With Baffle, Spreader, Displacer, Drip Ring, Filter Or Screen Patents (Class 141/286)
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Patent number: 5603359Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing a material in a container which is exposed to various weather conditions, including rain. The container includes a spreader for distributing the material within the container, as well as a rain shielding member extending from the container for inhibiting the flow of rain along a converging portion of the container. The method includes forming the container having a cover, a sidewall member, a converging portion connected to an outlet portion and a rain shielding member. Thereafter, during a rainfall, the flow of rain is deflected along the cover and the sidewall member away from the converging portion to maintain the converging portion of the container in a substantially dry condition.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1995Date of Patent: February 18, 1997Assignee: CTB, Inc.Inventor: Richard L. Geiser
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Patent number: 5601126Abstract: A vessel for transferring and dispensing liquid which simultaneously recovers essentially all of the vent gas from the vessel being filled with liquid.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1994Date of Patent: February 11, 1997Assignee: UOPInventors: Michael W. Schrepfer, Lee A. Schoon
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Patent number: 5595222Abstract: A fuel cap retainer and gas tank cap for a fuel tank filler tube is disclosed in which the fuel tank filler tube is sealed if the gas tank cap is not properly installed on the fuel cap retainer and when properly installed permits vapor pressure equalization in the fuel cap retainer. A baffle plate extends across the fuel tank filler tube near a distal end of the fuel tank filler tube. The baffle plate has a refueling opening into which a fuel filler nozzle is adapted to be received and a valve opening. A flap valve is spring biased into a closed position sealing the refueling opening. A movable valve element is associated with the valve opening and biased to a closed position in which the valve element seals the valve opening. The movable valve element is shiftable to an open position in which the valve element permits fluid flow through the opening. The gas tank cap has a structural element for holding the movable valve element in the open position only when the gas tank cap is properly installed.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1995Date of Patent: January 21, 1997Assignee: Ford Motor CompanyInventor: Robert H. Thompson
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Patent number: 5590698Abstract: A fill spout that allows you to fill a liquid fuel tank. This design allows you to recapture overfill regardless of ovenrun or overfill running backward up the vent tube in most of today's tanks, thus, helping to prevent petroleum spills.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1995Date of Patent: January 7, 1997Assignee: Gerald WhitleyInventors: Gerald E. Whitley, Mary F. Whitley
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Patent number: 5569375Abstract: A closed filtration system for transporting a liquid from a first container through a filter to a second container by the injection of gas under pressure into the first container. The container's filter and fluid conduit are attached to a common housing. The housing is provided with gas and liquid channels for each container. Ingress and egress tubes extend from the channels into the containers to permit the transfer of liquid from the first container to the second container.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1995Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Inventor: Kent Ridgeway
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Patent number: 5564825Abstract: A mixer for mixing and blending fluids within a vessel includes a passageway through which fluid is dispensed within the vessel and a flow diverter spaced from the passageway. Fluid impinges on the flow diverter and is directed toward the walls of the vessel. The diverter includes holes that produce jets of fluid generally parallel to the walls of the vessel to induce shear and turbulence within the fluid in the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1993Date of Patent: October 15, 1996Assignee: Shrader Canada LimitedInventor: R. Douglas Burt
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Patent number: 5544686Abstract: A dust control system and method for controlling the dust emitted into the atmosphere while dumping grain at a pit at grain elevators. The system includes a plurality of sections, including metering sections with sensing device and dump sections with louvers in each section which are opened and closed in response to predetermined signals. The predetermined signals may be electrically generated or manually applied to ensure that the proper louvers are opened or closed so that the air and dust in the pit does not escape into the atmosphere during the unloading of grain.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Assignee: Agricultural Building Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Ken Kearney
