) for direct receipt of freshly brewed beverage into the dispenser (66).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Zbigniew G. Lassota
  • Patent number: 6116298
    Abstract: A fueling system including a fuel supply subsystem including at least one fueling nozzle, a recipient identifier associated with a fill location of a recipient fuel store, a fueling communicator associated with the at least one fueling nozzle and communicating in a wireless manner with the recipient identifier, at least in order to obtain recipient identification information therefrom, and an authorization and monitoring assembly operative to communicate in a wireless manner with the fueling communicator for receiving at least recipient identification information therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Hi-G-Tek Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosef Haimovich, Yehuda Armoni
  • Patent number: 6112956
    Abstract: A fluent dispensing apparatus with a timer control valve that controls the amount of fluent material dispensed into the bag or flexible container. The apparatus includes a holding tank filled with fluent material, such as sand. Formed in the tank is at least one hopper having a lower chute. A sliding gate is disposed over the lower opening of the chute which is coupled to a pneumatic arm. Movement of the pneumatic arm is coupled to an adjustable timer so that the sliding gate automatically opens and closes after a pre-determined length of time. By adjusting the timer so that after a pre-selected length of time the sliding gate is opened, the same quantity of sand may be deposited into each bag. By adjusting the timer so that a sliding gate is closed after a selected length of time, the number of bags produced over a specific period of time may be controlled. The hopper is designed for side-filling for easier filling and an optional vibrator is disposed inside the hopper to facilitate the filling process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Morris Malone
  • Patent number: 6092569
    Abstract: By employing a product dispensing head assembly securely mounted to a storage container, within which desired flowable material is retained, with the head assembly being movable into a plurality of alternate positions, the controlled, measured, dispensing and delivery of any desired flowable product is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the product dispensing head assembly incorporates automatic locking means which are automatically engaged when the product dispensing head assembly is in the closed position. Furthermore, a special dispensing coupling is preferably employed to effectively disengage the locking means, thereby providing assurance that no individual can obtain unauthorized access to the flowable material stored within the closed and sealed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Link Research & Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Simmel, David R. Auerbach
  • Patent number: 6089285
    Abstract: A method of supplying source material in a crystal puller used to grow single crystal semiconductor material. Generally, the method includes receiving a bulk container of the source material at a facility having the crystal puller and configuring the bulk container for gravity feed of the source material from the container. The bulk container is transported to the crystal puller and a predetermined quantity of source material is dispensed directly from the bulk container into the crystal puller. Apparatus and a system for use in supplying source material are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: MEMC Electronics Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark DeStefano, James Dean Eoff, Sr., Thomas H. Schulte, John M. Anderson, Eng Chin Yau, Donald R. Ruggeri, David W. Baldwin, Charles Lawrence Badino
  • Patent number: 6089420
    Abstract: A mobile vending apparatus for potable water is described. A flat bed truck has both one or more tanks for a large supply of potable water and one or more delivery cabinets for dispensing such water into bottles or other containers provided by consumers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Roman D. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 6085808
    Abstract: A process for safely and efficiently transporting flammable or combustible solvents is disclosed. A covered trailer contains an empty container for contaminated solvent and a container full of non-contaminated solvent. The trailer moves from point to point removing contaminated solvent from a users drum container and filling the users drum container with fresh solvent. When either the contaminated solvent container is full or the non-contaminated solvent container is empty, the trailer moves to the distributors recovery/disposal facility to discharge the contaminated solvent and replenish the non-contaminated solvent tank for further servicing of users drum containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: WRR Environmental Services Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Hager, Brian K. Schneider
  • Patent number: 6082392
    Abstract: A hose assembly is provided for transmitting liquid fuel between the fuel tank of a highway truck and the fuel tank of an airport refueler. The assembly comprises inner and outer hoses. The inner hose transmits liquid fuel. A sealed passage is formed between the inner and outer hoses. Each end of the hose assembly is connected to a respective port for transferring the fuel between the highway truck fuel tank and airport refueler tank. The assembly includes at least one sensor port for connecting the passage to sensing means to detect leakage from the inner hose to the passage. A leakage sensing system is coupled to the sensor port for detecting leakage of fuel from the inner hose to the passage and for generating sensor signals. The leakage sensing system includes: (1) a pressure sensor for detecting a change in pressure within the passage, and (2) a liquid sensor for detecting the presence of liquid within the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: General Transervice, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Watkins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6079461
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transferring comminuted product from an unpressurized storage unit to a tank, especially a trailer-mounted tank. According to this method, an inert gas source is provided, preferably mounted on the trailer, and a conduit is provided to carry the product, which conduit is connected between the storage unit and the tank. The tank and conduit are evacuated so as to create a pressure differential between the storage unit and the tank, and the inert gas is allowed to flow into the evacuated tank in response to the partial vacuum therein. The product is then allowed to flow through the conduit to the tank in response to the partial vacuum therein. An improved trailer for receiving comminuted product according to a practice of the method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: The Heil Co.
