With Connector, Guide Or Support For Separable Supply Patents (Class 141/332)
  • Patent number: 11639772
    Abstract: The engine oil collection container comprises a collection pan and a perforated cover. The engine oil collection container may be a container for collecting oil. One or more emptied oil bottles may be held in an inverted position by a plurality of bottle apertures located on the perforated cover so that residual oil within the one or more emptied oil bottles may drain into the collection pan. A top aperture located at the top center of the perforated cover may be operable to collect the oil from a non-bottled oil source. As a non-limiting example, the non-bottled oil source may be an oil collection basin or a vehicle oil pan. In some embodiments, the engine oil collection container may comprise a rolling stand that is operable to reduce friction between the bottom of the collection pan and the ground when moving the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Inventor: Damion Simmonds
  • Patent number: 11319203
    Abstract: An improved funnel includes an inner liner formed from a hydrophobic material, wherein oil from an automobile can contact and pass through said funnel without leaving any oil residue upon said inner liner, such that the funnel can be used for a different type of liquid immediately thereafter without cleaning. The improved funnel may also include a tool cut-out formed through its top rim and a portion of its side wall to allow an oil bolt or oil filter wrench to pass therethrough and be used when the improved funnel is placed adjacent to an automobile oil discharge aperture. The improved funnel may also include magnets to releasably hold the improved funnel to the automobile when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventor: Elliot Angus
  • Patent number: 10676338
    Abstract: A water spout sanitary cover is provided. The cover is disposable and is configured to fit over a portion of the water spout to provide a sanitary layer. The cover may prevent microbial transfer between the spout, water, and a vessel being filled with water. The cover is disposable, and replaceable, and may be provided in a stacked dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Inventor: Dianna Ploss
  • Patent number: 9783349
    Abstract: A food container coupling system includes a food container configured to attach to a bottle coupler. The food container includes a food compartment with a side wall and a bottom, which has a food compartment coupling structure extending therefrom. The system also includes a bottle coupler with a top rim and a bottle coupler coupling structure extending from the top rim. The bottle coupler further has an annular opening adapted to fit around the neck of a bottle, a small can or a large can. When the food container is mounted to the bottle coupler, the food compartment coupling structure mates with the bottle coupler coupling structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: SnackTops, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Mark Buck, Allen Tucker
  • Patent number: 9227760
    Abstract: A drip stop device (1) for a container for liquids (C) is arranged at the outlet opening (A) of a container (C) to allow liquid to be poured without drips. The device (1) includes a first plate-like element (2) introduced, in the rolled-up configuration, in the outlet opening (A) to define a tubular duct (21). A second plate-like element (3) that substantially develops along a longitudinal direction is superimposed on a surface (22) of first plate-like element (2) with a first end (31) fixed to a perimeter portion (23) of first plate-like element (2) so that when first plate-like element (2) is rolled up substantially along the longitudinal axis (x) of second plate-like element (3), longitudinal sides (32, 33) of second plate-like element (3) come into contact with surface (22) to define one or more forced routes for the liquid flowing out of the container (C).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Antonio Pieriboni
  • Patent number: 9038677
    Abstract: A combination scoop and funnel apparatus provides a scoop portion defining a dry material reservoir having an open top and a downwardly tapered conical bottom portion which terminates in a discharge aperture. A handle is joined to the scoop reservoir. A movable frusto-conical funnel member defines a funnel aperture at its lower end and an open top at its upper end. The funnel member supports a valve slide which extends upwardly through the discharge aperture and further supports a valve cap on the upper end thereof. The valve member is movable between a downwardly extending valve closed configuration and an upwardly positioned valve open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: Tyler Keefe
  • Publication number: 20150136274
    Abstract: A funnel with the ability to receive and secure one or more inverted source containers for transferring fluids to a receiving container, without requiring the assistance of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph Nkwantabisa
  • Patent number: 9011801
    Abstract: The invention provides for fluidic connections to be established between tubes, ports, fluidic components and fluidic devices. The leak-tight connections are formed through controlled, compressive forces and can be used for both low and high pressure applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Corsolutions LLC
    Inventors: Thomas N. Corso, Colleen K. Van Pelt
  • Patent number: 8991442
    Abstract: A rotary filling machine includes a magnetic funnel attachment that can be easily installed, removed, and reinstalled into the machine for cleaning, changing the size of the funnel, inspecting, or replacing a damaged funnel. The magnetic funnel attachment includes a fill plate segment for receiving one or more funnels, and a funnel for attachment to the fill plate. The fill plate and funnel have mating alignment mechanisms to assist in the correct positioning of the funnel on the fill plate segment, and magnets to assist in the coupling of the funnel to the fill plate segment. This is especially helpful in creating a quick and easy method for funnel installation and removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery, Inc.
