Flexible Hose Terminal With Receiver Engaging Means Patents (Class 141/382)
  • Patent number: 11897586
    Abstract: A system that includes a first winch assembly having a first structure on which a fuel hose is configured to be spooled and unspooled, the first structure having a first rotational axis. The system also includes a second winch assembly located rearward of the first winch assembly, the second winch assembly includes a second structure on which a messenger line is configured to be spooled and unspooled, the second structure having a second rotational axis and being rotatable between first and second rotational positions. Upon the second structure being in the first rotational position the second rotational axis is non-orthogonal to the first rotational axis. Upon the second structure being in the second rotational position, the second rotational axis is orthogonal to the first rotational axis. The second structure including an axial through opening through which the fuel line is configured to pass when the second structure is in the second rotational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy S. Meaux, Isaac D. Kremers, Nicholas B. Jones, Mark E. Cooper, Quinton P. Elliott, Andrew T. Pidduck, Joel C. Jurisich, Robert L. Henry, Garret Marzolf
  • Patent number: 11279449
    Abstract: A process system (15) for transfer of a fluid between a floating or non-floating facility (11) and a receiving structure (21) via a support unit (12) is disclosed, where the process system (15) comprises: —a first pipe element (58) for transport of fluid on the support unit (12), —a second pipe element (68) for transport of fluid on the support unit (12), —a first cross over pipe (22) that is fluidly connected to the first pipe element (58) and the second pipe element (68), —a second cross over pipe (26) that is fluidly connected to the first pipe element (58) and the second pipe element (68), —a first valve device (30) arranged in the first cross over pipe (22), —a second valve device (31) arranged in the second cross over pipe (26) —a first cargo valve device (39) that is provided in the first pipe element (58), —a second cargo valve device (40) that is provided in the second pipe element (68). A fluid transfer system (10) comprising such a process system (15) is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: Connect LNG AS
    Inventors: Magnus Eikens, John Randolph Holland, Stian Tunestveit Magnusson, Bjornar Danielsen
  • Patent number: 10836248
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for nozzle guides for vehicle refueling adapters. In one example, a nozzle guide includes a plurality of protrusions adapted to center a fuel nozzle within the nozzle guide and to reduce a likelihood of over-insertion of the fuel nozzle into the nozzle guide. The nozzle guide may include features such as a rear guard and upper wall adapted to reduce ingression of liquid fuel with fuel vapor flowing from the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Xiankai Song, Rodolfo Palma, Michael Zitkovic, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10632839
    Abstract: The fuel tank adapter for a golf cart is configured for use with a motorized golf cart. The golf cart further comprises a fuel tank and a tank port. The fuel tank adapter for a golf cart is an extension device. The fuel tank adapter for a golf cart extends the tank port by creating a flow path that guides the liquid fuel from an inlet structure located on the exterior of the golf cart into the fuel tank through the tank port. The fuel tank adapter for a golf cart comprises a coupling structure, an extension structure, and the inlet structure. The inlet structure and the coupling structure attach to the extension structure. The coupling structure attaches the extension structure to the tank port of the fuel tank. The inlet structure receives liquid fuel from an external source and transports the received liquid fuel to the extension structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventor: Delwood Hirsch
  • Patent number: 10323796
    Abstract: The invention relates to a container/container support assembly, notably for a medical gas cylinder, comprising a gas container (11) comprising a protective cap (3) comprising a peripheral wall (3), and a container support (20) able and designed to accept and bear said gas container (11). The protective cap (3) of the gas container (11) comprises a fixing element (10) projecting from the surface of the peripheral wall (3), and said container support (20) comprises an attachment system (24) for fixing said container support (20) to a bearing structure (30), and a housing (22) able and designed to accept said fixing element (10) borne by the protective cap (3) of the gas container (11) so as to secure said gas container (11) to said container support (20) when said fixing element (10) is positioned in said housing (22) of the container support (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédeés Georges Claude
    Inventors: Antoine Frenal, Renaud Ligonesche, Chiara Tarantello
  • Patent number: 10124955
