Filling With Exhausting The Receiver Patents (Class 141/59)
  • Patent number: 6332483
    Abstract: A method for monitoring vapor-to-liquid flow rate in a fuel dispensing system with a vacuum assisted vapor recovery system having a coaxial hose with an outer fuel conduit for delivery of fuel and an inner vapor conduit for recovery of vapor includes the steps of: determining vapor flow rate in the inner vapor conduit; issuing a signal indicative of the vapor flow rate; determining liquid fuel flow rate in the outer fuel conduit; issuing a signal indicative of the liquid fuel flow rate; comparing the signal indicative of the vapor flow rate and the signal indicative of the liquid fuel flow rate; and, when vapor-to-liquid flow rate is outside a predetermined range, issuing a signal. A vacuum assist vapor recovery system, and a fuel dispensing system equipped with such a vapor recovery system are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: Healy Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Healy
  • Patent number: 6325112
    Abstract: A vapor system for a fuel dispenser having at least one vapor sensor placed along a vapor recovery line for determining the amount of captured vapor. The vapor amounts are determined by the sensor at a number of times during the fueling process. These are sent to a control system which compares the amounts and determines whether they are within a predetermined range. Consistent readings indicate that the vapor recovery system is operating correctly. Inconsistent results indicate either a leak within the vapor recovery line, or fuel is being drawn into the vapor recovery line. These problems within the vapor recovery system can be diagnosed and the necessary corrective steps may be implemented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6318418
    Abstract: A worm metering apparatus which includes a metering tube having an end, the end has an annular barrier element, made of sintered metal, that communicates with a negative-pressure source and an overpressure source gas source. A pressure meter is also provided, which measures the negative pressure that prevails in a line to the barrier element. To prevent the barrier element from becoming clogged with bulk material particles, the overpressure gas is conducted to the barrier element during the operation of the worm metering apparatus, in order to detach adhering particles of bulk material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Guenter Grossmann, Anton Ettenhofer
  • Publication number: 20010039978
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and determining fuel vapor recovery performance is disclosed. The dispensing of liquid fuel into a tank by a conventional gas pump nozzle naturally displaces a mixture of air and fuel ullage vapor in the tank. These displaced vapors may be recovered at the dispensing point nozzle by a vapor recovery system. A properly functioning vapor recovery system recovers approximately one unit volume of vapor for every unit volume of dispensed liquid fuel. The ratio of recovered vapor to dispensed fuel is termed the A/L ratio, which should ideally be approximately equal to one (1). The A/L ratio, and thus the proper functioning of the vapor recovery system, may be determined by measuring liquid fuel flow and return vapor flow (using a vapor flow sensor) on a nozzle-by-nozzle basis. The disclosed methods and apparatus provide for the determination of A/L ratios for individual nozzles using a reduced number of vapor flow sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas
  • Patent number: 6315011
    Abstract: Dual cone funnel assembly for simultaneously introducing a flow of particulate composition, or powder, into a receiving container through a dispensing tube along one path while channeling the flow of displaced air through an annular air-exhaust space along a different path surrounding the first path. The funnel assembly has an inner funnel supply element surrounded and closely-spaced from an outer funnel element to provide the annular air-relief space therebetween. The assembly may be used to feed particulate resinous extrusion composition through a dispensing funnel element to the premelt chamber of an extruder and to isolate and return the displaced air to a dust collection element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventor: Mark J. Smith
  • Patent number: 6305440
    Abstract: A dispensing system (10) that utilizes radio frequencies identification capabilities in a service station environment to reliably and accurately detect an on-board vapor recovery (ORVR) system in a vehicle (26). The dispensing system (10) includes a vapor recovery system (33) for recovering fuel vapors responsive to a fuel being dispensed. The vapor recovery system (33) has a disabling mechanism (42) for selectively preventing its operation. The dispensing system (10) also includes an antenna (22A, 22B, 24A, 24B) for detecting a radio frequency signal from a transmitter (23 or 25) in a vehicle (26). The radio frequency signal may be a single bit indicating that the vehicle (26) has the ORVR system, or may include additional bits indicating a type of fuel to be dispensed. When the transmitter (23 or 25) is within a predetermined distance from the antenna (22A, 22B, 24A, 24B), a controller (20) receives the radio frequency signal from the antenna (22A, 22B, 24A, 24B) and asserts a disable signal (41).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Dresser, Inc.
