Plural Valved Passages Patents (Class 141/302)
  • 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: 6308752
    Abstract: In a filler, a preliminary substitution in which a carbonate gas within a storage tank is substituted into a vessel interior takes place by opening a first gas discharge valve and a first gas valve, followed by a proper substitution in which a genuine carbonate gas in a chamber is substituted into the vessel interior by opening a second gas valve and the first gas discharge valve while closing the first gas valve, and subsequently followed by a pressurization in which the vessel interior is pressurized to the same pressure as in the storage tank by opening the second gas valve while closing the first gas discharge valve. Subsequently, a liquid valve is opened as the second gas valve is closed and the first gas valve is opened to fill the vessel with a liquid while discharging the genuine carbonate gas in the vessel into the storage tank. In this manner, a filling operation can take place while a carbonate gas of a higher concentration than the conventional practice is substituted into the vessel interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Tsukano, Katsunori Tanigawa
  • Patent number: 6293316
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling with powder a container having an interior and an opening to the interior that is closable by a lid. The method includes the steps of docking the opening in the container with a transfer apparatus including a powder-feed duct and dropping a coupling tube vertically downwardly through the duct to communicate with the interior of the container. The powder is passed vertically downwardly through said transfer apparatus downstream from the powder-feed duct through the coupling tube to said container, with the coupling tube serving to protect internal mechanical parts of said transfer apparatus. During the transfer, a low level of suction is maintained inside the transfer apparatus to avoid any accumulation of the powder and any release of the powder outside the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Compagnie Generale des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: GĂ©rard Bertolotti, Bernard Defontaine
  • Publication number: 20010013381
    Abstract: A vent and fluid transfer fitment for sealing and transferring a fluid from an inverted fluid-filled container without premature leakage to a receiver attachment, has a transfer check valve and a venting check valve which are preferably duckbill valves. The transfer check valve is attached to the fitment for allowing fluid to be transferred from the container when the receiver attachment engages the transfer check valve. The venting check valve is also attached to the fitment for allowing air to displace the fluid as the fluid exits the container, wherein both the transfer check valve and the venting check valve have an inherent sealing pressure created by the static pressure of the fluid within the container. In addition, the inherent sealing pressure of the venting check valve is less than the inherent sealing pressure of the transfer check valve which allows air to enter the container due to the pressure differential created as the fluid is displaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Inventors: Phillip Gene Nagel, James Christopher Bailey, Gordon Edgar Atkinson, Arnold George Benecke
  • Patent number: 6253802
    Abstract: An electronic onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system including an electrically operated ORVR valve that selectively opens and closes a fuel vapor path between a fuel tank and a collection canister. An electronic control circuit generates control signals to selectively open and close the ORVR valve. The electronic control circuit receives one or more inputs from one or a plurality of sensors and evaluates the one or more inputs to determine whether to activate the ORVR valve. The sensor inputs include at least a sensor indicating fuel is being introduced into the filler neck and may also include at least a sensor indicating a fuel level within the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor L. Enge
  • Patent number: 6253800
    Abstract: A paint cartridge replenisher (51) is constituted by a replenishing stool (52) having a feed tube passage hole (56) and a container support portion (57), a connector member (59) connectable to and communicable with a fore distal end of a feed tube (28), and a replenishing valve (61) operative to turn on and off paint supply from a paint source to the connector member (59). A paint cartridge (25) is set on the container support portion (57), thereby passing the feed tube (28) into the feed tube passage hole (56) on the side of the replenishing stool and bringing a fore distal end portion of the feed tube (28) into fitting engagement with the connector member (59). In this state, the replenishing valve (61) is opened, whereupon paint is supplied from the paint source to the connector member (59) and replenished into the container (26) of the paint cartridge (25), utilizing the opening at the fore distal end of the feed tube as a replenishing port of the paint cartridge (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: ABB K.K.