    Inventors: David Navin, Mark D. Green
  • Publication number: 20150068643
    Abstract: A unitary funnel which is injection-molded is used for dispensing a flowable product, such as a fuel additive, into a receptacle provided with a normally-closed capless fitment. The funnel includes an inlet portion for receiving the flowable product, an inserting end portion for insertion into the capless fitment and a body portion having a tapered hollow interior and extending between the inlet portion and the inserting end portion. The inserting end portion includes a skirt which is constructed and arranged for proper engagement with the normally-closed capless fitment so as to open that capless fitment and allow the flowable product to be dispensed into the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Gary M. Baughman
  • Patent number: 8973625
    Abstract: An oil filling device includes an oil filling funnel, an extendable tube assembly, a direction adjustment assembly, and a coupling assembly. The oil filling funnel is mounted to a first end of the extendable tube assembly. The extendable tube assembly has a second end mounted to the direction adjustment assembly. The direction adjustment assembly is mounted to the coupling assembly that is attachable to an oil filling hole of an engine. The direction adjustment assembly enables adjustment of the direction of the extendable tube assembly and the oil filling funnel with respect to the engine, while the extendable tube assembly allows the oil filling funnel to be selectively moved toward or away from the oil filling hole. Thus, the oil filling device may accommodate various heights and angles of oil filling hole of engine and allows filling of oil into the engine to be conducted in a smoother manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Lih Yann Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Po Lin Liao
  • Publication number: 20140366490
    Abstract: A funnel component is manufactured by the following processes: forming a first intermediate product that is tapered, by rolling the blank material; forming a second intermediate product by folding back and welding a narrow opening side portion of the first intermediate product; forming a third intermediate product having the side wall portion by folding the wide opening side portion of the second intermediate product back outward; forming a cylindrical discharge portion forming the narrow opening side portion, a first tapered portion that connects to the discharge portion and has a tapered shape, and a second tapered portion that has a tapered shape having a taper angle less than the first tapered portion, by performing a drawing process on the third intermediate product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: TOPPAN PRINTING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takeshi Saito, Shinji Kaneyuki, Noriyuki Sasaki, Jyun Sada
  • Patent number: 8875751
    Abstract: A storage and dispensing container includes: a housing having a bottom plate with a feed opening defined therein, and a generally cylindrical outer wall extending around an outer periphery of the bottom plate; a funnel disposed at a lower end of the housing, in flow communication with the feed opening; a drum having an outer wall defining an interior that is partitioned into at least two chambers which are open at upper and lower ends thereof, the wall including a cylindrical portion which is coupled to the outer wall of the housing, such that the drum is rotatable relative to the housing; and a removable cap which closes off the upper end of the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventors: Moses Nueman, Jr., Wayne Grubaugh, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8839831
    Abstract: A method for winterizing boat engines and a system with components designed for performing the method comprising an air-pressure-supply means that can be used to pressurize the system and thereby force water out the inlet port, an anti-freeze supply means that will supply anti-freeze liquid into the system when the component that is to be winterized is operated to draw water, and means for coupling these components to the water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: John Gregal
  • Publication number: 20140238543
    Abstract: A funnel component, and a packaging container using the funnel component are provided. A funnel component includes: a funnel portion having a diameter that is increased from a narrow opening side toward a wide opening side; a discharge portion that connects with an end portion on the narrow opening side; and a side wall portion that surrounds an opening portion, on the wide opening side, of the funnel portion, connects with the funnel portion, and is fitted into the container body. The funnel component is integrally formed by a sheet member including paper and sealant layer. A folded portion is formed, by the sheet member being folded back and welded over entire circumference, at an opening portion of the discharge portion. The packaging container is formed by the funnel component being fitted into a container body having an open end, a bottom portion, and a side wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventors: Takashi Terayama, Takeshi Saito, Noriyuki Sasaki, Masashi Goto, Jyun Sada
