Interlocked Discharge Means, Support And/or Coupling Patents (Class 141/346)
  • Patent number: 6516839
    Abstract: Valve assembly for a container for beverage, in particular carbonated beverage such as beer, comprising a housing and a beverage channel with a valve body, wherein operating means are provided for moving the valve body, said operating means comprising: first coupling means for coupling the beverage channel to beverage dispensing means for emptying a container through or along the valve body; and second coupling means for coupling the beverage channel to a filling device for filling a container through or along the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Heineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventors: Piet Hein Willem Timp, Patrick Michael van Baal
  • Patent number: 6491069
    Abstract: A vent and fluid transfer fitment for sealing and transferring a fluid from an inverted fluid-filled container without premature leakage to a receiver attachment, has a transfer check valve and a venting check valve which are preferably duckbill valves. The transfer check valve is attached to the fitment for allowing fluid to be transferred from the container when the receiver attachment engages the transfer check valve. The venting check valve is also attached to the fitment for allowing air to displace the fluid as the fluid exits the container, wherein both the transfer check valve and the venting check valve have an inherent sealing pressure created by the static pressure of the fluid within the container. In addition, the inherent sealing pressure of the venting check valve is less than the inherent sealing pressure of the transfer check valve which allows air to enter the container due to the pressure differential created as the fluid is displaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Phillip Gene Nagel, James Christopher Bailey, Gordon Edgar Atkinson, Arnold George Benecke
  • Publication number: 20020179875
    Abstract: A single-service package coupling and valve includes a fitment having a spout and a sliding tubular valve member mounted therein for receiving a cooperating dispensing connector of a liquid distributing and dispensing system, and an external adapter ring designed to cooperate with the mounting mechanisms of a plurality of conventional commercially available dispensing connectors. An internal adapter sleeve is mounted with in the sliding tubular valve member to provide a tight seal with any of the conventional dispensing connectors. The external adapter ring is provided with a pair of radially extending flanges adapted to accept and position different dispensing connectors. At least one of the radially extending flanges is provided with at lest two wings to engage a threaded mounting collar of a service line connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Samuel N. Davis, James W. Johnson, Kevin Bergenthun, Timothy Frasier
  • Patent number: 6488058
    Abstract: A dispensing valve cap mountable to a bottle is provided with a first valve part having a tubular portion having an air inlet and a fluid outlet spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion to form a constant head valve for dispensing fluid from the bottle. A second valve part of the valve rotatably mounted to the first valve part includes a tubular portion for simultaneously closing both the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the first valve part when fluid dispensing is not desired. The second valve part further includes an air inlet, and a fluid outlet alignable with the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the tubular portion when fluid dispensing is desired. The dispensing valve cap controls fluid flow from the bottle. The bottle with the valve cap is useable with a dispenser assembly for mixing a concentrated fluid from the bottle with a dilutant. A tamper resistant lock prevents undesired rotation of the second valve part relative to the first valve part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: John J. Dyer, Corry P. Gunderson
  • Publication number: 20020153057
    Abstract: A bottle charged with a gaseous material intended to be discharged through a range of temperatures but not outside that range, has a valve through which the gaseous material is to be directed. The valve has at least a part wholly inside the bottle, which part has a restricted port through it through which the gaseous material passes to issue from the valve, and a thermally responsive member adapted to block the port when the temperature of the interior of the bottle is outside the range. Preferably, the gaseous material is both introduced to the bottle and discharged from the bottle through the same valve, and the valve has a fill port of larger diameter than the restricted port, and an axially moveable actuating element, and the thermally responsive member is carried by the actuating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Applicant: Intoximeters, Inc
    Inventor: Steven J. Nagel
  • Patent number: 6453956
