Miscellaneous (e.g., Filling Heads) Patents (Class 141/392)
  • Patent number: 5676181
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle for delivering fuel into a fuel tank by way of a fill pipe accommodates onboard refueling vapor recovery equipped vehicles by provision of a vacuum relief valve in communication with the vapor recovery conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Healy Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Healy
  • Patent number: 5673738
    Abstract: A conduit for filling a tank with a liquid includes an outlet end having a liquid outlet opening, which is fluidly coupled to the tank to be filled. The conduit includes an inlet end having a liquid inlet, adapted to be operatively engaged with a source of liquid, which is vertically spaced from the outlet by a predetermined distance. An intermediate liquid conducting section is adapted to receive liquid introduced through the inlet opening and to conduct the liquid to the outlet opening and thereby to the tank. The liquid conducting section has a length and a cross sectional shape, which in combination preclude the formation of vortex flow in the conduit at a predetermined rate of liquid flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventor: Paul J. Spaulding
  • Patent number: 5664487
    Abstract: A sanitary nozzle mount for use with a filling apparatus for flowing food product includes elongated, hollow, slidably engageable inner and outer filling tubes and a spacer coupling adapted to secure the inner and outer tubes in axially spaced relation with one another. The tubes are adapted to secure therebetween a removable filling nozzle having a mounting portion having a generally circular cross-section and including an inwardly extending, circumferential mounting ring. The inner and outer filling tubes each include a mounting element extending outwardly therefrom, configured for engagement with the spacer coupling. The inner filling tube has a length dimension greater than the length dimension of the outer filling tube. The inner tube includes a nozzle receiving end which has a circumferential locking element and a guide element which are adapted to engage the nozzle mounting ring therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance SA
    Inventor: Yutaka Kaneko
  • Patent number: 5655576
    Abstract: A vapor recovery nozzle, employed in minimizing atmospheric pollution by fuel vapors is described. The nozzle comprises a bellows which is compressed against the fill pipe of a vehicle fuel tank during discharge of fuel therein. The bellows surrounds a nozzle spout to define a vapor return flow path which extends through a nozzle body. The body of the nozzle is compositely formed by a body member and a vapor path cap which compositely define the vapor return flow passage. Flow of fuel is controlled by a control valve which may be opened, or maintained opened, by an operating lever only when a trip mechanism stem is latched in an operative position. A mechanical interlock prevents latching of the trip mechanism stem unless the bellows is compressed in sealing engagement with a fill pipe. When the bellows is so compressed, the trip stem is latched. If the level of fuel in the fill pipe covers the end of the spout, vacuum actuated means unlatch the trip mechanism stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: Donald L. Leininger, Robert W. Guertin, Bruce P. Baker
  • Patent number: 5655577
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle is provided, the fuel dispenser comprising: a) a vapor recovery conduit effective to provide communication between a vapor space of a fuel tank to be refuelled and a system to remove vapors displaced by fuel added to the tank; b) a fuel supply conduit; c) a sealing device effective to mate in a sealing relationship with a fuel tank inlet; d) an optical liquid sensor within the vapor recovery conduit that is effective to generate a control signal when liquid is detected within the vapor recovery conduit; and e) a device to disenable fuel flow when a control signal is generated by the optical liquid sensor. Also, the fuel dispenser comprises a sealing device that comprises a device to determine if a sealing relationship exists between the fuel dispenser and the fuel tank inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Andrew Everett Loen, Jesse Stuart Houle, David Alvin Besler, Scott Robert Anderson
  • Patent number: 5645115
