Supply Means Carried Receiver Flow Control Opening Means Patents (Class 141/348)
  • Patent number: 11926520
    Abstract: The invention relates to a nozzle, which has a main valve arranged in a channel, a coupling device (30) for producing a connection between the nozzle and the connecting piece (15), and an actuating apparatus (17) for actuating the coupling device and the main valve. The actuating apparatus comprises a manual lever (11), which is movable between a closed position and an open position. The actuating apparatus is designed to convert a movement of the manual lever in a region between the closed position and the open position to a temporally offset actuation of the coupling device and of the main valve. A coupling joint (20) connected to the manual lever is connected via operative connections to the coupling device having the main valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Oasis Engineering (2003) Ltd
    Inventors: Jonathan Jefcoate Lee, William John Fisher
  • Patent number: 11608262
    Abstract: The invention relates to a nozzle, which has a main valve arranged in a channel, a coupling device (30) for producing a connection between the nozzle and the connecting piece (15), and an actuating apparatus (17) for actuating the coupling device and the main valve. The actuating apparatus comprises a manual lever (11), which is movable between a closed position and an open position. The actuating apparatus is designed to convert a movement of the manual lever in a region between the closed position and the open position to a temporally offset actuation of the coupling device and of the main valve. A coupling joint (20) connected to the manual lever is connected via operative connections to the coupling device having the main valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Oasis Engineering (2003) Ltd
    Inventors: Jonathan Jefcoate Lee, William John Fisher
  • Patent number: 11465898
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a sealable bottle. The bottle includes a pouring spout portion which projects from the bottle and has an interior surface defining a fluid flow passage in communication with the interior volume of the bottle. The spout may have a length and diameter sufficient to activate filler neck closure members (e.g. flaps, valves, or other closure members). At least a portion of the spout may be devoid features which could compromise the operation of the closure mechanism in a fuel tank filler neck. The spout may include threads operable to engage a cap on the end of the spout. The threads may be separated by clearance features operable to avoid interference with a capless fuel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: Alpha Consolidated Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Zweifel
  • Patent number: 10625602
    Abstract: A filling device for an operating fluid tank, comprising a tubular outer part and an inner part which is received in the outer part and which is designed to receive an operating fluid nozzle, is characterized in that the inner part comprises a first end wall having an opening and a second end wall having an opening, the end walls being connected to one another via a shell and the shell being provided over the entire length between the end walls with a shell opening whose width corresponds substantially to the corresponding maximum inner width of the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Matthias Kapaun
  • Patent number: 10625601
    Abstract: An improper fuel nozzle insertion-inhibiting assembly is configured to prevent an improper fuel-dispensing device from dispensing fuel into a fuel fill line of a vehicle. The assembly may include a cover including an open cavity defined by a circumferential wall and a front face wall, and a main body defining an internal chamber. At least one barrier door may be pivotally secured to the main body. The barrier door(s) is configured to close a nozzle-receiving channel that extends through the internal chamber. The barrier door(s) may include an integral pivot axle that is pivotally secured to an axle bearing within the main body. The barrier door(s) is configured to be pivoted open by inward urging of a proper or compatible fuel nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Sperando, Paul M. Sutenbach
  • Patent number: 10554171
    Abstract: A soiling measurement device for PV arrays, comprising a clean PV device and a soiled PV device, wherein the soiled PV device is exposed to accumulate soiling, and wherein the clean PV device is maintained clean by a movable cover which normally shields it from accumulation of soiling, and wherein the movable cover opens automatically at periodic intervals for measurement, after which it closes again, and wherein soiling is determined by comparison of measurements from the soiled PV device and the clean PV device. In one embodiment, incident irradiance is measured from the clean device, with or without the presence of the soiled PV device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Inventors: Michael Gostein, William Stueve
  • Patent number: 10118650
    Abstract: An engine access door slide track system of an agricultural machine includes a support frame, a first engine access door, and a second engine access door. The support frame includes a plurality of frame members, a top track coupled to one of the plurality of frame members, and a bottom track included in one of the plurality of frame members. The first engine access door includes a top guide configured to interfit with the top track and a bottom guide configured to interfit with the bottom track. The second engine access door is coupled to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Blaine Schwalbe, Ross Christiansen, Steven N. Winkel
  • Patent number: 10059476
    Abstract: An aseptic filler apparatus (30) includes an actuatable fitment plug assembly (500) that may be placed against the bottom of a fitment collar, which is in communication with a flexible bag to be filled with flowable food products, thereby to prevent steam or other gasses or liquids from entering the fill bag when undesirable to do so. The plug assembly (500) includes a plug (502) mounted on a distal end portion of a pivot arm (504). The opposite end of the pivot arm is rotatably axled on a cross pin. A linear actuator (518) is connected to the distal end of a lug (512) projecting transversely from the pivot arm. The opposite end of the linear actuator (518) is pinned to a stationary location, enabling the actuator to pivot the plug (502) from an engaged position against the fitment collar and a retracted position away from the fitment collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: John Bean Technologies S.p.A.