    Abstract: A transfer guard for use by an individual for transferring contents from a supply container into a receiver container includes a supply adapter, a receiver adapter, a support structure and a fluid conducting element. The supply adapter connects the supply container to the transfer guard, and the receiver adapter connects the receiver container to the transfer guard. The support structure couples the supply adapter with the receiver adapter, and supports the fluid conducting element which, passes through the supply adapter and the receiver adapter. The fluid conducting element provides a passage for the contents to transfer from the supply container into the receiver container. The fluid conducting element also includes at least one pointed end that is substantially protected by the transfer guard from contact with the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason H. Safabash
  • Patent number: 6435231
    Abstract: A packaging system which comprises a first container (24) having a valve (27) controlling the opening of an outlet and which contains a first ingredient (25), and a second container (28) having an openable entry portion (14) and containing a second ingredient (29). The packaging system further comprises means for connecting the first and second containers together in order to allow said first ingredient to be displaced from the first container into the second container via the entry portion thereof, so that said first and second ingredients are admixed in said second container to form a final product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Giltech Limited
    Inventors: Matthew Martin Derome Cooper, David Michael Healy
  • Patent number: 6427730
    Abstract: A vent and fluid transfer fitment for sealing and transferring a fluid from an inverted fluid-filled container without premature leakage to a receiver attachment, has a transfer check valve and a venting check valve which are preferably duckbill valves. The transfer check valve is attached to the fitment for allowing fluid to be transferred from the container when the receiver attachment engages the transfer check valve. The venting check valve is also attached to the fitment for allowing air to displace the fluid as the fluid exits the container, wherein both the transfer check valve and the venting check valve have an inherent sealing pressure created by the static pressure of the fluid within the container. In addition, the inherent sealing pressure of the venting check valve is less than the inherent sealing pressure of the transfer check valve which allows air to enter the container due to the pressure differential created as the fluid is displaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Phillip Gene Nagel, James Christopher Bailey, Gordon Edgar Atkinson, Arnold George Benecke
  • Publication number: 20020100520
    Abstract: A removable retaining bracket that prevents removal of a connection fitting from a gas distribution system component is described. The retaining bracket has a base that defines an opening that accepts the connection fitting and prevents removal of the fitting from the gas distribution component. The retaining bracket extends along the gas distribution system component and defines openings in which a securing component is positioned. The openings are positioned to locate the securing component to prevent removal of the retaining bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: Jason L. Olsen, Vincent J. Avillion
  • Publication number: 20020074533
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing assembly for fluid dispensing and fluid transmission from a fluid source. The fluid dispensing assembly alone may dispense from a fluid source, or may be connected to a fluid dispensing system. The fluid dispensing assembly has a closure connected to a coupler. The closure includes fill through capabilities. The coupler is provided with a locking feature for preserving proper orientation and a closed position before being coupled to a piece of fluid dispensing equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Colder Products Company
    Inventors: Charles Peter DeCler, Robert K. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6405768
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure fuel servicing nozzle for mating with a standardized aircraft fueling adapter having an adapter valve biased in a closed position to prevent fuel flow. The fuel nozzle includes a nozzle body and a collar assembly coupled to the nozzle body. Fuel flow is prevented when the nozzle valve is in a fully retracted position and fuel flow is allowed when the nozzle valve is extended and when the nozzle valve pushes the adapter valve in a downstream direction. A bias member maintains the nozzle valve in fully open position when intimate contact between the valves is disrupted, such as when fuel flow forces the adapter valve further in the downstream direction. The fuel nozzle further includes a collar assembly rotatably coupled to the nozzle body such that the fuel nozzle is secured to the fueling adapter by engaging the fuel nozzle onto the fueling adapter and rotating the collar assembly about the nozzle body and fueling adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Cla-Val Co.
