Multiple Passage Filling Means For Diverse Materials Or Flows Patents (Class 141/285)
  • Patent number: 7013936
    Abstract: An arrangement for decanting liquids includes a tubular-shaped support (1) having a flow channel (2). The flow channel (2) is blocked by a valve plate (3) which is coupled via axial connecting elements (4, 4?) to the relative movement of an inner sleeve (5) and an outer sleeve (6) of the support (1). The outer sleeve (6) lies in overlapment and the axial connecting elements (4, 4?) extend into the interior of the support. The valve plate (3) can be lifted from its valve seat against a spring force engaging at the inner sleeve (5) and at the outer sleeve (6). A radial flange collar (13) is formed on the outer sleeve (6). To ensure an accurate metering at the highest possible volume flow of the discharged liquid at low manufacturing costs, the valve plate (3) is mounted at a free end (9) of the support (1) and the axial connecting elements are configured as tension rods (4, 4?) and are arranged next to an edge of the valve plate (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Harald Schliemann, Hans Nickel
  • 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: 6945286
    Abstract: A single-point connection apparatus for a closed fluid transfer delivery system having a mobile dispense to transfers liquid from a chemical delivery vessel to a chemical-receiving device, e.g., a dry cleaning machine, with return flow of vapor therefrom to the delivery vessel. A first passage selectively connects the delivery vessel to the liquid-receiving device. Liquid is only then pumped to the liquid-receiving device. A second passage connects the receiving device to the delivery vessel for a vapor return flow. A chamber of the apparatus has a filling valve to receive a filling adapter to deliver liquid. Associated with the filling valve is a relief valve mechanism providing continuous, uninterrupted liquid flow at an increased liquid flow rate through the first passage, inhibiting backflow of liquid through the second passage for continuous, uninterrupted vapor flow from the liquid-receiving device while liquid is being received by that device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Economy Controls Corporation
    Inventor: William H. Freeman
  • Patent number: 6938650
    Abstract: A filling apparatus for attachment to a neck of a fluid reservoir is disclosed. The apparatus has a container for fluid and a stem projecting from the container. Two passages extend through the stem. One of the these passages allows fluid from the container to flow into the reservoir and the other passage allows air to flow into the container to prevent the formation of a partial vacuum in the container. The apparatus includes a tap movable between an ON and an OFF position to allow and prevent the flow of fluid through the passages. The apparatus has a mount for releasably securing the apparatus to the fluid reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Private Brand Tools (Australia) PTY LTD
    Inventor: David Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6932121
    Abstract: A method for offloading and storage of liquefied compressed natural gas into a salt dome by using inserting displacement gas with a pressure greater than a pressure of the liquefied compressed natural gas and a temperature of from about 80 degrees Fahrenheit to about 120 degrees Fahrenheit into a created cavern in the salt dome. The liquefied compressed natural gas is offloaded from the vessel to the storage cavern, wherein the liquefied compressed natural gas is at a pressure of from about 750 psi to about 1100 psi and a temperature of from about ?80 degrees Fahrenheit to about ?110 degrees Fahrenheit. The liquefied compressed natural gas is mixed with gas vapor in the storage cavern, wherein the gas vapor in the storage cavern is at a geostatic temperature and at a pressure lower than a pressure of the liquefied compressed natural gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Magee Shivers, III
  • Patent number: 6926047
    Abstract: The fuel intake device is provided that is mounted within a base portion of a vehicle and is pivotal from a closed position to an open position. While in the closed position, the fuel intake passage to the fuel tank is sealed. While in the open position, the fuel intake passage is able to receive fuel from a fuel nozzle. The fuel intake device can be combined with a condensation capture apparatus that provides multiple coils in communication with a fume tube. The coils are cooled during fueling by the fuel passing around them from their placement inside the fuel intake pipe and act to condense fuel fumes into fuel for return to the fuel tank as the fumes rise toward the fume tube. The fuel intake device can also include a pressurization and depressurization valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Paraphase, Inc.