    Inventors: Don C. McCall, Ken W. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6305439
    Abstract: A single step shaft assembly and oil fill process begins with the sleeve and thrust plate being assembled, leaving open the entire shaft cavity. The assembly is then placed in an evacuation chamber, and air is evacuated. A measured amount of oil or hydrofluid is then placed in the shaft cavity. The shaft is then inserted in the shaft cavity and pressed or otherwise inserted into an opening in the thrust plate. When this is done, the oil will disperse throughout the bearing fluid gap and cavity. When properly measured, no oil will exit the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Seagate Technology LLC
    Inventors: Kirby V. Pool, David Wuester, Thaveesinn Vasavakul, Kok Chai Low
  • Patent number: 6302165
    Abstract: A service station vapor management system including a plurality of vapor handling subsystems and a controller in electronic communication with the vapor handling subsystems for monitoring subsystem operation, determining an overall service station V/L ratio and controlling subsystem operation to maintain the V/L ratio or total site hydrocarbon emissions within predetermined limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Seifollah S. Nanaji, Hal C. Hartsell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6302133
    Abstract: A fuel tank T has a seal member 18 provided at a fuel entry port 16 provided at an upper end of a filler pipe 12 extending continuously to a tank main body 11 for sealing the outer circumference of a nozzle of a fuel filling gun G. A first relief valve 27 and a second relief valve 29 which are adapted to open when the internal pressure of the filler pipe 12 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value are provided along a first relief passage 26 and a second relief passage 28, respectively, which continuously extend to the filler pipe 12. When excessive fuelling occurs, the first relief valve 27 is made to open so that fuel inside the filler pipe 12 is allowed to be discharged to the outside thereof, and the second relief valve 29 is made to open so that part of fuel inside the filler pipe 12 is allowed to flow out into the fuel entry port 16 located above the seal member so as to inform the operator of a fuel filling pump of the occurrence of an abnormal situation to thereby prompt him or her to stop fueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Makoto Kobayashi, Toshiaki Ichitani, Yoshihiro Shimizu, Takeshi Suzuki, Ryuji Fujino
  • Patent number: 6302164
    Abstract: A system for dispensing liquid hydrocarbons includes a vapour recovery circuit having a vapour/liquid separator and a vapour flow controller. The vapour/liquid separator has a receiving chamber in which liquid is collected and is mounted in the vapour recovery circuit upstream of the vapour flow controller. The recovery chamber is connected to a bleeding pipe having an inlet fitted with a non-return valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Tokheim Services France
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Nitecki, Jacques Fournier
  • Patent number: 6298886
    Abstract: A refrigerant dispensing tool includes a three section body with a top manifold section having an evacuation port, a refrigerant supply port and an oil supply port. The intermediate body section has three elongated and converging valve chambers which connect with the corresponding ports and receive corresponding elongated fluid pressure balancing valve members. The valve members are independently operated and precisely controlled by corresponding air actuated pistons which receive pressurized air from corresponding air ports within the manifold section. An air actuated and spring biased annular piston is supported between the intermediate and base sections of the body and operates a set of circumferentially spaced balls which releasably clamp the tool to a stem valve fitting for a refrigerant system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Production Control Units, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy S. Robinson, Randy S. Stemen
  • Publication number: 20010025668
    Abstract: An electronic onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system including an electrically operated ORVR valve that selectively opens and closes a fuel vapor path between a fuel tank and a collection canister. An electronic control circuit generates control signals to selectively open and close the ORVR valve. The electronic control circuit receives one or more inputs from one or a plurality of sensors and evaluates the one or more inputs to determine whether to activate the ORVR valve. The sensor inputs include at least a sensor indicating fuel is being introduced into the filler neck and may also include at least a sensor indicating a fuel level within the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Applicant: Borg-Warner Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor L. Enge