    Inventor: Mark Randall McClaran
  • Patent number: 6390156
    Abstract: A dispensing system and method for locked spill-free transfer of liquid and dry materials. The dispensing assembly attached to the material holding container has a bottle cap with a slotted spring housing, small notch, spring-biased valve closure member with activation pin, and spring nut with cutout. The paired docking station receptacle includes a housing having an upper flange, bottom discharge opening, interior protrusion, and upwardly tapering spring nut engagement member with spaced-apart radially-extending flukes positioned within the discharge opening, the upper surface of which are configured for partial insertion through the spring nut cutout. Thus, when the protrusion is aligned with the notch and a bayonet turn is applied to the bottle cap, the spring nut engagement member unseats the valve closure member and allows material transfer. The dispensing system herein can be used by manufacturers of equipment requiring periodic renewal of dry and liquid materials to limit their source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Hetherington, Richard Charles Pahl
  • Patent number: 6390241
    Abstract: An apparatus for lubricating a surface. The apparatus includes a cylinder having an interior wall extending longitudinally therethrough. The wall defines an opening. The apparatus also includes a lubricating fluid reservoir located upstream from the opening and a path of fluid communication fluidly connecting the reservoir and the opening. The apparatus also includes a valve located in the path of fluid communication. The valve is biased to close the path of fluid communication. At least one valve opening member is disposed in the opening, with the at least one valve opening member operatively connected to the valve. A surface to be lubricated is insertable into the opening such that the surface engages the at least one valve opening member. The at least one valve opening member opens the valve, allowing the fluid to flow downstream from the reservoir, through the path of fluid communication and to the opening to the surface to be lubricated. A method of lubricating the surface is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: Edward J. Nemie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6382273
    Abstract: A fuelling fixture for vehicles includes a fuelling nipple configured to attach to a filling connection and a pot-like housing. The pot-like housing encloses the fuelling nipple and is configured to receive a filler cap enclosing the fuelling nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Weh GmbH Verbindungstechnik
    Inventors: Wolfgang Weh, Erwin Weh
  • Patent number: 6367521
    Abstract: A dispensing valve cap mountable to a bottle is provided with a first valve part having a tubular portion having an air inlet and a fluid outlet spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion to form a constant head valve for dispensing fluid from the bottle. A second valve part of the valve rotatably mounted to the first valve part includes a tubular portion for simultaneously closing both the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the first valve part when fluid dispensing is not desired. The second valve part firther includes an air inlet, and a fluid outlet alignable with the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the tubular portion when fluid dispensing is desired. The dispensing valve cap controls fluid flow from the bottle. The bottle with the valve cap is useable with a dispenser assembly for mixing a concentrated fluid from the bottle with a dilutant. A tamper resistant lock prevents undesired rotation of the second valve part relative to the first valve part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: John J. Dyer, Corry P. Gunderson
  • Patent number: 6360795
    Abstract: A refill arrangement for an ink reservoir of an automatic writing system has an ink reservoir, an adaptor, and a refill container provided as individual parts and to be combined for filling the ink reservoir such that the adaptor connects the refill container to the ink reservoir and such that the refill container, the adaptor, and the ink reservoir are hermetically sealed relative to the ambient atmosphere when connected. The refill container is positioned vertically above the ink reservoir in a filling position of the refill arrangement. The refill arrangement operates pressureless or by gravity feed. The adaptor has a housing, a first connector arranged in the housing for receiving a connecting piece of the ink reservoir and a second connector arranged in the housing for receiving a connecting piece of the refill container. The housing has a filling channel connecting the first and second connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: J. S. Staedtler GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Thomas Bothe, Anke Müller, Günther Tandler, Klaus Fischbäck
  • Patent number: 6363235
    Abstract: A toner-dispensing container assembly for attachment to a toner compartment cover device on an electrographic printing machine to supply toner composition to the toner receiving compartment while avoiding detachment and spillage. The toner-dispensing container assembly is fastenable over the toner compartment cover device and rotatable to a first position to open the cover to the toner compartment while the toner-dispensing container remains sealed. Further rotation of the toner dispensing container opens it to the toner-receiving compartment to dispense toner thereinto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel A. Chiesa, Thomas W. Claessens, Karl E. Kurz, John Howard
  • Patent number: 6347785