  • Patent number: 8794272
    Abstract: A granular filler transfer device is provided for transferring granular fill material from a source container into a destination container. The device includes a tubular member having a first end portion flared outwardly approaching a first end of the tubular member and a second end portion flared outwardly approaching a second end of the tubular member. A first strap is removably coupled to the tubular member proximate the first end portion. The first strap is configured for securing around an opening of a source container holding a granular filler material. A second strap is removably coupled to the tubular member and positioned proximate the second end portion. The second strap is configured for securing around an aperture of a destination container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventors: Karen L. Foley, David Darryl Roberts
  • Publication number: 20140196816
    Abstract: An oil filling device includes an oil filling funnel, an extendable tube assembly, a direction adjustment assembly, and a coupling assembly. The oil filling funnel is mounted to a first end of the extendable tube assembly. The extendable tube assembly has a second end mounted to the direction adjustment assembly. The direction adjustment assembly is mounted to the coupling assembly that is attachable to an oil filling hole of an engine. The direction adjustment assembly enables adjustment of the direction of the extendable tube assembly and the oil filling funnel with respect to the engine, while the extendable tube assembly allows the oil filling funnel to be selectively moved toward or away from the oil filling hole. Thus, the oil filling device may accommodate various heights and angles of oil filling hole of engine and allows filling of oil into the engine to be conducted in a smoother manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: LIH YANN INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Po Lin LIAO
  • Publication number: 20140174602
    Abstract: Devices that assist in transferring liquid from commercially available fuel additive containers into capless fuel system intakes generally include an enlarged mouth portion and a narrower nozzle portion, with the mouth portion detachably engaging with an additive container, and the nozzle portion inserted into a capless fuel system intake, such that the capless fuel system's opening flap is held in the opened position. The mouth of the device includes a plurality of hinge points that permit circumferential enlargement of the aperture, thereby allowing the device to form a substantially leak-proof frictional engagement with the neck of fuel additive containers having different diameters. In this manner devices can be used with almost all additive containers, regardless of the type, size and/or manufacturer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: William Edward Baker
  • Publication number: 20140034186
    Abstract: A quick change adapter and method for use in intravenous treatment of large animals such as cattle, horses, pigs, goats and the like. A method for changing bottles of fluids used in intravenous (IV) fluid therapy, includes the steps of (a) providing an IV set including a funnel having a connection aperture, the funnel being constructed of elastic material; (b) providing an adapter apparatus comprising a cannular portion adapted for sealing mating with the fluid egress aperture of a fluid bottle and a lip portion adapted for sealing mating with the funnel aperture; (c) coupling the interface apparatus in a semi-permanent fashion to the funnel by inserting the lip portion into the funnel connection aperture; (d) inserting the cannular portion into the fluid egress aperture of the fluid bottle; and (e) inverting the fluid bottle to facilitate the flow of fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Jason G. Krause
  • Publication number: 20130299045
    Abstract: This device is used to transfer viscous liquids such as ketchup, shampoo, oil, etc., from one bottle to another bottle. It functions like a funnel but its structure and material composition (plastic/rubber) allows it to hold both containers so that they would stay in place. Usually, the top bottle has very little liquid and the bottom bottle is almost full. The weight of the fuller bottom bottle would insure that the system would not topple over. This saves the unused liquid instead of throwing it out. Combining several similar devices allows for the transfer of viscous liquid from a smaller bottle to a bigger bottle and vice-versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Antonio Fracasso
  • Patent number: 8567456
