Miscellaneous (e.g., Filling Heads) Patents (Class 141/392)
  • Patent number: 12152713
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for a coupling nozzle for cryogenic fluid. A coupling nozzle includes a flow body. The coupling nozzle includes a mount, a flow control assembly, and a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic cylinder includes a cylinder body and a shaft. The shaft is coupled to and configured to actuate the flow body. The coupling nozzle includes a first locking mechanism coupled to the mount and configured to secure the coupling nozzle to a receptacle in a locked position. When the first locking mechanism is in the locked position, the shaft is configured to actuate the flow control assembly. The coupling nozzle includes a redundant locking mechanism including one or more feet and a lock. The one or more feet are configured to engage the lock to prevent the first locking mechanism from transitioning from the locked position when the shaft is in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2023
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2024
    Assignee: Engineered Controls International, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Jordan
  • Patent number: 11680992
    Abstract: A system for watering an electrolyte or lead acid battery in which the cumulative amount of water added during each filling event is determined by detecting the amount of water passing from a supply hose to the battery. A fluid dispensing member, such as a direct fill link or nozzle, can be attached to and detached from a single point watering subsystem. A flow detector, such as a flow meter, in fluid communication with the fluid dispensing member can wirelessly output the cumulative water added to specific batteries to an interactive computer application, which can include a wireless component such as a smartphone or tablet communicating with a remotely located interactive database.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: Fourshare LLC
    Inventors: James Kenneth Davis, John Robert Soares
  • Patent number: 11286055
    Abstract: A system and method for the transfer of cryogenic fluid fuel includes a nozzle positionable with respect to fuel tank inlet, e.g., of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a seal to seal the area where the nozzle and inlet are connected, a collapsible and expandable bellows providing an isolation volume where the fluid is transferred from the nozzle into the inlet; a vacuum is provided in the volume to avoid accumulation of fuel or other species in the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Neoex Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Steven Haberbusch, Philip Travis Putman
  • Patent number: 11262012
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for a coupling nozzle for cryogenic fluid. An example nozzle comprises a flow body defining a conduit, an inlet, and an outlet. A pneumatic cylinder is configured to slide between an extended position and a contracted position. The pneumatic cylinder is coupled to and configured to actuate the flow body. A locking mechanism is configured to secure the coupling nozzle to a receptacle. A flow control assembly comprises a valve seat fixed to the flow body adjacent the inlet and a plug configured to slide. When the locking mechanism is locked and the pneumatic cylinder actuates to the extended position, the valve seat is to disengage from the plug to open the flow control assembly. When the locking mechanism is locked and the pneumatic cylinder actuates to the contracted position, the valve seat is to engage the plug to close the flow control assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: Engineered Controls International, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Jordan
  • Patent number: 11148931
    Abstract: A control device for a fuel dispensing nozzle includes a main body having a handle extending upward from the top surface, and a pair of elongated hooks extending downward from the main body. Each of the hooks being oriented perpendicular to the main body and functioning to receive and engage a handle portion of a fuel dispensing nozzle. A controller having a control grip and a lever hook is slidingly and rotationally engaged with the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Inventor: Tyshone Daniel Bolden
  • Patent number: 11059715
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a passive RFID tag designed to provide information identifying at least one fuel compatible with a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Bernhard Fehr, Benjamin Schwabe
  • Patent number: 11006789
    Abstract: When filling a vehicle with fuel, a person must touch and hold the dispenser nozzle by the handle 11, squeezing the trigger lever 13. This handle 11 is contaminated by fuel vapour, residue, bacteria, dirt and contaminants by previous usage of multiple persons touching and holding the handle 11 with contaminated hands. The present invention relates to a protective material dispenser 101 with protective material 103 therein, which is releasably couplable to such a fuel gun 2. In this way, a user may easily retrieve some of the protective material 103 from the dispenser 101 prior to touching the fuel pump hand grip 11, and then cover the hand grip 11 to protect his/her hands from making direct contact therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Inventor: Oliver Yeo
  • Patent number: 10933739
    Abstract: A cap includes a bottomed first cover portion, and a second cover portion provided on a receiving opening side of the first cover portion. The second cover portion includes an outside cover that covers a contact portion of a receptacle. The contact portion comes into contact with a distal end of a supply nozzle when the supply nozzle is connected with the receptacle. The outside cover has a tapered shape such that an outer diameter of the outside cover is decreased towards the first cover portion from one end of the cap where the receiving opening is provided. The outside cover has an internal dimension that allows the outside cover to be separated from an outer peripheral portion of the receptacle when the cap is attached to the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shuhei Ozawa
