Drip Prevention Patents (Class 141/311A)
  • Patent number: 6102086
    Abstract: A drip tray includes, in combination, a plurality of trays having a bottom and a raised peripheral sidewall extending from the bottom to define a liquid retaining enclosure. The plurality of trays are arranged in edge to edge relation to form a grid-like pattern. The trays are detachably secured together in edge to edge relation to maintain the grid-like pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Quinn Holtby
  • Patent number: 6102087
    Abstract: A portable device for the retention of multi-fuel tanks on board marine vessels during the refueling process. The receiving receptacle will fit around the air vent on said tanks. Thus catching discharged fuels in its basin; from there it will pass into its own holding tank for later removal. It will cling to the side of vessel's hull with the aid of rope, counter weights and leverage levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: John Harold Roberts, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6076750
    Abstract: A device for filling containers, particularly packaging containers such as cardboard packaging containers, on the packaging container, comprises a feed part and a closing part. To prevent the dripping of the substance distributed into the packaging container on the area around the fill opening the feed part is equipped with outlets which form an angle with the center axis of the feed part so that the upper ends of the outlets separate from each other. In the lower end of the feed part, the angle position of the outlets causes the liquid flows from different outlets to unit into one flow of liquid which, if necessary, can be fed into a container even through a small fill opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: UPM-Kymmene Oyj
    Inventors: Ensio Mykkanen, Pertti Kleemola
  • Patent number: 6041576
    Abstract: A filling system for filling soup into gable top cartons is disclosed wherein the dripping of soup from the fill tube is substantially diminished by the present invention. The filling system includes a product tank, a knife-gate valve, a pump mechanism, a fill tube with a circumferential recessed area, and a sealing cone with a cutting edge. The cutting edge of the sealing cone prevents particulates from interfering with the sealing of the fill tube by the sealing cone. The knife-gate valve prevents the flow of product from the product tank during filling of a carton. The product tank may have an agitating means for evenly distributing the particulates throughout the soup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, SA
    Inventors: David Anchor, Paul Anderson
  • Patent number: 6041835
    Abstract: Structure for shielding the upper surface of rim flanges of containers positioned for filling with material from a filling head of a container filling device includes a mounting base for attaching to the container filling device, and a shield formed with a pair of arms projecting from the mounting base in a generally parallel, spaced apart relationship to overlie or cover respective opposing side rim flanges of the container, while allowing material to be dispensed from the filling head between the arms to the container. A plate extends between the arms at one end thereof to cover the rim flange of the container that extends between the opposing side rim flanges, so that the combination of the two arms and plate serves to cover and shield the upper surface of the rim flanges from material being deposited into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Muiti-Fill, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard T. Price
  • Patent number: 5979513
    Abstract: A fluid spillage control apparatus is connected to a fluid tank which has a fill opening and a ventilation opening. The fluid spillage control apparatus comprises a fluid holding chamber having a vent opening for venting vapor therefrom. The fluid holding chamber also has a conduit communicating with a fluid tank ventilation opening for passage of excess fluid from the fluid tank into the fluid holding chamber. The conduit is aparallel with the longitudinal axis of the fluid holding chamber so that the fluid holding chamber can be oriented in both a first position wherein the fluid holding chamber longitudinal axis is oriented vertically and a second position wherein the fluid holding chamber longitudinal axis is oriented horizontally. In addition, an auditory signal device communicates with the vent opening and produces an auditory signal upon passage of vented vapor from the fluid holding chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Randolf W. Brand
  • Patent number: 5971039
    Abstract: An automated marine refueling facility for effecting marine fueling transactions includes a buoyant platform that is adapted to float above a water level in a body of water such as a lake and a storage tank that is mounted to said platform for storing a quantity of fuel. A pumping system is provided for permitting a customer to refuel a boat from fuel that is extracted from said storage tank. The pumping system is grounded so as to avoid electrical discharges. This facility is advantageous in that it permits a fueling transaction to be performed without an excess of unprotected piping between the storage tank and the boat, thereby reducing the potential for accidents and marine pollution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 5967200