    Inventor: Kirk W. Watkins
  • Patent number: 6880585
    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: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventors: Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas
  • Patent number: 6863098
    Abstract: The illustrated spouted container (10) broadly includes a storage container (12), a self-venting spout (14) removably coupled to the container (12), a collar (16) for removably coupling the spout (14) to the container (12), and a cap (18) for closing the spout (14) and/or the container (12). The collar (16) cooperates with an inventive sealing disc (32) and a neck (24) to create a gasket-less seal between the spout (14) and the storage container (12) that is adjustable yet prevents undesirable fluid leakage when the spout (14) is in either a pour or a storage position. The spout (14) is a self-venting spout that includes an air-venting passageway (34) formed in part by a flange (60).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Blitz U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Larry L. Chrisco, Charlie L. Forbis, Roger Nielsen
  • Patent number: 6851460
    Abstract: Liquid crystal dropping apparatus and method for dropping liquid crystal discharged from discharging ports of a liquid crystal dropping head on a planned drop region, wherein the liquid crystal is discharged only from one or some of discharging ports located in correspondence with the planned drop region among a plurality of discharging ports of the liquid crystal dropping head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Shibaura Mechatronics Corporation
    Inventor: Shingo Tamai
  • Patent number: 6835362
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector assembly (3) for connection to a container (1) for sterilising goods, preferably for pharmaceutical applications, and a releasable connector port (5) for releasably connecting said connector assembly (3) to a treatment station (1) for the goods that is contained in said container (1). Said connector assembly (3) further includes a second port that initially is provided with a detachable rapid transfer port cap (4), which cap (4) corresponds to a rapid transfer port means (15) that is provided at a goods transfer station (12). The connector port (5) and the rapid transfer port cap (4) are in fluid connection via a good stopper means (7). The invention also relates to a multi-treatment sterilising system and to a method for transferring sterilised goods from a multi-purpose container using a system according to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Getinge Sterilization Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Jan-Olof Eriksson
  • Patent number: 6827112
    Abstract: System for controlling a hazardous fluid distribution facility wherein a control arrangement is provided at the facility having a power on switch providing for its general energization and de-energization along with a start switch which is actuated by an operator for an interval of time sufficient for a gas pressure control monitor to assume an enable condition causing the actuation of tank valves and the enablement of emergency shut-off valves. A receiver is incorporated with the housing which performs in conjunction with strategically positioned emergency transmitters which are actuated by personnel in the event of a perceived emergency condition. The transmitters transmit an off-state signal which is responded to by the receiver circuit to vent the pneumatic actuation and enablement system as well as to disenable electrical input to pump motors. The transmitters are polled periodically by the receiver circuit to determine their operational status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Tracey T. Lemmon
  • Publication number: 20040238066
    Abstract: A spouted container (10) constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention and configured for storing fluids and transferring the stored fluids to a fluid receiving receptacle such as a lawn mower fluid reservoir (R) is disclosed. The illustrated spouted container (10) broadly includes a storage container (12), a self-venting spout (14) removably coupled to the container (12), a collar (16) for removably coupling the spout (14) to the container (12), and a cap (18) for closing the spout (14) and/or the container (12). The collar (16) cooperates with an inventive sealing disc (32) and a neck (24) to create a gasket-less seal between the spout (14) and the storage container (12) that is adjustable yet prevents undesirable fluid leakage when the spout (14) is in either a pour or a storage position. The spout (14) is a self-venting spout that includes an air-venting passageway (34) formed in part by a flange (60).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: BLITZ U.S.A., INC.
    Inventors: Larry L. Chrisco, Charlie L. Forbis, Roger Nielsen
  • Patent number: 6817385
    Abstract: A method an apparatus for establishing in a system for dispensing fluid in a gaseous phase a predetermined quantify of the fluid in its liquid phase, and for allowing such fluid in its liquid phase to vaporize into its gaseous phase to replace the gaseous phase fluid that is dispensed to users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: VA-Tran Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey E. Sloan, Eugene L. Bellegarde
  • Patent number: 6805170
    Abstract: A resealable cap for a medicament vial has a base portion formed of vulcanized rubber or like material known for providing a stable environment for the medicament contained within the vial, and a resealable portion overlying the base portion. The resealable portion is made of low-density polyethylene or like material, and can be punctured by a needle or like injection member for dispensing medicament into the vial. Prior to filling, the cap is assembled to the vial and the cap/vial assembly is sterilized. Then, a needle is inserted through the cap and medicament is introduced through the needle and into the vial. Upon withdrawal of the needle, the penetrated region of the cap is fused by laser or direct heat sealing to hermetically seal the needle hole in the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Medical Instill Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Py
  • Patent number: 6748982
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an integrated vapor recovery and fuel delivery system for a fuel dispenser. The apparatus includes a fuel dispenser having a member constructed from extruded material connected to the fuel dispenser. The member has at least one fluid conduit located inside the member for transporting fluid. The member also has a vapor conduit located inside the member for transporting vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Tokheim Holding B.V.