    Inventors: Osamu Yoshida, Hidetsugu Matsuda, Toshio Hosoda
  • Patent number: 6250347
    Abstract: An automatic fueling system containing a fueling machine having a nozzle mechanism comprising an injection pipe with a nozzle insertion sensor thereon, and a plurality of fueling nozzles contained in the injection pipe, each for dispensing a predetermined sort of fuel, and a fuel port sensor; and a data input/output unit for performing a signal transmission to and from the fueling machine; wherein the insertion of one of the nozzles is carried out to an automobile to be fueled having a signal generator thereon by the movement of the fueling machine based on the signal transmission between the fuel port sensor and the signal generator, and the fueling is suspended by the detection of a required level of fueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Tatsuno Corporation
    Inventor: Hiyoshi Tatsuno
  • Patent number: 6230739
    Abstract: A fuel refilling assembly for receiving a filling nozzle to open and close a filler neck of a fuel tank. The refilling assembly has a housing attached to the filler neck to receive the filling nozzle. A valve body is mounted to the housing and moves between seated and unseated positions to equalize the pressure within the filler neck, a filler pipe and the fuel tank. The refilling assembly is characterized by a first flap pivotally mounted to the housing and engaging the valve body for automatically moving the valve body from the seated position to the unseated position. The first flap is pivoted when the filling nozzle is partially inserted within the filler neck. Once the valve body is disengaged, any pressurized fuel vapors within the filler neck, filler pipe and fuel tank are vented to the atmosphere. The venting occurs before the filling nozzle opens the filler neck which ensures a safe filling operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Tesma International Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Gericke
  • Patent number: 6223788
    Abstract: A multi-product fuel dispensing system includes a plurality of reservoir tanks. Each tank has a specific grade of fuel stored therein. Each reservoir tank has a fuel delivery line connected thereto. A fuel delivery conduit has at least two flow channels. One flow channel is connected to receive a first grade of fuel from one of the fuel delivery lines, and another flow channel is connected to receive a second grade of fuel, of a lower grade than the first grade, from another of the fuel delivery lines. A nozzle has a connection to receive fuel from the fuel delivery conduit. A first proportional flow control and blend valve is connected in the system for receiving the first grade of fuel. A second proportional flow control and blend valve is connected in the system for receiving the second grade of fuel. A meter is connected in the system for receiving the second grade of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Dresser Equipment Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Ken W. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6223789
    Abstract: A vapor recovery system employs a sensor apparatus for determining the actual content of hydrocarbon in the effluent vapor stream. The vapor flow of the hydrocarbon effluents is regulated by controlling an adjustable valve configured at the intake or outtake side of the vapor pump in accordance with the measured hydrocarbon content. The vapor flow rate is effectively varied without requiring any change in the pump operating speed. Sensor apparatus for performing the hydrocarbon measurements include a fiber-optic sensor, an oxygen sensor, and a crystal oscillation sensor. A solenoid assembly is provided to suitably activate the valve in response to the sensor measurement data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Tokheim Corporation
    Inventor: Wolfgang H. Koch
  • Patent number: 6223791
    Abstract: A dispensing valve cap mountable to a bottle is provided with a first valve part having a tubular portion having an air inlet, the first valve part further including a fluid outlet spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion to form a constant head valve for dispensing fluid from the bottle. A second valve part of the valve movably mounted to the first valve part includes a tubular portion for simultaneously closing both the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the first valve part when fluid dispensing is not desired. The second valve part further includes an air inlet alignable with the air inlet of the tubular portion when fluid dispensing is desired. The dispensing valve cap controls fluid flow from the bottle. The bottle with the valve cap is useable with a dispenser assembly for mixing a concentrated fluid from the bottle with a dilutant. A tamper resistant lock prevents undesired rotation of the second valve part relative to the first valve part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Cathleen M. Arsenault, John J. Dyer
  • Patent number: 6206058
