With Valve Actuator Or Extended Stem Patents (Class 141/344)
  • Patent number: 11548773
    Abstract: A multipurpose vented funnel is a device for funneling liquid, wherein the device includes a conical hollow body having open top end directed into an outlet spout end, with an inner and outer wall wherein the inner wall of the conical hollow body includes a linear pattern of grooves extending vertically from the bottom of the overflow guard and ended at the spout opening. The conical hollow body has a handle with is integrated and part of tubular rectangular vent passageway structure for the venting of air or gas from a reservoir and/or container. In addition, a plurality of stabilizer tabs outwardly project from the down spout for the stable supporting of a containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Inventors: Jeffrey Flowers, Karen Flowers
  • Patent number: 10539319
    Abstract: A torch refilling assembly includes a funnel for receiving a liquid fuel. A spout is fluidly coupled to the funnel and the spout is positioned in an opening of a fuel canister of a torch to direct the liquid fuel into the fuel canister of the torch. A rest is coupled to and extends laterally away from the funnel for engage a lid of the fuel canister for storage when the fuel canister is filled with the liquid fuel. A valve is movably coupled between the funnel and the spout. The valve is selectively positioned in a closed position to inhibit the liquid fuel from flowing out of the funnel. The valve is selectively positioned in an open position to pass the liquid fuel therethrough thereby facilitating the fuel canister to be filled with the liquid fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Inventor: Richard Dunphy
  • Patent number: 10151614
    Abstract: A self-filling graduated cylinder system for efficiently filling a graduated cylinder with a chemical solution. The self-filling graduated cylinder system generally includes a graduated cylinder having an interior, an upper end, an upper opening in the upper end a lower end opposite of the upper end, and a check valve attached to the graduated cylinder near the lower end of the graduated cylinder. The check valve is adapted to allow a liquid chemical to flow upwardly through the check valve into the graduated cylinder and to prevent the liquid chemical within the interior of the graduated cylinder from flowing downwardly through the check valve. A vacuum device is fluidly connected to the graduated cylinder to draw the liquid chemical upwardly to an upper level within the graduated cylinder. Alternatively, a pump device pumps liquid chemical into the graduated cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: Cleaning Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Krause, Patrick A. Fredrickson, Kenneth R. Smith
  • Patent number: 9963257
    Abstract: An injection device for diesel exhaust fluid includes a cylinder, a stopper, and an air tube. The cylinder encloses a receiving space. The cylinder has an opening at the bottom end. The stopper is pipe-shaped and has a stopping portion and a top portion at two opposite ends thereof. The stopper is arranged in the receiving space and is movable along the longitudinal direction of the cylinder. the stopping portion selectively plugs the opening of the cylinder so that fluid in the receiving space is unable to flow out via the opening. The air tube is inserted through the stopper and the opening of the cylinder to communicate with exterior. The air tube is positioned to the cylinder near the opening so that the air tube may not move with the stopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Inventors: Ying-Chieh Liao, Yu-Kuo Liao
  • Patent number: 9958307
    Abstract: A liquid dosing device for use with a liquid dispenser that includes a container for holding liquid in communication with a dispenser base, an outlet port for dispensing the liquid. The liquid dosing device includes a valve housing, a reservoir and a dosing cup. The valve housing is mounted to the dispenser base and includes an open top, an outlet port and a blocking region. The reservoir is mounted within the valve housing and includes at least one inlet port in communication with the dispenser base outlet port and at least one outlet port. The dosing cup is movably mounted within the valve housing in fluid communication with the reservoir and includes at least one inlet port in fluid communication with the reservoir outlet port, a blocking region, at least one outlet port and mechanism for moving the dosing cup between a fill position and a dose position to prevent spillage of the liquid being dispensed, or to dispense the liquid in defined quantities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Anderson Chemical Company
    Inventors: Leif Anderson, Jim Alsleben, Jamie Brekke, Alex Carlson, Kurt Regenbrecht
  • Patent number: 9877616