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Patent number: 5538055Abstract: Tank closure with a self-locking closure apparatus arranged at the orifice rim of a pour-in socket-piece. The closure apparatus consists of a closure part and a pour-in opening which is closable by means of the closure part. Between the rim of the opening and a refueling nozzle to be introduced a gas outlet gap remains for the gases which escape when refueling the tank. A guide is provided for reception of the refueling nozzle. In order to free the exiting gases from fluid droplets, it is provided that the guide exhibits a reduced-scale segment closely surrounding the refueling nozzle. Exit openings are provided at the side of the reduced-scale segment which is placed toward the pour-in socket-piece, through which the gases pass out of the guide to the outside. Inlet openings are arranged at the side of the reduced-scale segment which faces away from the tank, through which the gases in the interior of the guide enter.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1995Date of Patent: July 23, 1996Assignee: Temetec Fahrzeugtechnik Entwicklungsgesellschaft MbHInventors: Georg Kunz, Angelika B. M. Temmesfeld
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Patent number: 5529095Abstract: A distribution system for a tobacco press is disclosed which includes a distribution conveyor system 50 and distributor blade assembly that includes a first blade mechanism B and a second blade mechanism C. The blade mechanisms are disposed in upper and lower hopper portions 80a, 80b, and distribute tobacco into a charger 30a. The charger includes a vertical chute 32a and an internal container 34a which inserts into a tobacco container 22a which tobacco is distributed and compressed by means of a press head 12a. First blade mechanism B includes a primary distributor blade 82 which can be moved in both a linear motion and a pivotal motion to primarily control the deflection and distribution of tobacco. Second blade mechanism C may include secondary distributor blades 94 and 96 which, when utilized in combination with primary distributor blade 82, provide for quadrant (a, b, c, d) distribution of tobacco into container 22a.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1995Date of Patent: June 25, 1996Inventors: James D. Felts, Paul R. Sexton
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Patent number: 5526961Abstract: An improved actuator probe assembly is provided for a bottled water station of the type having an actuator probe for engaging and opening a valved bottle cap on an inverted water bottle. The probe assembly comprises an inner support funnel and an outer adapter sleeve retained by a probe fitting in assembled relation with a cover plate adapted for mounting onto a station housing in a position over an upwardly open water reservoir. The support funnel extends downwardly through a central opening in the cover plate and defines a cup-shaped receiver structure for receiving and supporting an inverted water bottle, with the probe fitting positioned at a lower end of the support funnel and including the actuator probe. The adapter sleeve is carried about the support funnel and includes an outwardly radiating diaphragm member for closing the top of the reservoir when the cover plate is installed onto the station housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1995Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Assignee: Ebtech, Inc.Inventor: Bruce D. Burrows
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Patent number: 5507324Abstract: A fuel filling assembly for liquid fuel tanks, especially on boats or the like, includes a fill tube adapted for mounting through a deck and a closure cap preferably hinged over the fill tube opening for selective opening and closing. Preferably, a positioning member allows the closure cap to be mounted in various positions with respect to the fill tube to accommodate various mounting locations on a boat. The fill tube may be angled or straight to further accommodate varied mounting positions. In one version, a separate vent tube joins the fill tube to provide continuous fuel tank venting, pressure equalization and return of fuel overflow to the fuel tank in case of tank overfill. In the vented version, a rigid shield on the closure cap extends over the opening to a vent passageway through the cap to restrict the escape of liquid fuel in the event of fuel surge due to extreme boat movements or the like when the closure cap is closed.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1994Date of Patent: April 16, 1996Assignee: Attwood CorporationInventors: Warwick M. Whitley, II, Donald L. Clark
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Patent number: 5503199Abstract: A fuel filling assembly for liquid fuel tanks, especially on boats or the like, includes a fill tube adapted for mounting through a deck and a closure cap preferably hinged over the fill tube opening for selective opening and closing. Preferably, a positioning member allows the closure cap to be mounted in various positions with respect to the fill tube to accommodate various mounting locations on a boat. The fill tube may be angled or straight to further accommodate varied mounting positions. In one version, a separate vent tube joins the fill tube to provide continuous fuel tank venting, pressure equalization and return of fuel overflow to the fuel tank in case of tank overfill. In the vented version, a flexible valve member on the closure cap closes a vent passageway through the cap in the event of fuel surge due to extreme boat movements or the like when the closure cap is closed.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1994Date of Patent: April 2, 1996Assignee: Attwood CorporationInventors: Warwick M. Whitley, II, Donald L. Clark
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Patent number: 5490545Abstract: A vortex connector system has a connector body with a projection therein to selectively abut one of a plurality of removable inserts. The removable inserts have holes with different sizes, shapes, patterns, depths, and numbers in order to allow observation of how such variations affect the vortex effect and/or flow rate of fluid between plastic bottles connected by the connector body.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1994Date of Patent: February 13, 1996Assignee: Michael D. SokoloffInventors: Michael D. Sokoloff, Randy A. Johnson