    Abstract: A fluid catch bag sized and configured for placement below an engine, and particularly an inboard engine on a boat, includes a floor, side walls and end walls formed of a flexible, liquid impervious material and surrounding an interior fluid collection chamber. The upper peripheral edge zones of the side walls and end walls are provided with eyelets for attaching the catch bag in operative position below the engine so that the walls extend generally vertically and upwardly from the floor in surrounding relation to the engine. A collapsible bladder interconnects in fluid flow communication with a lower portion of the collection chamber for containing the engine fluids which drip into the catch bag. A shut-off valve allows for disconnection of the bladder in order to dispose of the fluid contents contained therein, while preventing fluids within the chamber of the catch bag from spilling when the bladder is disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas W. Hall
  • Patent number: 5944361
    Abstract: A secondary containment system is provided for use in preventing leakage to or from an underground storage tank at a joint where a riser line connects to the tank. The system includes a secondary riser tube for surrounding the riser line and a sealing ring for providing a seal between the outer wall of the storage tank and the secondary riser tube. The sealing ring has a sleeve for sealing against the outer wall of the secondary sealing tube and a flexible bell-shaped skirt for sealing against the outer wall of the storage tank. A support bracket clamps to the outer wall of the riser line and includes three arms extending radially outward. The three arms engage the secondary riser tube to hold it into engagement with the sealing ring and thereby hold the sealing ring in sealing engagement with the tank wall by maintaining a downward force on the secondary riser tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo
  • Patent number: 5908057
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing both bubbles and streams of water that because of its unique geometry and design, will when oriented in any position prevent spillage of its bubble solution when filled to the fill line or below, and is capable of automatic and continuous bubble generation while simultaneously generating amusing water streams. It is principally intended for use by young children as a lawn water toy as well as a bubble creating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Michael R. Schramm
  • Patent number: 5882045
    Abstract: A secondary containment system is provided for use in preventing leakage to or from an underground storage tank at a joint where a riser line connects to the tank. The system includes a secondary riser tube for surrounding the riser line and a sealing ring for providing a seal between the outer wall of the storage tank and the secondary riser tube. The sealing ring has a sleeve for sealing against the outer wall of the secondary sealing tube and a flexible bell-shaped skirt for sealing against the outer wall of the storage tank. A support bracket clamps to the outer wall of the riser line and includes three threaded arms extending radially outward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Sergio M. Bravo
  • Patent number: 5875825
    Abstract: A portable device for the retention of multi-fuel tanks on board marine vessels during the refueling process. The receiving receptacle will fit around the air vent on said tanks. Thus catching discharged fuels in its basin; from there it will pass into its own holding tank for later removal. It will cling to the side of vessel's hull with the aid of rope, counter weights and leverage levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Inventor: John Harold Roberts, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5865222
    Abstract: A fuel fill port device which contains overfill and prevents spillage, mounted by means of a flange through the deck or gunwale on pleasure boats or other marine vessels with internal fuel tanks. The device prevents spillage during fueling by means of an internal storage chamber, an internal sleeve, an independent tube and an independent compression spring located within the port device which together create a unique structure, which prevents overflow spillage during fueling by means of the device temporarily containing and storing the overfilled fuel and automatically flowing the stored fuel into the fuel tank. This is accomplished by strategically aligned chambers, sleeves, tubes and a spring which causes both the alignment and misalignment of positioned holes that when misaligned forms a storage chamber and when aligned forms a conduit directing the stored fuel into the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Burt Diamond
  • Patent number: 5850858
    Abstract: A spilled fuel collector for boats for attaching to an overflow vent of a boat to catch accidental spills. The device includes a pliable semi-spherical cover having an open upper end and a closed arcuate lower end. The open upper end is dimensioned for covering a fuel overflow vent of a boat. The cover has an aperture therethrough. An inner hook is secured to an inner surface of the closed arcuate lower end of the cover. The inner hook engages the fuel overflow vent of the boat in an engaged orientation. A length of hose is provided having an open upper end and an open lower end. The open upper end is secured to the aperture of the cover. The open lower end is positionable within a receptacle for transferring spilled fuel thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald F. Zeigler