    Abstract: A fuel nozzle has a modular construction wherein valve, venturi and spout modules are mounted in a bore formed in a nozzle body. The main fuel valve is controlled, independently of fuel pressurization, in response to a mechanical signal input, acting through a servo valve. The mechanical signal input is provide by a finger displaced trigger, acting through a pivotal lever arm and latching means that form part of the automatic shut off means for preventing overfill of a fuel tank. The venturi module has a venturi passage for generating a vacuum employed in the automatic shut off mechanism. The venturi module includes a bypass passage that enables sufficient vacuum force to be generated at both high and low flow rates. The spout module comprise an extruded spout (including a venturi vent passage) and a pair of mechanical adapter shells that are mechanical locked onto the spout and mechanically locked to the nozzle body, to secure the several modules in assembled relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: James E. Kesterman, Paul B. Anderson, Chester W. Wood, Mark D. Dalhart, David K. Larson
  • Patent number: 5645194
    Abstract: A method for filling and using an infusion bag useful in medicinal and related applications. The infusion bag comprises a bladder having at least two ports, an inlet port and an outlet port. The inlet port includes a valve which can be moved to an open position for filling of the bladder and then moved to a closed position to seal the bladder. The outlet port communicates with a catheter or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: U.S. Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Clifford A. Tyner
  • Patent number: 5642764
    Abstract: A modified beverage fill valve cam assembly and related methods are disclosed, which provide for a quick, inexpensive, and effective solution to fill valve cam rotational eccentricity. A supplemental support is provided for the camming end of the cam which eliminates sole reliance on cantilevered support and prevents eccentric cam rotation. The supplement support comprises an end plate having an interior cone-shaped projection with contiguous mates with corresponding cone-shaped recess formed in the end edge of the camming end of the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: Servi-Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry E. Nish
  • Patent number: 5636671
    Abstract: A fuel vapor entrapment device, during fueling of a motor vehicle fuel tank, traps escaping fuel vapors so as to enhance vacuum-assisted vapor recovery system operation. By deflecting fuel vapors and capturing them temporarily until their removed to a vapor storage tank, the device substantially prevents the escape of fuel vapor into the atmosphere and enables the vapor recovery system to capture a higher percentage of escaping fuel vapor. During the fueling process, the fuel entrapment device encircles the vehicle tank filler port, thereby forming a vapor containment area from which fuel vapors are removed, and prevents the ingestion of excessive ambient air into the vapor recovery system. A vacuum relief hole permits the ingestion of a limited amount of ambient air so as to prevent the build up of excessive negative pressure and avert vehicle fuel tank collapse during vacuum-assisted vapor recovery operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventors: David J. Harris, Thomas L. Claussen, John J. VanDaele
  • Patent number: 5634504
    Abstract: A venting and flow control closure device includes a disc having a peripheral sealing area attachable to a rim which encircles a dispensing opening of a liquid container and a repeating vented fracture pattern formed on the disc and extending from one edge to an opposite edge of the sealing area of the disc. The disc is made substantially of a metal foil material. The repeating fracture pattern is formed of a plurality of alternating vents and rupturable bridges. Each vent has a length substantially greater than the length of each bridge. The repeating fracture pattern has a central portion zig-zag in shape with peaks and valleys terminating in a plurality of round holes, and a pair of opposite side portions extending outwardly from the round holes of the central portion in substantially perpendicular relation to an imaginary line dividing the zig-zag pattern of the central portion into halves with all of the peaks in one half and all of the valleys in the other half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Herman R. Chandler
  • Patent number: 5628351