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Patent number: 5474113Abstract: A can filling machine having an improved mechanism to prevent overfill of the can. The machine includes a group of filling heads mounted on a rotatable turntable, and each head includes an outer tubular housing having an open upper end that communicates with a reservoir of the liquid, such as a beverage, which is intended to introduced into the can. A can is moved upwardly and is sealed against a cylindrical tulip that is mounted outwardly of the housing. A fill tube is mounted concentrically within the housing and the space between the fill tube and the housing defines an annular flow chamber for the liquid. Located concentrically within the fill tube is an air vent tube and the lower end of the air vent tube communicates with the can. The lower end of the fill tube carries a valve which is adapted to engage a valve seat on the lower end of the housing. Located in the lower end of the annular flow chamber is a stack of horizontal discs which are spaced vertically apart.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1994Date of Patent: December 12, 1995Assignee: H & K Machine, Inc.Inventors: Friedrich Rademacher, Scott D. Mau
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Patent number: 5469898Abstract: A gas tank evacuator (10) comprises an evacuator housing (12) into which a neck (80) of a gas tank (82) can be screwed and an elongated valve-removal rod (14) for slidably passing through the evacuator housing and engaging and unscrewing a stem-actuated valve (88) of the gas tank. An elongated valve actuator pin (18) slidably passes through the valve-removal rod to extend from lower and upper ends of the valve-removal rod for independently actuating the stem-actuated valve. The valve-removal rod is moved longitudinally by a valve-removal-rod lever (16) which is pivotally attached to the evacuator housing and valve-removal rod by pivot links (60). The valve-removal-rod lever is pivoted on the evacuator housing to drive a valve-engaging device at a lower end of the valve-removal rod into engagement with the-stem-actuated valve of the gas tank for its removal from the gas tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1995Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Inventor: Michael C. Campbell
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Patent number: 5437655Abstract: A burette top vent which resists air blockage includes a peripherally skirted cap having a generally planar circular base transfixed by a short integral tube having an upper portion to which tubing from a source of fluid may be attached and a lower portion from which fluid can drip into the burette. The base is perforated by an array of arcuate slots that permit air to enter the burette, and the bottom surface of the base has a shallow annular relief intersecting the slots. A ring-shaped hydrophobic filter disk hermetically affixed beneath the relief. The relief prevents the filter disk from lying flush against the bottom surface of the base.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1993Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: B. Braun Medical Inc.Inventor: Joel Bartholomew
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Patent number: 5431205Abstract: A dispensing system for bottled liquids includes a bottle cap having a slide valve biased by a spring to a closed position. The cap includes internal threads and an internal groove for engagement with both threaded and snap-on type closure bottles. A valve actuator includes a breather ring having a skirt provided with a gasket for sealing engagement with a rim of a crock. An air filter connected to the breather ring forms an airway for venting ambient air into the crock and bottle. A bottle neck seal having an internal frusto-conical seat portion includes an annular stepped outer surface for engagement with a complementary formed internal stepped surface on the breather ring. A valve actuating funnel includes a flared end portion terminating in an annular flange secured by screws to the breather ring. A tubular extension of the funnel extending downwardly within the crock terminates in a floor provided with a plurality of circumferentially-spaced liquid outlet ports.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1993Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Inventor: Albert W. Gebhard
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Patent number: 5421380Abstract: A gas tank evacuator (10) comprises an evacuator housing (12) into which a neck (80) of a gas tank (82) can be screwed and an elongated valve-removal rod (14) for slidably passing through the evacuator housing and engaging and unscrewing a stem-actuated valve (88) of the gas tank. An elongated valve actuator pin (18) slidably passes through the valve-removal rod to extend from lower and upper ends of the valve-removal rod for independently actuating the stem-actuated valve. The valve-removal rod is moved longitudinally by a valve-removal-rod lever (16) which is pivotally attached to the evacuator housing and valve-removal rod by pivot links (60). The valve-removal-rod lever is pivoted on the evacuator housing to drive a valve-engaging device at a lower end of the valve-removal rod into engagement with the stem-actuated valve of the gas tank for its removal from the gas tank.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1994Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Inventor: Michael C. Campbell
