Guide Or Shield Patents (Class 141/370)
  • Patent number: 11951543
    Abstract: A powder dispensing assembly for an additive manufacturing machine is provided. The powder dispensing assembly includes a housing that defines a powder reservoir that receives additive powder; a first plate removably connectable to the housing, the first plate defining a first discharge orifice having a first discharge orifice geometry; and a second plate removably connectable to the housing, the second plate defining a second discharge orifice having a second discharge orifice geometry different than the first discharge orifice geometry, wherein with the first plate connected to the housing, the additive powder flows out of the first discharge orifice at a first dosing rate, and wherein with the second plate connected to the housing, the additive powder flows out of the second discharge orifice at a second dosing rate different than the first dosing rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Adam Garret Susong, Ryan William Van Deest
  • Patent number: 11445852
    Abstract: A beverage system for making a beverage based on ingredients in a capsule has a conveying carriage with a capsule carrier, a threaded spindle extending inside a housing of the beverage system and having a drive nut connected to the capsule carrier. A stop element is arranged on the threaded spindle at an ejection position for blocking movement of the drive nut along the threaded spindle. A motor rotates the threaded spindle in a first direction of rotation, in order to move the capsule carrier to a processing position, where a beverage is made based on the ingredients in a capsule; in order to move the capsule carrier further along the threaded spindle to an ejection position; and in order to rotate the capsule carrier at the ejection position about the threaded spindle to eject the capsule from the capsule carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Evgeni Rehfuss, Tim Glaesser
  • Patent number: 11370605
    Abstract: The present invention proposes a relief module comprising a tubular body (10) for the passage of bulk material, at least a lateral opening (12) in the tubular body (10), a window (20) to cover the respective lateral opening (12), the window (20) operating in a closed position preventing the bulk material from exiting through the lateral opening (12) or in an open position allowing the material to exit through the lateral opening (12), the window (20) having at least one portion made of filtering material allowing the air to pass through and retain solid particles, when the window (20) is in the closed position. The present invention also proposes a bulk material discharge device which receives the bulk material from a feeding system and discharges the bulk material to a destination, the discharge device comprising a relief module configured according to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: TMSA—Tecnologia em Movimentação S.A.
    Inventors: Klaus Rüdiger Lilienthal, Jefferson Küchle
  • Patent number: 8978931
    Abstract: A machine for making and dispensing semiliquid and/or semisolid food products comprises a frame (2) furnished with a base (4) and an operating unit (6) for processing at least one mixture for making and dispensing the products. The operating unit (6) is movable at least between a raised position and a lowered position relative to the base (4) through the agency of a respective movement means (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: ALI S.p.A. - Carpigiani Group
    Inventors: Andrea Cocchi, Roberto Lazzarini
  • Patent number: 8808644
    Abstract: Automated apparatus and methods for dispensing fluids into microplates utilizing microwell covers, the covers comprising open portions to allow a pipette access to one or more wells and impermeable portions which prevent the fluids from getting into wells shielded by the impermeable portion. The open portions and impermeable portions are preferably arranged and sized to align with alternating rows of wells in a particular microplate. Preferred covers are movably positioned on the microplate. Automated dispensing apparatus for use with microplates and microwell covers comprises a programmable controller, and suitable interfaces which allow the apparatus to be programmed, and which control a dispensing head such that pipettes are moved in the desired manner in order to take advantage of the protective features of the microwell covers. The apparatus also preferably comprises at least one transfer mechanism for moving a cover relative to a microplate at a dispensing station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Biochemical Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventor: Allen I. Panetz
  • Patent number: 8741236
    Abstract: Covers for microwells, the covers comprising open portions to allow a pipette access to one or more wells and impermeable portions which prevent the liquids from getting into wells shielded by the impermeable portion. The open portions and impermeable portions are preferably arranged and sized to align with alternating rows of wells in a particular microplate. Preferred covers are movably positioned on the microplate. Automated dispensing apparatus for use with microplates and microwell covers comprises a programmable controller, and suitable interfaces which allow the apparatus to be programmed, and which control a dispensing head such that pipettes are moved in the desired manner in order to take advantage of the protective features of the microwell covers. The apparatus also preferably comprises at least one transfer mechanism for moving a cover relative to a microplate at a dispensing station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Biochemical Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventor: Allen I. Panetz