    Inventor: William Goggin
  • Patent number: 6698463
    Abstract: System and method for controlling a hazardous fluid distribution facility wherein a control arrangement is provided at the facility having a power on switch providing for its general energization and de-energization along with a start switch which is actuated by an operator for an interval of time sufficient for a gas pressure control monitor to assume an enable condition causing the actuation of tank valves and the enablement of emergency shut-off valves. A receiver is incorporated with the housing which performs in conjunction with strategically positioned emergency transmitters which are actuated by personnel in the event of a perceived emergency condition. The transmitters transmit an off-state signal which is responded to by the receiver circuit to vent the pneumatic actuation and enablement system as well as to disenable electrical input to pump motors. The transmitters are polled periodically by the receiver circuit to determine their operational status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Tracey T. Lemmon
  • Patent number: 6684916
    Abstract: A resealable cap for a medicament vial has a base portion formed of vulcanized rubber or like material known for providing a stable environment for the medicament contained within the vial, and a resealable portion overlying the base portion. The resealable portion is made of low-density polyethylene or like material, and can be punctured by a needle or like injection member for dispensing medicament into the vial. Prior to filling, the cap is assembled to the vial and the cap/vial assembly is sterilized. Then, a needle is inserted through the cap and medicament is introduced through the needle and into the vial. Upon withdrawal of the needle, the penetrated region of the cap is fused by laser or direct heat sealing to hermetically seal the needle hole in the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Medical Instill Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Py
  • Publication number: 20030234061
    Abstract: A spill-proof pour spout for transferring fluid from a container to a vessel comprising a base having an inner sleeve extending outwardly therefrom, a conduit member located in the inner sleeve, and an outer sleeve slidingly engaging the inner sleeve. The conduit member has a fluid tube, and air tube and an end cap. The outer sleeve is in a first closed position wherein the outer sleeve contacts the end cap preventing fluid flow from the pour spout. The pour spout can only be opened by rotating the outer sleeve to a first or second indexing position. By rotating the outer sleeve either clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the inner sleeve, the outer sleeve is adapted to be slid to a first open position permitting fluid to flow at a first flow rate through the fluid tube and out of the pour spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: John Trippi
  • Patent number: 6641000
    Abstract: A fuel conduction system is provided for conducting fuel between a fuel source and a fuel consuming device which are either integrated as a single unit or apart as separate units. The system generally comprises concentric supply and return tubes for connection between the fuel source and the pump of a consuming device. A valve is positioned in series with the supply line which prevents siphoning of the contents of the supply line if it is damaged. Anti-siphoning and flashback arrest measures are also provided on the return line. In one embodiment, the fuel conduction system may be used on a portable fuel storage devices for refueling various consuming devices. In another embodiment, the fuel conduction system may be used on a fuel consuming device, between the pump and fuel storage container thereon, so that the fuel storage container may be selectively separated from the device in a safe manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jack Lange
  • Patent number: 6634396
    Abstract: The object of this invention is to improve safety by preventing the leakage of liquid caused by the internal pressure of a container. A liquid path plug in which a pipe is provided in the lid section of the plug, and a gas path plug which does not have a pipe are attached to openings of the container. The engaging groove section is formed on the end surface of the liquid path cap which closes the through hole provided in the liquid path plug section of the liquid path plug. The engaging protrusion section and the engaging hole section are formed on the end surface of the gas path cap which is provided in the gas path plug section of the gas path plug and closes the through hole. The gas path cap is detached by engaging the engaging pin of the detaching fixture on the engaging hole section of the gas path cap and by turning the gas path cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Surpass Industry Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshihiko Ozawa
  • Patent number: 6626213
    Abstract: A dispenser device for refrigerated drinks (carbonated or not) for domestic refrigerators, the drinks being drawn from containers (bottles and vessels in general) removably coupled to the device and dispensed via valve means forming part of the device, said device comprising a removable component to be connected to the container and forming part of a pneumatic path valve-controlled between the atmosphere and the container, said dispensing valve means being linearly movable against elastic means, both the valving control of the pneumatic path and the operation of the valve means being effected by a single mechanical control member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Marco Maritan, Armando Luisi, Carlo Bianchi
  • Patent number: 6622757