    Abstract: A vent and fluid transfer fitment for sealing and transferring a fluid from an inverted fluid-filled container without premature leakage to a receiver attachment, has a transfer check valve and a venting check valve which are preferably duckbill valves. The transfer check valve is attached to the fitment for allowing fluid to be transferred from the container when the receiver attachment engages the transfer check valve. The venting check valve is also attached to the fitment for allowing air to displace the fluid as the fluid exits the container, wherein both the transfer check valve and the venting check valve have an inherent sealing pressure created by the static pressure of the fluid within the container. In addition, the inherent sealing pressure of the venting check valve is less than the inherent sealing pressure of the transfer check valve which allows air to enter the container due to the pressure differential created as the fluid is displaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Phillip Gene Nagel, James Christopher Bailey, Gordon Edgar Atkinson, Arnold George Benecke
  • Patent number: 6206057
    Abstract: A refueling fuel level responsive control valve with a two-stage closing operation providing an initial soft shutoff cue to the filler nozzle operator, and a subsequent final shutoff after a limited amount of “roundoff” filling to a maximum fuel level. The control valve includes two float-operated valve elements which dose serially in response to initial shutoff and final shutoff refueling fuel levels. The initial shutoff partially closes the control valve to create a temporary shutoff-inducing increase in fuel tank pressure. Final shutoff occurs after allowing a few round-off “clicks” of the filler nozzle to fully close venting through the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: G. T. Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Rudolph Bergsma
  • Patent number: 6196280
    Abstract: A combination of a nozzle and a fuel tank fitting for delivering liquefied natural gas (LNG) from a dispenser to a fuel tank. The fuel tank fitting comprises first and second valve assemblies coupled to the fuel tank in close proximity to each other. Each valve assembly has a flow passage extending therethrough in communication with the interior of the tank. The nozzle comprises a housing forming a handle portion and a nozzle portion for mating with the valve assemblies of the fuel tank fitting to form a liquid-tight seal therebetween. First and second flow passages extend through the nozzle and provide respectively a fuel supply line and a vent return line. First and second valve assemblies are disposed in the first and second flow passages in the nozzle. A releasable cooperative clamp is carried by the fuel tank fitting and the nozzle for securing the nozzle to the tank fitting when the nozzle has been mated to the fuel tank fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Liberty Fuels, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond E. Tate, Jr., Harold M. Lee, Alan T. Ziegler
  • Patent number: 6189578
    Abstract: A filling system for filling bottles or similar containers with a liquid product under counter pressure has a plurality of filling elements. Each filling element has a liquid valve for the controlled dispensing of the product as well as a plurality of gas ducts realized in a housing, by means of which ducts at least three separate and individually controlled control valves for each filling element can be controlled so that a wide variety of processes can be conducted for the bottling of the product, and namely merely by varying the actuation of the control valves or by varying a corresponding program for a microprocessor-assisted or computer-assisted control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: KHS Maschinen- und Anlagenbau AG
    Inventor: Ludwig ClĂĽsserath
  • Patent number: 6182715
    Abstract: A liquid-nitrogen injection system comprises a vacuum-insulated reservoir that is held aloft and to one side of a flexible dosing arm. Such reservoir is completely sealed and capped on its top and sides, the vent, feed, return, and supply conduits enter only from the bottom. The feed and return conduits connect to the dosing arm through a long flexible, stainless steel, vacuum-insulating jacket. Such allows an injection nozzle at the end of the dosing arm to be adjusted up and down, in and out, and even tilted relative to both the assembly line and the reservoir. This also means the hydraulic pressure head at the control nozzle can be adjusted in the field. A metering orifice is positioned within the dosing arm such that it is behind the control nozzle valve. A nitrogen gas purging system is connected to provide a freeze-up shielding gas flow from a liquid nitrogen tap in the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventors: Alex R. Ziegler, Alan T. Ziegler
  • Patent number: 6167920
    Abstract: A method for actuating an onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) valve to selectively enable passage of fuel vapor from a fuel tank to a collection canister for the fuel vapor. The method includes determining whether a filling event is occurring and determining a fuel level within the fuel tank. The ORVR valve is selectively opened and closed in connection with whether a fueling event occurs and whether the fuel tank is full.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor L. Enge
  • Patent number: 6155314