  • Patent number: 8695827
    Abstract: A system including a DEF tank and a fuel tank arranged in a portion of a vehicle to give that portion multiple structural functions. The system may be arranged to form a part of a counterweight on a work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Aaron S Klauer, Nitin N Patil
  • Publication number: 20140090743
    Abstract: A transport holder vertically aligns a caulking cartridge, nozzle-down. The holder includes (i) a substantially solid lower plug portion, having a lead face and a bottom face and an center passageway that is at least partially inverted frustum-shaped that forms a side contact face that tapers from a wider lead face opening to a narrower bottom face opening; and or to a tubular sleeve from the side contact face to the bottom face opening; and (ii) an upper sleeve, shaped to receive the caulking cartridge in a desired vertical alignment to the lower plug portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Momentive Performance Materials Inc.
  • Patent number: 8464766
    Abstract: Cylinder mounting mechanism is provided in a working machine for mounting thereto a cylinder case having a cassette gas cylinder accommodated therein. Mouthpiece support section is provided in the mounting mechanism for supporting a mouthpiece portion of the cassette gas cylinder in the cylinder case. Fitting recessed portion is provided in one end portion of the cylinder case and capable of receiving the mouthpiece support section, the fitting recessed portion being defined by an inner peripheral wall part of the one end portion that has a tapering wall thickness such that the surface of the wall part slants gradually outwardly toward the distal end of the fitting recessed portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoki Ito, Takayuki Sato, Tomomi Nakaya
  • Patent number: 8443614
    Abstract: Provided is a refrigerator with a dispenser assembly capable of sensing the height of a vessel and water level using a remote sensor by employing changes in electrostatic capacitance, in order to enable a user to automatically dispense water to a desired level regardless of the material or size of a vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Seong Wook Kim
  • Patent number: 8397948
    Abstract: A dispensing device may include a main body including a wall having a dispensing mouth defined in the wall; a storage portion, wherein the storage portion is retained by the main body; and a conveyance path providing communication between the storage portion and the dispensing mouth. In addition, the dispensing device may include a conveyor disposed in the conveyance path; a drive motor mechanically coupled to the conveyor; and a sensor, wherein the sensor is directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the drive motor and the sensor is in optical communication with the environment proximate to the dispensing mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Brookstone Purchasing, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen B. Mills, Stevenson Tom
  • Patent number: 8376004
    Abstract: A spill-stopping device for a chemical drum featuring a boot assembly; a shroud with an aperture disposed on the first end of the boot assembly, the aperture is adapted to accept a shaft of a filling machine; a spout disposed in the second end of the boot assembly, the spout is adapted to snugly fit into chemical drum aperture in a lid of a chemical drum and accept a shaft of a filing machine; a double-door assembly pivotally attached in the spout via hinges, the double-door assembly can move between at least an open position and a closed position respectively allowing and preventing access to the spout from the boot assembly; and counterweights attached to each hinge and extending upwardly into the boot assembly, the counterweights function to bias the double-door assembly in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Roberto J. Nieto
  • Patent number: 8297541
    Abstract: Apparatus for reducing dust emissions from particulate commodities such as wheat or coal using a curved loading spoon connected to the discharge from a loading spout. The curved loading spoon turns particulate commodities delivered at a rate above a predetermined delivery velocity against a curved outer wall causing dust arising from the particulate commodities to be re-entrained within the commodities as they are diverted from a straight path by the curvature. Also described are an optional flap designed to rest just above the surface of the commodities stream adjacent the outlet, and a converging duct located upstream of the curve loading spoon and arranged to direct commodities against the curved outer wall adjacent the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: The University of Newcastle Research Associates Limited
    Inventors: Alan W. Roberts, Tobias Krull, Stephen J. Wiche, Craig A. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 8291948
    Abstract: The centering guide for automated bottling machinery is secured to its filler unit by a central saddle. Two laterally opposed posts slide in holes through the saddle. A bridge extends across the upper ends of the posts. The bridge provides attachment for a cam roller traveling on a cam as the bottling unit and guide rotate with its filler unit. The lower ends of the posts are threaded into a base plate holding a single piece guide bell removably therein. The bell has a resilient seal removably installed therein. As the cam roller is reciprocated by the stationary cam during rotation of the bottling unit, the bridge, posts, and base are also actuated to raise and lower the guide bell over the bottle mouth in concert with the filling operation. Springs are installed between saddle and base plate to assure proper operation when the bell is lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: George H. Marks