    Abstract: A tank assembly for receiving liquids comprises a tank body. The tank body includes a tank wall defining an enclosed tank cavity. The tank body also includes a manhole lid attached to the tank wall and movable from a closed position covering a manhole in the tank body to an open position uncovering the manhole. A liner includes a flexible liner wall defining an enclosed liner cavity. An opening is formed in the liner wall to permit liquid to be introduced into the liner cavity. The liner also includes a fitting secured to the liner wall at the opening in the liner wall. A first end of a hose is attached to the fitting for conducting fluid to the liner cavity. A valve is attached to a second end of the hose. The valve and the second end of the hose are releasably attached to the manhole lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: TANKBAG PROPERTIES LLC
    Inventors: Thomas J. Starck, Waldemar Frans Finke
  • Patent number: 10045481
    Abstract: A lawnmower discharge device for discharging grass clippings in various directions. The lawnmower discharge device includes a planar baseplate that can be removably secured to a discharge port of a lawnmower. The baseplate includes an opening to provide access for grass clippings to move therethrough. The device further includes a curved, tubular discharge chute rotatably secured to the baseplate, wherein the discharge chute is positioned over the opening of the baseplate in order to allow grass clippings to move therethrough. The lawnmower discharge device further includes a rotating mechanism disposed between the baseplate and the discharge chute in order to allow the chute to rotate relative to the fixed baseplate. In this way, the lawnmower discharge device can be removably secured to a lawnmower and rotated thereon in order to prevent grass clippings from spraying onto flowerbeds, patios, sidewalks, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Inventor: Rick Chase
  • Patent number: 9731835
    Abstract: The present disclosure refers an aerial refueling coupling for in-flight parameter measuring, including a body configured to receive and support a probe and a removable shell that covers at least part of the body. The aerial refueling coupling includes a sensor system for detecting at least one parameter related to in-flight refueling operation, a data processing device configured to provide a measure at least relative to parameters detected by the sensor system, a portable storage system, and a power supply system comprising at least on battery for supplying energy, and a ram air turbine for their activation when the aerial refueling coupling is in-flight. The data processing device, the storage system and the power supply system are mounted onto the body covered by the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: EADS Construcciones Aeronáuticas, S.A.
    Inventors: Martín Epsinosa Sanchez, Jorge Terrón Blanco
  • Patent number: 9505602
    Abstract: A fuel can adapter is designed to be used with a fuel can having a neck that is internally and externally threaded. The fuel can adapter includes a plate having external threads for engaging internal threads of the neck, the plate including a hole. The adapter includes a sliding tube mounted to slide within the hole in the plate. The adapter includes an elbow mounted at an upper end of the tube, the elbow including an outlet. The adapter further includes a protrusion extending from the plate beside the hole. The elbow bears against the protrusion to exert a torque on the plate that threads or unthreads the plate from the neck of the fuel can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: Mercedes Textiles Ltd.
    Inventor: Duane Leonhardt
  • Patent number: 9010573
    Abstract: There is provided in one aspect a nozzle boot arrangement for supporting a nozzle of a fuel dispensing unit, the nozzle including a spout and a base portion including a grip. The arrangement includes a nozzle boot including means for supporting the nozzle at the base portion thereof, and a section for receiving at least a portion of the spout. The arrangement also includes a stopper provided at said receiving section and formed separately from said nozzle boot. The stopper is arranged to cooperate with the spout to prevent the nozzle from falling about from the nozzle boot arrangement by rotation of the nozzle about said supporting means. According to further aspects, there is provided a fuel dispensing unit, a nozzle boot module and method of manufacturing a nozzle boot arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Wayne Fueling Systems Sweden AB
    Inventors: Bengt Ingemar Larsson, Hanna Helgesson
  • Patent number: 8997802
    Abstract: Sealing fluid container assembly (3), connectable to a compressor assembly and to a control circuit of the compressor assembly, has a connecting unit (25) defining a releasable connection to the compressor assembly; and a connecting device (12) for injecting sealing fluid into an inflatable article, and which cooperates releasably with a valve (V) of the inflatable article. More specifically, the container assembly (3) has a sensor carried by the connecting device (12); and at least one electric contact (33) connected to the sensor (12) and cooperating with an electric terminal (24) to transmit a signal from the sensor (12) to the control device when the connecting device (12) is connected to the valve (V); the sensor (12) having a first and a second terminal (40, 39) designed to be short-circuited directly by the valve (V).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: TEK Global S.R.L.