    Inventors: Gianluca Parisini, Glenna Matthews, Davide Ghiretti, Michele Queirollo, Antonio Aldini, Dave Hoeppner
  • Patent number: 9987922
    Abstract: A capless refueling mechanism attached to a vehicle fuel tank is disclosed. In one example, the capless refueling mechanism includes a guide plate, main opening, misfueling inhibitor mechanism with a first and second pendulum arm mounted within the main opening, and a sealing door pivotably coupled to the refueling mechanism. The first and second pendulum arm of the misfueling inhibitor may be adjusted to move from a first position to a second position, allowing a fuel nozzle sized to fit the main opening to open the sealing door and dispense fuel into the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Xiankai Song, Michael Terrence Zitkovic, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9905447
    Abstract: An electronic device manufacturing system is disclosed. The system includes a processing tool having one or more processing chambers each adapted to perform an electronic device manufacturing process on one or more substrates; a substrate carrier adapted to couple to the system and carry one or more substrates; and a component adapted to create a sealed environment relative to at least a portion of the substrate carrier and to substantially equalize the sealed environment with an environment within the substrate carrier. Methods of the invention are described as are numerous other aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Robert Rice, Jeffrey C. Hudgens
  • Patent number: 9505302
    Abstract: A misfueling preventing apparatus discriminates a fuel filler nozzle based on an outer diameter of the fuel filler nozzle. The misfueling preventing apparatus includes a base, a first link arm, a second link arm, a flapper and a stopper. The first link arm has a first trigger projection. The second link arm has a second trigger projection. If the fuel filler nozzle of light diesel oil pushes the first trigger projection and the second trigger projection, the first link arm and second link arm swing to a direction to which the first link arm and second link arm open to, placing the flapper in an openable state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: ASTEER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiromitsu Yoshida, Takami Ono
  • Patent number: 9457650
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a fuel-filler housing component for mounting to a vehicle body and an insert at a terminus of the fuel filler pipe. The housing component has a central opening and at least one on-center vertical plumb feature. The insert is mounted to the fuel filler pipe so that it is disposed in the central opening. The insert includes an annular mouth with a hole for receiving a fuel transfer nozzle, wherein the annular mouth includes a drain slot for draining liquid away from the hole. The drain slot is substantially aligned with the on-center vertical plumb feature and has a teardrop profile substantially free of visible straight lines pointing toward the on-center vertical plumb feature. Thus, any small misalignment of the insert remains relatively undetectable since visual cues are minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Brian T. Aitken, Paul Chretien
  • Patent number: 8905091
    Abstract: A dispenser device (10) for dispensing a liquid cosmetic having a first bottle (12), a second bottle (14) and a first transfer means (24) for transferring the liquid from the first bottle (12) towards the second bottle (14). The first transfer means (24) has a first portion that is secured to the first bottle (12) and that is disposed in the proximity of the bottom wall, and a second portion that is secured to the second bottle (14), the first and second portions sealing their respective bottles (12, 14) when they are uncoupled. The coupling of the first portion with the second portion enables the liquid to flow between the first bottle (12) and the second bottle (14), in such a manner that, after coupling the two portions together, the first and second bottles (12, 14) present first and second pressures that tend towards equilibrium by the liquid flowing from the first bottle (12) towards the second bottle (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Paulo Galinha
    Inventors: Paulo Galinha, Samuel Kenzari, David Bonina
  • Patent number: 8905458
    Abstract: An access port cover is described. The access sport cover may seal an aperture located in a vehicle body whereby the access port cover may also provide access to a terminal located within the body. The access port cover may include a cover, a hinge mechanism and a linkage mechanism. The cover may include an outer portion and an inner portion, wherein the inner portion may include a first and a second end. The hinge mechanism may be located on each end of the inner portion. The linkage mechanism may be connected to the hinge mechanism, wherein the linkage mechanism may the said cover towards and away from the aperture. The cover and the linkage mechanism may be rotated into and stored within the body when the cover is not sealing the aperture in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventors: Walter Pipp, Todd Hemingway, Joe Ponteri, Todd Murray