    Abstract: A liquid soap filling device is provided. The liquid soap filling device includes a body member having an upper portion and lower portion. The upper portion includes an inner volume accessible through an opening in a top surface of the upper portion. The inner volume receives a measured amount of liquid soap through the opening. The lower portion includes a frustoconical shaped inner volume and a valve system, wherein the valve system controls the dispensing of the liquid soap from within the inner volume of the upper portion through the frustoconical shaped inner volume of the lower portion and through a fill port of the lower portion and into an under-counter dispenser container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Inventor: Larry Vegh
  • Patent number: 9534881
    Abstract: A ring gauge with a maintenance line, which can reliably and quickly let a user know at an early stage the time for replacement during maintenance of a ring gauge, is provided with a ring gauge body which has, on an inner portion, a hole-shaped measuring portion having a circular shape in a planar view and serving as a reference for various types of measuring devices, a predetermined thickness, an upper surface portion, a lower surface portion, and a wear checking gauge line which can have a linear shape formed on an inner diameter portion of the hole-shaped measuring portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: NIIGATA SEIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Igarashi
  • Patent number: 9481558
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a funnel apparatus for filling of liquids, which comprises a funnel, a sealing means, a locking means, and a soft tube. The funnel apparatus has a fluid receiving member and a tubular member provided for carrying fluid. The latter has a passageway that has a top end portion installed with a handle, and a bottom end portion equipped with a stopper provided for blocking movement of the tubular member. The plunger rod has recessed portions patterned in a longitudinal orientation across its surface. The locking means has an assembly bore and a rim connected with a series of spokes; the assembly bore is fixedly disposed at an end of the receiving member so the plunger rod stretches over the assembly bore and can move axially thereby. The soft tube is inserted into the recessed portions on the plunger rod for providing an air exchange functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: SHOU KING ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ching-Chou Lin
  • Patent number: 8950448
    Abstract: Various embodiments provide a multifunction transfer device, which can have: an open-ended conical portion having a larger diameter at a top open-end than at a bottom open-end; a release coupled to the bottom open-end of the conical portion and configured to move from a closed position to an open position; a rest integrated to a bottom of the release and configured to hold the device above a liquid container; and an open-ended chute coupled to the release below the rest and configured for fluid communication with the conical portion. In one embodiment, the multifunction transfer device can include at least one graduation configured to indicate a measurement of the material contained in a volume within the conical portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: J. Clint Jameson
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8522840
    Abstract: Disclosed is a scoop for retaining and dispensing a powder into a bottle. The scoop is formed from a housing having generally slanted sides downwardly to a spout having a slanted opening. A handle is affixed to the housing. An actuating mechanism covers the spout-slanted opening and is formed from a generally flat slide, a hand graspable element, optionally for movement of the slide from a closed state to an open state, and a switch, also for movement of the slide from a closed state to an open state. A pair of elongate ears is carried by the spout and housing and disposed adjacent to the slanted opening for retaining the slide and permitting movement of slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Houser Products, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Houser
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130101717
    Abstract: A coffee beverage system is described, including a coffee bean packaging cartridge and a coffee brewing apparatus comprising a grinder wherein the coffee bean packaging cartridge is removably connectable to the coffee grinder apparatus. The coffee bean packaging cartridge is arranged for holding and supplying of coffee beans and includes a transportation component adapted for enabling transportation of the coffee beans. The coffee brewing apparatus comprises a motor for driving the transportation component of the first coffee bean packaging cartridge. The system further comprises a ground coffee packaging cartridge, preferably having a transportation component for enabling transportation of ground coffee which transportation component is also removably connectable to the coffee grinder apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Gerbrand Kristiaan de Graaff, Ivo Van Os, Christiaan Johannes Maria Moorman, Joseph Theodoor Knitel
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130000775