    Inventors: Sergio Lolli, Maurizio Marini
  • Patent number: 8915271
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for loading/unloading cryogenic fluids between a ship and storage tanks The system comprises a shaft extended upwards to above the sea level, a transfer pipeline extended from the storage tanks to the shaft with a free end free to expand/contract axially inside the shaft, a header fluidly connected to the free end, at least one downward pipe branch from the header, at least one hose coupler attached to the shaft, at least one internal hose freely hung inside the shaft between the downward pipe branch and the hose coupler, and at least one loading arm fluidly connected to the hose coupler and having an end flange for connection with ship manifolds for fluid transfer. The system further comprises at least one vertical support to support the header in the vertical direction, wherein the header is free to move along with the free end of the transfer pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Xuejie Liu
  • Patent number: 8915267
    Abstract: A device and a method for filling syringes, which allows the filling of a syringe with exact dosage of different drugs, by using electronic guns or any other suitable device, without the necessity of using a needle and which may be disconnected from said electronic gun to connect a standard needle for the application of the fluid to a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Rogelio Castaneda, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140318671
    Abstract: A waste transfer system includes a sewer hose, a sewer nozzle connected to the sewer hose, and an adapter configured for quick connection to the sewer nozzle. The sewer nozzle may be permanently connected to the sewer hose. The sewer nozzle may incorporate a quick disconnect feature to enable quick connection to the adapter. The adapter may be at least partially transparent to enable viewing of contents thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas R. SWARTS
  • Patent number: 8864420
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for limiting structural damage to an affected offshore platform and preventing damage spread from the affected offshore platform to another platform during an accident or an emergency condition. An offshore platform arrangement includes a mobile offshore production unit (MOPU), a mobile storage platform and a mobile offloading platform which are disposed at a clearance distance from one another. The platforms are fluidly connected by pipes to allow hydrocarbon fluid transfer therebetween. The pipes are adapted to cease fluid communication of hydrocarbon fluid between platforms for preventing damage spread therebetween. Also disclosed is an offloading system for hydrocarbon fluid transfer which includes a lifting system having an extendable lifting arm and a spreader frame platform rotatably coupled to the lifting arm. The spreader frame platform is operable to support a transfer skid and allow angular adjustment of the transfer skid in a horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Kok Seng Foo, Wen Sin Chong, Alex Kah Keong Tan, Xiao Xia Sheng, Asbjørn Mortensen
  • Patent number: 8851102
    Abstract: A windshield washer fluid supplying system for a vehicle having a windshield washer device comprising a reservoir mounted in the vehicle for storing washer fluid is disclosed, the supplying system comprising a supplying tube having a first end portion and a second end portion; a first end piece comprising a portion mountable on the reservoir and an aperture therethrough for receiving the first end portion of the supplying tube so as to enable fluid communication between the first end portion of the supplying tube and the reservoir; and a second end piece comprising a portion adapted for mounting on a container of washer fluid placed in the vehicle and an aperture therethrough for receiving the second end portion of the supplying tube so that the second end portion of the supplying tube extends inside the container proximate a bottom portion thereof when the second end piece is mounted on the container, thereby establishing a siphonage circuit between the reservoir and the container with the supplying tube for
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Francine Lacoste, Michel Pigeon
  • Publication number: 20140238529
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method provide a portable fuel supply for a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a vessel that is a source of fuel and a conduit that is operatively connected with the vessel at one end. There is also a coupling pin arrangement connected with the vessel. The coupling pin arrangement comprises a coupling pin and is mutually engageable with a fifth wheel coupling device. An end opposite the one end of the conduit operatively connects with a fuel system of the vehicle such that the vessel is in fluid communication with the fuel system and the vehicle operates with the fuel from the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventors: Konrad J. Komuniecki, Gage Garner