    Inventors: Larry Nelson Fisher, Warren Peery Groseclose
  • Patent number: 6065511
    Abstract: A vehicle fueling system which uses a tank vehicle similar to or the same as those used for jets to rapidly and efficiently refuel trucks and other land motor vehicles. The truck driver parks his truck in a designated vehicle fueling station, gives the station attendant the station identifier, and arranges for payment. The station attendant then radios a tank vehicle operator. The tank vehicle operator takes a tank vehicle to the corresponding station and refuels the truck. The amount of time required to refuel the truck is dramatically reduced from one hour to approximately ten minutes. The driver has the option of returning to the road immediately or enjoying the amenities of a driver respite area. The driver can eat, sleep, or shower. The driver may also have his vehicle washed or repaired. When the driver is ready to leave, he is given a metered record detailing the amount of fuel delivered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Gene McClintock
  • Patent number: 6056028
    Abstract: A portable vehicle fueling device is described wherein fuel is dispensed directly from the vehicle fuel tank directly from the vehicle fuel tank by the vehicle fuel pump through the hose of this invention so that a supply of gasoline can be provided for auxiliary engines such as boat, lawn mowers, and the like. A Schrader valve is provided in the fuel line and the portable device of this invention includes a coupling for opening the Schrader valve at the end of the hose and a nozzle at the opposite end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Dale W. Crawford
  • Patent number: 6056168
    Abstract: A fuel tank for a trailer including a tank that is adapted for securement to an underside of a trailer. The tank has a generally trapezoidal configuration with a top face and a bottom face. The top face has recesses formed therein for receiving cross members of the trailer therein. The top face has a filling port in communication with an interior of the tank. A dispensing nozzle is in communication with a fuel pump disposed within the interior of the tank. A deflector shield is secured to the underside of the trailer forwardly of the tank. The shield is dimensioned for covering a forward portion of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Davis Owen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6056024
    Abstract: A bulk chemical delivery system having: a bulk chemical canister that is connected to at least one manifold box, wherein each manifold box has at least two output lines, wherein each output line connects to a secondary canister. The bulk chemical canister may have a capacity of 200 liters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Advanced Delivery & Chemical Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg, Robert M. Jackson, Craig Esser
  • Patent number: 6047747
    Abstract: Systems are provided for vehicular, land-based distribution of pressurized liquefied natural gas at a pressure of about 1035 kPa (150 psia) to about 7590 kPa (1100 psia) and at a temperature of about -123.degree. C. (-190.degree. F.) to about -62.degree. C. (-80.degree. F.). The systems include at least one container that is constructed from an ultra-high strength, low alloy steel containing less than 9 wt % nickel and having a tensile strength greater than 830 MPa (120 ksi) and a DBTT lower than about -73.degree. C. (-100.degree. F.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Ronald R. Bowen, Moses Minta
  • Patent number: 6029718
    Abstract: This invention concerns a shipping and containment cart, comprising: a base having three sides and one or more doors attached thereto, wheels attached to the base, a top attached to the sides having a tank hole, wherein the base, sides, and doors have been attached to provide a sealed compartment. This invention also concerns a chemical delivery cabinet, comprising: a base, three sides, and one or more doors attached to one or more sides, a valve manifold affixed to an inner wall of the cabinet, process control instrumentation which connects to and controls the valve manifold, wherein at least one of the doors has a touch control pad mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Advanced Delivery & Chemical Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert M. Jackson, Craig Esser, Eric Serdahl, John N. Gregg
  • Patent number: 6021823
    Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing pull away or drive away incidents. The preferred devices can be retrofitted to critical gas pipes on fuel trucks or gas tanker trucks. A version of my device can be readily employed with conventional automobiles. Through my system a vehicle engine cannot start or continue to ram until a proper disconnection is made from a fueling or refueling source. The preferred protection device comprises a rigid, frame having a base portion connected to a gas pipe with spaced apart clamps. An elongated arm pivotally extending from the frame terminates in a blocking plate. The blocking plate can be user-deflected to either block access to the gas connection, or to expose it. When disposed in the blocking position, the arm activates a spark-proof ignition switch, which enables the ignition circuit in the vehicle being fueled or loaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: David L. Hale