    Abstract: An attachable funnel with internal strainer is used to transfer and strain fluids, such as used cooking oil, from one container to another container for storage and reuse. The funnel includes an insertable screen strainer to filter out food particles and other contaminants from the contaminated fluid. The base of the funnel includes a collar having a plurality of threaded attachment rings to allow the funnel to be screwed onto a storage container. The threaded attachment allows the funnel to remain securely in place on a mouth of the container without risk of tipping or spilling. Integral vent tubes are provided to allow air to escape from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Michael D. Francis
  • Publication number: 20130269833
    Abstract: An apparatus for the transfer of a material into a storage container comprising a based, a funnel member attached to the base, and a sliding collar that nests in the base. The base attaches onto an exterior portion of the inlet of the storage container. The sliding collar includes a retaining member for retaining the sliding collar within the base, and one or more apertures. In addition, an upper portion of the sliding collar has a diameter larger than a diameter of the inlet member; and a lower portion of the sliding collar has a diameter less than the diameter of the inlet member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Matthew EYRE
  • Patent number: 8555936
    Abstract: The invention aims at providing a container for refill that enables transfer of the contents with one action and successfully secure the self-supporting property of the container for allowing the safe transfer. The opening portion (2A) of body (2) of a cup-shaped container is provided internally with a hopper (3) tapering toward the opening portion (2A). Ribs (12) are integrally provided between the outside of the hopper (3) and the inside of a ring (3A) and arranged circumferentially at predetermined intervals. Height H from the top surface of the rib (12) to the opening (3C) of hopper (3) is approximately a quarter or more of diameter ? of the opening (3C) of hopper (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignees: Nestec S.A., Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masashi Gotoh, Takashi Terayama, Noriyuki Sasaki, Takeshi Saitoh, Daiji Takeuchi, Toyoaki Naitoh
  • Publication number: 20130174911
    Abstract: A collection funnel apparatus for collecting spent cleaning fluid from a frozen dessert machine includes a collection funnel and a flexible strap attached to the collection funnel. The collection funnel includes a first side member, an opposing second side member, a first end member, an opposing second end member, and a bottom member having an arcuate shape extending from the first end member to the second end member. Also, the bottom member includes a fluid outlet. The first and second side members, the first and second end members, and the bottom member form a collection cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventors: Timothy A. Bacich, Nicholas L. Gossett
  • Publication number: 20130146174
    Abstract: Adapters, systems, and methods are provided that can be used to refill a fluid dispenser bottle. An adapter is used to connect a fluid package to a dispenser bottle. The adapter includes a duct configured to convey a fluid being transferred from the fluid package to the dispenser bottle; a fluid package coupler coupled with the duct and configured to couple with the fluid package so as to place the duct in fluid communication with the fluid package; a dispenser bottle coupler coupled with the duct and configured to couple with the dispenser bottle so as to place the duct in fluid communication with the dispenser bottle; and at least one orifice disposed offset from the duct for venting the dispenser bottle when fluid is transferred from the fluid package to the dispenser bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: Parker Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Zinn, Neal Buchalter
  • Patent number: 8393361
    Abstract: A receptacle for the weighing-in of free-flowing substances has a fill opening, a tubular-shaped circumference wall, and a bottom part. The bottom part is connected to the tubular-shaped circumference wall, which it tightly closes off in the direction of gravity when the weighing receptacle is in its operating position. The weighing receptacle can be set on the weighing pan of a balance and can be filled like a beaker with free-flowing substances without allowing the latter to escape therefrom. The bottom part can be opened either by an outside force acting on the weighing receptacle and/or through the influence of a solvent acting on the weighing receptacle, forming an outlet orifice in the bottom part. The weighing receptacle, otherwise tightly sealed in the direction of gravity, can be flushed out with a fluid when the outlet orifice is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Paul Lüchinger, Sandra Ehrbar
  • Patent number: 8336585