  • Patent number: 8186544
    Abstract: A dispensing device may include a main body including a wall having a dispensing mouth defined in the wall; a storage portion, wherein the storage portion is retained by the main body; and a conveyance path providing communication between the storage portion and the dispensing mouth. In addition, the dispensing device may include a conveyor disposed in the conveyance path; a drive motor mechanically coupled to the conveyor; and a sensor, wherein the sensor is directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the drive motor and the sensor is in optical communication with the environment proximate to the dispensing mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Brookstone Purchasing, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen B. Mills, Stevenson Tom
  • Patent number: 8070022
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for dispensing a measured amount of paste is provided herein, including a flexible container for paste, comprising a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open outlet; a top cap comprising a top surface and a bottom surface, the top cap hingedly attached to the open outlet, the bottom surface of the top cap disposed to cover the open outlet in a closed position and uncover the open outlet in an open position; and a scooper attached to the bottom surface of the top cap in a substantially perpendicular orientation, the scooper configured to dip into the container in the closed position and scoop out a measured amount of paste from the container in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Franklin S Briles
  • Patent number: 8069886
    Abstract: A capsule preparation system includes a syringe holder for retaining a syringe, the syringe holder configured for operating a plunger of the syringe, a supply vial for storing a volume of radiopharmaceutical, and a capsule holder for capturing a capsule wherein the capsule holder is configured for selectively releasing the capsule from the capsule holder. At least a portion of the syringe holder is movable along a first direction and a second direction to position the syringe relative to the supply vial and the capsule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Vulcan Lead, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Yanke, James Chojnacki
  • Patent number: 7882989
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for dispensing a measured amount of paste is provided herein, including a flexible container for paste, comprising a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open outlet; a top cap comprising a top surface and a bottom surface, the top cap hingedly attached to the open outlet, the bottom surface of the top cap disposed to cover the open outlet in a closed position and uncover the open outlet in an open position; and a scooper attached to the bottom surface of the top cap in a substantially perpendicular orientation, the scooper configured to dip into the container in the closed position and scoop out a measured amount of paste from the container in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Franklin S. Briles
  • Patent number: 7820313
    Abstract: A gating device (100) and associated method (900) for identifying a fuel container (101) used to refill a fuel cell (102) are presented. A fuel source identification device (103) identifies a fuel container (101) to verify that it is compatible with the fuel cell (102). Upon identification, a gating engine (105) opens a retractable barrier (106), thereby providing access to the fuel cell (102). The gating engine (105) moves the retractable barrier (106) from a closed position to an open position when a control circuit (803) indicates that the fuel container (101) is compatible with the fuel cell (102). The fuel container identification device may be an impedance detector (201), a connectivity detector (301), a barcode reader (401), a memory reader (501), a radio-frequency identification device (601), a label reader (701), or other similar device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventor: David Winkler
  • Patent number: 7753096
    Abstract: A filling device for container filling machines including an exchangeable centering socket for a mouth of a container, a bayonet joint for mounting the centering socket to the filling device, and at least one permanent magnet for removably fixing the centering socket in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventors: Stefan Poeschl, Rupert Meinzinger
  • Patent number: 7721772
    Abstract: Protective devices are provided subjacent to the filler port within an aircraft's wing fuel tank so as to protect the lower wing skin from being struck by a nozzle associated with refueling equipment. When inserted into the filler port, the nozzle is brought into contact with the protective device which serves to deflect the nozzle in laterally (e.g., in an inboard direction) to thereby prevent the nozzle from striking the lower wing skin. Thus, when initially inserted into the filler port in a generally perpendicular orientation relative to a horizontal plane, the terminal end of the nozzle will contact with the arcuately concave inner surface of the device such that continued insertion of the nozzle into the filler port will cause the nozzle to assume an angularly canted condition in an inboard direction (i.e., a direction toward the aircraft's fuselage).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: EMBRAER - Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A.