  • Patent number: 10780774
    Abstract: A cap includes a bottomed first cover portion, and a second cover portion provided on a receiving opening side of the first cover portion. The second cover portion includes an outside cover that covers a contact portion of a receptacle. The contact portion comes into contact with a distal end of a supply nozzle when the supply nozzle is connected with the receptacle. The outside cover has a tapered shape such that an outer diameter of the outside cover is decreased towards the first cover portion from one end of the cap where the receiving opening is provided. The outside cover has an internal dimension that allows the outside cover to be separated from an outer peripheral portion of the receptacle when the cap is attached to the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shuhei Ozawa
  • Patent number: 10692610
    Abstract: A method and a system includes controlling and monitoring the gas pressure in a nuclear fuel rod during filling of the fuel rod with a gas, and subsequent sealing of the fuel rod. The system includes a control unit and a length measuring system, which control unit is communicatively connected to the length measuring system. The length measuring system is configured to monitor the length of the fuel rod, and the control unit is configured to receive measurements from the length measuring system and to determine the gas pressure inside the fuel rod on the basis of variations of the length of the fuel rod. The method includes positioning an open first end of the fuel rod inside a pressure chamber, allowing gas to enter the fuel rod; pressurizing the gas in the pressure chamber at a first pressure level; closing the fuel rod; and sealing the fuel rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Sweden AB
    Inventors: Thomas Rostvall, Pontus Löf Helmersson
  • Patent number: 10689244
    Abstract: An assistance lever that assists a user when operating a fuel nozzle at a fuel dispenser is disclosed. In one embodiment, the assistance lever includes a fulcrum post, a handle post, a support arm, and a press member. The fulcrum post is positionable on a top ridge of the fuel nozzle. The support arm is connected between the fulcrum post and the handle post such that the handle post is positionable beneath a handle of the fuel nozzle. The press member is attached to the fulcrum post and positioned to turn the assistance lever about the fulcrum post when pressed by the user such that the handle post presses the handle of the fuel nozzle. In this manner, a user can simply use their weight to push on the press member, which thereby presses the handle of the fuel nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventor: Ray LeCroix
  • Patent number: 10642286
    Abstract: Apparatus for use with an applicator, systems for dispensing fluids, methods of using a nozzle (52), and a nozzle (52). The nozzle (52) includes a communication device (60) having a memory (86). The memory (86) stores data relating to the operational history and configuration of the nozzle (52). In response to receiving a query signal (90) from an interrogation device (24), the communication device (60) transmits the data residing in the memory (86). The communication device (60) also receives and stores data in the query signal (90) to the memory (86) so that the operational history of the nozzle (52) is maintained in the memory (86) of the communication device (60).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Mani Ahmadi, Daniel W. Ashley, Erik A. Fiske
  • Patent number: 10571937
    Abstract: Embodiments of a fluid flow regulating device and methods of using the same are described. Certain embodiments manages fluid flow between one or more input ports and output ports at least partly in response to a control signal received at an electric circuit which cause motor driven state transitions prior to an electro-mechanical circuit break.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Colt Irrigation, LLC
    Inventor: James Walter Hurst
  • Patent number: 10384216
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating cell suspension into centrate and concentrate includes a solid wall rotatable centrifuge bowl (82). A single use rotatable core (88) is positioned in the bowl and bounds a cavity (90) which serves as a separation chamber. The bowl rotates about an axis (84). An inlet tube (92) and an outlet tube (102) extend along the axis in the bowl cavity. The centripetal pump (98) in the cavity is in connection with the outlet tube. The centrate discharge pump (120) is in connection with the outlet tube. A pressure damping reservoir (122) is fluidly connected between the outlet tube and the discharge pump. At least one control circuit (142) is operative to control the apparatus to maintain a positive pressure above atmospheric pressure within the cavity, so as to maintain the cell suspension away from at least one seal (106) that bounds the interior of the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: Pneumatic Scale Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel S. Sutton, Stephen B Kessler, T David Marro
  • Patent number: 10279942
    Abstract: An automatic detection system for detecting disruptions in the flow of liquid from one more liquid containers to a dispensing apparatus. If the system detects an interruption of the flow of liquid to the dispensing apparatus, a visual alarm, an audio alarm, or a data alarm is activated. Three embodiments of the system are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Patent number: 10190948