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Patent number: 5421379Abstract: A method and apparatus for distributing granular material within a container. The apparatus includes a base member for uniformly distributing the granular material within the container by absorbing momentum from the inflow of the granular material. The method includes forming at least two flow paths for the inflow of granular material and then changing the flow of granular material through each of the flow paths to cause a substantially even distribution of granular material within the container.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1993Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Assignee: CTB Inc.Inventor: Richard L. Geiser
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Patent number: 5417255Abstract: A row of open top containers travelling on a conveyor is purged of oxygen by passing the containers along a gas distribution manifold disposed parallel to the direction of travel of the containers. The manifold includes at least one region of lower flow resistance disposed parallel to the direction of travel, for supplying a higher velocity inert gas flushing stream continuously and at substantially steady state to the containers. The manifold also includes at least one region of higher flow resistance disposed parallel to the direction of travel, for supplying a lower velocity inert gas region along the containers, continuously and at substantially steady state. As the containers pass along the manifold, the inert flushing gas steadily removes oxygen from the containers, while the lower velocity inert gas region prevents the flushing gas from drawing in air.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1993Date of Patent: May 23, 1995Inventors: James J. Sanfilippo, John E. Sanfilippo
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Patent number: 5385179Abstract: A method is provided for installing a nozzle restrictor assembly in a fuel filler tube. The method comprises the steps of attaching a restrictor plate to an inner surface of the fuel filler tube, coating the restrictor plate and the fuel filler tube, and inserting a closure plate through a first slot formed in the restrictor plate so that the closure plate is positioned to block the opening. A nozzle restrictor assembly is also provided which comprises a restrictor plate sized for insertion into a fuel filler tube and a mechanism for selectively closing an opening formed in the restrictor plate upon withdrawal of a fuel filler nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1993Date of Patent: January 31, 1995Assignee: Pilot Industries, Inc.Inventors: Dale Bates, Daniel N. Smith, Richard F. Little
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Patent number: 5381836Abstract: A system for delivery of volatile liquid drugs as supplied to a patient by an anaesthetic vaporizer comprises a supply container (2) and a vaporizer (32) which includes a sump. Each of the supply container and the vaporizer is provided with a valve assembly (6, 34) which, when closed, prevent passage of fluid from the supply container into the sump. The supply container and the sump are connected to one another by means of a bayonet connection, which is made when indexing elements on the containers correspond. The valve assemblies in the containers are opened when the containers are connected to one another by means of an insert (40) located within an inlet conduit (10) linking the two containers.The inlet conduit (10) is rotatable between lowered and raised positions, to open a valve (37) by which flow of fluid into and out of a reservoir for fluid in the sump can be controlled.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1993Date of Patent: January 17, 1995Assignee: The BOC Group plcInventors: Robert E. Braatz, Raymond S. Gregory, Robert A. Heaton, Keith Whitaker, David C. Sampson
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Patent number: 5375631Abstract: A core-material container constituted of a container main body whose opening is covered with a sheet-like lid member made of an air-permeable material. In order to charge powder core material through a core-material charging inlet uniformly as well as densely, the charging operation of the core material is carried out in the following manner: housing the core material container in a housing space formed by a positioning guide and a plate member; releasing air from a suction outlet, thereby making the core-material charging inlet adhere around a nozzle; releasing air located inside a sealed space enclosed by an upper frame and a lower frame through an air outlet; and charging the core material through the nozzle while evacuating the core material container. Thus, the core material is uniformly charged by air flows caused by the air release, and the charge is densely carried out since air contained in the core material is removed.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1993Date of Patent: December 27, 1994Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hitoshi Mochizuki
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Patent number: 5375633Abstract: A fuel filler pipe assembly is provided which controls the release of fuel vapors from a vehicle fuel tank so as to limit the amount of fuel vapor released into the atmosphere. The assembly includes an outer tube which is partitioned into two conduits--one for carrying fuel to the vehicle's fuel tank and the other for carrying fuel vapors to an on board vapor capture device. Passage of fuel vapors to the vapor capture device is controlled by a valve which itself is controlled by the attachment and detachment of a fuel filler cap to the assembly such that attachment of the cap causes the valve to close while detachment causes it to open. In certain preferred embodiments, the assembly includes a second valve for preventing the passage of substantial quantities of liquid fuel to the vapor capture device.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1990Date of Patent: December 27, 1994Assignee: Whitehead Engineered Products, Inc.Inventor: George H. Bucci