  • Publication number: 20010022203
    Abstract: Method and apparatus, for servicing engine cooling systems, including a service inlet, a vacuum pump, a two-way solenoid interposed between the vacuum pump and the service inlet, a service outlet, a disposal hose, a new fluid tank, a pressure pump interposed between the service outlet and the new fluid tank, a three-way solenoid interposed between the service outlet and the two-way solenoid, a low-level trigger mechanism, a flow control relief valve and other elements to enhance various modes of operation. The apparatus is capable of performing various operations, including close-loop fluid cycle, fluid vacuum, fluid top-off, fluid exchange and fluid flow control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventors: John Rome, Eduardo Betancourt
  • Publication number: 20010022202
    Abstract: A system and method for recovering a gasoline vapor/air mixture from a vehicle tank during the dispensing of a gasoline from a storage tank into the vehicle tank, according to which a flow line is established for the flow of the mixture from the vehicle tank to the storage tank during the dispensing. A pump is activated during the dispensing to flow the mixture from the vehicle tank to the storage tank, and the mixture flow is terminated in response to the termination of the dispensing. The pump is then activated to pressurize the flow line after which any reduction in the pressure of the mixture in the flow line is sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventors: Scott Robertson Negley, Gary Michael Ostrowski
  • Patent number: 6289945
    Abstract: A fuel fill pipe assembly for promoting less turbulent flow in a fuel pipe is disclosed. The assembly includes a pipe extending between a first end to a second end wherein said pipe is suitable for receiving a fuel dispensing nozzle. The pipe includes a vent passage positioned on the pipe for providing space for fuel that is entering or has entered the pipe or is leaving the nozzle that is dispensing the fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: William P Haboush, II
  • Publication number: 20010020493
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser includes vapor and hydrocarbon concentration sensors positioned in the vapor recovery line to calculate the vapor-to-liquid (V/L) ratio of the fuel dispenser. If the V/L ratio is not as desired, an adjustment is made to attempt a correction of the V/L ratio. If such correction attempt is unsuccessful, and error is reported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Publication date: September 13, 2001
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6270285
    Abstract: An integrated underground storage reservoir and above-ground canopy system is provided. This system comprises a storage reservoir suitable for being buried beneath ground level and suitable for containing a fluid. The integrated system also includes a support system disposed in communication with the reservoir and suitable for projecting above ground level when the reservoir is in a buried condition. The support system preferably includes at least one support member. The integrated system further includes a canopy attached to at least one support member, suitable for providing shelter from weather while accessing the reservoir. In alternative embodiments of this invention, the support system includes support units disposed adjacently to, attached to the exterior of, and disposed within the interior of the underground storage reservoir. The integrated system allows direct access to the storage reservoir, minimizes underground piping and provides enhanced vapor recovery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Albert L. Wokas
  • Patent number: 6269852
    Abstract: A loader for filling tank-shaped containers (1) with bulk material, which includes at least one loading nozzle (2), at least one loading bellows (3), in one piece or several pieces, connecting to the said loading nozzle (2) and at least one adjustment element (4) whose purpose is to adjust the said loading nozzle (2) vertically, horizontally or transversally, whereby the contact area of the said loading nozzle (2) that can be brought to connect with the loading opening takes the form substantially of a pneumatically or hydraulically inflatable seal collar (9) and the said loading bellows (3) is connected directly or indirectly to a device (5) whose purpose is to stretch the walls of the said loading bellows (3) and whereby the said loader includes or does not include a filter unit (12) whose purpose is to filter the gaseous medium forced out of the said tank-shaped container (1) through the bulk material and includes or does not include an outgoing air recirculation system (16) for recirculating the gaseous m
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Roland Muhr
  • Patent number: 6260587