  • Patent number: 8800607
    Abstract: A process and system for directly exporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from an offshore location is disclosed. The process comprises (a) obtaining a mixture comprising oil and natural gas from a subsea well; (b) separating LPG from the mixture comprising oil and natural gas at a floating or fixed offshore processing facility; (c) offloading the LPG directly from the floating or fixed offshore processing facility via subsea offloading risers and at least one subsea offloading flowline connecting the processing facility to a floating or fixed offshore transfer station; and (d) transferring the LPG to an export tanker at the transfer station. The system comprises a floating or fixed offshore processing facility, a floating or fixed offshore transfer station, and a set of subsea offloading transfer lines connecting the processing facility and the transfer station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Ahmed F. Omar, Rick Marshall, Arif Shipchandler, Miguel Ruiz
  • Patent number: 8720502
    Abstract: A nozzle includes a nozzle body having a nozzle tip for engaging a fuel hose coupling, the tip extending from the body, and a valve sleeve for opening and closing a fuel path between the tip and the body. The tip is mounted within the body on a flexible shaft, so as to accommodate misalignment between the nozzle and the fuel hose coupling. This eliminates the need for a bearing at the end of the shaft, which causes a pressure drop in the nozzle. The shaft is axially slidable in the mounting in a first portion of the nozzle body. The first and second portions of the body are joined with a weak link, which is frangible in the event of excessive load, to release the abutment and allow the nozzle tip to travel towards the body and close the fuel path. Thus a separate shut-off valve is not required. Also a pressure regulator sleeve moves out of the nozzle body towards the nozzle tip in the event of excessive fuel pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Flight Refuelling Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Mouskis
  • Publication number: 20140076455
    Abstract: My invention is a portable air transferring device, involving two identical clip-on valves at each end of a hollow tube. When the clip-on valves are each engaged, air flows through the hose between a good car tire and a partially or fully deflated bicycle or motorcycle tire. The invention is for use in emergencies or in remote locations when other conventional sources of compressed or pumped air are unavailable. The invention includes a method for operating the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph M. Craft
  • Patent number: 8627857
    Abstract: A sealing and inflating assembly includes an air compressor device engaged in a receptacle for generating a pressurized air, and a tire repairing container for receiving a sealing preparation, an outlet piece attached to a mouth opening of the tire repairing container and having an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit, a pipe is disposed in the container and includes one end coupled to the outlet piece and includes a bore for directing the pressurized air to flow through the bore of the pipe and to flow into a base portion of the container without flowing through the sealing preparation, for allowing the tire sealing preparation to be effectively supplied to seal and inflate the inflatable objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Wen San Chou
  • Patent number: 8622099
    Abstract: A hydrocarbon transfer arrangement for transfer of fluids between an offshore unit and a carrier which are placed in an offloading configuration, includes at least one transfer hose and a gas return hose, wherein the end of the at least one transfer hose is connected to a floating multi-function unit allowing for the transport of the transfer hose between the offshore unit and the carrier, wherein the floating multi-function unit can be lifted out of the water and can be held in a fixed position above water-level and is provided with connection elements for making a fluid connection between the transfer hose end and a manifold of the carrier and with emergency disconnect elements for the at least one transfer hose, placed at a distance from the connection elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.