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Patent number: 5365985Abstract: A vapor guard mounted on a gasoline dispenser nozzle includes a collapsible resilient section which provides a limited expansion force enabling the use of a standard gasoline dispenser retainer spring to catch on the vehicle fill pipe flange for hands-free fuel dispensing and straight-pull removal. The expansion force of the collapsible resilient section also is limited to ensure the existence of non-sealing contact between the end of the vapor guard and the fill pipe flange. The vapor guard is sized and positioned on the dispenser to enable the user to see the end of the nozzle as it is inserted into the vehicle fill pipe and aligned with a nozzle port in a restricter plate located in the fill pipe.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1993Date of Patent: November 22, 1994Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.Inventors: John A. Todd, William H. Constantine
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Patent number: 5360040Abstract: A fuel tank having a fuel filler pipe, the filler pipe having a first end receiving fuel and a second end communicating with the interior of the tank; and a pervious conduit attached to the second end and extending into the tank below the fuel surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1993Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Assignee: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: John E. Thorn, Daniel R. Clayton
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Patent number: 5332012Abstract: Apparatus for delivering flowable bulk material such as grain, substantially free of dust into a receptacle, such as a vehicle, wherein the grain is delivered through a filter assembly to a chute which can be elongated and contracted and which has a lower end for connection to the vehicle. The filter assembly is also capable of assuming elongated and contracted states in order to confer a greater free height below the lower end of the chute. The filter assembly is formed with an outside filter housing capable of being elongated and contracted and within the filter housing is a suction chamber downstream of which, one or more filter bags are provided to separate dust from suctioned air. The filter bags can be constructed to prevent radial and longitudinal collapse thereof, as well as to undergo contraction when the chute and filter housing are contracted. An inlet pipe can be provided within the bag to convey the grain to the chute and in the contracted state the chute surrounds the inlet tube.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1993Date of Patent: July 26, 1994Assignee: Th. Rasmussen Molle - Og Maskinbyggeri A/SInventor: Borge Svendsen
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Patent number: 5323819Abstract: An overhead vacuum assembly for recovering, storing and dispensing flowable packaging material including a flexible storage bag having an open upper end for receiving flowable packaging material, a dispensing valve mounted at the lower end of the bag, a liner or frame for maintaining the perimeter shape of the flexible bag, a cover mounted at the open upper end of the flexible bag, a fan motor assembly, including a filter, mounted to the cover for creating a vacuum in the bag and a hose mounted to the cover. The filter acts as a deflector to evenly distribute the loose fill throughout the bag during the recovery process. The cover may have a pyramidal shape and tear-away panels for ease of maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Inventor: Charles L. Shade
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Patent number: 5320148Abstract: A retaining clip which maintains the bellows on a vapor recovery liquid dispensing system in a retracted position while fuel is pumped from the fueling tube of the vapor recovery liquid dispensing nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1993Date of Patent: June 14, 1994Inventor: Joseph Asciutto
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Patent number: 5316056Abstract: An apparatus for transferring powder from a bulk supply to a container comprising a first conduit 4 extending from a bulk supply 2 to the container 25, a second conduit 8 enabling the introduction of a purge gas into the container, a third conduit 28 enabling displaced gas to discharge from the container, a source of suction 17 communicating with the third conduit, a filter 13 through which passes the displaced gas, and an inflatable annulus 23 made of flexible material disposed round the conduits and adapted to enter into enter into engagement with the wall of the container.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1992Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Assignee: L. E. Stott LimitedInventor: Leslie Stott
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Patent number: 5314121Abstract: A discharge device for reducing foaming of liquid flowing from a conduit (3) into a body of liquid. The discharge device (3) contains at least a porous permeable body (6) including a core (12) and an annular layer (15). To cause during normal operation liquid to leave the porous permeable body (6) in the form of a liquid bell (18) the resistance to flow through the porous permeable body (6) in the direction of its central longitudinal axis (9) is larger than the resistance to flow through the porous permeable body (6) in lateral direction towards the side surface (17) of the porous permeable body.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1991Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Grahame Y. Buss, Wai L. Loh