    Abstract: A multi-nozzle combined atomizing dust suppression experimental equipment under the effect of airflow disturbance includes a simulated roadway device, water spray based dust suppression device and nozzle position adjustor. The simulated roadway device includes an inlet portion, front divergent portion, simulated roadway body, rear convergent portion and outlet portion. The water spray based dust suppression device includes a dust generation and extraction system and spraying system. The dust generation and extraction system includes a dust generation device, exhaust air duct, exhaust fan and outlet air duct while the spraying system includes a water tank, high pressure water pump, confined water pipe, pressure water flow converter and multiple nozzles. The nozzle position adjustor includes a nozzle slide, slide fixing rod, nozzle sliding rack and electrically-controlled drive system which controls the change of horizontal position and vertical position of the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: SHANGDONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Gang Zhou, Qi Zhang, Ruonan Bai, Weimin Cheng, Wen Nie, Jiao Xue, Han Qiu, Tao Fan, Mao Xu, Cong Chen
  • Patent number: 10160312
    Abstract: A movement permitting section is provided at a nozzle guide 22 at an interior of an inlet pipe 14. When a stopper 24 receives pushing force toward a fuel tank side from a refueling nozzle 18, the movement permitting section deforms so as to permit movement of the stopper 24 toward a radial direction outer side of the nozzle guide 22 or toward a fuel tank side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignees: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shinji Shimokawa, Atsushi Sekihara, Yoshinari Hiramatsu, Motoyasu Kito, Akihito Hirunagi
  • Patent number: 10144544
    Abstract: A vacuum adapter device is useful for connecting a suction generating device to a garment bag. The device includes at least one conical section. The conical section includes a wide opening configured be connected to one of the suction generating device and the garment bag and a narrow opening connected to a reinforcing feature configured to prevent the narrow opening from collapsing when suction is applied to the device. The conical section is constructed with a flexible polymer material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas A. Grace, Gregory T. Morano, William F. Steusloff, R. Dale Moretz, Vincent B Re
  • Patent number: 10118815
    Abstract: A filling adapter for a container to be filled with media, in particular for the filling of containers on assembly lines for the production of motor vehicles where the filling adapter is equipped with a hose pack, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic lines. An electronic assembly (ID chip) for a maintenance check is integrated in the adapter head of the filling adapter, which assembly detects the number of use cycles of the filling adapter and compares said number with parameters which can be set in advance in such a way that when said parameters are approached, at least one prior warning is triggered, and when said parameters are reached, an associated controller is informed about the maintenance which is now due.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: DÜRR SOMAC GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Achatz, Eric Selbmann, Frank Wieland, André Grimm
  • Patent number: 10053357
    Abstract: A filling adapter for a container to be filled with media, in particular for the filling of containers on assembly lines for the production of motor vehicles where the filling adapter is equipped with a hose pack, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic lines. An interface is configured for coupling a gripping element designed as a separate assembly on the filling adapter in the region of the adapter head, wherein the interface has mechanical and electrical connecting elements which are disposed in a common plane and can be coupled to mechanical and electrical connecting elements of the gripping element which are congruent therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: DÜRR SOMAC GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Achatz, Eric Selbmann, Frank Wieland
  • Patent number: 9856130
    Abstract: A nozzle for oil dispensing that includes; a connector, where the connector connects the nozzle to a hose during use; an outlet, where the outlet includes an opening for the dispensing of oil through the nozzle; a handle, where the handle activates the dispensing of the oil; and a digital readout placed on the face of the nozzle below handle, where the digital readout is visible during use. Further the present invention includes a method of volume measurement for an oil distribution nozzle that includes the steps of: integrating a measurement display into a Scully nozzle; providing a digital readout on the measurement display; placing the measurement display under a handle of the Scully nozzle; and measuring oil flow volume through the Scully nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Michael Whitten
  • Patent number: 9688491
    Abstract: An overhead material handling system and methods for its use are provided, where the system includes: (a) a compactor and (b) a leveler in communication with the compactor, where the leveler comprises (i) a cover, (ii) a trough, and (iii) a trigger, where the trough has a first end and a second end and the trough is rotatably-mounted between a first end of the cover and a second end of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: JDV Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Abbott, Don Kramer
  • Patent number: 9644351
    Abstract: An inlet water pipe includes a first pipe, and a second pipe mounted into the first pipe. A first channel transporting first liquid is formed through the first pipe. A second channel transporting second liquid is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe. A connecting sleeve is hollow and is mounted around a front end of the first pipe. A valve core is mounted on a front end of the connecting sleeve, and having a center hole centrally and axially formed through the valve core and multiple water outlets formed in a periphery of the valve core and communicating with the second pipe. The inlet water pipes gathers two different waterways in one inlet pipe and allow easy connection with faucet, and ensures good hermetic seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: XIAMEN RUNNER INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ronggui Zhang, Xianhai Lin, Ximin Chen