    Abstract: A concrete funnel and placement system comprising a funnel-type apparatus removably securable to a concrete chute having a retainer element coupled to a funnel element. The funnel element includes a downwardly sloping base forming an aperture for concrete to flow through. The aperture may be any shape or size, and one or more interchangeable discharge plates may be included in order to selectively change the shape and/or size of the aperture. Further, the aperture of the funnel element may be selectively opened or closed. Bearings, sprockets, rollers or other rotatable mechanisms may be included to allow the funnel element to rotate 360° with respect to the retainer element. The retainer element may include a gasket forming a seal with the funnel element to prevent concrete from impeding rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Royce Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Trevor Royce
  • Patent number: 8196622
    Abstract: An apparatus for receiving and dispensing a granulated material incorporating a hopper; a coupling member having an upper end, a lower end, and a conduit extending from the upper end to the lower end; a snap channel and snap ridge combination for rotatably interconnecting the hopper and the coupling member, the snap channel and snap ridge combination positioning the coupling member for communication of the conduit with a lower output end of the hopper; an agitator having proximal and distal ends, the agitator's proximal end being fixedly attached to the coupling member, the agitator's distal end extending into the hopper's interior space; and a bottle mounting socket fixedly attached to the coupling member's lower end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Michael A. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20110186175
    Abstract: A drainage assembly for a faceting machine splash pan including a drain for draining slurry, a funnel for capturing the slurry including a basin mounted upon a tubular neck, the basin defining a rim having a sealing member circumferentially disposed thereon, the funnel further including a hose fitting positioned within the neck, and a drain hose received within the neck and removably attached to the hose fitting and in fluid communication with the basin, wherein a mechanical disconnect is provided between the drain and the drain hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Gabriel William Dobo
  • Patent number: 7967040
    Abstract: A system for transferring a viscous liquid between containers that comprises a first container from which the liquid is to be drained, a second container for receiving the liquid, a first transfer lid that attaches to the first container, a second transfer lid that attaches to the second container and a transfer adapter that interconnects the lids. The first transfer lid has an outlet spout received into the transfer adapter, which is received in an inlet spout of the second transfer lid. The first container is inverted over the second container to drain liquid from the first container lid to the second container through the connected container lids. In an another configuration, the system is used with bottles and comprises a pair of bottle connectors that each engage a bottle and have interlocking members that join the connectors. In another embodiment liquid is transferred between a bottle and a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Peter B. Sanford
  • Publication number: 20100084042
    Abstract: A combination fluid collector and parts washer includes a collector mounted on a base supported stanchion to receive fluid for selectively discharging the fluid through a valve into a container. A tray is removably mounted in the collector for supporting parts to be washed by the fluid in the collector and includes ridges on the bottom for drainage purposes and holes for draining the fluid from the tray into the collector. A device for collecting fluid from each of a plurality of containers is detachably attachable to the stanchion for discharging the collected fluid into a vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Donald G. Bonnell
  • Patent number: 7690406
    Abstract: A hazardous material transfer system for the transfer of waste from a containment cell through a transfer port to a storage vessel. A port door in the containment cell is movable between a open and closed positions relative to the transfer port. The port door has a closure face with a first connector set. A storage vessel sealed by a storage vessel cover is provided for receipt of waste transferred through the port. The cover has an outside face that carries a second connector set that interlocks with the first connector set on the port door. The inside face of the vessel cover has a third connector set. A fourth connector set is located on the storage vessel and mates with the third connector set to lock and seal the cover to the vessel. The connector sets are the variety that engage and disengage upon rotational motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Isaac M. Giesen
  • Patent number: 7677276