    Inventors: Pieter Liem, Jean-Robert Fournier, Jean-Charles Rinaldi
  • Publication number: 20130333804
    Abstract: The invention present disclosure relates to a system (10) for transferring fluid between a first surface installation (11) and a second surface installation (12), comprising a tubular transfer conduit (25) that can be deployed between the two surface installations, the first end (28) of the conduit being connected to piping of the first surface installation (11) while the second end (29) is intended to be connected to a collector (20) of the second surface installation (12), said tubular transfer conduit (25) being suspended beneath a support and guidance structure (40) by a link (52).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Philippe François Espinasse
  • Patent number: 8578974
    Abstract: A portable fluid exchange system comprises a source container, a liquid and vapor pump for pumping liquid from the source container to the destination container and for pumping vapor from the destination container to the source container. The liquid inlet and vapor outlets of the liquid and vapor pump are connected in fluid communication with the source container. A liquid delivery hose delivers liquid from the pump to the destination container. A vapor delivery hose delivers vapor from the destination container to the pump. A selectively controllable actuation mechanism actuates the liquid and vapor pump to thereby concurrently pump liquid from the liquid and vapor pump through the liquid outlet and vapor into the liquid and vapor pump through the vapor inlet, and concurrently pump vapor from the liquid and vapor pump through the vapor outlet and liquid into the liquid and vapor pump through the liquid inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Fuel Transfer Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Bonner
  • Patent number: 8550279
    Abstract: An anti-siphoning fuel system that includes a fuel inlet, a fuel tank, at least one fill tube or hose connecting the fuel inlet to the fuel tank such that fuel may flow from the fuel inlet to the fuel tank, and an anti-siphoning element or device coupled to the fill tube or hose that may be installed in existing boats or cars and obstructs a siphoning hose inserted in to the fill tube or hose from entering the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory K. Avakian
  • Patent number: 8453688
    Abstract: The high-pressure output (2) of a donor container is coupled to a user system (11) by means of a main transfer tube (4) through a pilot valve (5) controllable by an auxiliary line (6) which is connected (12) to an auxiliary circuit of the system (11), extends along the main tube (15) and is fixed thereto by the reduced length thereof at several distinct points (S<SUB>i</SUB>). In such a way, the rupture or inflammable leakage of the tube (4) generates the tearing off or meting of the auxiliary line (6) in such a way that the output valve (5) is immediately closed. Said invention is particularly suitable for an inflammable gas supply to stationary plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventor: Laurent Allidieres
  • Patent number: 8439296
    Abstract: An aircraft huffer coupling adapter comprises a flange assembly having one or more attachment members in communication with a flange ring via one or more strut members. The flange assembly is attached with a port end of an inner coupling of a huffer coupling via the one or more attachment members. The flange ring defines an inner diameter larger than an outer diameter of the huffer coupling, with at least one space between an inner wall of the flange ring and the outer diameter of the air hose coupling arranged to allow airflow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin Michael Thompson
  • Patent number: 8397769
    Abstract: Apparatus (1) for transferring incoherent or liquid material from a discharge station (S1) to a collection station (S2) is provided with a tubular conduit (6) located between said stations (S1, S2), and a tubular bag (9) for transferring the material from the discharge station (S1) to the collection station (S2); the tubular bag (9) develops longitudinally inside the conduit (6) between the discharge station (S1) and the collection station (S2), and is kept adherent to the conduit (6) likewise an interior coating of same conduit (6) by a pneumatic device (24, 31) which exhibits a suction region distributed along the conduit (6) between two longitudinal ends (7) of same conduit (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: ABC Pharmatech S.r.l.
    Inventor: Luca Catelli
  • Patent number: 8333225
    Abstract: Device for the replacement of sterile containers (1) containing concentrated products in apparatus for the production of beverages from these concentrated products, said sterile containers (1) being provided with a union (3) having a one-way valve for dispensing the product, said device comprising a body (5) with a seat (6) for engagement with said union (3), said seat (6) being in fluid connection with the chamber (4) into which the concentrated product and at least the liquid for reconstituting the beverage are supplied, as well as locking means (15, 16, 17) for keeping the said union (3) in position inside said seat (6). Sensor means (18) are provided between said body (5) with the seat (6) for engagement with the union (3) and said locking means, said sensors (18) detecting the relative position of the said locking means (15, 16, 17) with respect to the body (5) and emitting a corresponding signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventors: Paolo Vecchio, Dario Sala