  • Patent number: 8893754
    Abstract: The tank opening-closing device is equipped with a tank opening forming member having a fuel path for leading fuel supplied from the fueling gun through the inlet to the fuel tank, a valve opening-closing mechanism having an opening-closing member and spring that closes in a state with the inlet sealed, and an opening-closing activation mechanism for opening and operating the opening-closing member. The opening-closing activation mechanism has an operating member pivoted at the tank opening forming member, and a pressing member for pressing the opening-closing member formed on the operating member, and is constituted so that by the operating member being pressed by the fueling gun and rotating, the opening-closing member is pressed by the pressing member and is rotated in the opening direction so as to open the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Hagano, Masayuki Nakagawa
  • Patent number: 8863791
    Abstract: A fuel hose nozzle for filling a tank having a filler the tank with liquefied petroleum gas has a tubular valve housing extending along an axis and having an outer end, a tubular valve guide axially shiftable in the valve housing between a front position and a rear position and forming an outlet port adjacent the outer end, and a valve in the housing movable between an open position permitting fluid flow into the valve guide toward the outlet end and a closed position preventing such flow. A valve piston in the valve guide and axially fixed in the valve housing is engaged in the front position of the valve guide with the port to block flow through same. A fitting sleeve surrounding and axially shiftable on the valve housing has at the outer end an end fitting complementary to the tank filler neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Elaflex Hiby Tanktechnik GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Achim Aehle, Stefan Kunter, Heinz-Ulrich Meyer, Michael Wehner
  • Patent number: 8776845
    Abstract: A fuel tank opening and closing device is equipped with a flap valve mechanism arranged inside the tank opening forming member, having an opening and closing member for which the inlet is opened and closed by being pressed by the tip of the fueling nozzle, a shaft provided at the tip of the opening and closing member, and a bearing mechanism provided on the tank opening forming member for supporting the shaft so as to be rotatable. The bearing mechanism has a shaft support recess in which the shaft is inserted and a plurality of shaft restriction projections provided projecting from the wall surface of the shaft support recess, and the shaft restricting projections have a cross section arc shaped shaft support surface such that there is contact with a portion of the outer periphery of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Patent number: 8746480
    Abstract: This invention relates to inlet devices that include, for example, a tubular inlet body having a central bore defined by a tubular wall and having an axis. The tubular wall defines an open proximal end for receiving fuel. A plurality of apertures are provided through the tubular wall for egress of fuel. The distal end of the tubular body is blocked by a baffle defining a baffle surface facing into the bore of the tubular body, wherein at least a portion of the baffle surface is inclined at an acute angle relative to the axis to deflect fuel towards apertures in the tubular wall; and wherein the baffle surface is at least substantially free from apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: TISS Limited
    Inventor: Ryan Wholey
  • Patent number: 8726950
    Abstract: A mis-fuel inhibitor in an inlet neck assembly of a vehicle fuel system discriminates between nozzle diameters, allowing entrance of nozzle diameters at or greater than a predetermined minimum diameter while inhibiting entrance of nozzles having diameters less than the predetermined minimum diameter. An actuator responsive to nozzle diameters opens and closes shutters blocking nozzle entrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan M. Miller, Franco A. Cisternino, Paul M. Sutenbach
  • Patent number: 8714214
    Abstract: A mis-fuel inhibitor in an inlet neck assembly of a vehicle fuel system discriminates between nozzle diameters, allowing entrance of nozzle diameters at or greater than a predetermined minimum diameter while inhibiting entrance of nozzles having diameters less than the predetermined minimum diameter. An actuator responsive to nozzle diameters engages and disengages locking arms that are associated with a primary shutoff valve flapper door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works