    Abstract: A collection and disposal system for intercepting fuel vapor, liquid fuel, and water accumulating at the filler neck compartment of a motor vehicle. The system includes a suction fan, a plurality of conduits communicating between the filler neck compartment and the suction fan, a collector for liquids accumulating in the filler neck compartment, and an electrical control system. The control system includes a switch which operates the suction fan when the filler neck compartment door is open. The suction fan draws vapors from the filler neck compartment through the conduits for disposal. Vapors may be conducted to the emissions control system, in particular the charcoal canister for trapping vapors, a suitable point of the engine such as the intake manifold, carburetor, or throttle body, or may be vented to the open atmosphere. The collector of liquids has a flapper valve which discharges liquids when a predetermined volume is collected. A buzzer is arranged to annunciate operation of the suction fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Clarence E. Smith, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6257285
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing tool includes a three section aluminum body defining a top evacuation port and a top fluid fill port each having an annular valve seat and connected by a cross passage. Poppet valve members are supported for vertical movement between retracted open positions below the cross passage and closed positions extending upwardly through the cross passage and engaging the valve seats. The valve members are air actuated in an alternating manner with the evacuation valve member closing before the fluid valve member opens and vice versa. A center passage extends downwardly from the cross passage and through a downwardly projecting discharge spout which carries a sleeve or shuttle supporting a set of resilient sealing bands. The sealing bands are compressed axially by an air actuated piston and expand radially outwardly for sealing with a radiator fill neck above and below a port for an overflow container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Production Control Units, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy S. Robinson, Randy S. Stemen
  • Patent number: 6253805
    Abstract: An apparatus for replacing transmission fluid in an automatic transmission. The apparatus comprises a tank separated into a pair of compartments by a bladder or diaphragm. At least one pressure regulator communicates with the tank. A vent valve assembly also communicates with the tank. A process for cleaning an automatic transmission and for replacing after cleaning used automatic transmission fluid in the automatic transmission with fresh automatic transmission fluid. The process includes flowing fresh ATF into a first compartment of a tank and into a pliable tub or bladder member in communication with the first compartment until the pliable tub or bladder member and the first compartment are filled with a volume of fresh ATF. A chemical cleaning compound is disposed in the used ATF of the automatic transmission and is circulated through the automatic transmission and its associated components to clean the same and produce contaminated used ATF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: BG Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold Edward Erwin, Michael Jason Erwin, Craig James Dittmar
  • Patent number: 6253802
    Abstract: An electronic onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system including an electrically operated ORVR valve that selectively opens and closes a fuel vapor path between a fuel tank and a collection canister. An electronic control circuit generates control signals to selectively open and close the ORVR valve. The electronic control circuit receives one or more inputs from one or a plurality of sensors and evaluates the one or more inputs to determine whether to activate the ORVR valve. The sensor inputs include at least a sensor indicating fuel is being introduced into the filler neck and may also include at least a sensor indicating a fuel level within the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor L. Enge
  • Patent number: 6253803
    Abstract: An automated fueling nozzle for transferring fuel from a fuel storage tank to a vehicle fuel storage tank has a vacuum sensing means disposed outboard of a discharge end of an outlet spout of the nozzle to interrupt the flow of fuel when the tank is substantially full to prevent reflux of fuel from the vehicle tank through the inlet conduit of the vehicle tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph M. Nusbaumer, Ronald Woods
  • Publication number: 20010004909