  • Patent number: 6014995
    Abstract: An onsite petrochemical storage and transport system comprising a land based facility, which provides storage at a well site for hydrocarbon reservoir products which include gas, oil and water at a high pressure. The pressurized mixture is transferred, by means of pressure equalization, into a truck with multiple pressure containing vessels and transported to a plant suitable for processing the raw hydrocarbon mixture. The well site facility and transport truck are configured to allow for separation of gas and liquids to selectively transfer the gas or liquids as desired. Remote well sites may be periodically serviced by transport trucks while maintaining continuous production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: A. Patrick Agnew
  • Patent number: 6006798
    Abstract: A syringe loading jig that includes structures for gripping and holding a medicant vial in concentric alignment with a syringe and includes a horizontal fastening mechanism for securing the syringe loading jig to a horizontal surface and a vertical fastening mechanism for securing the syringe loading jig to a vertical surface. The syringe loading jig includes a resilient molded jig structure forming a vial holding assembly and a syringe holding assembly. The vial holding assembly includes a lockable vial securing clip and a resilient vial body receiving cavity, a vial neck receiving channel and a vial cap receiving cavity. The resilient vial body receiving cavity, the vial neck receiving channel and the vial cap receiving cavity are concentrically aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Barbara J. Lindquist
  • Patent number: 5988427
    Abstract: An environmental protection article is for use with transport trucks. The article is a carry-on article which is used in case of accidental fuel line or fuel tank leakage to receive and retain leaked liquid. The article comprises an open-top receptacle with an inflatable sidewall, an air supply tube extending to the sidewall and sealed thereto, and a quick connect valve secured to a distal end of the air supply tube. The article is folded to a compact state for easy storage. In case of emergency use, the driver of the truck can unfold the article and then connect a quick connect valve found on the truck's pressurized air hose to the mating quick connect valve of the article to readily and quickly inflate the open-top receptacle's sidewall to form a vessel. The article, once inflated, is simply slid under the source of leakage to receive and retain the leaked liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Lonnie E. Moore
  • Patent number: 5988237
    Abstract: A manually operated sandbag filling apparatus includes a frame and wheels rotatably mounted to the frame for moving the frame over a ground surface including into position proximate a supply of sand on the ground surface. Handles project from the frame for manually manipulating the frame into and out of the position. An auger drive is operatively mounted to the frame to convey sand on the ground surface to a discharge port. A power drive is mounted to the frame for driving the auger drive. A support table is provided for supporting a sandbag to be filled proximate the discharge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Robert Bedsole
  • Patent number: 5983962
    Abstract: A portable fuel dispensing system which eliminates the need for underground storage tanks that are subject to leaks resulting in contamination of the stored fuel, soil and ground water creating costly environmental hazards. A semi-tractor trailer supported fuel receptacle has a plurality of metered fuel dispensers along the sides thereof allowing several customers to park along side the trailer and fuel their vehicles. The trailer may be taken to a central location for filling and then transported to a convenient retail location for dispensing the fuel to customers' vehicles. When empty, the trailer is returned to the central location for refuelling. During this return trip, the tank may be connected to a fuel/air inlet of the tractor so fuel vapor remaining in the tank may be burned rather than escaping into the atmosphere. The system is a completely closed system with no venting of fumes into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Nolan P. Gerardot
  • Patent number: 5983957
    Abstract: A container and method for transporting finely divided coal in rail cars or other cargo hauling vehicles, the container having a generally flexible and substantially oxygen impermeable barrier defining an encapsulated cavity. A port, including a coupling adapted to substantially prevent exposing the finely divided coal to oxygen, is positioned in the container for passing a flowable material through the barrier. The container also including a cap for sealing the port, a one-way pressure activated valve positioned in the barrier preventing gases in the cavity, and a harness for supporting the barrier and defining the shape of the cavity. The method generally having the initial steps of removing most of the oxygen from the cavity of the container, and adjusting the shape of the cavity to conform to the type of rail car that is being used to haul the finely divided coal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: SEEC, Inc.