    Abstract: A funnel includes a funnel body, and a narrow stem portion connected to a lower portion of the funnel body, with a half-closed damper having an elastic engaging opening being formed on a top of the funnel body. Alternatively, the funnel includes a funnel body and a narrow stem portion connected to a lower portion of the funnel body, with an elastic engaging opening and a half-opened baffle being formed at an upper portion of the funnel body at two opposite positions. In the latter case, the elastic engaging opening includes two inward curved clamping arms, and a vertical slit is formed between the two clamping arms to downward extend to the funnel body. With the elastic engaging opening, the funnel can be used with liquid containers having differently sized spouts. And, with the half-closed damper or the half-opened baffle, liquid being poured into the funnel is prevented from spilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Shanghai Easy-Use Tools Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shi Yu Sun
  • Patent number: 7665492
    Abstract: The fuel nozzle support funnel comprises a top conical section and a bottom smaller opening neck section. The top conical section has a top rim configured to seat over the fuel inlet opening of a truck fuel tank with the top conical section extending into the fuel tank. The bottom smaller opening neck section depends into the tank from a bottom smaller opening edge of the top conical section and has an inner sleeve therein made of a frictional material non reactant with diesel fuel. The inner sleeve and surrounding smaller opening neck section are of a diameter sufficient to allow passage therethrough of a fuel nozzle of a fuel pump. The top conical section has a plurality of openings therein through which air can escape during fueling to maintain the pressure within the tank constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Justin Burstein, Steven A. Huber, Katie Strausser, John P. Thornton, Matthew T. Ware
  • Publication number: 20090229707
    Abstract: A concrete funnel and placement system comprising a funnel-type apparatus removably securable to a concrete chute having a retainer element coupled to a funnel element. The funnel element includes a downwardly sloping base forming an aperture for concrete to flow through. The aperture may be any shape or size, and one or more interchangeable discharge plates may be included in order to selectively change the shape and/or size of the aperture. Further, the aperture of the funnel element may be selectively opened or closed. Bearings, sprockets, rollers or other rotatable mechanisms may be included to allow the funnel element to rotate 360° with respect to the retainer element. The retainer element may include a gasket forming a seal with the funnel element to prevent concrete from impeding rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: ROYCE INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Trevor Royce
  • Patent number: 7527174
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser system includes a container that is mounted below a mounting surface for containing a fluid. A base is mounted above the mounting surface, and the base defines an opening configured to allow passage of the fluid when filling the container. A dispenser body is detachably coupled to the base to allow removal of the dispenser for filling the container with the fluid from above the mounting surface. The dispenser body has a moveable handle that is moveable for manually pumping the fluid and a fixed spout that is fixed in position relative to the mounting surface when the fluid is dispensed from the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Steven Kyle Meehan, Darrell Scott Crowe, Alfred C. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20070277904
    Abstract: A system (10) and method for substantially automatically aseptically or non-aseptically filling a container with a fluid. The transfer of fluid occurs via a movable nozzle mechanism (20) substantially automatically inserted into a side opening (32) in a connector (12) attached to the container. More specifically, the side opening (32) in the connector (12) is exposed, the nozzle mechanism (20) is moved into the side opening (32), the fluid is transferred into the container via the nozzle mechanism (20) and the connector (12), the nozzle mechanism (20) is removed from the side opening (32) in the connector (12), and the side opening (32) in the connector (12) is closed. The aseptic transfer of fluid includes a substantially automatic sterilization procedure accomplished by both spray and contact components (54,56).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: Carl Martin
  • Patent number: 7192127
    Abstract: A joint member is made of an elastic member whose cross sectional shape is an almost M-character shape and which has: an inserting portion formed with an opening portion and a slit; an outer edge portion as an outer peripheral portion of the joint member; and a supporting fixing portion for coupling the inserting portion and the outer edge portion on the upper portion side. A cross sectional shape of an opening of the opening portion is a shape of a circular cone frustum in which the opening and a bottom surface are coupled via an inclined surface. The slit is formed in the rectangular bottom surface. The joint member is sandwiched between a casing and a pressing plate. The inserting portion and the supporting fixing portion exist in planes which are different in the inserting direction of a liquid supply needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kiyomitsu Kudo, Junji Shimoda, Akira Tsujimoto, Satoshi Kudo, Toru Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6962174