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Patent number: 5309961Abstract: Nozzles for filler pipes employed in packaging machines of the type which meter a certain quantity of contents, e.g. milk, into individual packages which are advanced stepwise and placed beneath the nozzle of the filler pipe. In order to avoid frothing of the contents, of the nozzle is manufactured from flexible material and includes one or more transverse rigidifying ribs which are of substantially triangular cross sectional configuration and which define two or more separate outlets. The outlets are covered by flaps which are opened by the contents when the contents are caused, with the aid of a metering pump, to flow out through the filler pipe so that the flow of contents is divided and directed towards the vertical walls of the package via which the contents flow down to the bottom of the package with a considerably reduced risk of frothing and spatter as a result.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1993Date of Patent: May 10, 1994Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.Inventors: Rickard Franke, Bengt Bengtsson
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Patent number: 5299605Abstract: A vapor recovery system for a fuel filling installation in which the recovered air-vapor mixture is pumped to the submerged end of a discharge pipe. The discharge pipe is connected to a closed tube which extends along the bottom of an underground fuel tank. The closed tube has a porosity that generates very small bubbles from the air-vapor mixture that flows through the fuel within the tank. A vent pipe for the underground tank separates air from the air-vapor mixture through decreasing density separation by means of a large cross-section for the vent pipe and by providing baffles in the pipe interior.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1992Date of Patent: April 5, 1994Assignee: Nuovopignone-Industrie Meccaniche e Fonderia SpAInventors: Giorgio Bergamini, Ernesto Paris
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Patent number: 5295522Abstract: A reusable isolation enclosure has a closure member adapted for purging gases from the enclosure. The closure member includes filters and vapor and moisture drains. Replacement of ambient environmental gases in the sealed enclosure is provided. A purge gas is provided by the gas replacement system which quickly connects to the enclosure and quickly disconnects from the enclosure. Suction cups surrounding the ends of gas connection lines form the interface to the filter membrane and form a sealed connection with the closure member. No other mechanical connection than the suction cups is required. The outlets and inlets of the purging system and the exhausting system are automatically disconnected by a spring valve when the isolation container to be purged is removed. When the closure member of the isolation enclosure is placed upon the purge system the weight of the package compresses the valve spring opening the valves, permitting the purge gas to flow.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1992Date of Patent: March 22, 1994Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Robert L. DeAngelis, Gary M. Gallagher
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Patent number: 5284187Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for treating powdered coal in a solid-fuel injection installation. Such an installation comprises a powdered coal storage bunker, at least one lock connected to the circuit for pneumatically transporting the coal, at least one filtering screen connected between each lock and the bunker, a pressurized inert-gas source for pressurizing each lock and forming the pneumatically propelled flow of the coal and a circuit for pressure-equalizing and depressurizing each lock through a filter. According to the present invention, the major portion of the inert gas for depressurizing each lock is subjected to a filtering operation before being injected through the bottom of the storage bunker into the mass of coal and being discharged through a filter at the top of the bunker. The residual portion of the inert depressurizing gas is shunted directly towards the top of the storage bunker. The present invention also relates to a device for implementing the method.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1992Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Assignee: Paul Wurth S.A.Inventor: Louis Schmit
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Patent number: 5280813Abstract: A system and method for loading particulate material into a dispenser. This system includes a dispenser for receiving and dispensing particulate material, and a deflection assembly to deflect particulate material fed into the dispenser. The deflection assembly is located adjacent an inlet of the dispenser, and includes a deflection cone and a plurality of outside fins or ribs. In use, a supply of a particulate material is directed onto the deflection cone, and this cone and the ribs connected thereto then direct that material outward and around the interior of the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1992Date of Patent: January 25, 1994Assignee: Kraft General Foods Canada Inc.Inventor: Miles Jackson
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Patent number: 5275213Abstract: A liquid fuel tank filling and venting device including a hollow body member containing a chamber, an inlet opening for supplying fuel downwardly into the chamber, a fuel outlet opening for supplying fuel from the chamber, and an overflow opening connected with the chamber, each of the fuel outlet and overflow outlets being independently connected with the fuel tank, whereby overflow fuel is returned to the chamber via the overflow outlet. A fuel cap is provided for closing the inlet opening, the fuel cap containing a vent passageway including a removably mounted filter, so that the tank is continuously vented to atmosphere when the fuel cap is in either the open or closed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1993Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignee: Perko, Inc.Inventor: Frederick M. Perkins