    Abstract: Various embodiments provide a multifunction transfer device, which can have: an open-ended conical portion having a larger diameter at a top open-end than at a bottom open-end; a release coupled to the bottom open-end of the conical portion and configured to move from a closed position to an open position; a rest integrated to a bottom of the release and configured to hold the device above a liquid container; and an open-ended chute coupled to the release below the rest and configured for fluid communication with the conical portion. In one embodiment, the multifunction transfer device can include at least one graduation configured to indicate a measurement of the material contained in a volume within the conical portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: J. Clint Jameson
  • Publication number: 20120204999
    Abstract: A method for substantially contamination-free transport of pourable bulk product from a dosing unit into a container is proposed, wherein the dosing outlet of the dosing unit is connected in a detachable manner with the receiving inlet of the container, the dosing outlet and the receiving inlet are opened, and the bulk product is transported into the container from the dosing unit via its dosing outlet and via the receiving inlet of the container. The receiving inlet of the container is disposed at the dosing unit by means of an elastic joining element to prevent transfer of forces between the dosing unit and the container during the dosing process. A device for carrying out such a method is also proposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Helmuth Bauer, Christian Leist
  • Publication number: 20120204998
    Abstract: A coupler assembly (6) for use in the transfer of powdered material from a container such as a bag or bottle comprises an active valve assembly (8) having an active valve and docking part and a passive valve assembly (7) which comprises a passive valve and a complimentary docking part, the two docking parts enabling the two assemblies to be secured together such that both the passive valve and active valve can be opened to provide a passage for powder through both valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: EZI-DOCK SYSTEMS LIMITED
    Inventors: Michael Ronald Brimson, Stephen Thomas McAleavy
  • Patent number: 8104521
    Abstract: A dosage-dispensing device includes a drive device and a source container that can be set into the drive device, wherein a dosage-dispensing head is connected to a closure shaft which is movably constrained in the source container. The closure shaft has a coupler part configured to be coupled to and uncoupled from a drive shaft of the drive device. The source container has a first form element which is designed for form-fitting engagement with a first counterpart element formed on the drive device and serves to precisely position the coupler part in relation to the drive shaft. The source container further has a second form element which is designed for form-fitting engagement with a second counterpart element formed on the drive device and which, when in operating position, serves to precisely position the dosage-dispensing head in relation to a target container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventors: Paul Lüchinger, Sandra Ehrbar
  • Patent number: 7987816
    Abstract: The dual function bowl lifting and filling apparatus of the present invention allows a user to clean or fill a surface laying bowl with fluid or food, or to lift or move the apparatus without bending. Specific designs are utilized to enable the dual function bowl lifting and filling apparatus to be used by people with special needs. The bowl-filling apparatus also allows excess fluid to be stored in the apparatus. A method of filling a surface-laying bowl is disclosed as well as a method for storing excess fluid in a bowl-filling apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Marjorie S. Walsh
  • Publication number: 20110079321
    Abstract: A polymeric container is used to supply texture materials to the inlet of a pump. Linear low density polyethylene is used to mold a container with geometry such that the material will flow down to the inlet of a texture pump. The geometry is optimized such that thorough mixing of material can be achieved. A hole in the bottom is provided to accept a drain plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: Barry W. Mattson
  • Patent number: 7770614
    Abstract: A funnel system and method for introducing and dispensing a material are presented. In this funnel system two frusto-conical devices having intake ports which have a larger diameter than the diameter of their exit ports may be mated. When mated, a passage exists through the devices' exit ports. Both frusto-conical devices may have partially eclipsed exit ports such that when one device rotates with respect to the other, the passage throttles between a substantially open and a substantially closed position. In this method the devices may be rotated such that the passage may be in the substantially closed position and a material may then be introduced into the second device's intake port. To dispense the material, the devices may be rotated such that the passage may be in a substantially open position whereupon the material may be dispensed from the first device's exit port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Golden GT LLC.