  • Patent number: 5836360
    Abstract: A volume-control receptacle has a reservoir with a bottom. The reservoir is adapted for receiving a fluid. The receptacle has a plurality of capillaries opening on the reservoir at a specific height above the bottom; the capillaries draw off the excess fluid from the receptacle, thereby leaving a specific amount of fluid in the reservoir. In a preferred embodiment, the volume-control receptacle is adapted for use with a disposable cuvette. The reservoir of the receptacle has a drain at the bottom connected to the cuvette for delivering the fluid to a testing instrument or other final application point. The volume-control receptacle has a lip projecting upward from a promontory of the receptacle. A rib extends downward from the lip to the bottom of the reservoir for guiding the fluid into the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: International Technidyne Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Gavin, James A. Mawhirt
  • Patent number: 5832969
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing both bubbles and streams of water that because of its unique geometry and design, will when oriented in any position prevent spillage of its bubble solution when filled to the fill line or below, and is capable of automatic and continuous bubble generation while simultaneously generating amusing water streams. It is principally intended for use by young children as a lawn water toy as well as a bubble creating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Michael R. Schramm
  • Patent number: 5819814
    Abstract: A method and an assembly for filling an anesthetic evaporator, comprises a filling device (1) connectable to a transport container (15) and having a filling head (2) which can be inserted in an attachment point (4) included in an evaporator (3), the filling device and evaporator being provided with conduits (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) for passing an anesthetic and a substituting gas between the transport container and the evaporator and the assembly comprising a clamping implement (7) for tightening the filling head (2) against a packing surface of the conduits arriving in the attachment point (4) included in the evaporator and a valve element (8, 9), adapted to open and thus to allow a flow of the anesthetic and the substituting gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Instrumentarium Oy
    Inventors: Jukka Kankkunen, Erkki Heinonen
  • Patent number: 5819823
    Abstract: A filling system is set fort that assists in maintaining the hygienic nature of the filling process. The filling system includes a fill pipe having an inlet for receiving a liquid product and an outlet overlying a container path along which the containers are successively transported for filling beneath the fill pipe. A drip-prevention structure is disposed about the outlet end of the fill pipe and includes a downwardly directed honed edge. The filling system further includes an umbrella valve assembly. The umbrella valve assembly comprises a linear actuator, an umbrella valve cone disposed proximate the outlet end of the fill pipe, and a valve rod disposed in the fill pipe between the linear actuator and the valve cone. The linear actuator is connected to move the valve rod and umbrella valve cone between a first position in which product is prevented from exiting the fill pipe and a second position that allows product to flow from the outlet of the fill pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, S.A.
    Inventor: Per Brandstrom
  • Patent number: 5782276
    Abstract: A horizontal oil filter discharge control tool is a vessel with an open end, configured to suspend wedged between a loosened oil filter and filter mounting fixture, while a filter drains. The vessel may have two open ends, creating a funnel, or it may have an open end and a closed end. The rim of an open end may be concave in at least one plane. A concavity of one plane is designed to recieve filter diameters within a given set of parameters, while additional concavities may be provided to recieve filter diameters within a different given set of parameters. Blades extending along the interior surface on one surface in each plane and beyond the rim of the vessel, provide a structure from which the vessel is suspended. In operation, the vessel is held beneath a filter prior to rotating and loosening the filter. On rotating the filter, the blades of the vessel are slid between the filter and its' fixture. The filter is then hand tightened, wedging the vessel, by the blades. The filter is left to drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Gary Hartman Kilgore
  • Patent number: 5762114
    Abstract: A fuel recovery system catches fuel inadvertently forced from a vent fitting in a boat while the boat is refueled, travels about or is stored. A coupler detachably mates with the vent fitting and coacting means on the vent fitting and the coupler secure the coupler to the vent fitting. A substantially closed recovery tank is connected to the coupler and is in fluid communication with the vent fitting when the coupler is mated with the vent fitting. Fuel inadvertently discharged through the vent fitting flows into, and is thereafter stored by, the recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Marvin R. Petersen