    Inventor: Franco A. Cisternino
  • Patent number: 8678051
    Abstract: An instrument for filling a substance supply container of a device for personal care treatment has a filling needle having a proximal end connected or connectable to a storage reservoir and a distal end, a substance transport conduit extending from the proximal end to at least one outlet provided in a radially facing surface portion closely adjacent the distal end of the filling needle. A sleeve is arranged around the filling needle and is movable between a first position closing off the at least one outlet and a second position proximally away from the first position and the at least one outlet. A system including such an instrument, a container for cooperation with such an instrument and for provisioning a device for personal care treatment as well as a device for personal care treatment including such a container are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Jeroen Molema, Wilko Westerhof, Bartele Hendrik De Vries, Reinier Niels Lap, Olaf Martin De Jong, Bart-Jan Zwart, Johannes Rogier De Vrind
  • Patent number: 8672000
    Abstract: A package system for dispensing a flowable material into a conduit of a dispensing apparatus. The package system includes a package and a connector. The package, e.g., a bag-in-box, comprises a hollow bag and a tap fitment for enabling the contents of the bag to flow out when the fitment is open. The connector includes an automatic shut off valve and is arranged to be fixedly secured to the conduit of the dispensing apparatus and releasably secured to the fitment. The valve is arranged to enable the flow of flowable material from the package into the conduit when the fitment is open, while preventing any of that material from flowing out of the conduit when the connector is disconnected from the fitment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Fres-co System USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry Pritchard
  • Patent number: 8651151
    Abstract: A vehicle fuel inlet shut-off valve assembly includes a two-piece housing having inner and outer housing components secured to each other. The housing components can be provided of different materials, with a surface coating. A flapper door assembly is secured in the outer housing component and includes directionally biased interlocking components that facilitate installation and inhibit disconnection after assembly with redundant connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William Berghorst, Kirk J. Bush, Franco A. Cisternino, Michael Payne
  • Patent number: 8539993
    Abstract: A fuel tank opening and closing device is equipped with a flap valve mechanism having an opening and closing member for opening and closing an inlet inside a tank opening forming member. The nozzle positioning guide mechanism has a first support mechanism of an opening peripheral edge of an introduction port of an insertion path of a tank opening forming member, a second support mechanism having an introduction guide surface formed on the top surface of the pressing member of the opening and closing member, and a positioning ridge line that has a curvature almost the same but slightly larger than the outer diameter of the fueling nozzle and which touches by line contact on the outer peripheral surface of the fueling nozzle at the insertion completion position, and a third support mechanism having a valve positioning member which regulates the degree of openness of the opening and closing member by touching the inner wall of the tank opening forming member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Patent number: 8511353
    Abstract: A fuel tank opening and closing device is equipped with a flap valve mechanism having an opening and closing member for opening and closing an inlet inside a tank opening forming member. The nozzle positioning guide mechanism has a first support mechanism of an opening peripheral edge of an introduction port of an insertion path of a tank opening forming member, a second support mechanism having an introduction guide surface formed on the top surface of the pressing member of the opening and closing member, and a positioning ridge line that has a curvature almost the same but slightly larger than the outer diameter of the fueling nozzle and which touches by line contact on the outer peripheral surface of the fueling nozzle at the insertion completion position, and a third support mechanism having a valve positioning member which regulates the degree of openness of the opening and closing member by touching the inner wall of the tank opening forming member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Publication number: 20130126464