    Abstract: A filling machine assembly (10) for filling a beverage container (12), such as a bottle or can, with a beverage, such as carbonated drinks, juices, or water. The filling machine (10) includes a support housing (14) for supplying the beverage to be discharged into the container (12). A valve housing (22) is mounted to the bottom of the support housing (14) for controlling the discharge of the beverage and a control device (24) is mounted to the top of the support housing (14). A vent tube (30) has a first end disposed within the control device (24) and a second end extending into the valve housing (22). An actuation device (54) moves the vent tube (30) a predetermined stroke between a filling position and a non-use position. The filling machine (10) is characterized by the control device (24) including an adjustment mechanism (80) having a stop block (82) for repositioning the filling position upon movement of the adjustment mechanism (80) thereby adjusting the position of the predetermined stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Crown Simplimatic Incorporated
    Inventors: Kecheng Ding, Jens Naecker, Wolfgang Wilke
  • Patent number: 6155316
    Abstract: A capless fuel filler neck has an annular resilient seal which seals over a fuel nozzle upon insertion in the filler tube. Further insertion of the nozzle opens a flapper biased against a rim flange on the lower end of annular seal. Movement of the flapper by the nozzle also moves an auxiliary seal on the flapper and which opens separate venting passages disposed externally of the nozzle tube. Upon removal of the nozzle from the filler tube, the flapper closes against the rim flange to seal the filler tube; and, the auxiliary seals close and seal the vent tubes. The vent tubes serve to prevent spray-back of fuel when the nozzle opens the flapper in a tank with pressurized vapor and fuel trapped in the filler tube and to provide an air inlet path to accommodate the aspiration of the refueling nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 6138724
    Abstract: A storage chamber within a paint dispensing reservoir tank is maintained led with paint from a refill paint source during recirculation of such paint through a paint cleansing filter within the chamber for supply of filter cleansed paint to a paint dispensing outlet under control of a metering system involving use of a valve controlled air-powered pump and flow metering regulating cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Rimi O. Rivera, James M. McDonnell, Drew F. Jackson, Stephan J. Verosto, Jr., Steven A. Stetz, David J. Barnes, Michael R. Murnane
  • Patent number: 6135166
    Abstract: A filling valve assembly for filling a container (11) with a fluid material and comprising a valve body (16) having an outer wall (18) defining an inner chamber (20). A vent tube (30) extends upwardly through the chamber (20) for ventilating the container (11) when the container (11) is filled with the fluid material and defining at least one fluid passageway (38) disposed between the outer wall (18) and the vent tube (30) for allowing the fluid material to discharge from the chamber (20) and into the container (11). A first screen (62) is disposed across said fluid passageway (38) and the assembly is characterized by a second screen (64) disposed across the passageway (38) in spaced relationship to and below the first screen (62) whereby the capillary action of both screens (62) and (64) accumulate to more precisely fill successive containers (11) to equal volumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Crown Simplimatic Incorporated
    Inventors: Gilbert E. Paradies, William H. Mitterholzer
  • Patent number: 6131624
    Abstract: A filling valve assembly for filling a beverage container with a liquid beverage. The valve assembly includes a valve body having an outer wall and a vent tube for ventilating the container when the container is filled with the liquid. Fluid passageways are defined between the outer wall and the vent tube for allowing the liquid to discharge into the container. A notch is formed within the outer wall and a screen is disposed across the fluid passageway with an outer diameter extending into the notch. The valve assembly is characterized by the notch being a truncated cone extending axially in the direction of the fluid passageway to define an angled surface for facilitating disposition of the screen into the notch and within the fluid passageway. The assembly is also characterized by the screen having a chemically etched surface creating a plurality of square holes within the screen for preventing unnecessary dripping of fluid material into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Crown Simplimatic Incorporated
    Inventor: Gilbert E. Paradies
  • Patent number: 6123118
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser's vapor recovery system nozzle capable of responding to the presence of an onboard vapor recovery system (ORVR) in an automobile. The invention includes a vapor recovery nozzle having a vapor passage in its nozzle spout and a vapor inlet in communication with the vapor passage. The spout includes a moveable seal mounted on the spout with the seal having a first position adjacent to the plurality of vapor inlets and a second position covering the vapor inlets so as to substantially block the passage of vapors through the vapor inlets. The seal may be biased in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6105612