    Inventor: Leandro Aparecido Cardozo
  • Publication number: 20100032058
    Abstract: A manual apparatus for dividing drug powders and encapsulating the divided drug powders into capsules is provided. According to the present invention, drug powders are loaded in vertical slots. Then, a partitioning plate is drawn to expose holes configured thereunder, so that the drug powders fall down from the drug loader into the capsule bodies previously provided in the channels. Then the capsule caps are manually provided onto the capsule bodies, so as to apply a downward pressure onto the capsule bodies. Correspondingly, the sticks provide counterforces in response to the downward pressures to upwardly push the capsule bodies so that the capsule bodies and the capsule caps can be more solidly assembled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Yutsun Lin
  • Publication number: 20100018998
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for dispensing a measured amount of paste is provided herein, including a flexible container for paste, comprising a closed end, a peripheral wall, and an open outlet; a top cap comprising a top surface and a bottom surface, the top cap hingedly attached to the open outlet, the bottom surface of the top cap disposed to cover the open outlet in a closed position and uncover the open outlet in an open position; and a scooper attached to the bottom surface of the top cap in a substantially perpendicular orientation, the scooper configured to dip into the container in the closed position and scoop out a measured amount of paste from the container in an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Franklin S. Briles
  • Publication number: 20100012225
    Abstract: A device and a method for decanting powders and solid substances or materials while avoiding contamination and a novel use of a weldable and peelable continuous tubular film (1). The invention provides a basic version, with which it is simply possible to work free from contamination and a further-developed form, with which it is also possible, in addition to avoiding contamination, to perform decanting under sterile conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Viktor Schnyder
  • Publication number: 20090145517
    Abstract: Protective devices are provided subjacent to the filler port within an aircraft's wing fuel tank so as to protect the lower wing skin from being struck by a nozzle associated with refueling equipment. In this regard, when inserted into the filler port, the nozzle is brought into contact with the protective device which serves to deflect the nozzle in laterally (e.g., in an inboard direction to thereby prevent the nozzle from striking the lower wing skin. Thus, when initially inserted into the filler port in a generally perpendicular orientation relative to a horizontal plane, the terminal end of the nozzle will contact with the arcuately concave inner surface of the device. Since the protective device's surface slopes downwardly and laterally in an inboard direction, continued insertion of the nozzle into the filler port will cause the nozzle to assume an angularly canted condition in an inboard direction (i.e., a direction toward the aircraft's fuselage).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Leandro Aparecido CARDOZO
  • Publication number: 20080308182
    Abstract: An inlet device (1) for a tank, the device comprising an attachment portion (2) adapted to allow the device to be secured to a tank or filler neck thereof and an inlet body portion (5) for the receipt of liquid, the inlet body portion comprising an inlet (12) for the ingress of liquid and an outlet for the egress of liquid into a tank, the inlet body portion comprising a wall portion (7) depending from a first end of the device at or in the vicinity of the inlet to an end portion (9) associated with a second end of the device, the end portion having an inner surface (9a) for the receipt of liquid and an outer surface (9b), the outlet being provided by a plurality of bores (10a-e) in a part (21) of the wall portion associated with the end portion and the inner surface of the end portion being shaped so as to direct liquid towards one or more of said bores, the inner surface of the end portion being provided with a surface of revolution for directing liquid towards one or more of said bores, one or more of said
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: TRUCKPROTECT LIMITED
    Inventor: Richard Nigel Fowler
  • Patent number: 7017626
    Abstract: An oil filler neck assembly is provided for an internal-combustion engine, which includes a hinged lid and a lock. The lock, in turn, includes a rotating device and a fixing device. The rotating device is rotatably arranged in the lid. The fixing device is arranged in an oil feed opening. The lock can also be used at poorly accessible locations and causes a high sealing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH
    Inventors: Juergen Giesselmann, Christian-Paul Stelzer
  • Patent number: 6994130
    Abstract: A capless automotive fueling system having a funnel with a port open to receive a fuel filling nozzle. A spring loaded valve is movable between an open position in which the port is open and a closed position in which the fuel valve overlies and sealingly covers the port. A shield is movable between a first position in which the shield overlies and covers the valve, and a second position in which the shield is laterally disposed to one side of the valve to permit insertion of the fuel filling nozzle. A motor is drivingly connected to the shield and, on activation, moves the shield from its first and to its second position. Alternatively, two latches engage the valve to retain the valve in a closed position. Upon insertion of a properly sized fuel nozzle, the nozzle engages the latches and pivots them to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Martinrea Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David John Gabbey, Daniel Paul Cunkle
  • Patent number: 6941983
    Abstract: A syringe guide for a syringe and vial is disclosed. The syringe guide serves as a guide for the needle to be inserted into the vial. The syringe guide can be made in different sizes, with different materials, and using different constructive ways. It consists of a pipe having a large diameter at one end and a small diameter at the opposite end. The vial and syringe are placed in the syringe guide according to their relative diameters. The diameter of the syringe guide can increase due to the slit running the entire length. A wall inside the syringe guide where the small and large diameters of the pipe meet supports the vial. When withdrawing medication while both the vial and the syringe are in the guide, one does not have to hold the vial. The syringe guide makes working with a needle safer, cleaner, and easier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventor: Grigor Garukyan
  • Patent number: 6877534
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible apparatus for facilitating the collection and disposal of debris, including leaves and other material, which includes a stand for supporting or for straddling a collection receptacle and which stand includes an inclined guide chute by way of which debris may be swept, raked, or otherwise conveyed from a surface upwardly to a point of discharge into the collection receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventors: Collins L. Hendrickson, Jr., Thomas H. Sheffield
  • Patent number: 6868874
    Abstract: A fuel tank cover assembly is provided for a fuel tank having a fill tube projecting therefrom and a fuel cap for covering an open end of the fill tube. The cover assembly includes a mounting member mounted on and secured to an end of the fill tube. A cover member is releasably attachable to the mounting member. The cover member can be pivoted to a locking position wherein the housing prevents access to the fuel cap and wherein it can be secured to the mounting member by a lock, such as a padlock. A funnel member is fixed to the open end of the filler tube, and the mounting member is attached to an exterior surface of the funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Arthur Lewis Klein, Bernard Martin Gruman
  • Patent number: 6860301
    Abstract: An apparatus for filling containers, said apparatus comprising a feed nozzle which may be placed over the feed orifice of the container, the feed nozzle being so constructed that the solids may be introduced under pressure and the container being surrounded by a cage, as well as a process for filling containers, in particular with finely divided solids having a high air content by arranging an air-permeable large container in an apparatus according to the invention, air-tight connection of the large container to the feed nozzle, filling of the container under pressure, removal of the filled container and container with air-permeable plies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: DeGussa AG
    Inventors: Roland Schaffer, Johannes Andreas Joze Middelman, Gerd Theodor Brand, Thomas Riedemann, Frank Dieter Hünig, Hans-Jürgen Strempel, Hans-Joachim Seydel, Michael Hirschhäuser
  • Patent number: 6382267
    Abstract: Hydraulic mounts which include a body member, a partition, a diaphragm and a base member are placed on an apparatus for supporting the body member loosely assembled with the partition, diaphragm and base member. A head member engages the body member and the base member in temporary fluid sealing relationship while air is evacuated from internal chambers of the mount and hydraulic fluid is flowed into the chambers. The head member may then be moved away from the base member and a final assembly of the mount provided by crimping a peripheral upper edge of the body member in forcible engagement with the base member, the partition and the diaphragm. The mount may include spaced apart projections to allow fluid to flow between the partition and the body member during the air evacuation and fluid fill process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott L. Childers, John A. Walterbusch, Raymond H. Louis, Charles J. Cornor