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Patent number: 5255721Abstract: A liquid spillage control apparatus is disclosed having a liquid holding chamber divided by a partition into a liquid transfer portion and a liquid retaining portion. A liquid spill transfer pipe connects the fuel holding chamber with a liquid tank. Overflow liquid passes through the liquid spill transfer pipe and the liquid transfer portion, over the partition and into the liquid retaining portion of the liquid holding chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1993Date of Patent: October 26, 1993Inventor: Randolf W. Brand
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Patent number: 5253682Abstract: A gas delivery apparatus which includes a vehicle fitted with multiple compressed gas cylinders, each provided with a free piston, along with a separate liquid reservoir cylinder, for sequentially displacing the gas located on one side of the free piston in each of the gas cylinders with liquid from the reservoir introduced on the opposite side of the free piston and relocating the free piston disposed in each gas cylinder by residual gas pressure.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1991Date of Patent: October 19, 1993Inventors: Carl E. Haskett, John M. Cobb
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Patent number: 5247970Abstract: A method for filling particulate material into a vertical tube includes conveying the particles downwardly into the tube along a line with a damper in the form of a series of damper brushes each arranged substantially transversely to the line and having a radial extension less than the inner diameter of the tube. The line is pulled up gradually as the tube is filled with particles. The damper can be in the form of brushes that are flexible so that they give or yield gradually when the particles fall down thereon. A wire can be used as the line, to which is fastened a series of substantially equidistant transversely extending brushes, preferably in the form of springs.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1992Date of Patent: September 28, 1993Assignee: Norsk Hydro a.s.Inventors: Gunne Ryntveit, Kjell R. Bayer
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Patent number: 5238035Abstract: An apparatus for filling a receptacle with a divided solid product by a dispersion head comprises plates which rotate about an axis dispersing into the receptacle at various distances from the axis particles of the solid product which flow over the plates.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1991Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Assignee: Institut Francais du PetroleInventors: Bernard Poussin, Daniel Lumbroso
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Patent number: 5238036Abstract: An adapter for a gasoline pump nozzle which is equipped with a gasoline fume return hose that extends over the rigid tubular portion of the nozzle. The hose has an outer open end which is normally aligned with the other open end of the rigid tube. The hose is resiliently compressible so that the outer end of the hose can be moved relative to the tube beyond a protuberance on the tube which is located between the outer end of the tube and the housing of the nozzle. The housing contains a valve in a trigger mechanism and a control mechanism which prevents the valve from being opened by the trigger mechanism when the hose is in its extended state but is effective to enable the valve to be opened by the trigger mechanism when the hose is compressed. The adapter has a handle in a main body portion which contains a slot in an outer opening to the slot.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1992Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Inventor: Eugene B. Bunce
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Patent number: 5232028Abstract: A drop tube/adapter unit, mounted on the riser pipe of a fuel storage tank, defines a fuel inlet path and an annular vapor return path during a loading operation. A vapor valve, provided in the vapor return path, prevents escape of vapors when a loading operation is not taking place. The drop tube is mounted for universally pivotal movement relative to a vapor valve member thereon, so that the vapor valve will reliably close, if the riser tube is out of plumb. A spring urges the drop tube, valve member to a closed position through a spring support. A stop means engages the spring support and precompress this spring, with the spring support positioned to facilitate its attachment to the adapter. The spring support is attached to the adapter by a threaded connection, comprising a threaded portion at the lower end of the adapter. This threaded portion is interrupted by a recess which positions a ring for sealing the adapter to the upper end of the riser pipe, when the adapter is threaded onto the riser pipe.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1992Date of Patent: August 3, 1993Assignee: Dover CorporationInventors: Charles A. Sunderhaus, David R. Pendleton
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Patent number: 5219006Abstract: The discovery of the present invention includes method and apparatus for a strainer funnel with means for supporting itself over a wide variety of receptacles. The method and apparatus for a new and improved strainer funnel aid a cook in separating liquids from solids. The new and improved strainer funnel of the present invention comprises: a bowl, a strainer, a funnel in the lower portion of the bowl and support means attached to the bowl such that the bowl is adequately supported if placed on a flat surface and on top of a receptacle being used to collect the liquids passing through the funnel. The method includes providing an improved strainer funnel and using it to separate liquids from solids.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1992Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Inventor: Bonnie L. Bishop