    Abstract: A method for automated refuelling is provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing the vehicle with a radio frequency transponder effective to communicate information sufficient to establish a position of a fuel inlet on the vehicle; receiving the communicated information at location where the vehicle is to be refuelled when the vehicle is located at the location where the vehicle is to be refuelled; when the vehicle is located at the location where the vehicle is to be refuelled, determining the position and orientation of the vehicle within the location; determining from the position and orientation of the vehicle and the communicated information, an expected location of the fuel inlet; after the vehicle is driven to an automated refuelling apparatus, initiating refuelling by moving a fuel dispenser to adjacent the expected location of the fuel inlet; providing a sensor on the fuel dispenser to determine the location of the fuel inlet relative to the fuel dispenser; repositioning the fuel dispense
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: William D. Ramsey, Jr., David I. Musil, Owen R. Williams, Andrew E. Loen, Al West
  • Patent number: 5620031
    Abstract: A vacuum assisted, vapor recovery fuel nozzle comprising a nozzle body and a spout mounted thereon. The spout comprises an inner tube and an outer tube. The inner tube and a passage in the body provide a fuel passage. The inner and outer tubes define a vapor return passage in the spout. The inner end of the outer tube is provided with a radial flange, which is clamped, by a breakaway nut, on the nozzle body to mount the spout thereon. The nozzle is provided with an automatic shut off mechanism, which includes a venturi valve for generating a negative pressure. In the absence of an overfill condition, this negative pressure is vented to atmosphere through a vent tube disposed in the vapor return passage. A normally closed vapor return valve, mounted on the nozzle body, is opened in response to the nozzle's flow control valve, so that vapors will be drawn into the entrance of the vapor return passage at the outer end of the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Dalhart, Paul B. Anderson, David A. Damico
  • Patent number: 5620030
    Abstract: A vacuum assisted, vapor recovery fuel nozzle comprising a nozzle body and a spout mounted thereon. The spout comprises an inner tube and an outer tube. The inner tube and a passage in the body provide a fuel passage. The inner and outer tubes define a vapor return passage in the spout. The inner end of the outer tube is provided with a radial flange, which is clamped, by a breakaway nut, on the nozzle body to mount the spout thereon. The nozzle is provided with an automatic shut off mechanism, which includes a venturi valve for generating a negative pressure. In the absence of an overfill condition, this negative pressure is vented to atmosphere through a vent tube disposed in the vapor return passage. A normally closed vapor return valve, mounted on the nozzle body, is opened in response to the nozzle's flow control valve, so that vapors will be drawn into the entrance of the vapor return passage at the outer end of the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: Mark D. Dalhart, Paul B. Anderson, David A. Damico
  • Patent number: 5609190
    Abstract: A refuelling system is provided, the system comprising: a seal cylinder defining the outside surface of an axial vapor recovery volume within the seal cylinder having a first end and a second end; a first flexible conduit to supply fuel to within the seal cylinder through the first end; a movable seal piston within the seal cylinder connected to the first flexible conduit, the seal piston effective to isolate a vapor recovery volume within the seal cylinder from the atmosphere surrounding the flexible fuel conduit; a fuel insert tube connected to the seal piston and extending through at least a portion of the vapor recovery volume; a boot seal attached to the seal cylinder at the second end of the axial vapor recovery volume, the boot seal effective to seal with a fuel tank inlet nozzle; and a device to move the seal piston laterally through the seal cylinder and thereby extending the second flexible conduit through the second end of the axial vapor recovery volume and into a fuel tank inlet nozzle when the b
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Scott R. Anderson, Chin T. Tham, Joseph A. Padula, Owen R. Williams, Jesse S. Houle, David A. Besler, William D. Ramsey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5603364
    Abstract: A spout for a fuel dispensing nozzle which includes a main channel for supplying fuel to the outflow end of the spout; a medium channel for supplying medium to a blocking mechanism of the nozzle, in which the channel is arranged internally in the spout and separated from the main channel; a cap member for closing the outflow end against an edge thereof; and a connecting mechanism which extends internally in the spout between the cap member and the other end in order to provide a coupling between the cap member and the main closing mechanism of the fuel dispensing nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: OPW Fueling Components Europe B.V.