  • 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: 6325117
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser having a downwardly projecting dispensing spout spaced outwardly from the housing of the dispenser and a rib component secured into a position between the housing and the spout to prevent insertion of oversized cups beneath the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Grindmaster Cratheo Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Joe Burke, Eckhard-Uwe Kowalewski
  • Patent number: 6308746
    Abstract: A device that is placed over an inlet of a motorcycle gas tank that prevents the overflow of gasoline during the filling of the motorcycle gas tank. The device comprises an upper portion that accepts a gas pump nozzle, an inner core that captures gasoline fumes and provides for pressure build up inside the gas tank, and a lower portion that is designed to mesh with the motorcycle gas tank opening. The upper portion and inner core are basically the same on each model of the device, or motorcycle cuff. The lower portion of the motorcycle cuff is specifically designed to adapt to different types of motorcycle gas tanks, such as flush mounted and indented gas tank openings. The motorcycle cuff gives motorcycle riders the same gas filling advantages of filling their tanks to a desired full level, as those enjoyed by car drivers, by working in conjunction with the automatic shut-off feature available in most gasoline pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Patrick F. Enos
  • Patent number: 6193105
    Abstract: An apparatus for metering and dispensing a compressible confection comprises: at least one metering pump having an intake port and a discharge port; at least one internal bottom shutoff nozzle; at least one product line interconnecting the metering pump and the internal bottom shutoff nozzle; and a control mechanism for cyclically operating the at least one metering pump and operating the at least one internal bottom shutoff nozzle in synchronization with the metering pump such that generally constant pressure is maintained between the metering pump and the internal bottom shutoff nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company
    Inventors: Ronald L. Ream, Christine L. Corriveau, Gregory J. Milosch, Timothy J. Guydan, Michael P. McHale, George M. Nichtula
  • Patent number: 6164347
    Abstract: A holder for supporting a condiment receptacle closely below the dispensing aperture of a condiment dispensing pump is disclosed having a support body to hold the receptacle and an attachment body to connect the holder to the dispensing pump. The support body contains an opening below the dispensing aperture such that any condiment dispensed without a receptacle on the holder will fall through the opening not contacting any part of the holder. A recess in the support body allows the condiment receptacle to be correctly positioned on the holder and prevents the receptacle from moving out of position. The holder employs the use of a hanger and snap fit clip to releasibly attach the holder to a condiment dispensing pump. The holder can also be made to be a permanent part of a condiment dispensing pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: T. Lee Dahlmann
  • Patent number: 6138720
    Abstract: An apparatus for charging pressurized aerosol cans with liquid is provided having a base for providing mechanical stability, a can support assembly for supporting an aerosol can being filled with liquid, and a can charging assembly having a can receiving element and including a liquid reservoir having a tapered bottom in fluid communication with a pump rod receiving aperture for receiving a main piston pump rod. The main piston pump rod has a linearly elongated shaft terminating at its lower end in a radially expanded head and a sealing ring receiving slot into which a pliable sealing ring is recessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Edward William Zeigler
  • Patent number: 6062277
    Abstract: A driving method of an automatic vending machine, the method comprising the steps of moving a cup holder member to an initial position, discriminating whether the cup holder member has been positioned in the initial position, stopping a product sales when the cup holder is not positioned in the initial position at the initial position discrimination step, converting the automatic vending machine to a stand-by state when the cup holder member is positioned in the initial position at the initial position discrimination step, and extracting raw materials and hot/cold water separately into the cup and selling the product, such that a cup supplied from a cup loading bin can be accurately accommodated in a cup holder member at a cup dispenser, thereby preventing an improper sale of product due to inaccurate positioning of the cup in the cup holder member or discontinuation of product due to the cup hitched at the cup dispenser, and improper sales of product can be prevented due to the cup holder member of the cup d