    Abstract: Valve mechanism for controlling the fluid flows when refueling a fuel tank provided with a filler neck, having: a housing in which there are constructed a first opening, a second opening and a third opening; a valve member which is mounted movably in the housing between a first and a second position and has at least one sealing surface; a valve seat which in the housing is arranged between the openings and cooperates with the sealing surface(s) of the valve member in order, in the first position, to set up a first fluid connection between the first opening and the second opening, and a second fluid connection between the second opening and the third opening, and, in the second position, to interrupt the first and the second fluid connections; and a third fluid connection which is constructed in the housing between the second opening and the third opening and has a higher flow resistance than the second fluid connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Tesma Motoren-und Getriebetechnik Ges.m.b.H
    Inventor: Rudolf Schaar
  • Patent number: 6095204
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle for delivering fuel into a fuel tank by way of a fill pipe accommodates onboard refueling vapor recovery equipped vehicles by provision of vacuum and pressure relief for the vapor recovery conduit disposed in communication with the vapor conduit through an external surface of the fuel dispensing nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Healy Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Healy
  • Patent number: 6085771
    Abstract: A two-stage venting on-board refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) valve for controlling fuel tank venting to a storage canister during tank filling. A float actuated poppet has a small second stage venting hole therethrough. The poppet is mounted for relative movement with respect to a second stage vent valve member disposed on the float. During tank filling, venting is through a first stage relatively large flow area passage until rising fuel level causes the poppet to close the first stage vent flow area. Venting during continued filling is through the second stage venting hole in the poppet. After first stage valve closure relative movement or lost motion occurs between the first and second stage valve members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Rudolph Bergsma
  • Patent number: 6076567
    Abstract: A filling machine assembly (10) for filling a beverage container (12), such as a bottle or can, with a beverage, such as a carbonated drink, juice or water. The filling machine (10) includes a support housing (14) having an inner fluid chamber (20) for supplying the beverage to be discharged into the container (12). A valve housing (22) is mounted to the bottom of the support housing (14) for controlling the discharge of the beverage and a control device (24) is mounted to the top of the support housing (14). A vent tube (26) is actuated upward and downward via the control device (24) and extends into the valve housing (22). A support tube (34) extends between the control device (24) and the valve housing (22) and has a bore (36) surrounding the vent tube (26). An actuation device (42) moves the vent tube (26) within the bore (36) relative to the support tube (34) a predetermined stroke between a filling position and a non-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Crown Simplimatic Incorporated
    Inventors: Jens Naecker, Wolfgang Wilke, Kecheng Ding
  • Patent number: 6062274
    Abstract: A fuel storage tank with reduced vapor generation capability having a drop tube with a pressure activated valve in the wall of the drop tube to permit communication between the inside upper region of the tank and the inside of the drop tube. The valve is normally closed to prevent vapors in the tank from being sucked into and entering the drop tube. A buildup of vapor pressure in the upper drop tube region causes the valve to open and the air/vapor to flow from the upper drop tube region into the upper storage tank region. No special pipes, lines, floats or other apparatus are needed for this vapor reduction arrangement and method and any air or vapor originally entering the riser or initially in the drop tube that flows into the tank upper region is handled in the conventional manner as all other vapor originally in that region, i.e. it is recycled and recovered in the top of the tanker delivery truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Universal Valve Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Martin C. Pettesch
  • Patent number: 6009920
    Abstract: The present invention is a capless refueling assembly for a motor vehicle fuel tank. The capless refueling assembly has a housing assembly having a nozzle-receiving opening in fluid communication with the fuel tank such that a fuel nozzle can be inserted in the nozzle-receiving opening and supply liquid fuel to the fuel tank. A primary seal is mounted within the housing assembly for pivotal movement between a sealed position wherein the primary seal sealingly closes the nozzle-receiving opening and an open position. The pivotal movement is responsive to a fuel nozzle being inserted into and removed from the nozzle-receiving opening. A closure is pivotally mounted to the housing assembly for movement between a covering position wherein the closure covers a mouth of the nozzle-receiving opening and an access position wherein a fuel nozzle can be inserted into the nozzle-receiving opening. A vapor venting valve engages the primary seal for cooperative movement therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Tesma International Inc.