    Inventor: Geert Kerssies
  • Patent number: 5577538
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle is provided with a view glass/fuel flow indicator that are disposed between the main fuel valve and a downstream check valve. The view glass/flow indicator means comprise a pair of horizontally aligned view glasses. A plurality of embodiments illustrate the use of different sub-assemblies in providing the view glass/flow indicator functions, as well as different provisions for obtaining a seal that prevents leakage of fuel at the view glass units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: Charles A. Sunderhaus, Jonathan P. Young, David A. Oberrecht, Charles J. Moorman
  • Patent number: 5566731
    Abstract: A device to capture, contain and collect hydrocarbon fuels such as gasoline and diesel before they can be spilled or leaked from the ventilation valve or fuel intake port of the fuel tank of a vessel and on to the surface of the water during fueling operations at marine fueling facilities. The device is formed as a low-profile box with a floor section and upright wall sections having stratified layers of a textile material and a solidifying polymer enclosed within a outer envelope of textile material. A seamed area at the center of the device with slits in the textile material allows the device to circumscribe the annular conduit of a device passing through the seamed area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Herbert W. Holland
  • Patent number: 5562133
    Abstract: A vacuum assist nozzle with a vapor recovery system is provided with an automatic vapor return shut-off mechanism to turn off or disable the nozzle's vapor recovery system when the nozzle is placed in the fill pipe of a vehicle having an on-board vapor recovery system. The nozzle includes a diaphragm valve placed in the nozzle's vapor flow path. The diaphragm nozzle control chamber is placed in communication with the vapor flow path. A vent tube, which forms the vapor flow path in the spout, includes a tip valve at the end thereof. The tip valve is magnetically operated, and is responsive to the presence of a magnetic field in the vehicle's fill neck, to enable or disable the vapor recovery system of the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Hiesky Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas O. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5522440
    Abstract: A spout gland is provided for a vapor recovery fuel dispensing nozzle assembly having a nozzle body and a nozzle spout assembly. The nozzle body includes a body fuel flow path having an inlet and an outlet and a body vapor recovery path, and a venturi valve in the body fuel flow path. The spout assembly is connected to the body and defines a spout fuel flow path and a spout vapor recovery path in communication with the respective flow paths in the nozzle body. The spout assembly includes a spout tube defining the spout fuel flow path, the spout gland, and a vapor guard. The spout gland has a diameter, in part, that is larger than the diameter of said spout tube to define a generally forwardly opening annular channel around the spout tube. The gland has at least one opening in a wall thereof to place the channel in communication with an area external of said spout gland and the body vapor flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas O. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5520228
    Abstract: A fluid extraction hose strider connector coupling assembly for use in a fuel nozzle associated with a coaxial vapor recovery hose. The coaxial hose is operatively connected to the spider connector assembly. The spider connector assembly contains a spider connector and an hose connector mounted in the handle of the fuel nozzle. The spider connector has a fluid flow path formed therethrough terminating in a nipple. A first small bore tubing extends from the nipple into the vapor recovery hose to a point where condensed vapors undesirably pool. The spider connector is rotatably connected to the hose connector while maintaining a fluid pathway between the spider connector and hose connector. The hose connector has a fluid pathway formed therethrough terminating in a nipple. A second small bore tubing extends from the nipple to a venturi in the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur C. Fink, Jr., Thomas O. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5517732
    Abstract: A holder for maintaining the handle of a gasoline dispensing nozzle in a desired position. The inventive device includes a vertical stanchion having an upper clamp leg projecting therefrom. A lower clamp leg is adjustably coupled to the vertical stanchion and can be positioned at a desired distance from the upper clamp leg. The device can be utilized to capture the handle and a portion of the nozzle between the clamp legs to maintain the nozzle in an open position for fueling of an associated vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: Brent J. Crear
  • Patent number: 5515893
    Abstract: A splash control nozzle assembly for the dispensing of fluids includes a detachable tether assembly which forces back the resilient sealing bellows member on a gasoline pump nozzle to allow unobstructed viewing while filling unconventional receptacles to prevent overfilling. The tether main body is either a bungee cord or a strip of inelastic material with hook and loop fasteners at each end. An S-hook and snap clip are provided to secure the ends of the main body of the tether in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas E. Donohue
  • Patent number: 5515889
    Abstract: An opening in a vent pipe, or another secondary opening, of a liquid tank that is connected by a line to an opening in a liquid fill nozzle. Liquid in the liquid tank of a predetermined amount passes from the vent pipe through the line and into the liquid fill nozzle to actuate the liquid sensor of the automatic liquid shut-off mechanism of the nozzle in order to terminate liquid flow from the nozzle into the liquid tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Randolf W. Brand
  • Patent number: 5515593
    Abstract: A holding fixture to facilitate removing a fuel-dispensing nozzle assembly, optionally including a swivel or breakaway device, from a hose includes one or more stabilizing supports to hold the nozzle assembly in a predetermined orientation and a basin member to contain fuel spilled from the nozzle assembly and/or the hose during the changeout procedure. A knee rest to allow the mechanic to use his body weight to pin the holding fixture to the ground is also preferably included.The stabilizing supports preferably include a spout stabilizer to hold the nozzle spout in a predetermined orientation, and a body stabilizer to hold the nozzle assembly body. A base member to assist in stabilizing the holding fixture during the changeout procedure, and a stabilizer to hold the swivel and/or breakaway device and/or the fuel hose in a predetermined orientation may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: Oil Equipment Supply Corp.