    Inventor: Stewart E. Erickson
  • Patent number: 5979515
    Abstract: A transfer device for aseptic and automatic transfer of filled, unsealed pharmaceutical containers (2) which comprises a transport vehicle (11) with a vertically adjustable platform (12) supporting a transportable and sealable chamber (1). The chamber (1) comprises an upper part (8) provided with a protective-gas inlet (7), a lower part (9) provided with a frame (13) for supporting the containers (2), a closable opening (14), and an intermediate, substantially horizontal flow distributor (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Astra Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Bert-.ANG.ke Olsson
  • Patent number: 5975161
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting and delivering anhydrous ammonia. The vehicle includes a chassis and a large anhydrous ammonia tank. A mass flow sensor is provided on the chassis to accurately record transfer of anhydrous ammonia out of the tank. Accurate recording of anhydrous ammonia passing out of the tank allows the vehicle to dispense anhydrous ammonia to different customers from a single tank, and to deliver anhydrous ammonia in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: William S. Ridgley
  • Patent number: 5975162
    Abstract: A delivery vehicle for delivering liquids to a storage location and a liquid delivery control system therefor. The apparatus comprises manual and remote actuation of a clutch controller for engaging and disengaging a clutch of the vehicle, remote and manual actuation of a throttle controller for opening and closing a throttle of the vehicle, actuation of a power take-off controller for engaging and disengaging a power take-off on the vehicle, and actuation of a valve controller for opening and closing an internal flow valve in a cargo tank on the vehicle. The apparatus also may include actuation of a reel controller for unwinding a liquid delivery hose from a reel and rewinding the hose on the reel. A method of delivering a liquid to a storage location is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Clarence J. Link, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5967174
    Abstract: The patent discloses apparatus for removing and containing spills occurring upon filling of a delivery tank truck. The spill catching basin and more particularly the drains mounted to the tops of tanks are modified to deliver liquid spilled into the basin to a single outlet along the side of the truck. A receptacle, such as a buried tank is provided to receive the runoff from the truck. Provided for connection to the outlet is a fitting which may be releasably clamped to the outside of the outlet. The fitting is coupled to the buried tank by a flexible hose and a slip coupling between the hose and the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: William David MacDonald
  • Patent number: 5964258
    Abstract: A bulk cooking oil supply and disposal transport system and method for the supply of cooking oil to and the removal of waste oil from a receiving facility. The system includes a transport vehicle with a supply and a waste oil container. An oil conduit system is connected with the supply and waste container to selectively deliver and remove oil through oil fittings. Pumps and valves are disposed within the oil conduit system for restricting the flow of the cooking oil therethrough. A first fluid meter measures the amount of cooking oil delivered to the receiving facility and a second fluid meter measures the amount of waste oil removed from the receiving facility. A control device receives signals indicating the level or amount of oil delivered or removed through the oil conduit system. Signals are generated by sensors at the receiving facility or from the fluid meters monitoring flow through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Restaurant Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley J. Schoenbauer
  • Patent number: 5954101
    Abstract: A delivery and storage system for cryogenic fluids features a vehicle mounted dispensing system including a bulk storage tank that feeds cryogenic liquid to a sump containing a pump to pre-cool the pump. The pump feeds cryogenic liquid to another sump containing a meter so as to cool the meter. A valve selectively routes the cryogenic liquid from the meter sump to the bulk storage tank as the meter cools down. When the meter reaches operating temperature, cryogenic liquid is directed through the meter to a dispensing hose. The cryogenic liquid is dispensed into a liquid cylinder. The liquid cylinder features an automatic shut-off device to reduce the flow of the cryogenic liquid into the cylinder when the cylinder is full. The inner shell is held to the outer shell at the top by a combination stainless steel hose and composite cylinder neck. The bottom of the inner shell features a pair of pins which are supported by a strap across the bottom portion of the outer shell interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: MVE, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Arnold Drube, Audrey Duane Preston, Claus D. Emmer, Jon Robert Turner, Thomas Karl Drube