    Inventors: Sandor Palvoelgyi, Peter Reinlaender, Gunther Pozgainer
  • Patent number: 6006799
    Abstract: To diminish the escape of fuel vapors from a fuel tank filling tube during filling of the tank, a valve is provided that is switched by insertion of a fuel pump nozzle into the filling pipe so that fuel vapors escaping upon filling of the fuel tank are transmitted with comparatively low flow resistance to an active carbon receptacle. When the fuel pump nozzle is removed from the filling tube, the valve is returned to its normal operating position in which venting of the tank takes place through an upper portion of the tank filling tube and through a gravity valve and a pressure holding valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Volkswagen AG
    Inventors: Burkhard Kraft, Liane Ludwig, Rolf Reinke
  • Patent number: 6003568
    Abstract: An automatic fueling system includes a pump having a telescoping arm capable of placement in three-dimensional space, a flexibly mounted nozzle on the end of the arm and a docking cone to mate with the fuel port on a vehicle. A camera provides a view of the side of the vehicle on a monitor with guides visible to the operator of the vehicle to assist in locating the vehicle within range of the pump. A light and a camera located adjacent to the nozzle are used to recognize retro-reflective light from an annular target about the intake port. Multiple approximations of the distance and location of the intake port are made with the nozzle moving closer to mating with the intake port. A data link is provided through the mated nozzle with a keypad accessible by the vehicle operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: R. Strnad Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Rudolph A. Strnad, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5983963
    Abstract: To provide a simple on-board refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system without separate check valves and the like, a multi-path valve, typically a 6/2 valve (5) is provided, and formed with a discrete switching path (13) which is inserted in a pressure equalization line (12). Upon valve operation between a fuel filling mode position and an operating mode position, respectively, the valve switches the discrete switching path of the pressure equalization line (12) to connect the equalization line (12) to a fuel vapor receptor through a valve outlet when the valve (5) is in operating mode position, while blocking the equalization line (12) when the valve (6) is in filling mode position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Tesma Motoren-Und Getriebetechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Gunther Pozgainer, Sandor Palvolgyi, Bernhard Maier
  • Patent number: 5983958
    Abstract: An onboard vapor recovery system for a vehicle fuel system having a fuel tank, a filler neck dynamically sealed by high pressure fuel flow from a filler nozzle, and a vapor recovery apparatus such as a carbon canister. The system includes a liquid level operated control valve which shuts off refueling with a two-stage closing operation providing an initial soft shutoff and a final shutoff. The system also preferably includes a valve in the fuel tank to maintain a predetermined pressure head sufficient to hold the system closed against further refueling at least temporarily, and a positive action, one-way check valve in the lower end of the filler pipe to prevent spitback of fuel from the pressurized tank once refueling has ceased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: G.T. Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudolph Bergsma, Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 5975163
    Abstract: A housing (10) has a cavity (18) to which fluid product can be fed, and which opens into a terminal neck (20) adapted to be inserted over a bag straw. A hollow bolt (28), having a bore at its tip, is slidable in the housing between a neck-shutting position and a position in which its tip is remote from the neck mouth. A needle (34) is axially slidable in the bolt and protrudes with an enlarged head (35) within the terminal neck through the terminal bore. The needle is biased by a spring (38) to a position where the enlarged head abuts against the tip of the bolt. A drive cylinder (44) is provided for moving the bolt and the needle away from the terminal neck, for connecting the bolt to the internal cavity of the housing, for subsequently bringing the bolt near the neck in order to break the connection and to push the needle so that its enlarged head moves away from the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Techpack S.r.l.
    Inventor: Angeli Gianfranco
  • Patent number: 5921424
    Abstract: A closure device for a vehicle tank filler neck (1), which has an opening (3) provided with a flap (5) for the entry of the filling tube (4) of a fuel pump nozzle, wherein the flap (5) can be prestressed against the lower edge of the opening (3) by means of a spring (6), and an additional load in the closing direction can be placed on the flap (5) with the aid of an actuation device (11), wherein the actuation device (11) furthermore controls a selector valve (19) which, when the flap (5) is in the non-loaded position, connects the filler neck (1) below the flap (5) with a first recovery line (30) leading to the fuel vapor recovery container, but in the position where the flap (5) is under a load connects a pressure equalization line (25) connected to the vehicle tank with a second recovery line (24) of a narrower flow cross section leading to the recovery container and equipped with a roll-over valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Blau Internatiional GesmbH