    Inventors: Tal E. Ben Shlomo, Itamar Burstein
  • Patent number: 7757728
    Abstract: A funnel with a shut-off valve terminates the flow of fluid from a reservoir to a spout passageway upon activation of the shut-off valve. The flow of fluid is terminated when a float contacts a seal mounted within the spout passageway. An upper magnet is mounted above the seal and a lower magnet is attached to the float, a portion of which extends over the lower magnet. In the open position, the force provided between the magnets serves to provide lift to the float. When the fluid level in the container rises, additional lift is provided until the lower magnet comes sufficiently within the range of the upper magnet causing the lower magnet to be drawn to the upper magnet. The force between the magnets is sufficient to provide compression of the seal by the float. A ball joint is provided between a control rod and the float to correct misalignment between the float and the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Inspired Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Jennifer Gruber
  • Patent number: 7591289
    Abstract: A cooling system bleeder system for permitting air to be bled from a cooling system of a vehicle to reduce spillage of coolant during the bleeding process includes a container for receiving coolant to be supplied to the coolant system. The container has an upper open end to permit the coolant to be poured into the container. The container includes a lower open end permitting the coolant to drain from the container. A valve is coupled to the container adjacent to and over the lower open end. The valve is selectively actuated to an open position to permit the coolant in the container to drain from the container and selectively actuated to a closed position to discontinue draining of the coolant from the container. A cap is couplable to the container adjacent the upper open end to selectively close the upper open end of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Inventor: Jim S. Hamada
  • Patent number: 7469725
    Abstract: A system for accurately measuring and delivering a predetermined amount of fuel to a vehicle for a specified mission. This system rapidly refuels vehicles to a specific wet vehicle weight. The fuel loading value is determined based upon an algorithm, which accounts for interactions of mission duration, and/or mission payload weight, and/or mission environmental effects. The fuel loading is accomplished by using one or more measuring tubes with a floating valve, which precludes the continued flow of fuel into the tank when the predetermined amount of fuel is delivered. The measuring tubes can be of specific lengths each corresponding to an output of the algorithm or a single telescoping tube that enables varying the length of the tube. Each unique tube length corresponding to a unique output of the algorithm. An alternative system comprises different sized fuel bladders. These systems enable a rapid foolproof method of refueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Richard E. Annati
  • Publication number: 20080271815
    Abstract: “Regulating device for the lower discharge opening of a livestock feed trough”. Regulating device for the lower discharge opening of a livestock feed trough, which comprises an annular body with a similar cross-section to that of the mouth of the trough, which can be telescopically attached thereto; a vertical rod, which is solidly joined to said annular body; and a means of actuation that acts on the vertical rod, which can be moved vertically by said means of actuation, dragging with it the annular body and thus altering the effective length of the trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: ROTECNA, S.A.
    Inventor: Gener ROMEU GUARDIA
  • Patent number: 7431057
    Abstract: A system for simultaneously filling a plurality of paintball pods with a reduced incidence of spilling includes a housing, a pod support, a reservoir, and a valve. The pod support includes a plate with at least one aperture configured to maintain at least one paintball pod in a vertical orientation. The pod support is configured to be positioned in the housing. The reservoir includes at least one opening in a bottom wall thereof. The valve selectively and controllably allows or obstructs a flow of paintballs from the reservoir to one or more paintball pods positioned in the pod support. The components of the paintball filling system may be coupled or nested into a single transportable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: John Ryan
  • Patent number: 7299834
    Abstract: A funnel assembly is provided for transferring material between two containers. The funnel assembly includes a funnel forming a reservoir and a spout of substantially circular cross-section that tapers along a longitudinal axis between an inlet end joined to the funnel and a distal outlet end. The spout includes an inside surface. The funnel assembly also includes a substantially spherical occluding element disposed in the spout. The occluding element has a periphery larger than the outlet end of the spout and smaller than the inlet end. The occluding element includes a resiliently flexible sealing member extending circumferentially therearound for selectively engaging and conforming to the inside surface of the spout at any of a plurality of angular displacements of the occluding element to establish an impervious seal within the spout between the inlet and outlet ends as a result of gravity and material weight acting upon the occluding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Booth Platt
  • Patent number: 7299743
    Abstract: This invention combines several processes into on easy to use product. The glass sphere dramatically enhances the aeration procedure by gently exposing air to thin waves of wine as wine passes over the surface of the sphere. The integrated filter provides a larger surface than normally found in wine filtration devices. The supporting structure secures the decanter in such a way that consumers can easily dispense wine without handling a wine bottle or conventional decanter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: James R. Moore
  • Patent number: 6863099
    Abstract: A funnel assembly to be mounted on a fluid intake pipe such as for a vehicle engine includes a funnel body connected to a valve that is in communication with the intake pipe. The funnel body is moveable between an operative position in which the valve is opened for receiving a fluid flow and directing the flow into the fluid intake pipe, and a non-operative position for closing the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Paraphase, Inc.