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser includes vapor and hydrocarbon concentration sensors positioned in the vapor recovery line to provide accurate feedback relating to the speed and concentration of hydrocarbon laden vapor recovered by a vapor recovery system. The sensors provide diagnostic information about the vapor recovery process as well as insuring that the vapor recovery process is carried out in an efficient manner. Additionally, the sensors may be positioned in an underground storage tank vent apparatus to monitor fugitive emissions from the underground storage tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: June 28, 2001
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Pope, Richard R. Sobota, Seifollah S. Nanaji, Edward A. Payne
  • Patent number: 6250347
    Abstract: An automatic fueling system containing a fueling machine having a nozzle mechanism comprising an injection pipe with a nozzle insertion sensor thereon, and a plurality of fueling nozzles contained in the injection pipe, each for dispensing a predetermined sort of fuel, and a fuel port sensor; and a data input/output unit for performing a signal transmission to and from the fueling machine; wherein the insertion of one of the nozzles is carried out to an automobile to be fueled having a signal generator thereon by the movement of the fueling machine based on the signal transmission between the fuel port sensor and the signal generator, and the fueling is suspended by the detection of a required level of fueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Tatsuno Corporation
    Inventor: Hiyoshi Tatsuno
  • Patent number: 6244310
    Abstract: A system for monitoring and testing the operation of a vapor recovery system within a fuel dispensing device. The system utilizes strategically placed sensors within the fuel dispensing device to gather data pertaining to each pump and hose combination for that fuel dispensing device. The gathered data is forwarded to an internal digital controller processing device where calculations are performed and results are compared to baseline results stored in memory within the digital controller. Anomalous results are displayed and/or printed. The system operates in both automatic and manual diagnostic modes. The automatic diagnostic mode runs continuously without interfering with the normal operation of the fuel dispensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Steven L. Rowland, Hal C. Hartsell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6240982
    Abstract: A gasoline vapor recovery system wherein, during winter conditions, the volume of air/fuel vapor delivered to the storage tank is less than the volume of liquid gasoline removed from the tank but expands upon saturation within the storage tank to be approximately the same volume as the liquid gasoline removed. The volume of vapor to be delivered to the storage tank is based on pressure differential between the fuel vapor saturation pressure at a measured temperature at the storage tank and on the fuel vapor pressure of the air/fuel fluid delivered to the storage tank. During summer conditions, the volume of the air/fuel vapor delivered to the storage tank is controlled to be equal to the volume of liquid gasoline removed from the storage tank by drawing excess air into the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Ulrich Bonne
  • Patent number: 6240958
    Abstract: A fuel supply system for automobiles with a fuel tank to which are connected a filler pipe and at least one vent for venting the tank during operation of the automobile and one vent for venting the tank during refueling of the tank. The operation vent line and/or the refueling vent line are components of a multiple-duct line. The filler pipe may also be incorporated in the multiple-duct line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Benteler AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Streubel, Dieter Töpker, Andreas Ewerszumrode
  • Patent number: 6237651
    Abstract: A machine for the filling of containers, and in particular for the fillings of bottles, which combines advantages of a traditional isobaric machine with those of a machine operating under a slight depression, such as a good seal at a neck of a bottle and a minimum absorption of air by an introduced liquid. The machine allows performing steps of pre-evacuating air inside the bottle and insufflating an inert gas through the neck of the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Gruppo Bertolaso S.p.A.
    Inventors: Renato Fuin, Claudio Saurin
  • Patent number: 6237648
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for recognizing and warning of the level of fullness of a waste container in a suction system driven by a motor and provided with an internal chamber kept under suction pressure and comprising the waste container. The method foresees a measurement of the difference of pressure between the internal chamber and the environment outside the vacuum cleaner and an elaboration of such measurement according to a set of rules in fuzzy logic for producing an electric warning signal corresponding to the filling level of the waste container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.