  • Patent number: 8201596
    Abstract: A method of initially filling a new and previously unused fuel tank with a fuel including Volatile Organic Compounds includes providing a dispensing unit with an elongated flexible dispensing tube, inserting the dispensing tube through a fuel inlet of the fuel tank until the dispensing tube is disposed adjacent a bottom surface of the fuel tank, and introducing the fuel onto the bottom surface of the fuel tank in a smooth flow without spraying the fuel. Introduction of the fuel onto the bottom surface of the fuel tank in a smooth flow disposes any fuel vapors formed therein adjacent the bottom surface of the fuel tank to limit displacement of the fuel vapor into the atmosphere outside the fuel tank as the air in the fuel tank is exhausted in response to filling the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Sam R. Reddy
  • Patent number: 8186393
    Abstract: A nurse vehicle carries a supply of liquid chemicals or fertilizer for being applied by a sprayer vehicle. A fluid transfer conduit of the nurse vehicle has an end defined by a receptacle that is selectively connected to a complementary dimensioned insert defining an end of a fluid intake conduit of the sprayer vehicle. The receptacle and insert define a coupler assembly that includes an inflatable seal that surrounds the insert and locks the insert and receptacle together when inflated. Flow through the coupler assembly is controlled by first and second poppet valves, which are normally closed preventing flow through valve bodies of the receptacle and insert. Selective inflation of the seal and opening and closing of the poppet valves is automatically controlled in accordance with sequencing logic of an electronic controller so the seal is inflated before the valves are opened and remains inflated until the valves are closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph Huegerich, Travis Gene Funseth, Tonya Marie O'neal, Richard Allen Humpal
  • Publication number: 20120067459
    Abstract: A cap (13) to be mounted to a mouth part of a main container unit of a nutritional supplement container (10) is provided for flowing out a liquid substance filled in the main container unit. The main container unit includes a thin film (16) that is attached to the mouth part so as to seal the interior of the main container unit. The cap can take a first mounted state and a second mounted state with respect to the mouth part. In the first mounted state, the mounted state of the cap with respect to the mouth part is held in a state where an end surface of a hollow nozzle (22) of the cap is located not in contact with the thin film or in contact with the thin film but not pressing the thin film. In the second mounted state, the mounted state of the cap with respect to the mouth part is held in a state where the thin film is broken by the hollow nozzle and the hollow nozzle is located inside the mouth part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: JMS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takahiko Kunishige, Yoshihiko Kobashi, Raita Uematsu
  • Patent number: 8122919
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an LNG transferring arm. The LNG transferring arm includes a cylindrical support base. A main body is rotatably provided on the support base. A boom assembly is connected to a side of the main body to rotate up and down. A support assembly supports the boom assembly and is bent along with the boom assembly. A transfer pipe and a return pipe are arranged along the boom assembly. An end of each of the transfer pipe and the return pipe is connected to a tank to which LNG will be transferred. A balance weight is rotatably supported above the main body via a bracket, and is hinged at one end thereof to the boom assembly, thus maintaining balance. A rotary branch means is provided in the main body, and includes two pipes having different diameters and arranged concentrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Jae-Wook Park
  • Patent number: 8091594
    Abstract: The present invention relates to novel devices and methods of filling tanks designed for holding non-hazardous fluids, especially tanks on recreational vehicles. In a preferred embodiment, the tank to be filled is a water tank. The device of the present invention incorporates several novel and non-obvious features to create a device that permits the filling of tanks in a hands-free manner while keeping water waste to a minimum and preventing the damaging of tank, fill neck or other tank or fill components due to the over filling of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew G. Ray
  • Publication number: 20110247723
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for filling vehicle tires with nitrogen and especially to a customer operated tire inflation system for filling vehicle balloon tires with nitrogen. A plurality of tanks of nitrogen are mounted for rotation on a lazy susan and are connected to a hose on a reel having a tire filling valve on the end thereof for unreeling and filling a vehicle tire. A credit or debit card reader controls a hose reel lock and flow from the nitrogen tanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Janice Lachman
  • Publication number: 20110186175