    Abstract: A vaporizer filler includes a fill port. The fill port defines an open interior. The open interior is configured to receive the nozzle of an anesthetic bottle. An agent reservoir is configured to receive and store anesthetic agent. A valve is disposed between the open interior and the agent reservoir. At least one vent extends through the fill port. A method of filling a vaporizer includes inserting the nozzle of a bottle filled with anesthetic agent into a vaporizer filler. At least one vent is occluded from fluid communication. Fluid communication between and open interior and an agent reservoir is opened. Anesthetic agent is poured into an agent reservoir of a vaporizer. Fluid communication is closed between the open interior and the agent reservoir. At least one vent is opened to fluid communication with the open interior. Pressure within the open interior is released through the at least one vent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Russell C. Manzke, Thomas Bender, II, David G. Barton, Michael S. Morrissey, Robert Q. Tham
  • Patent number: 8382187
    Abstract: An automatic gas cap actuator system (10, 10?) for automatic locking and opening of the gas cap (26, 74) of a vehicle's fuel tank is provided. The system (10, 10?) has a gas cap (26, 74); and a cap actuator (16, 20, 48, 48?; 72) actuated by a non-manual power source (12, 12?). The cap actuator interfaces with the gas cap (26, 74) via an interface (39, 76) in a manner so as to be able to impart relative rotation between the gas cap and a fixing element (20, 78), so as to draw the cap into engagement with the filling tube (34, 52), the interface and the gas cap being disengageable so as to permit manual use at the will of the operator. A remote controller within reach of a vehicle operator actuates the motor (12, 12?). In an advantage, the cap (26, 74) can be locked or opened both electrically and manually. Using the electrical unlock, the cap (26, 74) unlocks and opens without any necessary manual intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Naim Guendouz, Walter Dysli, Marc Jeanneret
  • Publication number: 20120285579
    Abstract: A fuel additive system can include a fuel additive and a container for the fuel additive, the container including a neck through which the fuel additive is flowed, the neck having a length and a dimension lateral to the length, whereby, in response to insertion of the container into a fuel receptacle, the neck disengages a lock which secures a closure of the fuel receptacle. A method of discharging a fuel additive into a fuel receptacle can include containing the fuel additive in a container having a neck through which the fuel additive can flow, inserting the container into the fuel receptacle, whereby the neck disengages a lock which secures a closure of the fuel receptacle, and discharging the fuel additive from the container into the fuel receptacle via the neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: TECHNICAL CHEMICAL COMPANY
    Inventors: Newton H. DUDLEY, Richard MILLER, John MCDERMOTT
  • Patent number: 8281824
    Abstract: An instrument (23) for filling a substance supply container (1) of a device (21) for personal care treatment has a filling needle (4) having a proximal end connected or connectable to a storage reservoir (22) and a distal end, a substance transport conduit (9) extending from the proximal end to at least one outlet (10, 11) provided in a radially facing surface portion closely adjacent the distal end of the filling needle (4). A sleeve (14, 15) is arranged around the filling needle (4) and is movable between a first position closing off the at least one outlet (10, 11) and a second position proximally away from the first position and the at least one outlet (10, 11). A system (20) including such an instrument (23), a container (1) for cooperation with such an instrument (23) and for provisioning a device (21) for personal care treatment as well as a device (21) for personal care treatment including such a container (1) are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Jeroen Molema, Wilko Westerhof, Bartele Hendrik De Vries, Reinier Niels Lap, Olaf Martin De Jong, Bart-Jan Zwart, Johannes Rogier De Vrind
  • Publication number: 20120234432
    Abstract: Device for recharging a bottle with liquid, includes: a refill containing the liquid, and a decanting system, adapted selectively to pass the liquid from the refill to the bottle, the decanting system including: a first part fixed to the refill and having a first liquid passage and a first air passage in communication with the refill; a second part connected to the first part, and intended to be fixed to the bottle, the second part including a second liquid passage and a second air passage intended to communicate with the bottle, the first and the second parts structured to move together in translation and free to rotate between an open configuration, in which the first and second liquid and air passages are aligned, providing passage of liquid and air between the refill and the bottle, and a closed configuration, in which they are not aligned, preventing liquid and air passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: TECHNIPLAST