    Inventors: Silvia Busacca, Antonino Cuce′, Antonino Cucuccio
  • Patent number: 6237645
    Abstract: Apparatus and method to prevent fuel spillage from a fuel tank vent used with a boat mounted fuel tank having a filler tube leading thereto from a fuel filler fitting mounted to a surface of the boat and a vent line leading from the fuel tank to a vent extending through the hull of the boat. A member having a hollow interior and a removable closure member is mounted substantially flush with a surface of the boat and in close proximity to the fuel filler fitting. The member has a fitting in the interior thereof which is connected to a first section of vent tube leading from the fuel tank. The interior of the member is also connected to a second section of vent tube that leads to the vent extending through the hull of the boat. When the closure is on the member, the interior of the fuel tank is in communication with the vent. When the boat is to be fueled, the cap is removed from the member and a fuel overflow container is connected to the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: David B. Pountney
  • Publication number: 20010001179
    Abstract: A method for monitoring vapor-to-liquid flow rate in a fuel dispensing system with a vacuum assisted vapor recovery system having a coaxial hose with an outer fuel conduit for delivery of fuel and an inner vapor conduit for recovery of vapor includes the steps of: determining vapor flow rate in the inner vapor conduit; issuing a signal indicative of the vapor flow rate; determining liquid fuel flow rate in the outer fuel conduit; issuing a signal indicative of the liquid fuel flow rate; comparing the signal indicative of the vapor flow rate and the signal indicative of the liquid fuel flow rate; and, when vapor-to-liquid flow rate is outside a predetermined range, issuing a signal. A vacuum assist vapor recovery system, and a fuel dispensing system equipped with such a vapor recovery system are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Publication date: May 17, 2001
    Applicant: Healy Systems, Inc., a New Hampshire Corporation
    Inventor: James W. Healy
  • Patent number: 6230739
    Abstract: A fuel refilling assembly for receiving a filling nozzle to open and close a filler neck of a fuel tank. The refilling assembly has a housing attached to the filler neck to receive the filling nozzle. A valve body is mounted to the housing and moves between seated and unseated positions to equalize the pressure within the filler neck, a filler pipe and the fuel tank. The refilling assembly is characterized by a first flap pivotally mounted to the housing and engaging the valve body for automatically moving the valve body from the seated position to the unseated position. The first flap is pivoted when the filling nozzle is partially inserted within the filler neck. Once the valve body is disengaged, any pressurized fuel vapors within the filler neck, filler pipe and fuel tank are vented to the atmosphere. The venting occurs before the filling nozzle opens the filler neck which ensures a safe filling operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Tesma International Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Gericke
  • Patent number: 6227233
    Abstract: Pressurized fluid apparatus including a pressurized fluid container, a pipe arranged for flow therethrough of the pressurized fluid into the container, a valve operatively connected to an end of the pipe disposed in the container, and a float attached to the valve, wherein the float is buoyed generally upwards by the pressurized fluid filling the container, such that when the float has been moved a predetermined amount, the float closes the valve and substantially stops flow of the pressurized fluid into the container, and wherein the float is insertable through an upper opening of the container, and wherein the valve is rotatably attached to the pipe, the valve being closed by an angular upward movement of the float, characterized by the valve including a tube with a longitudinal bore having a longitudinal axis formed therein, and a piston slidingly disposed in the tube, wherein only when the float is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the piston sealingly abuts an internal end face of the tub
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Mair Kozik
  • Patent number: 6223788
    Abstract: A multi-product fuel dispensing system includes a plurality of reservoir tanks. Each tank has a specific grade of fuel stored therein. Each reservoir tank has a fuel delivery line connected thereto. A fuel delivery conduit has at least two flow channels. One flow channel is connected to receive a first grade of fuel from one of the fuel delivery lines, and another flow channel is connected to receive a second grade of fuel, of a lower grade than the first grade, from another of the fuel delivery lines. A nozzle has a connection to receive fuel from the fuel delivery conduit. A first proportional flow control and blend valve is connected in the system for receiving the first grade of fuel. A second proportional flow control and blend valve is connected in the system for receiving the second grade of fuel. A meter is connected in the system for receiving the second grade of fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Dresser Equipment Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Ken W. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6223765