  • Patent number: 5752553
    Abstract: A fuel filler pipe for a fuel filler system of an automotive vehicle includes a generally helical directional control surface disposed within the fuel filler pipe and extending along the longitudinal axis thereof. The directional control surface guides fuel flowing through the filler pipe so as to impart a spiral flow to the fuel such that the fuel flows with reduced turbulence and subsequent vapor generation. In addition, the directional control surface restricts backward flow of fuel from the fuel tank through the fuel filler pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Daniel John Kmiecik, Ronnie E. Smith, Daniel P. Forbes, Michael John Boehk
  • Patent number: 5738154
    Abstract: A gasoline spill eliminator for attachment to the hull of a boat and over an overflow vent stack which extends therefrom. The gasoline spill eliminator includes a container for collecting and storing fuel emitted from the overflow vent stack. The container has a rear wall with an inlet opening therein. A flexible connector member, which includes a first section, a second section, an outer surface and an inner surface, is provided. The inner surface of the connector member defines a bore. The first section is adapted to extend into the container through the inlet opening in the rear wall thereof. The second section of the connector member is adapted to overlie the overflow vent stack which extends from the hull of the boat, and frictionally engage the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas G. Garvey, III
  • Patent number: 5673732
    Abstract: A pumping system for use in a fuel service station including one or more fuel dispensers, a fuel storage tank and conduits connecting the fuel dispensers with the tank. The pumping system comprises a variable speed pump-motor assembly for pumping fuel from the storage tank to the conduit and the dispensers, and a control connected to the pump-motor assembly for holding the fuel pressure in a preset range. Preferably the range is that required for efficient operation of a vapor recovery system, or other requirement by the EPA or by another agency, or by a service station operator. The control includes sensors which respond to the pressure in the conduits leading to the fuel dispensers. The sensors may comprise, for example, a pressure sensor in the conduit, or they may comprise power consumption sensors connected to the electrical power supply for the variable speed pump-motor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: FE Petro Inc.
    Inventors: Donald P. Kenney, David M. Triezenberg
  • Patent number: 5645116
    Abstract: A method and assembly (10) to prevent the dripping of a liquid dispensing nozzle (100) after deactivation of the nozzle and to automatically deactivate the nozzle when it is removed from the fuel tank (150), is described. The non-drip valve assembly is attached to the dispensing end (104B) of the nozzle and includes a housing (12) within which is mounted a valve (14) comprised of a stopper (16) and a spring (18). When the nozzle is activated, the liquid pressure on the extreme end (16D) of the stopper moves the stopper out of the opening (12E) in the proximal end (12A) of the housing which allows the liquid to flow into the housing around the stopper and out through the apertures (12G) in the sidewall (12C) of the housing. When the nozzle is deactivated, the spring biases the stopper into the opening which prevents liquid remaining in the spout from escaping. A shut-off sleeve (112) is mounted around the spout of the nozzle and has a spring and ball plunger (116) and a locating detent (124).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Environmental Spout Company
    Inventor: Rodney R. McDonald
  • Patent number: 5620032
    Abstract: An improved non-drip nozzle valve which can be retro-fitted onto existing fuel dispensing nozzles comprises an expanding integral wire frame made from two spaced, interconnected C-shaped springs. Once inserted into the throat of the fuel dispensing nozzle, the C-shaped springs expand the frame to engage the inner wall of the nozzle. Each C-shaped portion of the frame is provided with a rubber flap valve half. The two halves of the flap valve overlap each other when the fuel flow is discontinued to prevent any remaining fuel from dripping or spilling out of the end of the nozzle. When the fuel is being pumped, the flow pressure is great enough to unseat the flap valve halves allowing fuel to freely flow past the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Curtis E. Dame
  • Patent number: 5588461
    Abstract: A system is provided for containing material leaks which occur while a shipping container is being loaded or unloaded. The system includes portable dome that is placed on top of a shipping container, covering the container's inlet or outlet valves. If a leak is detected, the flow of material is stopped, and the leaked material is either absorbed or neutralized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Philipp Brothers Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph M. Plecnik
  • Patent number: 5588471