    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 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventors: Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas
  • Patent number: 6619344
    Abstract: A device for filling an ink cartridge, particularly a refilling device for filling ink cartridges of ink-jet systems, such as printers and plotters, or other automatic registering, writing or drawing apparatus, includes a refilling container and an ink cartridge connected through an adaptor and arranged essentially one above the other in the filling position. The adaptor has at least two connections for the refilling container and the cartridge to be connected. A separate ink reservoir is arranged in the ink cartridge, wherein the ink reservoir of the ink cartridge and/or the filling container of the refilling container includes an easily deformable bag, and wherein the reservoir bag and/or container bag are of a flexible, elastic material. A hermetically sealed cartridge space is formed between the cartridge housing and the separate ink reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: J. S. Staedtler GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Volker Schönfelder, Günther Tandler, Thomas Bothe
  • Patent number: 6612345
    Abstract: An apparatus for replenishing paint into a paint cartridge (25), which is capable of putting paint in respiratory circulation while the cartridge is in a waiting state. The apparatus includes a replenishing valve (61) which is capable of feeding paint to and from a paint chamber (30) of the paint cartridge (25) which is set on a replenishing stool (52), and a respiratory paint circulation valve (91) which is capable of feeding paint-extruding thinner to and from a thinner chamber (31) of the cartridge. After switching the replenishing valve (61) to a drain or discharge side, paint-extruding thinner is supplied from the respiratory paint circulation valve (91) to push paint out of the paint chamber (30) of the cartridge (25). Then, after switching the replenishing valve (61) to the side of a paint supply source, paint-extruding thinner is discharged by way of the respiratory paint circulation valve (91) to suck paint into the paint chamber (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: ABB K.K.
    Inventors: Toshio Hosoda, Tomoaki Takeda, Shinji Tani, Kimio Toda, Takanobu Mori, Isamu Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6581851
    Abstract: A nozzle is provided which includes a nozzle body having a proximal end and an insertion end and defining an inlet orifice at the proximal end thereof and an outlet orifice at the insertion end thereof. The nozzle body is adapted to be attached at the proximal end thereof to an opening of a container and to be inserted at the insertion end thereof into an opening of a receiving vessel for dispensing a first fluid from the container into the receiving vessel from the inlet orifice to the outlet orifice thereof. The nozzle further includes a venting device connected to the nozzle body and defining a vent discharge opening for venting a second fluid from the receiving vessel into the container through the vent discharge opening such that the second fluid is vented through the vent discharge opening of the venting device without traversing the first fluid in the container substantially during an entire time for a dispensing of the first fluid from the container into the receiving vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Michael J. Murphy
  • Patent number: 6581654
    Abstract: A pneumatic control head for controlling the supply of a product into a container via a filling head. A manifold has a pilot air duct. A start valve outputs main air to the pilot air duct when actuated by a mechanical switch. A pilot valve activates a cylinder using the main air in response to air pressure in the pilot air duct. A filling head source valve routs either sensing air or blow down air to a filling head output in response to the condition of a blow down valve actuated by a mechanical switch. An overpressure valve exhausts the pilot air duct in response to the sensing air having a pressure higher than normal. The switches each includes a ball bearing captured by a collar. An external cam pushes the ball bearing into the collar, causing the ball bearing to actuate the respective valve. Duct connections to valves are implemented by a single machined plate with a depression that overlaps the duct aperture and valve opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: HealthStar, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Goldie, Scot LaMar
  • Patent number: 6571836
    Abstract: A fill cup is provided for a fluid filter having a housing and an end plate which enclose a filter element. The end plate has an inlet port for receiving unfiltered fluid and an outlet port from which flows filtered fluid. The fill cup includes a base having openings formed therein, a cylindrical rim which surrounds the base, and a hollow tube which extends axially through the base and rim. The tube forms a stub which projects away from the base and which is adapted to be coupled to the outlet port of the filter. The tube also forms a hollow standpipe which is aligned with the stub and which projects away from the base and into an interior of the cup. When the filler cup is mounted on the filter, the cup openings communicate fluid to the inlet ports of the filter, and the hollow tube prevents unfiltered fluid from directly entering into the outlet port and communicates air from the filter to atmosphere as the filter is filled with fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Stephen Russell Ephraim, Daniel Lee Sturm, Brent Charles Naylor, Kurt Joseph Kaliban
  • Patent number: 6554031
