Filling Head Shiftably Or Separably Connected To Supply Patents (Class 141/387)
  • Patent number: 5295521
    Abstract: An apparatus for introducing fluid having a volatile organic component from one container, for example, a fuel storage vessel to a receiving container such as an on-board fuel storage tank of an automotive vehicle with reduced discharge of organic vapors into the surrounding atmosphere, the apparatus including a filler cap having at least one positively sealing quick connect fitting through which fluid can be introduced which is releasable attachable with a mating fitting located on the filler nozzle of an external fluid delivery device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: K.J. Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Ram D. Bedi
  • Patent number: 5291922
    Abstract: A vacuum assisted system for loading a liquid product containing vapor into a tank comprising apparatus for loading the liquid product under pressure into the tank, and a system for disposing of vapor recovered from the tank during loading. The system also includes conduit for interconnecting the tank and the vapor disposal, and a blower in the conduit for applying a predetermined vacuum to the tank. The loading apparatus pressure and the blower vacuum act to move vapor from the tank to the vapor disposal. A by-pass conduit is formed about and between the outlet and the inlet sides of the blower, and a valve is provided in the by-pass conduit which is responsive to the vacuum at the inlet side of the blower for progressively opening to permit by-pass flow of vapor from the outlet side to the inlet side of the blower. The valve provides maximum by-pass when the vacuum approaches a predetermined maximum level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Mobil Oil Corporation
    Inventors: David N. Martin, Michael C. McCreery
  • Patent number: 5291924
    Abstract: Sealing system for use in the filler neck of a fuel tank, comprising a radial gasket for sealing a filler gun which can be introduced into the filler neck, a sealing surface, and an axial gasket between said sealing surface and a lead-free valve. The lead-free valve is fastened to a spring-loaded lever and urged by the lever against the axial gasket. The lead-free valve and/or the axial gasket are supported pivotingly with respect to the central axis of the filler neck and can thereby be laid flatly against one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Firma Carl Freudenberg
    Inventors: Andreas Sausner, Jens Sielaff
  • Patent number: 5279341
    Abstract: A filling device for transportable containers and other suitable receptacles for the receipt of liquids, which facilitate a reliable and particularly feasible indication of faulty conditions encountered during operation in consideration of the handling thereof. A valve which closes off a filling tube of the container is actuated in dependence upon the connecting conditions of the filling device to the container; such as a tank container. When the filling device is not adequately coupled with an inlet pipe or any other device of the tank container, flow of liquid filling material cannot be initiated inasmuch as this flow is positively inhibited by the valve. Pursuant to another aspect, a vent or relief valve is automatically actuated in dependence upon the connected condition. The vent valve is also only first opened then when there has taken place a satisfactory or proper coupling with the respective tank container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Assignee: Schering Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Manfred Schirmacher
  • Patent number: 5269350
    Abstract: Means and apparatus for aseptically transferring material between enclosures. Apparatus for transferring the material includes a fluid receiver assembly (12) comprising an adapter (24), and a fitting (93) mounted in the adapter (24). The fitting has a plurality of needle guide channels (86) leading from the outside of the fluid receiver assembly (12) toward the interior of the enclosure (10), and seal means (26) at the ends of the channels (86). Pierceable, self-closing seal means (26) is between ends of each of the channels (86) and the interior of the enclosure. Projected extensions of the channels pass through corresponding holes (40) in the adapter, so that needles (101) inserted into the channels (86) can penetrate the seal means (26) and enter the interior of the enclosure (10). A plurality of needles (101) in a novel needle bundle (95) may be used in making the transfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Galloway Company
    Inventor: Edwin J. Galloway
  • Patent number: 5267592
    Abstract: An improved technique for providing electrical power to a fuel dispensing nozzle is disclosed. A plurality of conductive bands are installed around a cylindrical member, and conductive plungers and the fuel dispensing nozzle make contact with the conductive bands. As the fuel dispensing hose is twisted with respect to the nozzle, the conductive bands rotate but nonetheless remain in contact with the conductive plungers, thereby providing uninterrupted power to any desired electronics installed within the fuel dispensing nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Assignee: Saber Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey I. Kaplan, James H. Pyle, Geoffrey F. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 5257653
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a safety release disconnection for a fluid conduit. The connection includes a pin and a U-shaped slot with an ejector spring adjustably biased by a loading nut. Check valves are provided in both connection elements and are opened by contact or interfacing of the valves. A rigid moment arm points in a direction perpendicular to the direction that a vehicle pulls away from the filling stand. A pull away while the system is connected to the vehicle will trigger the safety release disconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Precision General Inc.