    Abstract: A single-service package coupling and valve includes a fitment having a spout and a sliding tubular valve member mounted therein for receiving a cooperating dispensing connector of a liquid distributing and dispensing system, and an external adapter ring designed to cooperate with the mounting mechanisms of a plurality of conventional commercially available dispensing connectors. An internal adapter sleeve is mounted with in the sliding tubular valve member to provide a tight seal with any of the conventional dispensing connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Liqui-Box Corporation
    Inventors: Donald G. Copp, Samuel N. Davis, James W. Johnson, M. Stephen Tschanen
  • Patent number: 6334468
    Abstract: The present invention allows an additional connection to a standard medical gas cylinder valve such as a CGA-870 valve. An additional connection may be used for filling a cylinder without removing the pressure reducer, simultaneous filling while drawing through the pressure reducer, or for any other purpose that requires an additional or non-standard connection to the cylinder. The additional connection will be through an adapter that screws into the burst disc port. Some gas cylinder valves have the burst disc center line closer to the outlet centerline. This close centerline may be accommodated by offsetting the access of the first and second port to provide clearances required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael E. Friestad
  • Patent number: 6325115
    Abstract: A valve for controlling the flow of granules from a first container to a second container, the valve, when in use, attached to the first container, comprising a movable valve member which is biased to a closed position and engagement means for engaging, in use, with a coupling unit attached to the second container, wherein, in use, the relative rotation of the valve to the coupling unit controls the extent to which the valve is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc
    Inventors: John Patrick Cowland, Nicholas Deepak Tuliani
  • Publication number: 20010040127
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dialysis machine with a device for preparing dialysis solutions. Simple and reliable preparation of dialysis fluids of different concentrations is achieved by the fact that the device has a detector device, at least two connections and at least two interchangeable storage containers to hold the solution ingredients to be metered, each being connected to at least one connector, and with the connectors being connectable to the connections, and with the connectors or the areas of a connecting tube near the connectors having identification means which can be detected by the detector device. The present invention also relates to a connector for connecting a storage container with solution ingredients to a medical apparatus, where the connector or areas of a connecting tube near the connector has identification means. The present invention also relates to a method of detecting a connection of a solution ingredient storage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Rainer Donig, Joachim Dopper, Wolfgang Schulz
  • Patent number: 6315012
    Abstract: An apparatus for introducing a fluid into a container includes a supply leading into the interior of the container, closed by a bursting disk and connected to a supply line for the fluid. In order to increase the operational safety and to avoid clogging of the bursting disk, the supply is in the form of a telescopic tube which can be extended by the pressure of the fluid into the interior of the container and is mounted above the highest level in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Fried, Gerhard Nestler
  • Patent number: 6311745
    Abstract: A dispensing system for containing and dispensing powders, such as toner and developers, includes a dispensing container having an outlet and a chamber that contains powder. A fluidizing system introduces a gas into the chamber to increase the fluidity of the powder. The dispensing system includes a valve having a first portion attached to the dispensing container, and a second portion that attaches to a receiving container that receives the powder dispensed from the dispensing container. The valve is operable to dispense the powder from the dispensing container to the receiving container. The fluidizing system includes a porous member in the chamber and a gas source that flows a gas into the chamber through the porous member to fluidize the powder and enhance dispensing of the powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Roger D. Welch, Roman S. Kulik
  • Publication number: 20010035229
    Abstract: A post valve yoke (35, 150) is operative to engage with a tank or cylinder (154) for placing the tank in fluid communication with a high pressure source of gas. The yoke includes a yoke body (148). The upper ends of the yoke body include a bore (160). A plunger (158) is operative to slide through the bore. The yoke body includes an opening (146) that is operative to receive a post valve (152) of the tank. The yoke is operative to urge the post valve with the plunger into sealed engagement with a passageway (144) in the lower end (174) of each yoke responsive to the movement of a lever arm (156) in pivoting connection with the plunger. A trigger lock (176) is operative to lock the lever arm in an engaged position to prevent the yoke from accidently disengaging with the post valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Applicant: Superior Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Johnston
  • Publication number: 20010032681
    Abstract: A hydraulically operative post valve yoke mounting system. The system (10) includes one or more hydraulically operated yokes (41-44). Each yoke is operative to engage with a tank or cylinder (21-24) for placing the tanks in fluid communication with a high pressure source of gas (50). Each yoke includes a yoke body (140). The upper ends of each yoke body include a bore (116). A pin (104) is operative to slide through each bore. Each yoke body includes an opening (124) that is operative to receive a post valve (108) of a tank (110). Each yoke is operative to urge the post valve with the pin into sealed engagement with a passageway (142) in the lower end (114) of each yoke responsive to hydraulic fluid pressure. The hydraulic pressure may be supplied by a hydraulic pump (28) in fluid communication with hydraulic yoke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: Superior Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Johnston, Chad Schron