    Inventor: James O. Eagler
  • Patent number: 5509452
    Abstract: An improved vapor recovery system for a fuel dispensing nozzle having an automatic shut-off. The improvement includes a lockout for activating the automatic shut-off, an activating collar having one end adjacent to the lock-out and able to engage the lock-out when the nozzle is dispensing fuel, and a seal enclosing the lock-out and the collar, the seal having (i) a cup-shaped portion at end that fits over and circumferentially around the fuel inlet while the nozzle is dispensing fuel, (ii) a middle portion that compresses while the nozzle is dispensing fuel, and (iii) an interior constriction that engages the end of the collar opposite of the lock-out so as to prevent back splashed fuel from entering the portion of the seal enclosing the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Exxon Research and Engineering Company
    Inventor: Robert F. Tammera
  • Patent number: 5487418
    Abstract: An improved construction for a vehicle gas cap includes a threaded engagement portion, a main body for sealing the gas tank throat and for allowing manipulation of the improved cap, a disk, and a hinged C-clamp attached to the main body. The disk is dimensioned such that it allows for the retaining of the trigger of a gas pump handle in an operable position when fitted into the gas pump handle trigger slot. The C-clamp portion is dimensioned such that it allows for the retaining of the trigger of a gas pump handle in an operable position when fitted thereover. The disk of the cap is the same height as the clamp portion's thickness, and allows for a flush surface overall when the C-clamp is folded down into a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventor: Bernard Reyes
  • Patent number: 5476125
    Abstract: A fuel nozzle assembly for dispensing fuel from a source to a container includes a body defining a fuel flow path and a vapor recovery path. The nozzle includes a venturi valve in the fuel flow path which defines a venturi port and a diaphragm valve positioned in the vapor recover path, The diaphragm valve has a control section having a control port which is in fluid communication with the venturi. The diaphragm valve is normally spring biased closed. When gas flows through the venturi and over the venturi port, it creates a vacuum in the diaphragm control section sufficiently strong to open the diaphragm valve so that recovered vapors may be returned to a source of fuel, or other collection area, such as an underground storage fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas O. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5474115
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle has a vent tube extending through a spout of the nozzle and automatic shut off device in communication with, and responsive to, the passage of air through the vent tube. The vent tube terminates in an air port at the tip of the spout. A tip, forming a valve, is placed at the end of the vent tube. The valve has a magnetic responsive valve member and a seat formed at the junction of tip and the vent tube. The vacuum created by the nozzle seats the magnetic valve member against the seat to close the tube to activate the automatic shut off device. A vehicle which can accept the fuel being dispensed is equipped with a magnet in the neck of the fill pipe of the tank which will attract the magnetic valve member to hold the vent tube open, so that the automatic shut off device will not be activated by a closed valve member and fuel can be dispensed to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Husky Corporation
    Inventor: Arthur C. Fink, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5469900
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle is disclosed and includes a main body portion containing a fuel passageway and a main valve controlling the flow of fuel through the fuel passageway. A lever extends from the body portion which is operable by the hand of a user holding the nozzle to open the main valve to allow fuel flow through the nozzle and a lever guard is attached to the body and extends around and under the lever. A hold-open clip is pivotally mounted to the lever guard. The lever includes notches which are positioned relative to the hold-open clip so that when the hold-open clip is rotated by the user into its operative position it may engage a notch in the lever and hold the lever in a position where the main valve is opened to allow fuel flow without requiring the user to continue to hold the lever. A removable lockout member is attached to the lever to prevent operation in the automatic hold-open mode by preventing engagement of the hold-open clip with a notch in the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: EMCO Wheaton, Inc.