    Inventor: Spencer M. Nimberger
  • Patent number: 5255398
    Abstract: A water flow control device, flow control system and method of using available swimming pool water for a source of water, adapted to be connected to conventional swimming pool hose apparatus for rapidly serving swimming pools for winter and spring cleanup. The flow control device can be used to rapidly fill water tubes, consisting of large vinyl bags which are used to anchor the four sides of conventional swimming pool cover used to cover swimming pools when not in use. The flow control device includes dual check valves, the first check valve controlling the flow and the second preventing reverse flow, a nozzle, a hose section, a valve housing, a flow control handle, a flow chamber, and check valve seats. The swimming pool flow control system incorporates a source of water and an improved flow control device, of 11/2" id.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventors: Raymond F. Flynn, Margaret A. Flynn
  • Patent number: 5215131
    Abstract: A system for automatically and accurately transferring/transporting quantities of liquids from bulk storage source tanks to mixing/processing tanks with minimal contamination of the liquids or to the surrounding environment. The several bulk storage source tanks are individually connected by associated pumps and control valves to a corresponding plurality of first couplers fixedly mounted on a terminal panel in an array of predetermined geometry. A second coupler, adapted for selective mating engagement with the first couplers, is carried by a robotic arm that is movably mounted on a support base for bringing the second coupler selectively into registry and coupling engagement with any one of the first couplers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Inventor: George L. Poy
  • Patent number: 5191919
    Abstract: A closed transfer apparatus for transferring liquid from a container to a dilution tank in measured volume includes an actuator moveable to a first position that energizes an electric pump to pump liquid from the container into a transfer tank and moveable to a second position which energizes the pump to pump liquid from the transfer tank to the dilution tank; the actuator being biased to a center position in which the electric pump is de-energized and the tanks and the container are all isolated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: Peter S. Barrows, Clyde D. Watson
  • Patent number: 5186224
    Abstract: A filling device for transportable containers and other suitable receptacles for the receipt of liquids, which facilitate a reliable and particularly feasible indication of faulty conditions encountered during operation in consideration of the handling thereof. A valve which closes off a filling tube of the container is actuated in dependence upon the connecting conditions of the filling device to the container; such as a tank container. When the filling device is not adequately coupled with an inlet pipe or any other device of the tank container, flow of liquid filling material cannot be initiated inasmuch as this flow is positively inhibited by the valve. Pursuant to another aspect, a vent or relief valve is automatically actuated in dependence upon the connected condition. The vent valve is also only first opened then when there has taken place a satisfactory or proper coupling with the respective tank container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: Schering Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Manfred Schirmacher
  • Patent number: 5184654
    Abstract: A sealing unit effects a connection between a loading boom and a manhole on a tank car. Liquids are delivered through the boom into the tank car. Vapors displaced from the tank are transmitted, through the sealing unit, to conduit means, which enable disposal of the vapors without contaminating the atmosphere. The unit comprises an upper plate which rests on the manhole. A sleeve is connected at its upper end to the upper plate and, at its lower end, to a lower plate. A pneumatic motor is actuated to draw the lower plate upwardly. When this occurs, the sleeve is bulged outwardly into sealing engagement with the manhole. Column springs are provided to assure that the central portion of the sleeve will bulge outwardly and provide sealing engagement with manholes of different diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventor: Bruce M. Benzing
  • Patent number: 5184652
    Abstract: A universal medication port includes a cylindrical member having an internal bore with a plurality of radial passageways extending therefrom. A plunger is disposed within the internal bore of the cylinder, the plunger having an internal bore with a plurality of radial passageways extending therefrom. The plunger is movable in response to insertion of a needle-less hypodermic syringe into the internal bore of the cylindrical member so as to align the respective passageways in the plunger and the cylindrical member with one another to establish a fluid path from the syringe through the internal bore of the plunger and respective passageways in the plunger and the cylindrical member to a receptacle, such as a vial, an intravenous bottle or intravenous delivery system, in which the cylindrical member is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Chin-Fu Fan
  • Patent number: 5174347