    Abstract: A fuel filling system is disclosed for dispensing two fluids to a vehicle, which ensures that a reductant tank is filled during dispensing of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Derek Albert Channing
  • Patent number: 6530399
    Abstract: A system and a method for delivering and metering a fixed volume of liquid, such as a liquid sterilant from a container into a vaporization system. The method for the delivering system includes the steps of sensing a requirement for additional liquid sterilant, determining whether the liquid sterilant to be added is acceptable for use, and delivering the liquid sterilant from a container into an accumulator. The method of metering the liquid sterilant into the vaporization system includes creating a vacuum in a chamber connected to the vaporizer and delivering the liquid sterilant into a vaporizer while continually sensing the flow of the delivery. The metering system maintains a slow, controlled flow in order to achieve efficient vaporization of the liquid sterilant and to provide accurate sensing of the gas/liquid interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Nick Ngoc Nguyen, Ross G. Krogh
  • Patent number: 6520221
    Abstract: A filling nozzle with interception of supply liquids for filling machines, alignable with a container to be filled by liquid, comprising a shutter member (21) and an opening (18) in a hollow body (16), wherein the hollow body (16) is associated on the upper side with a supply system (12) for a liquid to be delivered into the container, the hollow body (16) being displaceable at least between an engaging position, wherein its opening (18) is closed by the shutter member (21), and a disengaging position, wherein the opening (21) is open and the liquid flows into the container, control members (33, 35, 36) being provided for the displacement of the hollow body (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: OCME S.r.l.
    Inventor: Emanuele Gatteschi
  • Patent number: 6520386
    Abstract: A spout for a liquid container, such as a gasoline container, as well as a container equipped with the spout. The spout comprises a fluid passage and a vent passage fluidically parallel with the fluid passage. The fluid passage has an inlet, an outlet, and an S-shaped portion between the inlet and outlet. The vent passage has an inlet adjacent the outlet of the fluid passage. The S-shaped portion of the fluid passage is configured to entrap a liquid therein, causing a liquid lock to form, when a liquid is dispensed through the spout and air is prevented from flowing through the vent passage. In this manner, the spout is capable of preventing the overfilling of a receptacle tank being filled with fluid dispensed from a container equipped with the spout when the fluid level in the receptacle tank blocks the flow of air into the inlet of the vent passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Inventors: David G. Harbaugh, James P. McGee
  • Patent number: 6502607
    Abstract: A fuel tank valve apparatus for use with a fuel tank. The fuel tank apparatus has an inlet neck defining a valve chamber, a valve housing positioned in the valve chamber, a valve positioned to move within the valve housing to regulate flow of liquid fuel into the fuel tank, and a retainer. The inlet neck is attachable to the fuel tank. The valve housing is retained in the inlet neck for communicating with the fuel tank. Connecting the inlet neck to the fuel tank maintains the integrity of the tank and inlet neck material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory P. Brown, Brian Allen Engle
  • Publication number: 20020189710
    Abstract: A fill cup is provided for a fluid filter having a housing and an end plate which enclose a filter element. The end plate has an inlet port for receiving unfiltered fluid and an outlet port from which flows filtered fluid. The fill cup includes a base having openings formed therein, a cylindrical rim which surrounds the base, and a hollow tube which extends axially through the base and rim. The tube forms a stub which projects away from the base and which is adapted to be coupled to the outlet port of the filter. The tube also forms a hollow standpipe which is aligned with the stub and which projects away from the base and into an interior of the cup. When the filler cup is mounted on the filter, the cup openings communicate fluid to the inlet ports of the filter, and the hollow tube prevents unfiltered fluid from directly entering into the outlet port and communicates air from the filter to atmosphere as the filter is filled with fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Applicant: Deere & Company, a Delaware corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Russell Ephraim, Daniel Lee Sturm, Brent Charles Naylor, Kurt Joseph Kaliban
  • Patent number: 6491070
    Abstract: The device comprises a container (1) with a mouth (4′) to which the end of the conduit through which cement falls into the drum (3) of a concrete mixer truck is coupled, said container being fixed and having a trap door (6) for adapting the back part of said drum (3) so that the dust originating from the fall of the cement remains inside sad container (1). Part of the dust goes out through the conduit (9) to a common collector (10) while the other part is suctioned in through a suctioning head (2) formed by a truncated cone-shaped body, the biggest base thereof being coupled to the mouth (3′) for loading the drum (3) and the smallest base leading to a conduit (13) that ends in the common collector (10). The dust is suctioned in from said collector and passed through a container or hopper (22) with filters with the purpose of cleaning and final reception in a tank or common collector (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Juan José Espina Frutos