    Abstract: A drainage assembly for a faceting machine splash pan including a drain for draining slurry, a funnel for capturing the slurry including a basin mounted upon a tubular neck, the basin defining a rim having a sealing member circumferentially disposed thereon, the funnel further including a hose fitting positioned within the neck, and a drain hose received within the neck and removably attached to the hose fitting and in fluid communication with the basin, wherein a mechanical disconnect is provided between the drain and the drain hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Gabriel William Dobo
  • Publication number: 20110114221
    Abstract: A cup for draining residual fuel from a breakaway hose coupling. The cup features a substantially cylindrical rigid stem extending upward from the floor of the cup reservoir, said stem featuring a cavity for receiving the pin of a breakaway hose valve. When the stem is pressed against the valve pin, the valve is opened, relieving pressure within the hose and releasing residual fuel within the hose. The residual fuel drains directly from the hose into the cup, facilitating safe and convenient disposal of the fuel, which may be poured using an integral pour spout in the cup rim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Grenville G. Sutcliffe, John C. Sever
  • Publication number: 20110017349
    Abstract: There is described a misfuelling prevention assembly (1) which comprises a fuel filler cap (2), said cap being provided with a releasable locking member (11) and locking member release means (6, 7) wherein the release means is actuated by the positioning of the correct fuel filler nozzle within the release means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Philip Cartwright
  • Patent number: 7832434
    Abstract: An automated filling system to conduct a filling operation in which a bulk liquid transport vehicle is filled with a bulk liquid and quality assurance tests are performed by a gas analyzer. A programmable logic controller, employed to control the filling operation, is responsive to pressure within a fill line connected to the vehicle and is programmed to determine that there exists sufficient pressure within the vehicle to conduct an initial quality assurance test and that the fill line is properly connected to the fill line, without breaks in its flow integrity. The programmable logic controller also initiates and controls a pressurization process if there is not sufficient pressure to conduct the initial quality assurance test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Carlins, John P. Maitino, Ralph W. Gese, Jesse Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7766058
    Abstract: A method and system for replacing used oil in a vat, the system including a nozzle having inner and outer concentric passageways, the outer passageway being connected to a supply of replacement oil, pumps associated with each of the inner and outer passageways, with a valve structure and a nozzle, the valve structure having biasing means. The system is suitable for pumping hot oil from a vat such as used in commercial kitchens to a storage receptacle and subsequently pumping replacement oil into the vat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Jim Constant
  • Patent number: 7726585
    Abstract: A chemical distribution system affixes flexible tubing (50) along exterior surfaces (52) of a dwelling (12) and along structures (16) external to the dwelling. The tubing is attached to the exterior surfaces with clamps (54) and exposed for maintenance. The clamps are form-fitted to the tubing. Spray nozzles (58) are inserted into the openings in the tubing for dispensing a chemical solution. The openings can be pre-formed or cut into solid tubing at during installation. A connector (42) has one end coupled to a hose for receiving the chemical solution and another end coupled to the tubing. The fixed distribution system provides for precise and even application of the chemical solution with minimal operator intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Perimicon, LLC
    Inventors: Shane D. Pannell, Michael K. Wrigley
  • Publication number: 20100032051
    Abstract: A new process for insulating the void in a thermal distance piece in a low-temperature or cryogenic storage tank uses a vacuum source to draw insulation into the TDP. Two remotely spaced openings to the void are provided. A strainer is temporarily mounted in one of the openings. The other opening is connected to a suction wand. The wand has an inner cylinder that extends through an outer cylinder and projects outwardly from a proximal end of the outer cylinder. Distal air vents are provided on the inner cylinder, near a distal cap that connects distal ends of the cylinders. Proximal air vents are provided on a proximal cap that connects a portion of the inner cylinder to a proximal end of the outer cylinder. The distal end of the wand is inserted into a container of insulation. When a vacuum is drawn through the opening with the strainer, the insulation is drawn through the wand and into the void.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas Glen Graham, Brian D. Wiese, David M. O'Meara
  • Patent number: 7644776
    Abstract: A preassembled water transfer pipe for use in a fire fighting system includes a generally hollow conduit member formed from a predetermined material and having each of a predetermined length and a predetermined cross sectional shape and a connection member equipped with a predetermined size connection for receiving a hose one of thereon and therein disposed at one end of said generally hollow conduit member. There is a pipe support assembly disposed at an opposed end of such generally hollow conduit member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventors: Philip A. Holley, Richard Arnold