    Abstract: An organization for dispensing of water from a water dispensing organization to include a housing with a wall opening directed therethrough, the wall opening includes a flexible hose reciprocatably mounted within the opening and biased in a retracted configuration relative to the housing to direct water from the water reservoir contained within the housing. A wall opening frame member defined by a pliant polymeric material is mounted within the rigid housing to receive a rigid container aligning member resiliently within the frame member. The aligning member includes a mounting plate mounting a "U" shaped handle fixedly to a rear surface of the plate, with the plate mounting an aligning enclosure, wherein the enclosure includes planar side walls and arcuate forward wall for ease of directing the enclosure within the frame member. The aligning enclosure includes a rigid conduit in fluid communication with the flexible hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Inventor: Clifford L. Knago
  • Patent number: 5170823
    Abstract: A combination of bottle, collar and cap where the bottle collar has a keying lug that interfits with a cap slot and which keying is necessary to screw the cap onto the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: The BOC Group plc
    Inventors: Raymond S. Gregory, William W. Maude
  • Patent number: 5159962
    Abstract: A simple, low-cost container filling machine includes a pulse pump for drawing high-density, high viscosity, thixotropic pigment from a shipping container, an accumulator for smoothing flow of the pigment, a non-adjustable and replaceable anti-drip dispensing tube, an adjustable optical level sensor, and electronic means for setting the optical sensor. A fixed platform for containers being filled includes anti-splash and aligment devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Harcros Pigments, Inc.
    Inventor: Warren A. Dow
  • Patent number: 5154213
    Abstract: An adapter for a fuel container. The fuel container has an outlet/inlet and an annular cap to be received on the outlet/inlet. The cap has shoulder around the upper surface to overlap the inlet/outlet and the adapter comprises of a flange to be trapped between the outlet/inlet and the cap. A pipe mounting on the adapter allows a pipe to extend from the adapter towards the bottom of the fuel container. There is a passageway through the adapter so that the adapter can be trapped between the outlet/inlet and the cap to allow access to the fuel in the container. By this means, a jerry can need not be moved around within, for example, a boat fitted with an outboard motor. At the appropriate time the fuel line to the main supply tank for the motor can be disconnected from that main fuel tank and quickly attached to the adapter thus avoiding the possibility of fuel leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Inventors: Strato Malamas, Demitrios Malamas
  • Patent number: 5131438
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for in-flight refueling of unmanned aircraft includes a manned tanker aircraft having a refueling probe mounted thereon. The probe is extendable for increased visual reference. A drogue mounted on the distal end of a flexible refueling hose is trailed from the unmanned aircraft. The refueling hose is stored on a reel assembly mounted on the fuel tank of unmanned aircarft. The reel assembly is remotely actuated from the manned tanker to pay out the refueling hose. A homing system transmits signals from the manned aircraft guiding the drogue to the probe. Upon insertion of the probe into the drogue, automatic coupling occurs and the unmanned aircraft is refueled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: E-Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Loucks
  • Patent number: 5105482
    Abstract: A water flow control device, using available swimming pool water for a source of water, adapted to be connected to conventional swimming pool hose apparatus for rapidly serving swimming pools for winter and spring cleanup. The flow control device can be used to rapidly fill water tubes, consisting of large vinyl bags which are used to anchor the four sides of conventional swimming pool cover used to cover swimming pools when not in use. The flow control device comprises a check valve, a nozzle, a hose section, a valve housing, a flow control handle, a flow chamber, a ball and a ball check seat. A swimming pool flow control system incorporating a source of water.An improved flow control device, of 11/2" id.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventors: Raymond F. Flynn, Margaret A. Flynn
  • Patent number: 5067591
    Abstract: A combined pneumatic and manual grease dispensing system comprises a manually operated fluid pump that draws lubricant from a source and delivers the lubricant at a first fluid pressure, and a pneumatically operated lubricant dispensing gun that receives the lubricant supplied by the manual pump at the first pressure and receives a supply of compressed air from a compressed air source, and dispenses the lubricant received at a second pressure substantially increased from the first pressure at which the lubricant is supplied to the gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Assignee: Pentair, Incorporated
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Fehlig
  • Patent number: 5058636