    Abstract: Apparatus for filling drums and other containers with a lilquid product. The apparatus can be used for both subsurface and top filling operations. The level of the liquid in the container is monitored to prevent overfilling and withdrawal of the lance at an incorrect speed during a subsurface filling operation. A self closing cap is provided at the lower end of the lance, and a drip catcher is automatically moved into position beneath the lance when it is withdrawn from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Inventor: Terry B. Lowe
  • Patent number: 5571249
    Abstract: A fluid sleeve for channeling fluid spilled during the servicing of a motorized vehicle includes a top portion, a bottom portion, and an enclosed body portion extending between the top portion and the bottom portion. The body portion defines a first opening operable to engage a fluid inlet of the motorized vehicle and a second opening operable to engage a fluid outlet of a fluid container received therethrough to be disposed in the fluid inlet. In use, when fluid is discharged or otherwise spilled from the fluid inlet or the fluid outlet during servicing, the fluid is retained within the body portion and channeled toward the bottom portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Daniel B. Boylen
  • Patent number: 5538052
    Abstract: An above-ground secondary containment system for a primary tank holding liquids includes a dike surrounding the tank, a hood over the dike for preventing ambient precipitation and trash from entering the dike and preventing evaporation of liquids spilled or leaked from the primary tank and contained by the dike, and a closable tank port access means in the hood for permitting access to tank input or output ports when desired, but closable to maintain the hood's property of preventing ambient precipitation and trash from entering the dike at other times. In one embodiment, the dike is a right parallepiped having an open top and a floor and the hood includes a flat top surface and surfaces sloping downward from the flat top surface to opposing sides of the right parellepiped. The sloping surfaces have inwardly turned flanges along their lower edges to return liquid condensate flowing down the inside of the sloping surfaces to the dike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: SCAT, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Harp
  • Patent number: 5488979
    Abstract: A funnel and a sleeve for covering all or substantially all of the funnel's pouring spout. The funnel includes a progressively narrowing top portion having a broad intake end and a narrow discharge end with a pouring spout connected thereto. The sleeve is adapted to receive the pouring spout and preferably securely engages the narrow discharge end of the funnel's top portion. Once the pouring spout is received inside the sleeve, the interior and exterior surface areas of the spout are protected from contamination. Preferably, the funnel further comprises a cap for securely engaging and covering the broad intake end of the funnel. This cap serves to keep contaminants out of the internal surface areas of the progressively narrowing portion of the funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Jimmy B. McKenzie
  • Patent number: 5483999
    Abstract: A waste collection system for receiving contaminated fluids in a manner which helps to prevent splashing of fluids or spilling them while they are being collected, thereby increasing protection to personnel, and which also keeps the fluids safely contained until ready for permanent disposal. In one presently preferred embodiment, the waste collection system includes a receptacle in which an absorbent pad is placed. The top of the receptacle is then sealed with a lid in an essentially fluid-tight fit. The surface of the lid is concave and slopes inwardly to a point at which an opening is formed, and a circular foam disc is placed at the opening. The foam material is provided with slits so that fluid can be introduced to the interior of the receptacle by either injecting a device such as a syringe through the slits or by permitting fluid to directly contact the foam material of the disc, which provides absorption and wicking action so that fluids will readily pass through the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred P. Lampropoulos, Richard L. Young, Cindy A. Bushman, Bryan R. Lampropoulos
  • Patent number: 5482093
    Abstract: A catch basin for automotive fluids, such as oil, adapted for use beneath a mechanic's catwalk which is itself extended beneath an automobile undergoing maintenance or repair operations, is disclosed wherein the catch basin comprises a generally rectangular, planar body portion formed of two dihedrally angled planar body halves and supports for supporting the body portion beneath the catwalk. The basin may be tilted toward a downstream end, at which is located a drain hole and a selectively removable plug. The catch basin supports may be supported from the catwalk or may themselves support the catwalk. The basin may also be provided with a bay adapted to receive and support a plurality of oil filters which are to be drained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Assignee: Baytech, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian M. Tremonti, Michael S. Belling, Douglas W. Holmes, Robert B. Kujawski
  • Patent number: 5474113
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: H & K Machine, Inc.