    Inventor: Kirk W. Watkins
  • Patent number: 6341631
    Abstract: An on/off valve for a funnel having a tapered funnel outlet tube which has a substantially circular cross-section and which has a larger diameter inlet end and a smaller diameter outlet end, and features a substantially spherical occluding element in the tapered outlet tube. The diameter of the occluding element is such that the occluding element rests against the inner wall of the tapered outlet tube to close the funnel outlet tube to prevent passage of liquid therethrough and to permit the sealing at a variety of angular displacements of the spherical occluding element. The occluding element's position in the tapered outlet tube is determined by a wire-like element protruding from the occluding element out of the outlet tube's outlet end, and the protruding element extends substantially parallel to the outlet tube's axis and then bends to form a transverse arm which contacts a rim of a vessel being filled by the funnel to start flow therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Rick Anthony Hobbs
  • Patent number: 6223792
    Abstract: A funnel cap device for a fluid container includes a funnel-shaped member having a passage therethrough extending between a wide end and a narrow end thereof, and a cap member attached to the funnel-shaped member for selectively opening and closing the narrow end of the passage. A hub portion extends from the narrow end of the funnel-shaped member, the cap member being slidable on the hub portion between open and closed positions. The cap member and hub portion include a cooperating aperture and seal tab which mutually engage in the closed position to prevent fluid flow. The funnel cap device is attachable to a fluid container having a spout on one end. The funnel-shaped member includes an intermediate portion having a thread pattern on an inner surface for engaging similar threads on the spout in an upright orientation where the funnel-shaped member engages the neck of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Ray N. Slagle
  • 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: 5950697
    Abstract: An on/off valve for a liquid-directing funnel having a tapered funnel outlet spout features a substantially spherical occluding element resident in the outlet spout. The diameter of the occluding element is such that the occluding element rests against the wall of the tapered spout close to a funnel outlet to prevent passage of liquid therethrough while minimizing discharge at the funnel outlet when the occluding element shuts off flow from the funnel. The occluding element's position in the outlet spout is determined by a wire-like element protruding from the occluding element out of the funnel outlet, the protruding element extending substantially parallel to the outlet spout axis and then bending to form a transverse arm which contacts a rim of a vessel being filled by the funnel whenever one wishes to start flow therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Specialty Auto Parts U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Anthony Hobbs
  • Patent number: 5515892
    Abstract: A funnel (20) for use in dumping volatile solvents into an underlying carboy (16) is ecologically friendly in that it blocks solvent from evaporating from the carboy into the atmosphere. The funnel has (a) an extended stem (22), the bottom open end of which is below the surface of the solvent (18) in the carboy to reduce surface evaporation, (b) an occluder or obturating ball (24) in the throat of the funnel to block evaporation through the stem of the funnel, and (c) a lid (28) on the funnel to block evaporation. The ball may be float operated, with or without a captivating cage (26), or it may be operated by lifting the lid, which may be performed manually or via a foot pedal (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventors: Afshin Najafi, Ramin Najafi
  • Patent number: 5511595
    Abstract: A device for funneling liquid, wherein the device includes a funnel portion for receiving liquid, a vented tube-like handle for preventing liquid backup in the funnel portion and an outlet spout with an end and cooperative side opening for delivering liquid therefrom. A stopper, which has a ruled shaft for measuring liquid, is provided for controlling and stopping the flow of liquid from the device. In addition, an extension and outlet adapter are provided to accommodate various receiving containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: William C. Stidham
  • Patent number: 5392828
    Abstract: An oil reservoir for the supply of oil to an internal combustion engine, the reservoir 50 having an upwardly open filler passage 53 to receive a neck portion 64 of an oil container 64. The reservoir filler passage 53 being closed by a wall 54 spaced inwardly from the open end thereof and an opening 56 is provided in said filler passage wall 54 located to inhibit direct communication between the filler passage 53 and the interior of the reservoir 50. The filler passage 53 is adapted to sealably engage the container neck 65 upon the container neck 65 being inserted into the filler passage 53 a pre-determined extent, and to puncture a closure wall 70 of the container neck 65 after said sealed engagement is established to permit oil to flow from the container 64 through said opening 56 in the filler passage wall 54 into the reservoir 50.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Orbital Engine Company Pty. Limited