  • Patent number: 9642812
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dosator which comprises a tapered elongate cavity; a stationary plunger disposed within the cavity; a removable mesh screen disposed between the stationary plunger and the bottom of the dosator; a dosator chamber defined between the mesh screen and the bottom of the dosator for receiving powder from a powder source and holding the powder until it is expelled into the capsule; at least one vacuum pump operably linked to the dosator and capable of drawing dry powder into the dosator chamber from a powder source, compacting the powder into a slug of powder having a predetermined bulk density; and at least one source of positive pressure operably linked to the dosator and capable of providing positive pressure to expel the powder slug from the dosator and methods of filling capsules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Civitas Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ernest D. Penachio, Kyle LaVigne
  • Patent number: 9340105
    Abstract: The fuel tank opening-closing device has a tank opening forming member, a first flap valve mechanism and a second flap valve mechanism with a gasket GS. The tank opening-closing member includes: an insertion passage forming member including a passage forming main body for forming an insertion passage that connects the first opening and the second opening and for guiding the fueling nozzle from the first opening to the second opening, and a vent hole formed at an outer periphery of the first opening of the passage forming main body, a vent forming member having a gap with the insertion passage forming member at an outer periphery of the insertion passage forming member and disposed facing the vent hole, and a vent passage that connects the insertion passage with the outside through the gap and the vent hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Hagano
  • Patent number: 9315373
    Abstract: A nozzle module for a fuel dispensing unit is described. The nozzle module has a top section attachable to a column module of the fuel dispensing unit, a bottom section attachable to a base module of the fuel dispensing unit, at least one nozzle boot for holding a nozzle, which nozzle boot is arranged between the top section and the bottom section. The nozzle module has an internal channel enabling fluid communication through the nozzle module. A fuel dispensing unit is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Wayne Fueling Systems Sweden AB
    Inventors: Kevin C. Burnett, Scott R. Negley, III, Neil Thomas, Hanna Helgesson, Bengt I. Larsson, Paul De La Port, Annika Birkler
  • Patent number: 9278576
    Abstract: An improved device and method for the application of adhesive-backed foil to the edges of stained glass and other materials is provided, the device comprising a groove comprising three or five segments—a base segment against which the glass edge is pressed onto the adhesive face of the foil; and second and third segments comprising sides extending upward from the base at an obtuse angle. Alternatively, the groove may comprise fourth and fifth segments comprising parallel sides extending vertically from the second and third segments and these being perpendicular to the base. The edge of the glass to be foiled is centered on the adhesive side of the foiling tape and pressed to the base. The angled sides initiate folding of the foil towards the side faces of the glass such that no tearing or distortion of the foil results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Inventor: Mark Sanders
  • Patent number: 9212043
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and associated device for dispensing fuel from a fuel pump. The system permits the hand-free operation of a fuel pump, thereby freeing the operator to perform other tasks simultaneously. The device is preferably designed to be carried on the key ring of the user and, when in use, is positioned in association with a fuel pump handle in an orientation that holds the operating lever of the handle in a position that permits fuel to flow. When the user has completed the dispensing of fuel, a rounded end of the device permits easy, carefree removal from the pump handle. For storage, the device can then be placed into a retracted conformation that enables the user to conveniently store and transport the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher M. Sefjack
  • Patent number: 9010381
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filling system for filling bottles or similar containers (2) with a liquid filling material, said system comprising at least one filling element, a liquid channel formed in a housing of the filling element and connected to a tank for providing the liquid filling material, and at least one outlet for dispensing the liquid filling material into the respective container attached to the filling element. Said filling system also comprises a liquid valve in the liquid channel, a gas return tube that projects past the at least one outlet on one end, for controlling the level of the filling material in the filled container, and is connected to a gas chamber, formed for example in the tank, by means of a fluid connection. The filling system also comprises an open fluid channel inside the filling element, in the region of the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
  • Patent number: 8991442
    Abstract: A rotary filling machine includes a magnetic funnel attachment that can be easily installed, removed, and reinstalled into the machine for cleaning, changing the size of the funnel, inspecting, or replacing a damaged funnel. The magnetic funnel attachment includes a fill plate segment for receiving one or more funnels, and a funnel for attachment to the fill plate. The fill plate and funnel have mating alignment mechanisms to assist in the correct positioning of the funnel on the fill plate segment, and magnets to assist in the coupling of the funnel to the fill plate segment. This is especially helpful in creating a quick and easy method for funnel installation and removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery, Inc.