  • Patent number: 6305444
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application system includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6305443
    Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus (1) for handling flow of particulate material from one location such as a first station such as a filling head (2) attached to an IBC (3) and a chamber (4) which is in association with the filling head (2) by being slidably mounted round an outlet (8) thereof, the chamber (4) having an orifice (6) through which the another station such as an IBC (7) and the one station (23) are operatively connected to provide a transfer system for the material (8). The chamber (4) has a device (9) which is operable to remove a closure element (10) of the IBC (7). The chamber (4) also has means (11, 12) to extract material from the chamber (4) so that the exterior of the filling head (2) and IBC (7) remains in use free of any potentially contaminating material, such as specks of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Matcon (R&D) Limited
    Inventor: Ivan Semenenko
  • Publication number: 20010013378
    Abstract: A filling apparatus for, a filling system for and a method of introducing into a container a suspension or solution of a substance, in particular a pharmaceutical substance, in a propellant under pressure, the filling apparatus comprising: a main body (4) including a passageway (20) for communicating, in use, with a valve stem (144) extending from a head (141) of a body (139) of a container (138), the container (138) comprising a metering chamber (143) selectively communicatable by the valve stem (144) with the atmosphere and a storage chamber (140) defined by the body (139); a fill actuator (7) comprising a filling valve assembly (29) in communication with the passageway (20) for selectively introducing thereinto propellant under pressure containing a substance in a suspension or solution; an exhaust actuator (10) comprising an exhaust valve assembly (48) in communication with the passageway (20) for selectively exhausting therefrom propellant under pressure containing substance; and a container-engaging bod
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Applicant: AstraZeneca UK Limited
    Inventors: John Brennan, Roger Matthews, Stephen Metcalf
  • Patent number: 6273153
    Abstract: A system for metering and dispensing particulate matter, such as agricultural pesticides and fertilizers, from a storage bin directly into an applicator bin, and methods of its use. The device includes a storage bin for storing a quantity of particulate matter in bulk form, a meter connected to the storage bin for controllably releasing a desired amount of the particulate matter from the storage bin, a pneumatic transport conduit for suspending the released particulate matter in a flow of gas and transporting the suspended matter to an applicator bin, and a coupler disposed at a distal end of the conduit. The coupler is adapted to provide a sealed connection between the conduit and the applicator bin as transported particulate matter is dispensed from the conduit into the applicator bin through the coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Pathfinder Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank G. Reinsch
  • Publication number: 20010009166
    Abstract: A dispensing valve cap mountable to a bottle is provided with a first valve part having a tubular portion having an air inlet and a fluid outlet spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion to form a constant head valve for dispensing fluid from the bottle. A second valve part of the valve rotatably mounted to the first valve part includes a tubular portion for simultaneously closing both the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the first valve part when fluid dispensing is not desired. The second valve part further includes an air inlet, and a fluid outlet alignable with the air inlet and the fluid outlet of the tubular portion when fluid dispensing is desired. The dispensing valve cap controls fluid flow from the bottle. The bottle with the valve cap is useable with a dispenser assembly for mixing a concentrated fluid from the bottle with a dilutant. A tamper resistant lock prevents undesired rotation of the second valve part relative to the first valve part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Publication date: July 26, 2001
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: John J. Dyer, Corry P. Gunderson
  • Patent number: 6263928
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application system includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6253800
    Abstract: A paint cartridge replenisher (51) is constituted by a replenishing stool (52) having a feed tube passage hole (56) and a container support portion (57), a connector member (59) connectable to and communicable with a fore distal end of a feed tube (28), and a replenishing valve (61) operative to turn on and off paint supply from a paint source to the connector member (59). A paint cartridge (25) is set on the container support portion (57), thereby passing the feed tube (28) into the feed tube passage hole (56) on the side of the replenishing stool and bringing a fore distal end portion of the feed tube (28) into fitting engagement with the connector member (59). In this state, the replenishing valve (61) is opened, whereupon paint is supplied from the paint source to the connector member (59) and replenished into the container (26) of the paint cartridge (25), utilizing the opening at the fore distal end of the feed tube as a replenishing port of the paint cartridge (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: ABB K.K.