    Inventors: Stephen J. Watson, Sam R. Leighton, Peter W. Czwienczek
  • Patent number: 5356047
    Abstract: A consumer gasoline tester having a design type of easy handling and storage for convenience. The tester will have at the top a funnel spout apparatus (10) with a plastic nozzle stop (18) at the base. The nozzle connects to a clear plastic container (16) which has an easy-grip handle (12). The bottom of the container has a threaded hole for attaching the butterfly valve (20) and draining hose (22). The container is clearly marked for precise measurement with quantity indicators (14). There is an additional flaired-bottom container (28) with a circular handle (26) and screw-on cap (24) to be used to store suspect gasoline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald G. Rogers
  • Patent number: 5293912
    Abstract: A wine breather is disclosed which comprises a cylindrical and horn shaped container (10) which tapers downwardly from an inlet (12) to an outlet (14). A valve (16) is arranged at the outlet which has an annular outlet passage (42) angled at a transverse angle to the longitudinal axis of the container (10). Wine is poured into the open end (12) and passes through the container (10) to exit the passage (42) in a thin sheet forming a generally hemispherical flow of wine which presents a substantially large surface area of wine for contact with the air to cause the wine to breathe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Inventors: Timothy J. Wildash, Alun F. Bartsch
  • Patent number: 5269354
    Abstract: A device for recovering oil from a plurality of open mouthed containers comprising a funnel having a plurality of openings at its upper end and an outlet port at its lower end. The outlet port is threaded to receive a collection container, such as a plastic oil container. The upper end of the funnel has a plurality of spaced openings, each opening has associated with it a ring having a plurality of vertical ribs spaced around the interior circumference for releasably retaining the neck of a container by a pressure fit. Each ring has a removable cap removably attachable to it for covering an opening not in use, thereby preventing dirt from entering the funnel. A set of braces having a mounting plate extends from the funnel for securing the device to a wall. An optional valve permits closure of the outlet port when a recovery container is removed, thereby preventing fluid from leaking out of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventor: Leslie R. Koberg
  • Patent number: 5228488
    Abstract: A funnel including measurement indicia discernible in relation to the contents therein, such funnel having a lower neck portion with an aperture therein and a collar member rotatably positioned on the neck portion with an aperture defined therein, such collar member in a first mode misaligning such apertures to retain the contents in the funnel and in a second mode rotated to align such apertures, to release the contents of the funnel through a spout member affixed below the collar member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Inventor: Scott W. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 5186358
    Abstract: A spout device, which may be hand held or wall mounted, for use in dispensing containerized fluids or liquids, powders and granulated solids. Included with the device is a kit comprised of a variety of attachable and detachable components which enables the device to be connected to virtually all containers with contents to be discharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Clifford R. McVay
  • Patent number: 5163488
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the presentation in superposed layers of liquids of different densities, particularly liquid foodstuffs, essentially constituted by a body (1) adapted to be mounted on a glass (2), to be filled, and having a receptacle (3) for reception of the liquids, on the side opposite that bearing on the glass (2), characterized in that it is provided with a spherical float (4) coming into contact with the liquid in the glass (2) and connected to a rod (5) guided in a discharge channel (6) of the receptacle (3) for reception of the liquids in the direction of the glass (2), arranged in the body (1) and opening into said receptacle (3), this rod (5) being provided at its end opposite the float (4) with a stop forming simultaneously a manipulable handle (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventor: Armand Basch
  • Patent number: 5085135