    Inventor: Jean-Philippe LAMBOUX
  • Patent number: 8235079
    Abstract: Provided are adapter caps comprising a housing having a top, a bottom an edge, and a hub at the top of the housing. A plunger is slidably disposed about the hub, and a plurality of lock fingers are pivotally attached to the housing substantially at the edge, the lock fingers being actuable, responsive to movement of the plunger. A guide including an inner circular wall and an outer circular wall with the inner circular wall having a passageway disposed therethrough is present at the bottom of the housing. A cap as provided is selectively attachable to a coupling fitting having a first passage through which a liquid may pass and a second passage separate and distinct from the first passage through which vapor may pass, to provide accurate fuel level readings of a reservoir to which the coupling is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Robert L. Schultz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8235077
    Abstract: A refillable fuel supply assembly for a fuel cell is disclosed herein. The assembly includes a refillable fuel supply adapted to supply fuel to a fuel cell, a refilling fuel cartridge containing fuel to be transferred to the refillable fuel supply, and a lock-and-release device connecting the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply to transport fuel from the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply. The lock-and-release device also retains the refilling fuel cartridge to the refillable fuel supply until the refilling fuel cartridge is substantially free of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Societe Bic
    Inventors: Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks, Michael Curello, David Gray
  • Patent number: 8191588
    Abstract: A fuel tank opening-closing device includes a shutter mechanism situated inside a tank neck defining member and adapted to open a shutter body in response to insertion of a fuel nozzle. The shutter mechanism includes a push mechanism having a push member situated in an insertion passage; an interconnection mechanism having springs adapted to accumulate force of displacement of the push member as mechanical energy; and a nozzle sensing mechanism. The nozzle sensing mechanism has introduction pressure members adapted to receive displacement force of the fuel nozzle in the insertion direction, and lock portions that allow the shutter to move to the opening position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Patent number: 8186395
    Abstract: System for filling a tank comprising a fill pipe and a pipe head comprising an inlet valve and a moveable stopper in the head under the valve, characterized in that the valve comprises a peripheral part and a central part and in that only the peripheral part is coupled to the stopper and capable of causing the opening and/or unlocking of the latter under the pressure of a large-diameter fill nozzle, the central part being moveable with respect to this peripheral part so as to be able to swing under the action of a smaller-diameter fill nozzle, without acting on the stopper, while being connected to this same peripheral part so as to be entrained and swung with it under the pressure of a large-diameter fill nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventors: Herve Runarvot, Philippe Dubois
  • Patent number: 8186394
    Abstract: Device for avoiding fluid delivery errors, comprising a primary coil (6), placed in a container (1) in the vicinity of a fluid delivery orifice (2) of the container, a control and measurement electric circuit (7) supplying power to the primary coil (6) to generate electromagnetic waves in the fluid delivery orifice (2), detector means (7, 8) sensitive to the waveform of the currents or voltages that appear in the primary coil (6) and that distinguish the presence and the type of fluid delivery nozzle (4) as a function of said waveform of the currents or voltages in the primary coil (6). Comparator means (11) determine if the measured oscillation frequency (fm) is different from a reference oscillation frequency (fr). If necessary, the user is warned, by alarm means (12), that he is about to fill his container (1) with the wrong type of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: G. Cartier Technologies
    Inventors: Amir Nourdine, Jean-Luc Breheret
  • Patent number: 8156972