    Inventors: David Navin, Mark D. Green
  • Patent number: 8967557
    Abstract: A lawn caddy for receiving and transporting waste such as grass clippings, leaves, plant vegetation and compost waste. The lawn caddy transports yard waste from one location to another without heavy lifting. It is light and durable, having a maximum weight of 10 to 12 pounds and can contain up to 40 pounds of waste or less. By filling refuge bags and transporting waste to a curb side shortens time spent in cutting and cleaning lawns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Eloy Struck, II
  • Patent number: 8955562
    Abstract: A filling element for filling systems for filling bottles or similar containers (2) with a hot liquid product, comprising a liquid channel (14, 15), which is formed in the filling element (1), has a filling valve (9) and forms at least one discharge opening, via which, by controlled opening and closing of the liquid valve (9), the liquid product can be introduced into the respective container (2) that has been raised towards the filling element (1) in a lifting movement, and comprising at least one flow path (16, 17, 18), which is formed in the liquid valve (1) and, for heating the filling element (1), can be connected to a hot circulation of the liquid product, characterized in that control means (5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter-Rudolf Krulitsch
  • Patent number: 8931526
    Abstract: The invention relates to a filling element for a filling system or for a filling machine for filling containers with a liquid filling material. The filling element has at least one liquid channel designed in a filling element housing, which channel forms at least one discharge opening for the liquid filling material and can be connected to a source for providing the liquid filling material or a component of said filling material, at least one liquid valve in the at least one liquid channel for the controlled discharge of the filling material or the component at the discharge opening, and a gas barrier, which, when the liquid valve is closed, prevents the filling material from continuing to flow or drip, and for that purpose forms at least one flow channel having a reduced cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
  • Patent number: 8919393
    Abstract: The invention is based on the insight that a filling system obtained by combining a “Kruse” compatible threaded socket and an annular magnet as required for the operation of the “Elaflex” nozzle, will exhibit air exchange problems related to the difference in the positioning of the respective air intake openings of the “Kruse” bottle and the “Elaflex” nozzle. More particularly, the invention is based on the insight that by judiciously providing a chamber in fluid communication with the volume of air or vapor in the tank, filling may be made possible with a “Kruse” bottle as well as with an “Elaflex” nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research S.A.
    Inventors: Laurent Budzyk, Paul Elong
  • Patent number: 8905092
    Abstract: A pressure brace device holds a gas pump handle in the open position, can store small items such as a SPEEDPASS, and can be clipped to small-gauge items such as a key ring. The pressure brace comprises a depressible plunger within a spring-loaded housing. The plunger is compressed into the housing while the brace is situated in the gas pump handle, then released. The outward pressure provided by the spring holds the handle in the open position, allowing gas to flow through the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Jameg Sanders
  • Patent number: 8905093
    Abstract: A fuel pump trigger holder for holding the trigger of a fuel pump in an open position, where the fuel pump includes a handle against which the trigger is squeezed to allow fuel flow. The holder comprises a pair of prongs extending from an elongated base and ending at a pair of endpoints, wherein a top prong of the pair of prongs comprises a curved portion extending from the base and curving towards a bottom prong of the pair of prongs which extends at an incline relative to the base. The pair of prongs is configured for being disposed around the trigger and the handle for maintaining the trigger in a position corresponding to a fuel pump open position and releasing the trigger such that it returns to a closed position upon detecting a kicking motion from the fuel pump indicating a full fuel condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Neoteric Vision, LLC
    Inventors: Mitzi G. Cloud, Christopher Ginocchetti, Paul A. Kokesh, Robert G. Kokesh
  • Patent number: 8869847
    Abstract: There is provided a liquid dispensing fitment for fitting to a dispensing tap for appropriately directing a flow of liquid from the dispensing tap. The dispensing fitment comprises a flexible tube, a non-elastic adjustment element operatively coupled to the flexible tube to place the flexible tube in a curved position. A locking element holds the non-elastic adjustment element in a position such that the flexible tube is held in a curved position in which liquid is dispensed from an end portion of the flexible tube in a required direction. The length of the non-elastic adjustment element can be varied by locking a required length of the non-elastic adjustment element relative to the flexible tube in order to vary the angle of curvature of the flexible tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Oliver Browne-Wilkinson