    Abstract: By employing two independent, separate and distinct flow paths which are controllably sequentially opened during use in a single actuation operation, an error-free, spill-free flame and explosion proof liquid delivery/filling system is achieved. In the preferred embodiment, both flow paths are normally maintained in a closed, sealed configuration, requiring an actuation force to controllably, sequentially open the flow paths. In addition, by providing a cooperating, mating liquid transfer assembly, the container on which the liquid delivery/filling system is mounted can be refilled with safety and ease, completely eliminating spillage of the liquid. In this way, a fully integrated, cooperating, liquid flow controlling system is realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: Link Research & Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Simmel, Craig A. Baker
  • Patent number: 5036894
    Abstract: An intermediate bulk container (I.B.C.) system for handling a flowable material such as a pharmaceutical powder comprises, a discharge station, a transportable station for holding and transporting the powder, and a seal arrangement of the two stations, the seal arrangement being such that seals thereof cooperate one with the other and with the stations, whereby exposure of external surfaces of the system to the powder is obviated during discharge at the discharge station and during transport, so that no powder can escape from the interior to the exterior in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Assignee: Matcom Limited
    Inventor: Ivan Semenenko
  • Patent number: 4998560
    Abstract: A fluid loading arm emergency disconnection system comprising two pipe elements each including a normally closed valve that can be opened when said pipe elements are connected, means for sensing a connection between the arm and a receptacle, means for sensing a predetermined angular arm configuration, and means for disconnecting the arm when the connection and predetermined arm configuration are sensed simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Eugene Le Devehat
  • Patent number: 4995417
    Abstract: A one piece tire valve adaptor for connection to an aerosol container including a base with a means for attachment to a mounting cup, a hollow tube connected to said base and including a spout for connection to a tire valve, and a flow passage extending from said first end to said second end. The spout includes three sealing surfaces for engaging three surfaces of the tire valves, to prevent air leakage during inflation. The flow passage includes a post centrally located within said flow passage and extending into said spout, for engaging the pin of a tire valve. The base further includes a flexible diaphragm connected to the first end of said tube. Sufficient pressure on said spout of the adaptor flexes the diaphragm, causing the tube of the adaptor to engage and push the actuator into the aerosol container, opening the valve of the container. The release of pressure on the spout allows the diaphragm to return to its original position, causing the tube to allow the valve to close.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: Precision Valve Corporation
    Inventor: Virgil Naku
  • Patent number: 4995413
    Abstract: Movement of a coke drum feed line relative to the feed inlet using apparatus comprising a plurality of means for moving the feed line in generally mutually orthogonal directions. One end of each moving means is pivotally attached to a support means by spherical bearings, while the other end is in direct or indirect engagement with the feed line. In a preferred embodiment, the feed line is supported by a bracket which extends generally longitudinally along the exterior surface and to which the moving means are attached. Suitably, the moving means comprises hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders provided with shafts extending axially from one end of the cylinders, whereby movement of the shaft is effected by introducing fluid into the cylinder so as to move a piston associated with the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Company
    Inventors: Daniel L. Torres, Darryl C. Gullikson, M. Bruce Case, Ralph A. Neher
  • Patent number: 4993463
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuelling system comprising a fuelling arm composed of several pipe elements, which each are connected with one another through a joint having one degree of freedom, and which is connected to a supply line. The supply line is arranged inside a vertically opening enclosed space. The fuelling arm is liftable and lowerable to ground level by means of a lifting and lowering device. In order to assure a fuelling radius which is as large as possible, and on the other hand in order to be able to completely move the fuelling system during nonuse to an out of the way location, the lifting and lowering device includes a plate liftable to a position flush with respect to the ground, on which plate is supported a first joint pivotal about a vertical axis. The respective adjoining pipe elements are horizontally arranged, are angled at their ends and are each connected with one another by means of at least one vertical joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Inventors: Wolfgang von Meyerinck, Dietz von Meyerinck
  • Patent number: 4962888
    Abstract: A portable device for the storage of water under pressure fitted with a hose ending with a nozzle which may be used either to introduce the water under pressure in the storage tank or to activate the supply of a jet from the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Inventors: Giuseppe Beccaria, Enzo Fava, Giuseppe Manfredini