    Inventors: Osamu Yoshida, Hidetsugu Matsuda, Toshio Hosoda
  • Patent number: 6253804
    Abstract: A transfer guard for use by an individual for transferring contents from a supply container into a receiver container includes a supply adapter, a receiver adapter, a support structure and a needle. The supply adapter connects the supply container to the transfer guard, and the receiver adapter connects the receiver container to the transfer guard. The support structure couples the supply adapter with the receiver adapter, and the needle passes through the supply adapter and the receiver adapter. The needle is attached to one of the adapters for support and provides a passage for the contents to transfer from the supply container into the receiver container. The needle also includes at least one pointed end that is substantially protected by the transfer guard from contact with the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: MiniMed Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Hossein Safabash
  • Patent number: 6240986
    Abstract: A connector assembly for a sewer pipe system of a recreational vehicle having a holding tank for waste and/or waste water and a discharge pipe having an outlet end through which waste and/or waste water is discharged from the holding tank utilizes an adapter body having a passageway therethrough and a closure member which is connected to the adapter body for movement across the passageway between closed and open positions. The adapter body is connectable to the discharge pipe of the sewer pipe system and also includes a cavity disposed to one side of the passageway so that the interior of the cavity is in communication with the interior of the passageway. Movement of the closure member between its open and closed positions moves the closure member at least partially into and out of the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventors: August A. Berkes, Hien Vody Vodinh
  • Patent number: 6206059
    Abstract: An automated low clearance skirt assembly lifting device adapted for raising and lowering a circular or multifaceted skirt to match the opening of pressure vessels such as coking drums and a method for uniform remote operation of the assembly. The low clearance skirt lifting assembly includes a reinforcement of the upper skirt attached to one or more lifting cylinders mounted within a telescoping enclosure, so that the skirt assembly may be uniformly extended and retraced without binding or side load transfer to the hydraulically or pneumatically actuated device. Following the unheading of the flange on the coke drum, the skirt is remotely extended to align with the flange hereby bridging the gap between the chute and the drum prior to commencement of the drilling cycle and lowered once all the coke has been extracted from the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Guy Maakad, Richard TerWisscha
  • Patent number: 6206058
    Abstract: A vent and fluid transfer fitment for sealing and transferring a fluid from an inverted fluid-filled container without premature leakage to a receiver attachment, has a transfer check valve and a venting check valve which are preferably duckbill valves. The transfer check valve is attached to the fitment for allowing fluid to be transferred from the container when the receiver attachment engages the transfer check valve. The venting check valve is also attached to the fitment for allowing air to displace the fluid as the fluid exits the container, wherein both the transfer check valve and the venting check valve have an inherent sealing pressure created by the static pressure of the fluid within the container. In addition, the inherent sealing pressure of the venting check valve is less than the inherent sealing pressure of the transfer check valve which allows air to enter the container due to the pressure differential created as the fluid is displaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Phillip Gene Nagel, James Christopher Bailey, Gordon Edgar Atkinson, Arnold George Benecke
  • Patent number: 6202717
    Abstract: A closure member for use with a bottle wherein the bottle is threadably connected to a filling head of an apparatus for diluting and dispensing a concentrated chemical product. The closure member is frictionally fitted into the neck of the bottle and has threads to interconnect the bottle to the filling head. In a preferred manner, the frictional fit between the closure member and the bottle neck is provided by flexible finger members extending from the closure member and a rib member extending from the neck of the bottle. In another preferred manner, the closure member includes a core section for housing a valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson Commercial Markets, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Markey, John A. Boticki
  • Patent number: 6199578
    Abstract: A fluid container draining device (10) for use in draining a fluid container, such as an oil filter (12) in a controlled manner. It has a drill bit (14) with a sharpened tip (16) and exterior channels (20) on its shaft (18) extending from its tip (16) to a rear region (22). The drill bit (14) is immobilized in an axial bore (3) of a drill bit holder (24) which has a threaded front region (26) which is preferably frustum-shaped. Located rearwardly of the drill bit holder (24) is a valve (42) which when opened up permits fluid to be drained from the fluid container (12) through the channels (20) on the drill bit's shank (18), through the axial bore (30) in the drill bit holder (24), and out through the valve (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: C.H. & I. Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 6179167