  • Publication number: 20140290787
    Abstract: A fuel transfer system for use with a motor vehicle includes a stationary module configured for permanent installation in the motor vehicle and a portable module configured for a detachable connection to the stationary module. The stationary module has a fuel fitting arranged in fluid communication with the fuel line between the fuel sending unit and the engine, a first fuel conduit connected to the fuel fitting and to a first transfer connector. A first normally closed valve is arranged in the first transfer connector. The first transfer connector is configured to be secured to a motor vehicle, for example next to a fill neck behind a filler door of the vehicle. The portable module has a second fuel conduit having a second transfer connector on one of two ends and a fueling nozzle connected to the other one of the two ends of the second fuel conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: McAvey Enterprises LLC
    Inventor: Michael McAvey
  • Patent number: 8844587
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking fuel pump fuel dispenser nozzle and especially to a locking fuel pump fuel dispenser nozzle having a locking mechanism for automatically locking a fuel nozzle spout in the vehicle filler tube whenever fuel is being pumped into the vehicle filler tube and fuel tank and which can be unlocked only when fuel pressure from the fuel pump is cut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: James A. McCommons
  • Patent number: 8783306
    Abstract: A device for delivering liquids and in particular beverages, comprising a feed line, which is flow-connected to a dispensing chamber for the liquid and which delivers the liquid to the dispensing chamber, a first discharge line, which is flow-connected to the dispensing chamber and which drains the liquid from the dispensing chamber, and a second discharge line, which is flow-connected to the dispensing chamber and which drains the liquid from the dispensing chamber. A valve body is arranged in the dispensing chamber, the valve body comprising a magnetizable material and being moveable in relation to the dispensing chamber, and the valve body being suited to at least partially closing at least one discharge line, and a magnetic element for moving the valve body being provided outside the dispensing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Roidl, Stefan Poeschl
  • Patent number: 8752597
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing nozzle includes a removable valve subassembly that controls the flow of fluid and the recovery of fluid vapor through the body of the nozzle. The subassembly may be pre-assembled and installed within a nozzle body as a single unit. The nozzle may include a vacuum-driven automatic shut-off system which prevents fluid from flowing through the nozzle when the downstream end of the nozzle spout is submerged. The shutoff system may also be magnetically actuated to allow for dry testing in which the automatic shut-off functionality is testing without dispensation of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Franklin Fueling Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Vadim Tumarkin
  • Patent number: 8672000
    Abstract: A package system for dispensing a flowable material into a conduit of a dispensing apparatus. The package system includes a package and a connector. The package, e.g., a bag-in-box, comprises a hollow bag and a tap fitment for enabling the contents of the bag to flow out when the fitment is open. The connector includes an automatic shut off valve and is arranged to be fixedly secured to the conduit of the dispensing apparatus and releasably secured to the fitment. The valve is arranged to enable the flow of flowable material from the package into the conduit when the fitment is open, while preventing any of that material from flowing out of the conduit when the connector is disconnected from the fitment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Fres-co System USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry Pritchard
  • Patent number: 8662119
    Abstract: A fuel leak prevention system and method for providing same includes a check valve for insertion into the discharge end of a spout assembly of a fuel dispensing nozzle, the check valve being located downstream of the nozzle's fuel control valve so as to prevent any leaking or dripping of fuel from the spout when the nozzle is deactivated. The check valve includes a pivoting flap that is preferably spring-loaded and predisposed to remain closed to seal the spout when there is no fuel flowing through the nozzle, but which is allowed to rotate within the spout to open the nozzle and allow the flow of fuel when the nozzle is activated. In one embodiment, the check valve can be inserted into the spout during fabrication of the nozzle. An alternate embodiment allows the retrofit of an existing nozzle by adding an extension that contains the check valve to the spout on the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Strictly Green, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Y. Burris, David Michael Strickland, Wilson A. Jones
  • Patent number: 8646496