  • Patent number: 7562681
    Abstract: Sandbags are filled with sand with a minimum of manual lifting. A truck has a sandbag filling unit thereon with a large sand hopper. The sand hopper has a sand holding tank underneath with one or more funnels for feeding the sand to sand blowers underneath. One or more compressors drive the sand into one or more hoses that are used to feed the sand into empty sandbags on a first conveyor located in close proximity so that workers can use the hoses to fill empty sandbags thereon. When the filled sandbags reach the end of the first conveyor, other workers would seal the bags. As the filled and sealed bags reach the end of the first conveyor, a second conveyor may be positioned to load the sandbags onto a transporting device or a pallet. One or more large sandbags are dropped into a breach of a levee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: David W. Hermansen
  • Patent number: 7464735
    Abstract: A funnel stand that includes a housing supporting an internal funnel connected to a fuel hose that can be folded or rolled up for storage inside the housing and extended through a hose opening for placement in a fuel tank opening. The funnel stand may also include a ballast to stabilize it as a free-standing device or a base plate configured for permanently or semi-permanently affixing the funnel stand to a loading surface. In addition, the funnel stand may include a lid covering the funnel opening, a door covering the hose opening, and handles to facilitate carrying the device by hand. The funnel stand is designed to be suitable for delivering fuel from a hand-held gas can into the fuel tanks on small watercraft, such as small boats and personal watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Kelcamax Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Chad Shultz
  • Patent number: 7455086
    Abstract: A nozzle for accelerating filling a container with gas up to a required gas pressure including a barrel having venturi openings in a side of said barrel and a sleeve that, in one position uncovers the tunnels and in another position, closes off the openings. In another version the nozzle further includes a pressure chamber, having a wall coupled to the sleeve. In a contracted position the sleeve is moved by the wall of the chamber to close off the tunnels. In another position of the wall where the chamber is in an expanded position the tunnels are so as to increase the rate of flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Inventors: Olaf D Elze, Helmut R Elze, Mark Joseph Caires
  • Publication number: 20080257447
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for conditioning a viscous product contained in storage containers having a capacity ?50 l, preferably ?100 l, in volume units adapted to utilization and having a capacity ?50 l, preferably ?10 l, said viscous product being preferably selected among the group whereof the viscosity is not less than 10 Pa's and, preferably ranging between 10 Pa's and 200 000 Pa's.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Frederic Mauger, Julien Craplet, Frederic Jean
  • Patent number: 7404530
    Abstract: A refueling drogue adapted to connect to a refueling hose extending from a refueling aircraft. The refueling drogue may include an active control system, wherein, in an exemplary embodiment, the active control system is adapted to regulate the position of the drogue to maintain a substantially fixed orientation relative to a refueling aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventors: Frank Saggio, III, William B. Ribbens, Kean K. Ooi
  • Patent number: 7322387
    Abstract: An integrated energy hub facility capable of bringing together all aspects of hydrocarbon and other fluid product movement under controlled conditions applicable to the reception, storage, processing, collection and transmission downstream is provided. Input to the energy hub includes natural gas and crude from a pipeline or a carrier, LNG from a carrier, CNG from a carrier, and carrier-regassed LNG, as well as other products from a pipeline or a carrier. Storage can be above surface, in salt caverns or in subterranean formations and cavities, and include petroleum crude, natural gas, LPG, NGL, GTL and other fluids. Transmission downstream may be carried out by a vessel or other type of carrier and/or by means of a pipeline system. Cryogenic fluids are offloaded and sent to the energy hub surface holding tank, then pumped to the energy hub vaporizers and sent to underground storage and/or distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Freeport-McMoRan Energy LLC
    Inventors: David Charles Landry, Roger Jacques Maduell
  • Patent number: 7318462
    Abstract: A closure device for a filler pipe of a tank intended to contain a liquid, the device including a valve that includes a valve body in communication with the pipe and a plug that can be moved in the valve body between a closed position and an open position of the valve. The body of the valve includes an inlet opening closed off by a flap that can be moved between an open position and a closed position, and an outlet opening. The flap is connected to the plug by a coupling such that a thrust exerted on the flap by a tubular end of a nozzle for admitting liquid into the tank causes the flap to tilt into the valve body and the plug to rotate, placing a cylindrical opening in the plug in alignment with inlet and outlet openings in the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Société Anonyme)
    Inventor: Patrick Ganachaud