  • Patent number: 4919174
    Abstract: An automatic shut-off nozzle for a vehicle servicing system can be rapidly mated to a receiver fitting on a fuel tank. Both the nozzle and the receiver have valves which are normally closed but which open when the nozzle is mated to the receiver. The nozzle includes a piston which moves so as to displace a spring-biased operculum forming the valve of the receiver; the piston is automatically retracted when the receiver is filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Inventor: John R. Warland
  • Patent number: 4915416
    Abstract: A swivel-less coupling suitable for producing oil from an underwater well through a riser to a floating vessel or for transferring fluids to or from such a vessel is formed of an inner drum and a surrounding annular surface. The surface carries one or more flexible pipes which can wind and unwind helically across it to accommodate limited relative rotation as between the inner end(s) of the pipe(s) which is fixed to the drum and the outer end(s) and the pipe(s) which is fixed at a point which is rotatable relative to the drum. The pipe or pipes may be carried on cradles which can move across the surface. Relative movement as between the inner and outer ends of the pipe may be regulated by a motor, which may be controlled by sensors noting any tendency for change in the relative positions due to forces acting on the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Assignee: The British Petroleum Company p.l.c.
    Inventors: Ian M. Barrett, Steven P. Burchell
  • Patent number: 4909290
    Abstract: The device includes a syringe and an apparatus for coupling the syringe to a drug holding bottle and the like, the apparatus defining an enclosed chamber wherein there is housed a needle to be coupled to the syringe and the free end of which is arranged is front of a tightness resilient member located at a seat adapted to receive the mouth of the bottle, the syringe being firmly and fixedly clamped, in a tight way, in a syringe seat formed in the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Assignee: Farmitalia Carlo Erba S.R.L.
    Inventor: Mario Coccia
  • Patent number: 4898211
    Abstract: A rigid conduit refueling system for aircraft consisting of a wheeled support platform upon which swivel joints connected to a fuel supply source communicate with an arm conduit having a lower end pivotally mounted to the support platform and the upper end communicates with three elbow swivel couplings associated with a nozzle whereby the nozzle may be attached to the aircraft fuel tank inlet. Counterbalancing expansible chamber motors associated with the support platform and arm conduit bear the weight of the elevated components as controlled by a closed fluid circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Paul J. E. Fournier, Joseph F. Reinker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4886098
    Abstract: An adjustable spacer is provided for a gravity/pressure nozzle in a machine that fills liquid into a container. The adjustable spacer will change the fill level in the container without the need of different sizes of custom made spacers since the adjustable spacer replaces the different length spacers on the gravity/pressure nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Inventor: Kenneth Herzog
  • Patent number: 4883102
    Abstract: A tank drain apparatus comprising an annular seal member (56) mounted on a tube (55) in turn mounted on a transparent drain hose (72), a sleeve (67) connecting tube (55) and hose (72) together, a portable ground stand assembly (15), and a unique leverage mechanism (10) operatively connecting sleeve (67) and stand (15) together, so that seal member (56) can be elevated to or lowered from the tank. A blade (61) in seal member (56) engages a drain valve while indicia (80, 83) on sleeve (67) indicates egree of angular rotation for tube (55) as against sleeve (67) to show the valve is opened or closed. Linkage mechanism (10) is adjustable in terms of its position on stand assembly (15). Also, the effort arm (36) of mechanism (10) can be locked in place by a clamping screw (52)-and-rod (53) arrangement mounted below the pivot point on the stand (15) for effort arm (36), to maintain seal member (56) in its elevated position against the tank's drain outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Assignee: Mher Gabrielyan
    Inventors: Mher Gabrielyan, John R. Brestel
  • Patent number: 4872494
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for connecting a bottle containing a medicament to a syringe the needle of which is housed in a closed chamber defined by the apparatus and from which the needle can be made to emerge by sliding the separate constituent parts of the appartus along each other. To prevent the needle from emerging from the chamber when no bottle is housed in the appropriate seat provided in the apparatus, there extends from one of the parts of the apparatus an elongated flexible appendix having at least one protuberance which projects into the seat and against which the bottle presses when inserted into the seat, so bending the appendix outwards. In front of the free end of the appendix there is provided a stop tooth projecting from that consituent part of the apparatus which is projecting from that constituent part of the apparatus which is mobile along the first part and extends totally around the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: Farmitalia Carlo Erba S.r.l.