    Abstract: A system (1) is for release or movement of a fluid-dispensing head (2) positioned within a dispenser (6) of fluids. The system (1) houses the fluid-dispensing head (2), which has nozzles (3) for the supply of fluids. The system (1) includes a release (7, 10, 20) for release and movement of the fluid-dispensing head (2) configured for enabling movement of the delivery head (2) between a first position of use, in which the nozzles (3) deliver fluids into a container (4), and a cleaning position or second position of use (set facing the operator) or third position of use (facing upwards), distinct from the first position of use, in which they are accessible for being cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Mario Drocco, Luca Drocco
  • Patent number: 8631837
    Abstract: A nozzle for dispensing fluid including a nozzle body having a fluid path which is configured to receive fluid therein and a vapor path which is configured to receive vapor therein. The nozzle further includes a main fluid valve positioned in the fluid path to control a flow of fluid therethrough, the main fluid valve including a main fluid valve spring configured to bias the main fluid valve to one of its open or closed positions. The nozzle further has a main vapor valve positioned in the vapor path to control a flow of vapor therethrough. The main vapor valve includes a main vapor valve spring configured to bias the main vapor valve to one of its open or closed positions. At least part of the main fluid valve spring or the main vapor valve spring is positioned within the other one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: OPW Fueling Components Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Lauber, James E. Kesterman, Timothy M. Garrison, Harold M. Schubert
  • Publication number: 20130327440
    Abstract: A gas pump handle modification comprising: a handle assembly, wherein the handle assembly includes a nozzle and a handgrip, wherein said nozzle extends from a first end of the handgrip; a lever frame extending from the handgrip, where a squeeze lever is configured within the lever frame; and a release button positioned along the handgrip, where the release button provides a means to engage the squeeze lever in an upward position to allow the release of fuel through the nozzle. The pump handle assembly also includes a hose attached to a second end of the handgrip where the hose provides a flow of fuel. In one particular embodiment, the pump handle assembly also includes a handgrip cover that covers the connection of the nozzle with the handgrip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Stacey Kincaid
  • Patent number: 8590155
    Abstract: A nozzle for delivering texturized fibrous material into a chamber of a muffler has a body including a texturized fibrous material passageway and a separate directional jet passageway. A method of filling a chamber of a muffler with texturized fibrous material includes the steps of extending a wand into the muffler so that a nozzle on the wand is received in the chamber, discharging a stream of texturized fibrous material into the chamber from a first passageway of the nozzle and discharging a directional jet into the stream of texturized fibrous material from a second passageway of a nozzle whereby the stream of texturized fibrous material is redirected into a desired filling direction to more efficiently fill the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: OCV Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: Gunnar B. Nilsson, Lennart Svensson, Stefan Sjunnesson, Bengt-Erik Ingemansson, Luc Brandt
  • Patent number: 8545132
    Abstract: A 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Chicago Bridge & Iron Company
    Inventors: Thomas Glen Graham, Brian D. Wiese, David M. O'Meara
  • Patent number: 8539997
    Abstract: A filling head 10 is described for filling in a liquid into a filler neck of a tank 14. To ensure highly reliable operation, a rotary connecting element 26 is provided to form a mechanical connection by rotating in relation to the filler neck of the tank 14. A rotatable operating part 30 serves to rotate the rotary connecting element 26. The operating part 30 is coupled to the rotary connecting element 26 by means of a torque-limiting coupling device 32 that, given a threshold torque, is triggered at least in one direction of rotation and decouples the rotatable operating part 30 from the rotary connecting element 26. A sensor is provided to detect the triggering of the torque-limiting coupling device 32 and to send a release signal for the established connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Walter Söhner GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Driftmeyer, Alex Klatt
  • Patent number: 8517065
    Abstract: An apparatus to fill a container includes at least one tank for a fluid product to be delivered and one filling head to deliver the fluid product to the container that is movable towards and away from the container. The apparatus further includes a connecting arrangement interposed between the tank and the filling head to supply the fluid product to the filling head. The connecting arrangement includes a ball-and-socket joint structure which includes a first tubular portion having a spherical body, a second tubular portion in the form of a spherical cavity and a tubular sealing element arranged inside the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion at a zone in which the spherical body and the spherical cavity are mutually engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Sidel Holdings & Technology S.A.
    Inventor: Lucio Conforti