    Abstract: The invention discloses an assembly for collecting residual motor oil from standard plastic motor oil containers comprising a housing with two inlets sized, configured and positioned for receiving plastic motor oil containers. An outlet at the bottom of the housing adapted to be placed within a residual oil collection unit substantially closes the collection unit, permitting collection of contaminant-free residual oil. The assembly further includes a base welded to the housing with support arms for the plastic motor oil containers. Multiple assemblies may be stacked to provide the ability to collect oil from additional motor oil containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Charles Trantham
  • Patent number: 6739358
    Abstract: A particulate material conveying apparatus generally consisting of an upper conduit having a material receiving inlet; a first intermediate conduit communicating with the upper conduit and swivable relative to the upper conduit about a first axis; a second intermediate conduit communicating with the first intermediate conduit and swivelable relative to the first intermediate conduit about a second axis parallel to the first axis; a lower conduit having a material discharge outlet, communicating with the second intermediate conduit and swivable relative to the second intermediate conduit about a third axis parallel to the second axis; and a mechanism for translating the angular displacement of the second intermediate conduit relative to the first intermediate conduit about the second axis to angular displacement of the first intermediate conduit relative to the upper conduit about the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: The Young Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Pfeiffer
  • Patent number: 6715647
    Abstract: A funnel with support assembly for pouring paint from a can, having a funnel and a funnel support having a holster and a stand upon which the holster is supported. The funnel may be supported upon the funnel support. The funnel has a large opening located in proximity to the funnel top, a small opening located in proximity to the funnel bottom, and a cap for sealing its small opening. In use, the holster and stand are positioned above a paint tray. The user seals the small opening of the funnel with the cap and attaches the large opening of the funnel to the top of an open can of paint. The can of paint and the attached funnel are then inverted and positioned within the holster. The user begins the flow of paint by removing the cap from the funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Todd Ivins
  • Patent number: 6691738
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filler assembly for dispensing liquid to and from a container capable of storing an indicated liquid. The filler assembly has a portable part and a stationary part cooperating to provide a sealed dispensing means for communicating an indicated liquid from an indicated liquid source to a container and for safely communicating the indicated liquid from the container to another location. The portable part and the stationary part are adapted to sealably mate together and further provide means for preventing misassembly of the two parts. The portable part provides dispensing means capable of communicating the liquid from the stationary part to a remote location. The stationary part is adapted to further sealably mate and communicate with a container capable of storing an indicated liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wen-Chang Kuo, Szu-Yao Wang, Wen-Hsiang Tseng
  • Patent number: 6435233
    Abstract: An inlet filler pipe comprises a pipe main body having a fuel passage for fueling fuel through an inlet into a fuel tank, and a flange formed on the pipe main body, for attachment to an outer wheel housing. A reinforcing element comprising a plurality of first ribs and second ribs arranged so as to surround the pipe main body is formed on the flange. The portion along the outer periphery of the pipe main body between first ribs and second ribs serves as a fragile portion, ensuring breaks at a load over a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Natsushi Miura, Hisatsugu Goto, Tomokazu Hori
  • Publication number: 20020007866
    Abstract: An oil drip catching apparatus includes a wall mounting bracket having a base portion adapted for attachment to a wall, a top portion, integral with the base portion and adapted for receiving an upper rim of a funnel, and a bottom portion, integral with the base portion and spaced apart from the top portion. A means for receiving a drip catching bottle in dowardly directed and adapted for removable engagement with the bottle. A spring is engaged with the bottom portion, and adapted for directing a spring force upwardly on the funnel, the Drips from the funnel are directed into the drip catching bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Dana Swan