    Inventor: Mario Coccia
  • Patent number: 4867211
    Abstract: The invention relates to equipment for the transfer for fluids, much as oil or gas, e.g. from a platform or buoy located by attachments to the sea bed, but otherwise with complete freedom of movement, due to the action of wind and wave, to a vessel with similarly complete freedom of movement. The equipment includes systems for automatically acquiring a target (10) to which is attached a tage line (11) and a transfer hose line (9), and for automatically transporting that target (10) accurately to a winching system (16) mounted on the said ship. The transfer hose line can be reeled in by the winching system (16) and the fluid transfer hose thus connected automatically to the ship-mounted receiving system. The equipment includes a self-sealing fluid coupling through which fluid flow can take place, and a hose having sufficient length to accommodate the stand-off of the vessel from the platform or buoy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Assignee: British Aerospace Public Limited Company
    Inventors: John W. Dodge, Alan R. Rabett, Denis J. Mottram
  • Patent number: 4844133
    Abstract: A refueling system which has pipe sections connected by swivel joints and carried by carriages or wheels, in which on one of the pipe sections there is provided an end swivel joint for a hydrant coupling for connection to supply pipelines and on the other one of the pipe sections there is provided a further end swivel joint with a head piece and a refueling coupling which is used for connection to the tank, in particular an aircraft tank which is to be refueled or is to be emptied. The refueling system has, so that it can be utilized in the simplest manner for underwing refueling at high heights, a refueling tip with a lockable swivel joint, a concussion-spring unit for balancing the forces of weight and a guiding carriage elevationally adjustable on which a guiding carriage is secured pipe sections with swivel joints, which are provided with a coupling piece, which can be connected to a refueling coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Inventors: Wolfgang von Meyerinck, Dietz von Meyerinck
  • Patent number: 4819702
    Abstract: There is disclosed a filling device for powdered material. The filling device is to be employed between a stationary fill tube and a vehicle positioned vertically therebelow. The filling device includes a funnel that is mounted on a double carriage whereby one carriage moves in one direction and the other carriage is movable transverse to the movement of the first. Sealing means is provided to inhibit the escape of the powdered material to the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Assignee: Claudius Peters AG
    Inventor: Roland Gerlach
  • Patent number: 4774979
    Abstract: An overhead apparatus for transferring a fluid medium between a first moveable location and a second fixed location which comprises a container for a fluid medium; a conduit assembly for selectively communicating the container with a location spaced therefrom; a conduit support assembly adjacent to the container for pivotally supporting at least a portion of the conduit at a location above ground level to provide selective fluid medium communication between the container and the location spaced therefrom, such that a fluid medium may be transferred therebetween while permitting the unimpeded passage of traffic thereunder and whereby at least a portion of the conduit assembly may be pivotally rotated between a first storage position and a second operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Castle Coal & Oil Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Francis J. McKeon, William E. Connelly
  • Patent number: 4741716
    Abstract: A mooring system for a tanker comprising an outrigger secured to the tanker, a buoy anchored by chains, and a buoy supporting structure mounted in the outrigger, the buoy supporting structure being connected to or disconnected from the buoy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1988
    Assignee: Mitsui Ocean Development & Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hasebe, Masanori Kajiwara, Hiroshi Hiramoto, Hiroya Oka
  • Patent number: 4735167
    Abstract: A mooring system for connecting a vessel having an opening in its bow, to a fixed non-compliant offshore structure allows the moored vessel to weathervane 360 degrees around the structure while it is being loaded or while it tranfers fluids back to the production structure. The mooring system includes an outer boom pivotally mounted to the structure and an inner boom slidably mounted to the outer boom. The inner boom has an inboard end slidably mounted within the outer boom and a curved outboard end extending beyond the inner boom and defining an opening. The assembly of the inner and outer boom is articulated so that it may be placed in contact with a mooring receptacle of the vessel so that the opening in the inner boom is adjacent to mooring receptacle of the vessel. An elongated mating link is retained by the inner boom and extends through the aligned openings in the inner and in the bow of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1988