  • Patent number: 6478058
    Abstract: A pouring spout is described that has sections cut away from the sleeve of the spout contiguous to an exit, as well as a means for setting the maximum distance the inner sleeve can be pushed past the outer sleeve of the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Scepter Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Pears
  • Patent number: 6453953
    Abstract: A flowback method for a product contained in the distribution circuit of a filling machine. The distribution circuit (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) creates an upstream/downstream link between a storage tank for said product and a filling tube (22) that is placed opposite the opening of a receptacle (12) that is to be filled. The method includes a step whereby a closed area around the filling tube (22) is defined by a sealed housing (38). The method further includes a step whereby a circulating liquid is injected into the above-mentioned area under pressure. The liquid passes through an auxiliary port (70), whereupon the product contained in the distribution method (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) flows back in the direction of the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Sidel
    Inventors: Eric Adriansens, Eric Meunier, Rodolphe Saint-Martin
  • Publication number: 20020117233
    Abstract: A disposable lubricating container system including a disposable container, a carrier, a sealing unit and transfer tubes. The carrier rigidly attaches itself to an engine or other machine part and the container attaches to the carrier. The container mates with the carrier to securely hold the container while being easily removed or inserted into the carrier. The sealing unit attaches to a neck portion of the container and serves to provide a fluid transfer system for the lubricating oil or fuel/oil mixture from the container to the engine. Lubricating oil in the container is transfered to an existing oil reservoir, directly to engine components or other machine parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Matthew Kenyon Kellogg
  • Patent number: 6425423
    Abstract: A device for localized containment of extraneous material at and in the vicinity of the interface between a material receiving body (e.g., a reaction vessel) and a material dispensing body (e.g., a powder bin). The device includes a containment chamber and a ventilation system for ventilating the interior of the containment chamber whereby extraneous material at and in the vicinity of the interface between the material receiving body and the material dispensing body is transported to a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Extract Technology Limited
    Inventor: Neil Cocker
  • Publication number: 20020066493
    Abstract: A process is provided for filling an at least partially collapsible container comprising one or more fill and/or dispense apertures. The collapsible container is evacuated prior to refilling the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Timothy Hewlitt, Steven Kelsey, William Maskell, Jerard O'Brien
  • Patent number: 6397908
    Abstract: A light and economical device for dispensing a liquid easily adaptable to bottles of standard format, called fountain or dispenser. The device is in the form of a valve cartridge whereof the opening can be controlled by simple pressure, including elements for being adapted, interchangeable, sealed and for being fixed to one or several types of bottle necks of standardized format, self-contained elements for controlling air intake when the liquid is drawn, self-contained elements for regulating the liquid flow rate, and a receiving and controlling element, securely maintaining the cartridge, and elements for easily controlling the dispensing of liquid either directly, or indirectly when the control device is delayed or when the device is integrated in another complementary system such as a cooling or heating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Yves Büchs
  • Patent number: 6382266
    Abstract: Piping system for chemical liquids, in particular oil products, such as fuels, at least including a double-walled plastic conveyor pipe (3) with an inlet and an outlet, the double-walled pipe (3) having, in the double wall, one or more intermediate spaces extending along the length of the pipe (3), in which the piping system furthermore includes a gas-conveying system which has a gas-suction device which is connected to the intermediate spaces in such a manner that, in operation, gas can be sucked through the intermediate spaces. A piping system of this nature is suitable in particular for underground use at a petrol station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Petrus Johannes Bus
  • Patent number: 6374868
    Abstract: A system is disclosed which includes an insert installed in the fuel filler neck on board a vehicle. The insert ensures that only nozzles dispensing both fuel and reductant are allowed to couple with the filler neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Derek Albert Channing
  • Patent number: 6367518
    Abstract: The present invention provides a waste disposal system through the use of a bag 14 with removable glove members 20, 22, a removable and replaceable splash shield 17, a drain line tube 32, and a refill tube 48 in order to service aircraft lavatories. Through the use of the bag 14, the ramp attendant, the aircraft ramp, baggage and other property on the ramp is protected from contamination with human waste and chemical solutions used to deodorize and sanitize aircraft lavatories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Airworld Tech Corporation
    Inventor: Ricky D. Duncan
  • Patent number: 6347649