    Abstract: A liquefied gas storage/delivery system and method that includes a liquefied gas storage system. The liquefied gas storage system includes a housing containing a storage vessel suited to contain a supply of liquefied gas, such as liquid oxygen (LOX). A rotatable turntable is provided on an exterior surface of the housing. An interface shaped to match the shape of at least a portion of a portable liquid storage/delivery device is provide in or on the turntable. A connector is disposed in the interface that couples to a corresponding connector on the portable liquid storage/delivery device. The two connectors are coupled by placing the portable liquid storage/delivery device in the interface and rotating the turntable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: RIC Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Ricky Dean Burns, Tory D. Werne, Michelle Marut, Paul McGroary, Mark Hoeveler, Aashi Vel
  • Publication number: 20110297276
    Abstract: A vehicle (10) comprises a hydrogen fuel ceil (12) and a hydrogen storage tank (14). The storage tank includes an intake valve for connecting with an external hydrogen source (26) to Fill the tank (14), A hydrogen supply line (16) is provided for supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell from the storage tank (14). Heat transfer means (14, 22) transfers heat from the storage tank (14) to the fuel cell (12). Heat expelled by the storage tank during filling thereof is captured and transferred to the fuel cell (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: AGCO SA
    Inventors: Geoffroy Husson, Gabriel Menier
  • Patent number: 8056589
    Abstract: An overfill prevention device is provided for preventing overflow of a fluid storage tank. The overfill prevention device includes a filler cup designed to fit within the fill opening of the tank body and attach thereto. A seal that is adapted for receiving and sealing to a fill nozzle is placed between upper and lower regions of the filler cup. A breather piece, which defines a vapor path with first and second openings, is integrated with the filler cup. The first opening of the breather piece is fluidly coupled to the lower cup region, whereas the second opening is positioned above the first opening, located at or below the full level of the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Jeremy P. Novak, Matthew L. Erdmann
  • Publication number: 20110197991
    Abstract: A fluid supply includes a container, a bag within the container and a cap. The cap provides a fluid interface in communication with an interior of the bag and a pressurization interface in communication with an interior of the container adjacent an exterior of the bag. The pressurization interface has a channel that concentrically extends about the fluid interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventors: Ronald J. Ender, Craig L. Malik, Norman E. Pawlowski, Benjamin Zoladz
  • Patent number: 7926522
    Abstract: A capless fuel filler device includes an anti-contamination seal mounted upon an external portion of a fuel filler passage extending through the device. An anti-contamination plug may selectively be inserted into the combination passage so as to sealingly engage the anti-contamination seal. A contaminant drain leading from the valve body's fuel and nozzle passage serves to not only remove liquid contaminants from the fuel and nozzle passage, but also to mitigate any incidental buildup of vacuum within the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies
    Inventors: Brian Thomas Aitken, Robert Joseph Beier
  • Patent number: 7857016
    Abstract: A plastic adapter for fuel tanks. The adapter includes crimping lugs for fixing the adapter to a pipe or an opening in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Société Anonyme
    Inventor: Patrice Baudoux
  • Publication number: 20100258214
    Abstract: A refueling valve assembly is a pressure-activated valve that allows a flow of fluid, for example, fluid fuel, into the fuel reservoir. A fuel inlet port allows for the fluid fuel to be introduced into the valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a compressible member having a first sealing position and a second fueling position, where the compressible member is more compressed in the second fueling position than the first sealing position. The compressible member is sealingly coupled with the fuel inlet port when the compressible member is in the first sealing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Joerg Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 7798184
    Abstract: Provided herein are couplings useful in the transfer of liquid fuels from a remote storage reservoir to an on-board fuel tank of a motorized vehicle. There is provided a first coupling which is configured to be in fluid communication with the interior of a vehicle's fuel tank, and a second coupling which is intended to be in fluid communication with the contents of a remote fuel storage reservoir. The disclosure also includes a process for charging a fuel reservoir on board of a motorized vehicle from a remote reservoir, wherein the vapor in the fuel reservoir is displaced by an equal volume of fuel delivered from said remote reservoir, and wherein the vapor in said fuel reservoir is simultaneously caused to be transferred to said remote reservoir, thus permitting no escape of the vapor from said fuel reservoir to the surrounding atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Robert L. Schultz, Jr., Basil B. Tilling