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Patent number: 5217053Abstract: A vacuum storage cassette for semiconductor wafers has one or more valves to allow the cassette to be evacuated, backfilled, and opened to the surround atmosphere and resealed without the need for a vacuum load-lock chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1992Date of Patent: June 8, 1993Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventors: Leonard W. Foster, Edwin G. Millis
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Patent number: 5190084Abstract: A filling element for filling machines is provided and includes a liquid flow valve, which comprises a valve body that can be moved back and forth in a filling element axis between a position that closes the liquid flow valve off and a position that opens this valve. Also provided is an electrical probe for determining filling heights of liquid material in containers. The probe includes a first probe element that projects beyond the underside of the filling element and has an electrode, and a second probe element that at least partially surrounds at least part of the first probe element. The lower end of the second probe element is spaced further from the underside of the filling element than is the first probe element.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1991Date of Patent: March 2, 1993Assignee: Seitz Enzinger Noll Maschinebau AktiengesellschaftInventors: Egbert Diehl, Karl Lorenz, Helmut Graff, Bernd Link, Ludwig Clusserath, Klaus Kaiser
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Patent number: 5186221Abstract: A fuel vapor filter (10) for use with a fuel nozzle (22) for filtering fuel-entrained vapor (60) displaced from a fuel tank and a fuel tank fill tube (18) during refueling. The filter (10) comprises a housing (12) containing a filter (14). An external boot (16) encloses the fill tube (18) during refueling. A splash shield (46) prevents splashing of liquid fuel on the filter housing (12). The filter (10) of the present invention protects people and the environment by preventing the escape of fuel-entrained vapor from the fuel tank during refueling.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1991Date of Patent: February 16, 1993Inventor: James E. Ellis
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Patent number: 5186222Abstract: A liquid spillage control apparatus contains liquid from overfilling of a liquid tank and allows venting of volatile vapors. A liquid spill transfer pipe allows passage of liquid overflow into the liquid holding chamber. A liquid drain pipe communicates with the liquid spill transfer pipe in the liquid holding chamber and drains liquid of a predetermined level or greater out of the liquid holding chamber through the liquid spill transfer pipe. A liquid-buoyant drain pipe sealing means closes the liquid drain pipe when the liquid level in the liquid drain pipe reaches the liquid drain pipe inlet. An orifice in the bottom of the liquid holding chamber allows draining of liquids and solids heavier than the liquid from the liquid holding chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1991Date of Patent: February 16, 1993Inventor: Randolf W. Brand
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Patent number: 5163488Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the presentation in superposed layers of liquids of different densities, particularly liquid foodstuffs, essentially constituted by a body (1) adapted to be mounted on a glass (2), to be filled, and having a receptacle (3) for reception of the liquids, on the side opposite that bearing on the glass (2), characterized in that it is provided with a spherical float (4) coming into contact with the liquid in the glass (2) and connected to a rod (5) guided in a discharge channel (6) of the receptacle (3) for reception of the liquids in the direction of the glass (2), arranged in the body (1) and opening into said receptacle (3), this rod (5) being provided at its end opposite the float (4) with a stop forming simultaneously a manipulable handle (7).Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1990Date of Patent: November 17, 1992Inventor: Armand Basch
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Patent number: 5131439Abstract: A system for controlling the release of fuel vapors and liquid fuel from a vehicle fuel tank is provided. The system includes: 1) a cap-controlled valve assembly which conducts fuel vapors to an on-board vapor capture device and which opens when the tank's fuel filler cap is removed or when the pressure in the fuel tank exceeds a predetermined value and which closes when the filler cap is replaced; 2) a first, normally-closed, flapper door and a flapper-door/fuel-nozzle seal, both of which are located in the region of the mouth of the vehicle's filler pipe, above the level at which fuel vapors pass into the cap-controlled valve assembly; 3) a second, normally-closed, flapper door and a flapper-door seal, both of which are located below the level at which fuel vapors pass into the cap-controlled valve assembly; and 4) a vent conduit which connects the fuel tank to the filler pipe assembly at a level between the first and second flapper doors.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1991Date of Patent: July 21, 1992Assignee: Whitehead Engineered Products, Inc.Inventor: George H. Bucci