    Inventors: F. Bruce Weeks, John L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5458170
    Abstract: What is disclosed is a novel boot and its use on fuel dispensing devices. The boot contains a recording and playback system for messages or sounds as fuel is being pumped into a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventor: James D. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 5450884
    Abstract: A multi-compartment spout for a fuel dispensing nozzle includes a cylindrical, longitudinally extending outer wall, and at least one interior, longitudinally extending dividing wall. The dividing wall defines a fuel passageway within the spout which communicates with a fuel passageway in the body of the nozzle for dispensing fuel into the fuel tank of a vehicle, and a vapor recovery passageway within the spout which communicates with a vapor recovery passageway in the body of the nozzle for returning fuel vapor to an underground tank and thereby preventing the vapor from escaping into the atmosphere. In a preferred embodiment, the spout includes another interior longitudinally extending dividing wall which defines a shut-off passageway within the spout which communicates with a venturi-vacuum chamber in the nozzle for automatically shutting off the flow of fuel through the nozzle when the vehicle fuel tank is full.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: Emco Wheaton, Inc.
    Inventors: Chih-Kun J. Shih, David J. Parrish
  • Patent number: 5449027
    Abstract: A fitment device is disclosed to be used with a "bag-in-a-box" packaging system. The fitment connects the bag with a valve system and optionally contains a removable diaphragm. The diaphragm is opened by operating a tool which separates and pulls out the diaphragm. A method of assembling the device with the entire system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.
    Inventor: Alfred F. Mueller
  • Patent number: 5437655
    Abstract: A burette top vent which resists air blockage includes a peripherally skirted cap having a generally planar circular base transfixed by a short integral tube having an upper portion to which tubing from a source of fluid may be attached and a lower portion from which fluid can drip into the burette. The base is perforated by an array of arcuate slots that permit air to enter the burette, and the bottom surface of the base has a shallow annular relief intersecting the slots. A ring-shaped hydrophobic filter disk hermetically affixed beneath the relief. The relief prevents the filter disk from lying flush against the bottom surface of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: B. Braun Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Joel Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 5394908
    Abstract: A storage container (12) is filled with a combustible mixture of gases including a flammable gas and a primary gas which contains an oxidizer gas. A fill head (50) has a continuous annular ridge (130) which extends around a gas outlet (132) from the fill head. The ridge (130) indents the material of the storage container (12) around an opening (152) in the storage container through which a flow of gas is directed during filling of a chamber in the storage container to provide a gas tight seal between the ridge and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Maness
  • Patent number: 5392824
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vapor recovery nozzle with a turbine located in the nozzle. The turbine is driven by the flow of fuel. The turbine rotates an impeller located in the nozzle which draws away the vapor during pumping operations. The nozzle further has a hydraulic system for automatically shutting off the nozzle when fluid is displaced in an accumulator cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: Joshua E. Rabinovich
  • Patent number: 5390712
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing and vapor recovery nozzle includes a body portion having a fuel passageway therethrough, a main valve in the fuel passageway for controlling the flow of fuel therethrough, a manually operable valve actuating lever for opening the main valve, a pivot member mounting the lever for pivotal movement, an elongate pivot mounting member carrying the pivot member and mounted for sliding longitudinal movement, a venturi responsive to fuel flow through the fuel passageway for creating a vacuum, a shut-off passageway from the venturi to the spout adapted to be closed when the fuel tank is filled, a locking device normally locking the pivot mounting member against longitudinal movement so that the pivot member is stationary and the lever is operable to open the main valve, a vacuum responsive device for rendering the locking device inoperable upon the shut-off passageway becoming blocked, a vapor recovery passageway in the body portion extending longitudinally therethrough, a vapor recovery passageway i
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Emco Wheaton, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Parrish, Chih-Kun Shih, John L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5386858
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing system, hose assembly and couplings therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the fuel dispensing system comprising a fuel dispensing nozzle construction having an outer fuel receiving inlet and an inner vapor outlet, a fuel dispensing pump construction having an outer fuel dispensing outlet and an inner vapor inlet, and a hose assembly having a first fluid passage therein for conveying fuel from the outer fuel dispensing outlet to the outer fuel receiving inlet and a second fluid passage therein for returning vapors from the inner vapor outlet to the inner vapor inlet, the hose assembly comprising a flexible inner hose having an outer peripheral surface and defining an inner fluid passage therein, and a flexible outer hose having an inner peripheral surface and being disposed around the inner hose, the inner peripheral surface of the outer hose and the outer peripheral surface of the inner hose defining an outer fluid passage therebetween, the inner fluid passage comprising the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Sanders, Gary R. Long