    Abstract: An apparatus wherein a coffee maker includes a brew pot formed with a conical upper chamber and a cylindrical lower chamber, wherein the cylindrical lower chamber includes a valve member cooperative with the lower chamber to selectively disrupt and discontinue flow therethrough. The valve member cooperates with a concave deflectable plate mounted therein to receive a shaft to overlie and deflect the plate to disengage flow to a lower conduit formed within the lower chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Inventor: Gary E. Collignon
  • Patent number: 5018559
    Abstract: A circular funnel apparatus for industrial use with a closeable lid able to set securely on top of a standard 55 gallon drum. This apparatus consists of four different assembled pieces:1. A funnel with a supporting circular frame body with a cylindrical extruded drain in the bottom of the funnel, able to extend down into a standard bung hole of a 55 gallon drum.2. A hinged lid fastened to the funnel frame body capable of closing off the funnel by closing the lid or by lifting and rotating the lid 165 degrees opens the funnel into which paint materials can be poured.3. Fastened to the underside of the lid (attached 90 degrees or perpendicular to the lid) is a cylindrical rod. With the lid in the closed position, the rod is exactly centered over the cylindrical drain in the bottom of the funnel.4. Fastened to the end of the cylindrical rod, opposite the end which is attached to the lid, is a circular disk that serves as a plug to the cylindrical drain in the bottom of the funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Larry J. Branan
    Inventor: Larry J. Branan
  • Patent number: 4842826
    Abstract: A device for collecting physiological samples, in particular coprological samples, which affords improved sanitary conditions of operation, comprises a container, a cap for said container, a pick-up stick fastened to the cap, a passageway extending through said cap, and a stopper for hermetically sealing off said passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: STA.TE. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Piergiacomo Guala
  • Patent number: 4646795
    Abstract: A combination scoop/funnel filler utensil particularly adapted for the filling of differently sized bird feeders. The utensil includes a reservoir section and a handle section in communication therewith through a port, the sections being integrally molded from suitable plastic material. A valve plate, pivotable from a location adjacent the handle, is positioned within the reservoir. It can be manipulated to selectively open or close the port between the handle and reservoir, rendering the utensil useful as either a scoop or a funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Assignee: Heath Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Lewis L. Hebron, Neal Rampley
  • Patent number: 4640185
    Abstract: A funnel stock/sauce separator for separating fat from liquid is provided and consists of a funnel having a conical vessel for storing therein the liquid which is to be separated from the fat at top of the liquid, a cylindrical housing which supports the funnel onto a support surface and a manually operated closure member positioned within the funnel over a spout for controlling outflow of the liquid through the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1987
    Inventor: Auvin H. Joyner
  • Patent number: 4232716
    Abstract: An apparatus for collection of liquid waste solvents into a container, including convenient means for opening and closing the container and for positioning a funnel. Both functions of opening the container and positioning of the funnel are accomplished by a single handed one step operation of a lever, thus leaving the other hand free for pouring of the liquid into the funnel. After pouring the liquid, the container can be sealed by a simple release of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1980
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventor: Bob B. White
  • Patent number: 4099654
    Abstract: A graduated measuring cup having a sloped transverse wall surface for directing liquid contents toward a centrally located outlet orifice for gravity flow discharge. A sluice valve assembly is attachable to the cup in registration with the outlet orifice for selectively regulating the rate of discharge flow. The sluice valve assembly is detachable from the cup for cleaning or replacement. A strainer basket having an apertured disc inset is positionable over the mouth of the cup for filtering incoming liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1976
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1978
    Assignee: New Colony Inventions, Inc.
    Inventor: Angelo Antolino
  • Patent number: 4031032
    Abstract: A separator for immiscible, emulsionless-forming liquids of different specific gravity which comprises a preferably transparent vessel; a valve provided in the lower end of said vessel for movement between open and closed condition whereby through disposition in the former, the heavier liquid may be discharged into a receptacle upon which said separator is stably disposed by means of a support plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1975
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1977
    Inventor: Elizabeth S. Jablecki