  • Patent number: 5954099
    Abstract: A natural gas distribution system includes a gas cylinder having a first axial end and a second axial end. Protective collars are selectively connected to the cylinder ends. A valve is connected to the first axial end and is disposed within the first protective collar. The cylinder may be stored and transported in crates that have a plurality of compartments. Each of the plurality of compartments is configured to receive one gas cylinder in a substantially horizontal position. The crates in turn may be transported in delivery trucks that have bays with inclined floors and roll-down covering doors. An automatic air ventilation system makes sure that there is always air flow through the truck so there is no accumulation of any gas escaping from the cylinders in the truck. The truck may be equipped with refueling piping so that individual cylinders are refilled in the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Progas, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Princiotta, Alfred De Tomaso
  • Patent number: 5950693
    Abstract: A bulk chemical delivery system, having a bulk chemical canister that is connected to at least one manifold box, wherein each manifold box has at least two output lines, wherein each output line connects to a secondary canister. The bulk chemical canister may have a capacity of 200 liters. The bulk canister is housed within a transportation and containment cart that is housed within a cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Advanced Delivery & Chemical Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg, Robert M. Jackson, Craig Esser
  • Patent number: 5944069
    Abstract: A fueling nozzle having a rotatable locking ring adjacent its discharge end and adapted for mating with and being secured to a fuel receiving tank adapter at a common datum line has a receiving antenna associated with the nozzle and the fuel receiving tank has a transmitting antenna associated therewith. The fueling nozzle is activated by information transmitted as a continuous radio frequency signal from a continuously operating identity transmitter mounted on a vehicle desiring fueling. The identity transmitter is powered by the vehicle power source and requires no special activation by the user. The receiving antenna comprises a circumferential band completely encircling the nozzle and is insulated therefrom and secured thereabout. The receiving antenna is in such close proximity with the transmitting antenna as to interrupt transmission of the information and to cause cessation of a fueling operation upon withdrawal of the fueling nozzle from the fuel tank by more than a maximum functional distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventors: Joseph M. Nusbaumer, Ronald Woods
  • Patent number: 5927350
    Abstract: A system for preventing spillage from containers during the filling thereof includes an electrical circuit extending between one or more filling ports of the container and being connected with one or more liquid level sensitive switches within the container. A liquid dispensing apparatus for dispensing liquid into the container is coupled to the circuit so as to be enabled to dispense liquid into the container when the circuit is closed and to be disabled from dispensing liquid into the container when the circuit is opened. The circuit includes electrically isolated leads at each of the one or more filling ports that can be connected with each other so as to complete the circuit at that port when either the filling port is properly capped or the liquid dispensing apparatus is properly coupled to the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Customized Transportation Inc.
    Inventor: George Thomas Kissinger, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5901762
    Abstract: A new sand bag filling device for taking bulk sand and filling sand bags with the bulk sand on demand. The inventive device includes a hopper having interior space, a top, a bottom, a pair of end walls, and a pair side walls extending between the end walls. The top of the hopper has an opening into the interior space of the hopper while the bottom of the hopper has ground engaging members. A conduit outwardly extends from one of the end walls of the hopper away from the hopper. The conduit has a first opening into the interior space of the hopper and an exterior second opening outside the hopper. An auger member is rotatably mounted in the interior space of the hopper. The auger member extends from the interior space of the hopper into the conduit through the first opening of the conduit so that its screw portion is extended into the conduit. A motor is proved for rotating the auger member in a direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Troy E. Rollins