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Kwangju Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Eun-Goun Seo
  • Patent number: 6056027
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for accurately measuring and dispensing dry material into a portable container. The apparatus includes a frame with a material hopper connected thereto. An arm member with a valve mounted thereto is rotatably connected to the frame and the valve communicates with an outlet in the hopper. A funneling member is positioned proximate to the valve and is also connected to the arm member. Rotation of the arm member opens and closes the valve and also produces substantially vertical movement of the funneling member therewith. The funneling member includes a chute depending downwardly therefrom that inserts into the container opening when a container being filled is placed in the apparatus. The container is placed on a scale which communicates with an attached controller. The controller communicates with an actuator which rotates the arm member and thereby controls movement of the valve and the funneling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Murray Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Patterson
  • Patent number: 6041835
    Abstract: Structure for shielding the upper surface of rim flanges of containers positioned for filling with material from a filling head of a container filling device includes a mounting base for attaching to the container filling device, and a shield formed with a pair of arms projecting from the mounting base in a generally parallel, spaced apart relationship to overlie or cover respective opposing side rim flanges of the container, while allowing material to be dispensed from the filling head between the arms to the container. A plate extends between the arms at one end thereof to cover the rim flange of the container that extends between the opposing side rim flanges, so that the combination of the two arms and plate serves to cover and shield the upper surface of the rim flanges from material being deposited into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Muiti-Fill, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard T. Price
  • Patent number: 6029716
    Abstract: A tire inflating method and apparatus, allowing inflation of different sized tires without changing over a tire inflation device. The tire inflation device has two chambers, an inner chamber and an outer chamber. The inner chamber is within the outer chamber and extends downwardly when a smaller sized rim is being used. The tire inflation device has a linear transducer, with a magnetic ring, that determines the height of the tire inflation head and knows when to shut off inflation. A method of inflating tires without changing over an inflation device is also provided. The method includes the steps of photo switches detecting the size of the rim being used, an inflation head adjusting to a corresponding size of the tire rim, and the inflation head inflating the tire and rim to a specified pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: MTD Products Inc
    Inventor: Homer J. Hawk
  • Patent number: 5915427
    Abstract: A system is provided for draining an anesthetic agent from a reservoir of an anesthetic vaporizer. The system includes an anesthetic agent container having an inlet into which the agent can drain. The vaporizer has a draining station that defines an outlet and that defines a drain passage between the vaporizer reservoir and the outlet. A valve is operable to open and close the drain passage. A connector is provided with a receiving end for connecting to the draining station at the outlet. The connector has a discharge end for connecting to the container inlet. The connector holds the container below the draining station outlet and defines a transfer passage between the receiving end and the discharge end for draining the agent from the draining station into the container. Structural key configurations, uniquely associated with a specific anesthetic, are preferably provided at the connection of the container and connector and at the connection of the draining station and connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventor: Richard W. Grabenkort
  • Patent number: 5782274