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device for dispensing material such as detergent powder or the like from a material container (2), the device comprising a dispensing chamber (16) arrangeable on the material container, the dispensing chamber comprising: an open distal end (20) wherethrough powder is introducible into the device from the material container, a proximal end (22) provided with one or more material release openings (42), wherethrough material is dispensable from the device, a cover (18) mounted over the proximal end of the dispensing chamber, said cover provided with one or more material release openings (54), and displaceable securing means (74;55) for displaceably securing the cover to the dosing chamber in such a way that the cover and chamber are mutually displaceable between a dispensing arrangement, wherein the dispensing chamber openings (42) are alignable with the cover openings (54), and a non-dispensing arrangement, wherein the dispensing arranging openings are non-alignable with the cove
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: Ricardo Leon Boot, Gerrit Klaas Bunschoten, Rudolf Cornelis Verheul
  • Patent number: 6170543
    Abstract: By providing a securely locked product dispensing valve assembly mounted to a product bearing container which requires a specially constructed cooperating adapter for opening the valve assembly, a controlled dispensing system is realized which provides complete controlled distribution of any desired chemical product. By employing the present invention, only authorized personnel are able to open the container incorporating the valve assembly, enabling the contents to be transferred into only suitable containers incorporating the required adapter for unlocking the valve assembly. As a result, control over the distribution of the chemical product is attained and a completely closed loop, spill-free system is realized. In addition, a rinsing head is provided for being cooperatively associated with the product bearing container and valve assembly to enable complete cleaning of the container prior to recycling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Link Research & Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Simmel, Craig A. Baker
  • Patent number: 6149129
    Abstract: A probe and a valve, which may be used together in a valve assemblage, and a method of using them. The valve includes a valve body with a forward end having a forwardly tapering valve body opening defined by a valve seat; a valve seal positioned in the valve body and having a forward end with a forwardly tapering valve seating portion, with the forward end being movable rearwardly from a closed position in which the seating portion sealingly mates against the valve seat to close the valve body opening, to an open position in which the valve seating portion is spaced from the valve seat to allow fluid to pass through the valve body opening and hence through the valve; and a resilient member adapted to urge the forward end of the valve seal into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Clark Eugene Harris, Jeffrey Charles Robertson
  • Patent number: 6142194
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure fuel servicing nozzle for mating with a standardized aircraft fueling adapter having a cylindrical extension with a plurality of indexing notches and a plurality of radially extending lock tabs. The fuel nozzle includes a nozzle body having an outer surface and an interior passage. A collar assembly is rotatably supported upon the outer surface of the nozzle body. A plurality of locating pins having a rectangular cross-section extend outwardly from the bottom base of the nozzle body. The fuel nozzle is properly aligned onto the fueling adapter by fitting the locating pins in the indexing notches of the fueling adapter such that the two opposing side faces contact the surfaces of the indexing notches. The fuel servicing nozzle further includes an interlock plate biased toward an exterior of the nozzle body by a plurality of spaced springs. The interlock plate has a plurality of apertures through which the locating pins pass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Cla-Val
    Inventor: Mark Randall McClaran
  • Patent number: 6125871
    Abstract: A chemical fluid valve transfer (e.g., load/unload) assembly is formed from a male valve assembly and a female valve assembly. The male valve assembly is fitted with a male connector which houses a chamber that is connected to a flush inlet line, and a flush outlet line, and a chemical transport line. The female valve assembly is fitted with a female connector which mates with the male valve assembly male connector for interconnecting the male valve and female valve assemblies, and fitted with a chemical transport line. Another aspect of the present invention is a method for transferring a chemical fluid between a tanker fitted with a female coupler and a fill/unload station fitted with a male coupler and hose assembly. This method involves the connecting of the tanker hose and the fill station hose with the valve assembly described above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Ashland, Inc.
    Inventors: Gilbert J. Drab, Christopher M. Sweeney, Akimoto Ochi
  • Patent number: 6126045
    Abstract: A connector assembly for a fluid connection, comprising a female part and a male part to be connected to this. The female part has an axial bore and there is a plug to close off the bore. The plug and the male part are provided with cooperating connection devices, which connect the plug with the male part when the male part is inserted into the bore and which maintain this connection when the male part is inserted further into the bore. The plug is provided with at least one hooking part which is elastically movable in a radial direction and has an accompanying hooking surface, which rests against a shoulder and keeps the plug in the bore until the plug and the male part are connected to each other while the male part is inserted into the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: ITSAC N.V.