  • Patent number: 6276410
    Abstract: An oil funnel assembly for providing a user with a more efficient and quicker way to change oil. The oil funnel assembly includes a funnel that includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion includes a distribution opening that is designed for inserting into an oil receiving port of an engine. A plurality of dividers are coupled to the upper portion of the funnel. The dividers are positioned to form a grid that includes a plurality of spaces. Each of the spaces is designed for receiving and holding an inverted oil container such that oil in the inverted oil container drains into the funnel and out of the distribution opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen G. Esmeralda
  • Patent number: 6260590
    Abstract: A funnel usable for transferring relatively viscous fluids from one container to another. The funnel includes either extending posts or threaded walls which are engageable with the container from which the fluid is to flow. The funnel may have a tubular section to fit into the neck of a receiving container of comparable size, such a section may give added stability to an upper part of the arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Neil Ziegmann
  • Patent number: 6116299
    Abstract: A vented self-supporting filling device for providing a filling device that can be stably positioned within an opening of a receiving container. The device includes a conical member having an open top end and an open bottom end, and a tubular member integrally joined to the conical member. The tubular member has an open upper end and an open lower end, wherein the open upper end is integrally joined to and communicates with the open bottom end of the conical member. A plurality of outer fingers outwardly project from the tubular member for stably supporting the filling device in a generally upright orientation when positioned within an opening of a receiving container. In addition, a plurality of inner fingers inwardly project from the conical member for stably supporting a pouring container when positioned within the filling device in an inverted orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventors: Lane A. Cummins, Donnie J. Strybos
  • Patent number: 5967201
    Abstract: A drainage system is provided including a hollow housing and a flexible hose having a first end connected to a bottom of the housing and a second end with a oil port couple for being releasably connected to an oil port of a vehicle. Situated on the housing is a valve for selectively allowing a fluid within the housing to flow through the hose. Next provided is a hanging assembly mounted on the housing for hanging the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Carlton L. Gasior
  • Patent number: 5899246
    Abstract: A new Vented Self-Supporting Filling Device for providing a filling device that can be stably positioned within an opening of a receiving container. The inventive device includes a conical member having an open top end and an open bottom end, and a tubular member integrally joined to the conical member. The tubular member has an open upper end and an open lower end, wherein the open upper end is integrally joined to and communicates with the open bottom end of the conical member. A plurality of outer fingers outwardly project from the tubular member for stably supporting the filling device in a generally upright orientation when positioned within an opening of a receiving container. In addition, a plurality of inner fingers inwardly project from the conical member for stably supporting a pouring container when positioned within the filling device in an inverted orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventors: Lane A. Cummins, Donnie J. Strybos
  • Patent number: 5884502
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a combination ice chute and ice bin covering door for directing ice into the ice storage area of an ice or beverage dispenser. The ice chute cover is pivotally secured to a top surface of the beverage dispenser so that it can move from a closed position to an ice directing/loading position. In the closed position the ice chute cover serves to cover an opening to the ice storage area of the dispenser. A handle on the chute cover can be grasped to manually swing it between both positions. In the ice loading position a portion of the chute extends outward of the perimeter of the beverage dispenser. In operation, the handle is used to move the chute cover from the closed position to the loading position. A bucket of ice can then be lifted so that the open end thereof rests on the lip of the chute cover. The bucket can then be tipped upward so as to empty its ice contents onto the bottom surface of the chute cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: IMI Wilshire Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Carter Jones, Richard Norman Chasse, Jeffrey Alan Rutchik, Robert Allen Crosby, Jr., David George Kmetz