  • Publication number: 20100193076
    Abstract: A capless fuel tank filler pipe assembly includes a filler pipe and a bulkhead disposed on the filler pipe. The bulkhead includes a nozzle receiving portion. A flapper door is pivotally disposed on the filler pipe, and is biased to a closed position. The flapper door is configured to compress an annular seal disposed between the bulkhead and the flapper door. The annular seal includes a liquid/vapor sealing material bonded to a substantially impermeable material. The substantially impermeable material substantially blocks emission of hydrocarbon molecules that permeate the liquid/vapor sealing material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Paul D. Walkowski, Robert P. Benjey, Kenneth Maynard Spink
  • Patent number: 7762291
    Abstract: A capless closure assembly for a fuel tank filler tube has a housing adapted for covering a bulkhead with an opening disposed on a proximal end of the filler tube, a sliding element disposed in the housing, and a door that is biased to close an aperture in the housing. The sliding element is movable between a first position that exposes the opening in the bulkhead and a second position that covers the opening in the bulkhead, and the door cooperates with the sliding element to move the sliding element from the second position to the first position as the door is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Charles J. Martin, Carl F. Binder
  • Publication number: 20100126625
    Abstract: A vehicle fuel inlet shut-off valve assembly (300) includes a two-piece housing having inner and outer housing components (302, 304) secured to each other. The housing components can be provided of different materials, with a surface coating. A flapper door assembly (306) is secured in the outer housing component (304) and includes directionally biased interlocking components that facilitate installation and inhibit disconnection after assembly with redundant connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: William Berghorst, Kirk J. Bush, Franco A. Cisternino, Michael Payne
  • Publication number: 20100071807
    Abstract: System for filling a tank comprising a fill pipe and a pipe head comprising an inlet valve and a moveable stopper in the head under the valve, characterized in that the valve comprises a peripheral part and a central part and in that only the peripheral part is coupled to the stopper and capable of causing the opening and/or unlocking of the latter under the pressure of a large-diameter fill nozzle, the central part being moveable with respect to this peripheral part so as to be able to swing under the action of a smaller-diameter fill nozzle, without acting on the stopper, while being connected to this same peripheral part so as to be entrained and swung with it under the pressure of a large-diameter fill nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Herve Runarvot, Philippe Dubois
  • Patent number: 7671482
    Abstract: A method for refueling hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicles is disclosed, that is capable of automatically disabling the vehicle systems, resetting the vehicle systems to allow for normal vehicle operation after the refueling event is complete, and determining if a faulty refueling event has been detected and allows normal vehicle operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas W. Tighe
  • Patent number: 7644740
    Abstract: A protective cover for a filler neck is designed to discriminate between different sizes of fuel nozzles. The cover includes a body portion and a movable door that covers and exposes an opening in the filler neck. The body portion has a pair of spaced body protrusions that form a gate, and the door has a ledge that may also be formed by a pair of spaced door protrusions. The protrusions on the door can be easily moved to an open position by pressing a tip of a fuel nozzle against the protrusions. The gate and the ledge are configured so that they can accommodate the fuel nozzle for only one type of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Paul D. Walkowski, Russell C. Jahnke, Andrew W. McIntosh, David Adam Deboskey
  • Patent number: RE41263
    Abstract: A refrigerant charging tool. In a described embodiment, a refrigerant charging tool has two separately formed handles pivotably attached to each other. One of the handles has a container piercing member mounted thereon. Interchangeable spacers are configured for attachment to the other handle, so that a selected one of differently shaped containers may be biased against the container piercing member when the handles are pivoted toward each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Technical Chemical Company
    Inventor: Newton Howard Dudley