    Inventor: Sandor Palvolgyi
  • Patent number: 5904189
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, parts therefor and methods for making the same are provided, the system having a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system, the venturi section having an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a dispensing nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Berger, Randy C. Foster, Timothy J. Hampton, Jack S. Hargus, Richard L. Marsh, David A. Masseth
  • Patent number: 5896897
    Abstract: The invention is a filling valve which mounts to a filling machine having a storage tank for filling bottles or containers with liquid. The liquid passage of the filling valve is formed by a valve stem detachably connected with a sleeve. The two-piece design permits easy cleaning, replacing, and interchanging of the valve parts. The sleeve and valve stem are provided with large diameter bores in order to maximize fluid flow and minimize fill time. The bores of the sleeve and valve stem are provided with smooth tapered surfaces to reduce liquid turbulence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventors: David Lewis, Donald Walden
  • Patent number: 5860458
    Abstract: An onboard vapor recovery system for a vehicle fuel system having a fuel tank, a filler neck dynamically sealed by high pressure fuel flow from a filler nozzle, and a vapor recovery apparatus such as a carbon canister. The system includes a liquid level operated control valve which shuts off refueling with a two-stage closing operation providing an initial soft shutoff and a final shutoff. The system also preferably includes a valve in the fuel tank to maintain a predetermined pressure head sufficient to hold the system closed against further refueling at least temporarily, and a positive action, one-way check valve in the lower end of the filler pipe to prevent spitback of fuel from the pressurized tank once refueling has ceased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: G.T. Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Rudolph Bergsma
  • Patent number: 5848622
    Abstract: A closure device (4) is used to seal an opening of a vessel (6), while providing access to the interior of the vessel. The closure device automatically releases gas and/or toxic vapor from the sealed vessel to protect the operator from harmful vapor without requiring the operator to manually actuate a valve or other mechanism prior to removing the vessel from the closure device. The closure device is constructed so the interior of the vessel can be pressurized while maintaining a pressure seal against the vessel opening, and the vessel can be cannulated without overpressurizing the vessel interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Argonaut Technologies Incorporated
    Inventor: Christopher Kilcoin
  • Patent number: 5797434
    Abstract: An onboard vapor recovery system for a vehicle fuel system having a fuel tank (10), a filler neck (12) dynamically sealed by high pressure fuel flow from a filler nozzle, and a vapor recovery apparatus such as a carbon canister (18). The system preferably uses an inventive liquid level operated control valve (20) which shuts off refueling with a two-stage closing operation providing an initial soft shutoff and a final shutoff. The system also preferably includes a valve (22) in the fuel tank to maintain a predetermined pressure head sufficient to hold the system closed against further refueling at least temporarily, and a positive action, one-way check valve (24) in the lower end of the filler pipe (12) to prevent spitback of fuel from the pressurized tank (10) once refueling has ceased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: G.T. Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Rudolph Bergsma
  • Patent number: 5765602
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for efficiently metering and transferring a cryogenic liquid, such as liquefied natural gas, from a storage vessel to, for example, a vehicle fuel tank. The apparatus incorporates a programmable controller, a motor-driven pump and a network of conduits with motor-operated valves and liquid sensors for effecting a priming of the pump with liquid free of vapor and a cool-down of the flow passages prior to a transfer operation for ensuring that a vapor-free liquid is delivered. A pair of flow meters, one for liquid and the other for returned vapor, allows a reliable determination of the amount of liquid delivered to--and remaining in--a receiving vessel. The apparatus employs a delivery nozzle with quick-disconnect valved fittings and a delivery nozzle incorporating features which allow it to be handled by an operator without the use of heavy gloves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Cryogenic Fuels Inc.
    Inventors: Harold E. Sutton, Roy E. Adkins
  • Patent number: 5746258
    Abstract: Apparatus for discharging bulk material from a silo into a container, includes a tube having an inlet for receiving bulk material from the silo, and a bottom portion formed with two lateral outlets for directing bulk material into the container and exhibiting an open bottom zone. Secured to the bottom portion of the tube is a gate mechanism which is movable between a first position in which the bottom zone is closed and a second position in which the bottom zone is open to allow discharge of bulk material into a central area of the container, thereby effectively loading the container with bulk material and effectively emptying the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Waeschle Inc.