    Inventor: Laurens Last
  • Patent number: 6105639
    Abstract: A delivery system for dispensing controlled amounts of liquid or powder has two slidingly engaged parts which are held together as a single unit. The system is particularly useful for delivering powdered solidifying agents to closed medical waste containment systems. Because medical waste container lids include different sized ports, including relatively large diameter pour spouts and relatively small diameter ortho ports, the delivery system is provided with means for selectively coupling to either pour spouts or ortho ports, vastly increasing the adaptability of the delivery system to given container lids loosed by pushing one of the two parts toward the other until a valve plug in the upper part of the system is received within an aperture of a valve seal membrane in the lower part of the system. The system is opened by pulling one part of the system away from the other using the sliding engagement means so that the valve plug exits the aperture in the valve seal membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: OBF Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Murphy, Leon M. Levy
  • Patent number: 6085809
    Abstract: A container for use in a closed application system includes a valve mounted to a discharge opening of the container and rotatable with the container for controlling the discharge of material from the container. The valve includes an element for engaging corresponding structure in a receptacle for receiving the contents of the container. The element engages and locks the valve in the receptacle when the valve is opened and the contents are being discharged from the container into the receptacle. The valve element and the corresponding structure on the receptacle cooperate so that the container can only be received in and removed from the receptacle when the valve is closed. In this manner, the contents in the container can be discharged only when the container is received within the receptacle and the container is rotated in a direction to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6079444
    Abstract: A probe comprising of a probe body, a probe post positioned in the probe body and having a forward end with a forwardly tapering front face and a rearwardly tapering probe post seat. A probe seal is provided within the probe body having a forward end with a rearwardly tapering probe seal opening forward end of the probe seal has a seal face. The forward end is movable rearwardly from a closed position sealingly mating against the probe post seat to close the probe seal opening to an open position in which the probe seal face is spaced from the probe post seat to allow fluid to pass through the probe seal opening and hence through the probe. A first resilient means for urging the forward end of the probe seal into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Clark Eugene Harris, Jeffrey Charles Robertson
  • Patent number: 6070624
    Abstract: A quick-disconnect fluid coupling is provided that includes a spout assembly comprising a spout fitment having a first fluid opening and a spout valve member having a second fluid opening and capable of rotating from a first position to a second position to form a spout fluid path between the first and second fluid openings. The fluid coupling also includes a service-line connector comprising a line fitment member including a third fluid opening, and a connector valve member having a fourth fluid opening and capable of rotating from a third position to a fourth position to form a connector fluid path between the third and fourth fluid openings, whereby a spout-connector fluid path is formed between the second and fourth fluid openings upon attachment of the service-line connector to the spout assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Packaging Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Robert Bilbrey, Christopher C. Rutter
  • Patent number: 6068032
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for receiving, transporting, and dispersing a viscous product from one storage tank to another. The assembly, includes a housing container, comprising a reusable fill bag and a sealable container secured within the housing container. A hose attaches at one end to the reusable fill bag and at the other end to a male portion of a drain valve system. A female portion of the drain valve system fixably mounts to the storage tanks The viscous product flows between a storage tank and the housing container fill bag after the male portion is inserted into the female portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Alan R. Milner
  • Patent number: 6068031
    Abstract: A sterile transfer system between a bag and a enclosure suitable for use in the pharmaceutical industry, characterized on the one hand of a first part of a bag having a mouth in the form of a pocket, in which the bottom is constituted by a flexible partition separating the interior spaces of the pocket and the bag and capable of being heat-cut, on the other hand a lock chamber installed at the entrance to the sterile enclosure which includes a fixed part on which the pocket can be mounted, this part presenting a central opening receiving a mobile element constituting the door of the lock chamber, the fixed and mobile parts each being equipped with a heatable blade with closed outline overlapping and joined at their apex in airtight manner when the bag is in the closed state, vacuum outlets being provided for applying the flexible partition by means of suction against the heatable blades and effecting the cutting of it by fusion of the zones which come into contact with the blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Laboratoires MSD- Chibret
    Inventors: Gilbert Lataix, Charles Wicky