    Assignee: Brian Watt Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Geoff C. White, Costas P. Manoudakis
  • Patent number: 4708533
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for guiding a concrete feeding hose in connection with the grout feedin rock bolting. The concrete feeding hose is therein passed by means of a feeder froma reel into a guide head supported on a feeding beam of a drilling equipment and further through the guide head into a hole drilled in the rock, and is passed back on to the reel in proportion as the hole is filled. In order to protect the feeder of the concrete feeding hose against dirt and mechanical damage, the concrete feeding hose is pushed into the guide head through a flexible guiding means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Oy Tampella AB
    Inventor: Jarmo Leppanen
  • Patent number: 4708178
    Abstract: An improved hose structure is provided for passing fluid across a pivot joint, that permits a transfer structure to pivot about two horizontal axes with respect to a vessel or the like at the sea surface. A middle conduit has a lower end connected to a pipe on the transfer structure and an upper end connected to a pipe on the vessel. The middle conduit can pivot, either by being flexible to bend along its length, or by being rigid but with flexible joints at its opposite ends. The pipe on the vessel can move up and down and is biased upwardly. When the transfer structure tilts, to raise or lower the lower end of the hose, the upper end can also rise or fall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Amtel, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Pollack, Richard F. Pabers
  • Patent number: 4708175
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for the automated filling of a container mounted on a vehicle with a fluid. In one embodiment of the fluid fill device the container is part of an engine cooling system, and in the other embodiment of the fluid fill device the container is part of an air conditioning system. Each of the fluid fill devices includes a housing in which a pair of spool valves are mounted. One of the spool valves controls the flow of vacuum and the other spool valve controls the flow of the fluid. A coupling mechanism including a movable piston releasably and fluidly connects its respective device to its container during evacuation and filling cycles. The device receives control signals from a pressurized air source to control movement of the spool valves and the pistons. If the container and the vehicle on which it is mounted are particularly well located, the device can be utilized in a hard automation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: GMF Robotics Corporation
    Inventors: Robert J. Janashak, Christopher G. Felice, Hadi A. Akeel
  • Patent number: 4708532
    Abstract: A device for storing a concrete feeding hose in a rock bolting device, comprising a reel for a hose, which reel is mounted rotatably on a supporter, and that end of the hose which is attached to the reel is connected to concrete feeding means. In order that the coiling device could be used for passing the hose into a drill hole and for drawing it out of the hole, the reel is surrounded by a ring-shaped supporting wall against which the hose is positioned when the reel is rotated in the uncoiling direction. An unrotative guiding means is provided beside the supporting wall so as to guide the hose out of the reel by the action of an axial expulsive force exerted on the hose due to the rotary movement of the reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Oy Tampella Ab
    Inventor: Jarmo Leppanen
  • Patent number: 4699191
    Abstract: An improved hose structure is provided for passing fluid across a universal joint, that permits a transfer structure to pivot about two horizontal axes with respect to a vessel or the like at the sea surface. A hose or other flexible conduit has a lower end connected to a pipe on the transfer structure and an upper end connected to a pipe on the vessel which can move up and down and which is biased upwardly. When the transfer structure tilts, to raise or lower the lower end of the hose, the upper end can also rise or fall to minimize bending of the hose, so that a substantially straight hose can be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Assignee: Amtel, Inc
    Inventors: Jack Pollack, Richard F. Pabers
  • Patent number: 4658874