    Inventors: Friedrich Rademacher, Scott D. Mau
  • Patent number: 5349992
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for distributing and dispensing a potable liquid are claimed. The apparatus comprises a faucet, and a storage tank. A conveying channel is provided for sanitarily conveying potable liquid from an outside source to the tank. The conveying channel includes a sanitary fitting containing an inlet channel. The fitting provides a detachable sanitary connection between the conveying channel and the source. A mechanism for draining free-standing liquid from the inlet channel is also provided. The inlet channel of the fitting terminates at a first coupling which contains an acme sanitary thread. A flow producing mechanism cooperates with the tank and the faucet for causing a flow of liquid from the tank upon the opening of the faucet. A discharge channel is connected to the faucet at one end and connected to receive the flow of liquid at its other end. The discharge channel conveys the flow of potable liquid to the faucet. The source comprises a vehicle with a supply tank mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Inventors: Steven P. Gallo, Jack Fiorelli
  • Patent number: 5339872
    Abstract: A spill containment bag for use with a container having a leak includes a flexible bag member defining an enclosure and having a lower section with a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly and inwardly from the periphery of the bottom wall to a reduced cross section at its upper end intermediate the height of the bag member. The bag member also has an upper section with a sidewall extending upwardly therefrom, and the sidewall of the upper section has at least its upper portion extending outwardly to provide an opening of enlarged cross section at the upper end of the bag member. At least one strap is provided to secure the bag member to a leaking container so as to position the opening at the upper end thereof beneath the point of leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventor: Thomas F. Marino
  • Patent number: 5329974
    Abstract: A process for catching and processing non-aqueous drip-liquids, characterized in that the drip-liquid to be processed is caught in an oily and non-aqueous liquids absorbing, water-repelling, liquid catching on a non-woven cloth, incorporated into an envelope of a hydrophobic synthetic resin fiber fabric, which envelope with cloth is partitioned in a suitable manner in a number of tracks of fields; the enveloped liquid catching cloth with absorbed drip-liquid are collected, the collected envelope liquid catching cloths are washed in a solvent for the drip-liquid, the drip-liquid is separated from the solvent, the drip-liquid so recovered is incinerated with power-generation and the cleaned enveloped liquid catching cloths may be used anew.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Assignee: Holding M.G. Paping B.V.
    Inventor: Max G. Paping
  • Patent number: 5327948
    Abstract: A supply system for supplying a liquid reagent from a storage tank to a dispensing head, for example a foam molding head, includes a tank (12) having a lid (14) moveable between a closed position and an open position affording access to the interior of the tank and the underside of the lid, a pump (26) and a distribution valve (36) disposed on the underside of the lid, and a drive motor (27) for the pump and an actuator (37) for the valve on the exterior of the lid. Any leakage occuring in use from the pump and/or the valve takes place in the tank and leaked material remains inside the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Rojac (Patterns Division) Limited
    Inventor: John J. Blakemore
  • Patent number: 5309961
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventors: Rickard Franke, Bengt Bengtsson
  • Patent number: 5303751
    Abstract: A sealed, flexible plastic sheet bag for storing liquids that is penetrable by a spiked connector through a spike channel fitting. The spike channel fitting is sealed between a pair of folds on one side of the bag so that the inside port of the channel is adjacent to the folded plastic sheet. The spike is inserted through the channel of the spike channel fitting and punctures the plastic sheet to tap the bag to remove the liquid. Leakage is prevented by both the seal between the plastic sheet and the spike and the seal between the bag and the spike channel fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Fresenius AG
    Inventors: Glenn L. Slater, Pritpal Virdee
  • Patent number: 5301722
    Abstract: An apparatus for the collection of fuel spillings that originate from fuel dispensing apparatus, including gasoline and diesel fuel service station pumps which incorporates a filtering system for preventing solids from accumulating in the bottom of the spill collection pan and allowing fill material to be placed between the collection reservoir of the spill collecting pan and the fuel pumps which contributes to the fire prevention features of this apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Todd, Deborah A. Joines
  • Patent number: 5295520
    Abstract: A rotary face valve for beverage filling machines provides a housing assembly defining a closed chamber. The stationary valving surface is provided open to the chamber, and a valve rotor is journaled in the chamber in engagement with the stationary valve surface. The chamber is pressurized to a pressure closely approaching the pressure of the beverage being valved so that a low differential pressure exists between the chamber and the port through which the beverage flows. This minimizes the tendency to encounter leakage. The rotor is supported by a shaft which is journaled in spaced bearings so that eccentric force applied to the operating shaft is absorbed by the bearings and is not transmitted to the rotor. Further, the rotor is connected to the operating shaft with sufficient freedom to ensure that the rotor properly engages the valve surface in a uniform manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Acker
  • Patent number: 5285989
    Abstract: A dispensing stand for supporting an industrial drum in a dispensing attitude, the industrial drum having a dispensing device for dispensing selected volumes of contents poured from the industrial drum along a dispensing path to a receptacle placed at a dispensing location beneath the dispensing device, when the industrial drum is in the dispensing attitude, the dispensing stand including a housing, a cradle on the housing for supporting the industrial drum in the dispensing attitude, a reservoir in the housing, a catch basin mounted on the housing for selective movement between a first position wherein the catch basin intercepts the dispensing path for catching contents dripped from the dispensing device along the dispensing path, and a second position wherein the catch basin is clear of the dispensing path for enabling the poured contents to reach the receptacle at the dispensing location, and a drain arrangement between the catch basin and the reservoir for directing the dripped contents from the catch bas
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: Bergen Barrel & Drum Co.