    Inventor: Hans J. Huck
  • Patent number: 5730194
    Abstract: A filler neck is provided for delivering fuel in a vehicle fuel tank. The filler neck includes a conduit that formed to be coupled to a fuel tank inlet and has neck passageway. A partition unit is positioned in the conduit to divide the neck passageway into an outer chamber and an inner chamber and includes a partition channel interconnecting the outer and inner chambers. A filler neck shuttle is also positioned for movement in the neck passageway and the partition channel between a channel-opening position and a channel-closing position. The shuttle has a nozzle-receiving inlet, a fuel-discharging outlet for extension through the partition channel and into the inner chamber, and a fill passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet. Further, the filler neck includes a spring that yieldably urges the filler neck shuttle in the channel-closing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Dean C. Foltz
  • Patent number: 5727606
    Abstract: The invention concerns a container filling machine with a supply chamber for a fluid and a compressed gas, onto which at least one filling device is attached. This device possesses a discharge opening, a fluid valve, a compressed gas valve body arranged on its valve body and a probe which determines filling height held on this compressed gas valve body. It leads out of the lower end of the compressed valve body in a gastight arrangement. Hereby is a container filling machine achieved with higher filling accuracy, greater versatility, more cleanability and low production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: Krones AG Hermann Kronseder Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Wilhelm Weiss
  • Patent number: 5725030
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, parts therefor and methods for making the same are provided, the system having a venturi section for removing liquid from a normal drape area of a hose assembly of the system, the venturi section having an inlet unit that is positioned in a vapor recovery fluid passage of the hose assembly generally at the actual drape area of the hose assembly even when the actual drape area is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and a dispensing nozzle or is disposed intermediate the normal drape area and the source of liquid fuel as well as when the actual drape area is disposed generally at the normal drape area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Berger, Randy C. Foster, Timothy J. Hampton, Jack S. Hargus, Richard L. Marsh, David A. Masseth
  • Patent number: 5715877
    Abstract: An assembly for dispensing a constant flow of liquid from a bottle independent of the level of liquid in the bottle. The assembly has a two-part cap with an inner portion and an outer portion. The inner portion is affixed to the bottle and has a generally cylindrical air chamber which extends into the liquid in the bottle. This inner cap member has an opening in the bottom. An outer cap member has a mating air chamber and a mating opening in the bottom. When the outer cap member is turned with respect to the inner cap member to a closed position, no liquid can pass through the misaligned openings. There are also a set of alignable air openings in the air chambers of the inner and outer cap members which permit air to exit from the air chamber into the liquid when the liquid outlet openings are aligned. The result is a constant flow rate out of the bottle no matter what the height of liquid in the bottle may be until the bottle is essentially empty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Champion Chemical Co. of Calif., Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 5713401
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing and vapor recovery nozzle having a fuel passageway therethrough, a main valve in the fuel passageway for controlling the flow of fuel therethrough, a manually operable valve actuating lever for opening the main valve, a venturi responsive to fuel flow through the fuel passageway for creating a vacuum, a shut-off passageway from the venturi to the spout adapted to be closed when the fuel tank is filled, a vapor recovery passageway extending longitudinally therethrough and a check valve in the vapor recovery passageway mounted on the spout and having an open condition allowing vapor to pass therethrough and a closed condition so as to block liquid fuel flow through the check valve and out the spout of the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Emco Wheaton Retail Corporation
    Inventor: Francis Bruce Weeks
  • Patent number: 5706871
    Abstract: A fluid control apparatus and method in which a valve unit having a plurality of inlets is respectively connected to multiple fluid sources and an outlet. A unit containing a flowmeter is also provided which cooperates with the valve unit in a manner so that, upon rotation of one of the units relative to the other, the flow of fluid is controlled from the selected fluid source to the valve unit outlet. The flowmeter is adapted to measure variations in the flow rate of the fluid, and the flow of the fluid is controlled in response to one or more related parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Bo-Goran Andersson, Bengt Ingamar Larsson
  • Patent number: 5687762
    Abstract: A valved unit to control introduction of liquid fuel and venting of vaporous fuel relative to a vehicle fuel tank which unit is mounted on to the tank wall to effectively seal and isolate the tank downstream from a filler tube and related fuel delivery hoses. Tank closure is normally maintained by a closure spring which is overcome by introduction of fuel into the tank which allows movement of the inlet closure valve from its seated closed position and simultaneously opens an associated vaporous fuel vent control valve. When introduction of fuel is terminated, a spring returns the two valve elements back to their closed and sealed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Michael R. Teets, Jacquelyn C. Rocca
  • Patent number: 5676181
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle for delivering fuel into a fuel tank by way of a fill pipe accommodates onboard refueling vapor recovery equipped vehicles by provision of a vacuum relief valve in communication with the vapor recovery conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Healy Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Healy