    Abstract: A fueling arm without the need for any hoses which can be connected to a supply line, particularly for tank cars and aircraft fueling, is disposed in a chute. To assure effortless handling and reduce fueling time, the fueling arm includes at least eight pipe sections which are connected by swivel joints, wherein at one end of a first pipe section there is a first of the swivel joints. The axes of rotation of the first and of successive second and third swivel joints are parallel. The first swivel joint can be connected to a supply line and the third swivel joint is guided in a direction of movement thereof. A headpiece with a filler-neck coupling thereon is connected by a fourth swivel joint to a second of the pipe sections which is also connected to the third swivel joint. The headpiece has a line which includes five of the pipe sections and, of the five swivel joints connected to the line, three have parallel axes of rotation and the remaining two have axes perpendicular to the axes of the other three.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Inventors: Wolfgang von Meyerinck, Dietz von Meyerinck
  • Patent number: 4658873
    Abstract: A fueling system includes a hydrant coupling and a filler-neck coupling which can respectively be connected to a supply line and a tank which is to be refueled or emptied without the need of using hoses. The filler-neck coupling can have any desired orientation in space without handling difficulties, and the fueling system has nominal diameters of 4" or more and thus permits quick fueling. The system includes a center and two outer pipe sections connected by two pairs of swivel joints. The center pipe section is carried at its ends by carriages and has bent ends which each have thereon a respective swivel joint of each pair, the swivel joints of each pair having perpendicular axes. The outer pipe sections are also carried by carriages and each have at the outer end thereof an end swivel joint with an axis perpendicular to the associated outer pipe section. One of the end swivel joints is connected to a hydrant coupling arrangement and the other to a head piece which includes the filler-neck coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Inventors: Wolfgang von Meyerinck, Dietz von Meyerinck
  • Patent number: 4653249
    Abstract: A telescopic filling adapter of the type adapted to be mounted on the filling valve of a bottle filling machine is comprised of a mounting element adapted to be sealingly engaged with the filling valve. A centering element is provided with an annular seal for engaging a bottle opening and is mounted for telescopic sliding movement relative to the mounting element. One of the elements defines an annular telescopic chamber for slidably receiving the other element with sufficient clearance to permit the passage of fluid into the telescopic chamber during a bottle filling operation. A sealing ring is provided between the mounting element and the centering element so that the telescopic chamber may be pressurized when the mounting element is sealingly engaged with the filler valve and the centering element is sealingly engaged with a bottle. Suitable springs are provided for biasing the centering element into pressure engagement with the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Inventor: Andriano Simonazzi
  • Patent number: 4653554
    Abstract: A head piece for movable or stationary fueling systems, in particular for aircraft fueling, includes a filler-neck coupling for connecting it to a tank which is to be filled or emptied, is easily handleable, is exposed to little wear, and permits quick refueling and defueling without any need for hoses. It includes a line having five pipe sections which are movably connected with one another by swivel joints which have a degree of freedom. At the end of the line remote from the filler-neck coupling, there is a further swivel joint for connecting the head piece to the fueling system. Of the five swivel joints, three are arranged with axes of rotation which are parallel to one another, and the axes of rotation of the remaining two joints are perpendicular to the axes of rotation of the other three joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Inventors: Wolfgang Von Meyerinck, Dietz Von Meyerinck
  • Patent number: 4646794
    Abstract: A refueling system is characterized by the delivery of fuel through a multi-stage telescoping cylinder assembly which uses the fuel as the pressure media for extending and retracting the cylinder assembly. Provision also is made for rotating or pivoting the cylinder assembly about two orthogonal axes which, when combined with telescopic extension and retraction of the cylinder assembly, enables a normally closed nozzle connected to the forward end of the innermost piston cylinder to be positionally directed to the fuel inlet portion of the combat vehicle to be refueled. Another attribute of the system is that when properly seated in the fuel inlet port, the nozzle automatically opens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Assignee: Universal Hydraulics, Inc.
    Inventors: Nikolay K. Padarev, Dennis W. Simpson