  • Patent number: 5385182
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fuel nozzle retainer safety breakaway device comprising a clamp clamped to the nozzle, a latch pivotally connected to the clamp and structure for disconnecting the latch from the clamp at a predetermined force less than that required to break the nozzle from the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Inventor: Bobby R. Dyer
  • Patent number: 5379811
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle includes a housing having a hollow main body portion and a handle portion with a hand-grip spaced from the main body portion, an elongate nozzle body mounted in the main body portion of the housing and having a fuel passageway extending longitudinally therethrough in a generally straight line devoid of any abrupt changes in direction, a main valve for controlling the flow of fuel through the nozzle, a manually operable valve actuator, a spout having three integrally formed passageways comprising a fuel passageway, a vapor recovery passageway and a shut-off, venturi-vacuum passageway, a vapor recovery passageway through the main body and handle portions of the housing, a venturi-vacuum device for shutting off the flow of fuel through the nozzle when the vehicle fuel tank is full, an attitude responsive device for deactivating the main valve when the nozzle is not in the proper attitude for insertion of the spout into the fill opening of the vehicle fuel tank and an attitude responsive
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Emco Wheaton, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Dotson, Stewart Mac Harmon, Francis B. Weeks, Chih-Kun J. Shih, John L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5377729
    Abstract: This invention relates to a check valve device for a fuel pump nozzle comprising a stopper having a stem slidably extending through a bore of a support member which is securely engaged within the passage of the nozzle near the dispensing end thereof. The stopper has a plug member offset and fixedly attached to the stem to close off the passage of the nozzle with the urging of a spring mounted about the stem between the support member and a stop member which is securely attached about the stem near the opposite end thereof. The check valve device prevents liquid such as gasoline from dripping or escaping out the dispensing end of the nozzle when liquid is not being dispensed through the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventor: Alan J. Reep
  • Patent number: 5373872
    Abstract: A fitment device is disclosed to be used with a "bag-in-a-box" packaging system. The fitment connects the bag with a valve system and contains a removable diaphragm. The diaphragm is opened by operating a snaring tool which pulls on a tab to tear out the diaphragm. A method of assembling the device with the entire system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Assignee: International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.
    Inventor: Alfred F. Mueller
  • Patent number: 5365984
    Abstract: An improved technique for providing electrical power to a fuel dispensing nozzle is disclosed. A fuel dispensing hose is provided with a fluid pathway, a vapor pathway and conductive elements are provided in the vapor pathway for transmitting intrinsically safe electric signals from a fluid dispenser to the fuel dispensing nozzle. A plurality of conductive bands are installed around a portion of the hose, and a plurality of conductive plungers in 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 electric signals to any desired electronics installed within the fuel dispensing nozzle. On the other end of the hose, a substrate having conductive elements disposed thereon engage an aperture in the input output port of the fuel dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Saber Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: W. Dwain Simpson, James H. Pyle, Geoffrey P. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 5365985
    Abstract: A vapor guard mounted on a gasoline dispenser nozzle includes a collapsible resilient section which provides a limited expansion force enabling the use of a standard gasoline dispenser retainer spring to catch on the vehicle fill pipe flange for hands-free fuel dispensing and straight-pull removal. The expansion force of the collapsible resilient section also is limited to ensure the existence of non-sealing contact between the end of the vapor guard and the fill pipe flange. The vapor guard is sized and positioned on the dispenser to enable the user to see the end of the nozzle as it is inserted into the vehicle fill pipe and aligned with a nozzle port in a restricter plate located in the fill pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Todd, William H. Constantine
  • Patent number: 5363889