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a pair of inputs for determining the pressure within a vapor recovery path. The inputs are positioned about a flow restrictor within the vapor recovery path. The vapor recovery path may include a mounting platform for attaching the pressure sensor and positioning the inputs relative to the flow restrictor. In one embodiment, a vapor sensor may also be positioned within the vapor recovery path. An inlet port and an outlet port direct vapor from the vapor recovery path to a sensor. The inlet and outlet ports are positioned relative to the flow restrictor for forcing the vapor through the sensor. In this embodiment, a common flow restrictor within the vapor recovery path may accommodate both the vapor sensor and the pressure sensor. If vapor is not being returned in the vapor return path properly, the fuel dispenser may set an alarm condition and/or shut down the fuel dispenser operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Pope, William P. Shermer
  • Publication number: 20020005226
    Abstract: A filling nozzle with interception of supply liquids for filling machines, alignable with a container to be filled by liquid, comprising a shutter member (21) and an opening (18) in a hollow body (16), wherein the hollow body (16) is associated on the upper side with a supply system (12) for a liquid to be delivered into the container, the hollow body (16) being displaceable at least between an engaging position, wherein its opening (18) is closed by the shutter member (21), and a disengaging position, wherein the opening (21) is open and the liquid flows into the container, control members (33, 35, 36) being provided for the displacement of the hollow body (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventor: Emanuele Gatteschi
  • Publication number: 20010054452
    Abstract: A ventilation-side floating valve 40 is provided for a fuel tank divided into a main tank part and a sub-tank part through a swelling part. The valve 40 includes an upper casing part 41 in which a float 46, a spring 47 and a retainer 48 are accommodated and a lower casing part 42. In arrangement of the valve 40, the upper casing part 41 is arranged on a central-upper part of the fuel tank above the swelling part. The lower casing part 42 is bent avoid the swelling part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Katsunori Ozaki
  • Patent number: 6325112
    Abstract: A vapor system for a fuel dispenser having at least one vapor sensor placed along a vapor recovery line for determining the amount of captured vapor. The vapor amounts are determined by the sensor at a number of times during the fueling process. These are sent to a control system which compares the amounts and determines whether they are within a predetermined range. Consistent readings indicate that the vapor recovery system is operating correctly. Inconsistent results indicate either a leak within the vapor recovery line, or fuel is being drawn into the vapor recovery line. These problems within the vapor recovery system can be diagnosed and the necessary corrective steps may be implemented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6311742
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing nozzle which is connectable to a fluid reservoir for filling a tank with fuel. The nozzle is provided with a through-flow channel in fluid communication with a spout and with a trigger for operating at least one valve in the through-flow channel for opening and/or closing the through-flow channel. The spout is provided with an output end for delivering fuel and the fuel dispensing nozzle further comprises: an end valve which is movable between an open situation, wherein the end valve opens a through-flow opening for the fuel in the spout, and a closed situation wherein the end valve closes the spout; and a venturi for co-action with level detection means for detecting the fluid level in the tank. The end valve and the venturi are substantially arranged in the downstream end of the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: OPW Fueling Components Europe B.V.
    Inventors: Andreas Jacobus Louis Nusen, Leonardus Henricus Wilhelmus Giesen
  • Patent number: 6302159
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for chemical processing of multiple mixtures is disclosed. The apparatus provides selective purging of a liquid-phase of the mixtures. The apparatus can be used for processing many different types of mixtures under a wide variety of processing conditions, including but not limited to protein digestions, and is particularly well suited for processes requiring solid-liquid contacting. The apparatus includes an array of vessels or wells for containing the mixtures. The wells have openings that generally define a surface. A perforated plate and a film are disposed above the openings of the wells. The film is sandwiched between the perforated plate and the surface defined by the openings of the vessels, covering and sealing the vessels. A probe is used to perforate the film and to pressurize the vessels, which drives liquid out of the wells via through-holes formed in their bottoms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Genomic Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Thomas Ryan, Kevin Auton
  • Patent number: 6289945
    Abstract: A fuel fill pipe assembly for promoting less turbulent flow in a fuel pipe is disclosed. The assembly includes a pipe extending between a first end to a second end wherein said pipe is suitable for receiving a fuel dispensing nozzle. The pipe includes a vent passage positioned on the pipe for providing space for fuel that is entering or has entered the pipe or is leaving the nozzle that is dispensing the fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: William P Haboush, II