    Inventors: Seymour Zilbert, Peter G. Hamaker
  • Patent number: 5275206
    Abstract: A rotary face valve for beverage filling machines provides a housing assembly defining a closed chamber. The stationary valving surface is provided open to the chamber, and a valve rotor is journaled in the chamber in engagement with the stationary valve surface. The chamber is pressurized to a pressure closely approaching the pressure of the beverage being valved so that a low differential pressure exists between the chamber and the port through which the beverage flows. This minimizes the tendency to encounter leakage. The rotor is supported by a shaft which is journaled in spaced bearings so that eccentric force applied to the operating shaft is absorbed by the bearings and is not transmitted to the rotor. Further, the rotor is connected to the operating shaft with sufficient freedom to ensure that the rotor properly engages the valve surface in a uniform manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Acker
  • Patent number: 5257652
    Abstract: Fluid collection system for installation underground includes a first housing having a top, a wall extending downwardly from the top, and a first pipe-receiving opening in the wall at a predetermined vertical distance from the top. There is a second housing spaced apart from the first housing that has a top, a wall, and a second pipe-receiving opening in the wall. A number of interconnected segments is defined in the wall of the second housing. A pipe extends between the first and second pipe-receiving openings that has a slope great enough to cause fluids to flow along the pipe from the second housing to the first housing. The slope of the pipe is determined by a ratio defined by the length of the pipe and the difference between the predetermined vertical distance of the first housing and the variably fixed vertical distance of the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Total Containment, Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 5255721
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventor: Randolf W. Brand
  • Patent number: 5246044
    Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for containing and terminating fuel leaks at a dispenser pump island. The dispenser containment system of the subject invention comprises a substantially rectangular fiberglass box-like structure, having a lower trough portion and an upper hood portion. The lower trough portion of the dispenser containment system is provided with a plurality of integral fiberglass couplings for interconnecting containment hose with the dispenser pump, an integral fiberglass conduit entry penetration for enabling conductive wires to extend through the dispenser containment system and into the fuel dispenser pump and an integral fiberglass vapor recovery port for removing stage II vapor from the dispenser pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Environmental Protection Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen E. Robertson, Frank C. Marchica
  • Patent number: 5246046
    Abstract: The spill resistant bubble solution container is an invention that because of its unique geometry and design, prevents spillage of liquid when filled to the fill line or below, and oriented in any position. It is principally intended for use by young children in avoiding the spillage of bubble solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Inventor: Michael R. Schramm
  • Patent number: 5230372
    Abstract: A fuel overfill recovery system for use on marine craft of the type having a fuel vent fitting extending outwardly from the hull of the craft. The fuel overfill recovery system has a diverter body which is placed over the fuel vent fitting during refueling of the craft. As the fuel tank of the craft becomes full, excess fuel which otherwise would exit the fuel vent fitting and fall onto the surface of the waterway is collected by a diverter body and passed into a fuel collection container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Inventor: H. Frederick Westphal
  • Patent number: 5222534
    Abstract: A device for the retention of various sizes of containers used in the collection of waste fluids such as anti-freeze, oil and other liquids including a receptacle with a raised platform for supporting a container to be filled and a trough surrounding the raised platform for collecting spilled fluids. The raised platform having a plurality of peg receptacles each capable of receiving a peg for providing support to the container being filled. Drain channels are provided between the peg receptacles and the trough permitting spilled fluids to drain into the trough and providing structural support to the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Inventor: Charles E. Wilkinson, Jr.
  • Patent number: RE36131
    Abstract: The spill resistant bubble solution container is an invention that because of its unique geometry and design, prevents spillage of liquid when filled to the fill line or below, and oriented in any position. It is principally intended for use by young children in avoiding the spillage of bubble solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Michael R. Schramm