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle including three calculated break points is provided. The first break point is provided in the spout which is calculated to fracture upon application of a force orthogonal to the axial direction of the spout. The nozzle comprises a housing having at least one opening for a dispensing valve to be selectively removably received within. A coupling or maintaining member is provided for maintaining the dispensing valve within the housing. The maintaining member is adapted to withstand application of a pre-determined force tending to separate the dispensing valve from the housing. The maintaining member allows separation of the housing and dispensing valve when the pre-determined force is exceeded. This maintaining member is the second break point. The third breakaway feature is provided in the construction of the housing which is designed to fracture prior to fracture of the gas pump or hose if the first or second break points do not fracture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Assignee: Saber Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: W. Dwain Simpson, James H. Pyle
  • Patent number: 5353851
    Abstract: An improved material filling apparatus that can be installed in a front end multipurpose or fixed loader bucket. A hydraulic or electric motor is provided to rotate an auger, which discharges material out of a discharge opening at the one side of the device to fill sand bags or containers that are placed under this opening. In addition the front end loader will still be able to function in its normal manner when not required to fill sand bags or containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Grantech Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Cline
  • Patent number: 5332010
    Abstract: A method of withdrawing the fuel from the fuel tank of a liquid-fuel powered vehicle and discharging the fuel into bulk storage tanks includes providing a pump that is selectively actuatable for pumping liquid fuel and having an inlet that is connected with a hose having a portion of sufficient length and flexibility to be inserted into the fuel tank of a vehicle. The pump has a liquid discharge conduit for connection to a fuel storage tank. The hose is extended through the vehicle's filler pipe to the bottom of the tank. The fuel being withdrawn is metered to measuring the quantity of liquid being discharged by the pump into the discharge conduit. The hose may include a shutoff valve, which may be an automatic shutoff valve of the type used at gasoline stations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Assignee: Bennett Pump Company
    Inventors: Thomas A. Thompson, Delos J. Loomis
  • Patent number: 5327949
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing nozzle is disclosed and includes a housing having a hollow main body portion and a handle portion with a hand-grip spaced from the main body portion, an elongate nozzle body mounted in the main body portion of the housing and having a fuel passageway extending longitudinally therethrough in a generally straight line devoid of any abrupt changes in direction, main valve means disposed in the fuel passageway for controlling the flow of fuel through the nozzle, manually operable valve actuating means, a spout for insertion into the fill opening of a vehicle fuel tank and having three integrally formed passageways therethrough comprising a fuel passageway, a vapor recovery passageway and a shut-off, venturi-vacuum passageway, a vapor recovery passageway through the main body and handle portions of the housing, a venturi-vacuum means for shutting off the flow of fuel through the nozzle when the vehicle fuel tank is full, attitude responsive means for preventing the opening of the main valve when
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Emco Wheaton, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Dotson, Stewart Mac Harmon, Francis B. Weeks, Chih-Kun J. Shih, John L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5327945
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing spout for use in a fuel dispensing nozzle is provided. The fuel dispensing spout includes an inner cylindrical member and a concentric outer cylindrical member. The inner and outer cylindrical members are joined by a series of ribs which divide the space between the inner and outer members into a plurality of longitudinally and continually extending subchannels. Some of the subchannels are utilized for vapor recovery during operation of the spout, while one of the subchannels is utilized in detecting pressure increases in captured air contained therein as fuel dispensation takes place. The inside passageway defined by the inner cylindrical member is used for carrying fuel that is to be dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Saber Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: W. Dwain Simpson, James H. Pyle
  • Patent number: 5320148
    Abstract: A retaining clip which maintains the bellows on a vapor recovery liquid dispensing system in a retracted position while fuel is pumped from the fueling tube of the vapor recovery liquid dispensing nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: Joseph Asciutto
  • Patent number: 5316057
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing the efficiency of the vapor recovery of a liquid dispensing and vapor recovery system wherein the system uses a spout with vapor recovery apertures. The apparatus includes a device for receiving the spout and its vapor recovery apertures with a space located therebetween. A sealing device is connected to the spout receiving device for providing a chamber which is sealed about the spout and vapor recovery apertures. A device is connected to the spout receiving device for responding to flow through the chamber about the vapor recovery apertures. With this arrangement the volume of air recovered can be determined and compared with the volume of liquid dispensed to indicate the efficiency of the vapor recovery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Detlev E. M. Hasselmann