    Abstract: A cleaning box for a liquid food product filling apparatus includes a mounting member from which the plurality of filling tubes depend, and a hollow, shroud-like elliptical cylindrical body extending from the mounting member. The cleaning box is configured to, in part, shroud the filling tubes. The elliptical cylindrical body has a longitudinal axis, and is mounted to the mounting member so as to define an elliptical juncture therebetween. The elliptical cylindrical body terminates at about a free end of the filling tubes so as to define an opening. The opening is formed at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis so as to define a circular end profile. The opening is further formed such that the filling tubes are visually perceptible from a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, SA
    Inventors: Yutaka Kaneko, Bengt Andersson
  • Patent number: 5638876
    Abstract: A liquid crystal introduction connector includes a connector body. The connector body has a guide groove formed in its front surface and a receiving space formed backwardly of the guide groove. A resilient seal member is received in the receiving space. A nozzle member is allowed to extend through the seal member such that the nozzle member can move forwardly and backwardly. The nozzle member is biased forwardly by a spring. When a side edge of a cell having an introduction port is inserted through the guide groove, the seal member is resiliently deformed to receive the side edge. Under the effect of the spring, the nozzle member is brought into abutment with the side edge of the cell. The liquid crystal passes through a liquid crystal supply passageway and reaches the introduction port of the cell via nozzle ports of the nozzle member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Beldex Corporation
    Inventors: Gyo Shimotoyodome, Isao Sugiura
  • Patent number: 5607003
    Abstract: A thermoplastic closure for a fluid container which has a flexible needle-like dispensing extension continuous with and extending from the base and ending at a tip wherein the extension has an internal cylindrical cavity with an interior aperture positioned within the base and an exterior aperture positioned at the tip. The flexible, needle-like extension facilitates ease in refilling reservoirs such as ink-jet cartridges and facilitates control over the rate of flow of the ink from the container into the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Renewable Resources Company
    Inventor: Stephen M. Gray
  • Patent number: 5577537
    Abstract: A toothbrush holder system for positioning a toothbrush in proximity to the dispenser including a toothbrush holder base is secured in the adaptive holder along with the dispenser. The toothbrush is supported by support base and held in proper position by the side rails. As an alternative, the adaptive holder which includes a support rail can be provided with a toothbrush support base and toothbrush guide rails. The adaptive holder can be provided with support arms and an extension handle arm pivotally connected to the support arms. When the extension arm is depressed the pump actuator is also depressed. The extension arm can be adjustable to accommodate various sized dispensers and to dispense different amount of toothpaste. A nozzle closing plug can be located on the extension arm such that the extension arm can be pivoted to insert the closing plug into the nozzle. The adaptive holder can include a toothbrush support base connected to the extension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Wesley M. Wells
  • Patent number: 5573048
    Abstract: Filling apparatus and method of operation are provided for rapid, selectively controlled filling of flexible, plastic, webbed containers with a liquid. The apparatus includes a cutter which separates the lead container from the web whereupon a shuttle delivers the separated container to a filling head. The filling head rapidly loads the container with the desired liquid whereupon the container is thereafter directed from the filling head along a specially constructed air table. Programmable controlls allow precise movement of the container handling and filling operation to ensure rapid and efficient container loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: ABCO Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan E. Moon, Karl E. Zemlin, Richard R. Hadgkiss
  • Patent number: 5566729
    Abstract: A drug reconstitution and administration system includes a container for a concentrated drug or other medicament, a syringe assembly which can be pre-filled with a liquid diluent, and a mixing adapter assembly which facilitates mixing of the medicament with the liquid diluent. The adapter assembly includes inner and outer concentrically arranged, relatively movable sleeves, which together define an expandable mixing chamber within the adapter assembly. The container and pre-filled syringe are respectively fitted to the adapter assembly, with the contents of the container and the contents of the syringe transferred into the internal mixing chamber. A diluted drug mixture is formed in the mixing chamber, and the mixture is transferred into the syringe assembly for subsequent patient administration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Richard W. Grabenkort, John C. Tanner, II, Sheldon M. Wecker