    Abstract: A casing which provides a fluid and electrical interface between components of a fuel dispensing system. A column pipe which receives fuel pumped from an underground tank connects with a power head mounted in the casing. A check valve controls flow from the power head to a dispensing pipe leading to a fuel dispenser. A hand operated quick connect coupling connects the power head with the check valve housing to facilitate extraction of the power head, column pipe and pump. The check valve element can be removed along with a cover to the check valve housing. Leaking fuel and excessive fuel vapor are returned to the tank by valves. Fuel from the check valve housing used to operate a siphon system is returned to the tank along with fuel needed to relieve excessive pressure in the check valve housing. A junction box in the casing houses electrical wiring and is equipped with a safety barrier plug that accommodates a signal wire from a pressure transducer used to control the fuel flow to the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Marley Pump
    Inventors: Dorsey D. Small, Martin J. Traver, David S. Young, G. Todd Clark, Robert Joe Schwan
  • Patent number: 6223789
    Abstract: A vapor recovery system employs a sensor apparatus for determining the actual content of hydrocarbon in the effluent vapor stream. The vapor flow of the hydrocarbon effluents is regulated by controlling an adjustable valve configured at the intake or outtake side of the vapor pump in accordance with the measured hydrocarbon content. The vapor flow rate is effectively varied without requiring any change in the pump operating speed. Sensor apparatus for performing the hydrocarbon measurements include a fiber-optic sensor, an oxygen sensor, and a crystal oscillation sensor. A solenoid assembly is provided to suitably activate the valve in response to the sensor measurement data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Tokheim Corporation
    Inventor: Wolfgang H. Koch
  • Patent number: 6223790
    Abstract: This invention provides a fluid system for exchanging used hydraulic fluid with fresh hydraulic fluid in an accessed hydraulic circuit. One particular application provides an exchange apparatus for exchanging fluids of the type found in motor vehicle hydraulic circuits. The exchange apparatus may utilize pressurized spent fluid flow as a fluid power medium to activate the auto-replenishing fluid exchanger system to replace the spent fluid with fresh fluid at equalized flow rates. Alternatively, the exchange apparatus may utilize pressurize fresh fluid as a fluid power medium to activate the exchange system. Additional power may be supplied by an external boost pump to supplement the flow of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: James P. Viken
  • Patent number: 6216751
    Abstract: A method for detecting seal failures during manufacture of an insulated glass unit. In this method, a partially assembled glass unit is placed within an enclosure and the enclosure is sealed with the partially assembled glass unit therein. An insulating gas is flowed into and an insulating gas/air mixture is exhausted from the enclosure until the concentration of insulating gas within the enclosure reaches a predetermined value. The pressure within the interpane space is adjusted to a predetermined ambient gauge pressure which represents a predetermined offset from ambient atmospheric pressure. The panes are pressed against the spacer, sealing the interpane space to yield a sealed insulated glass article. Surface profiles of the first and second panes of the sealed insulated glass article are measured to determine a thickness profile. A fault indicator is generated if the thickness profile does not show at least a predetermined deviation of the thickness profile from a predetermined baseline profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Cardinal IG Company
    Inventor: Paul Trpkovski
  • Patent number: 6216755
    Abstract: A device for simultaneously filling a container serving as a fuel tank and a container serving as a reducing-agent container with a single pump nozzle is used for environmentally friendly internal combustion engines with exhaust-gas purification systems requiring both tanks which are to be refilled repeatedly. Filler necks of the containers as well as outlet pipes disposed in the pump nozzle and assigned to the filler necks, are combined. A method for filling the containers is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Ronald Neufert
  • Patent number: 6213175
    Abstract: Method and apparatus, for servicing engine cooling systems, including a service inlet, a vacuum pump, a two-way solenoid interposed between the vacuum pump and the service inlet, a service outlet, a disposal hose, a new fluid tank, a pressure pump interposed between the service outlet and the new fluid tank, a three-way solenoid interposed between the service outlet and the two-way solenoid, a low-level trigger mechanism, a flow control relief valve and other elements to enhance various modes of operation. The apparatus is capable of performing various operations, including closed-loop fluid cycle, fluid vacuum, fluid top-off, fluid exchange and fluid flow control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Motorvac Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John Rome, Eduardo Betancourt
  • Patent number: 6213172
    Abstract: A fraud detection system within a fuel dispenser includes the ability to measure the amount of fuel dispensed through the fuel dispenser. The measurement is compared to a value independently created representing what the amount of fuel dispensed should approximate. If the values are not comparable, an alarm may be generated to indicate that the fuel dispenser has been modified to perpetrate fraud upon the customers. In particular, a reference used in the comparison is created bearing on a vapor recovery system associated with the fuel dispenser. The vapor recovery system, by its collection of vapor during the fueling transaction provides an independent number related to the amount of fuel actually dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Timothy E. Dickson
  • Patent number: 6213170
    Abstract: A valveless fuel tank assembly for a vehicle including a fuel tank having an interior chamber to hold fuel therein. The valveless fuel tank assembly also includes a vapor canister to adsorb fuel vapor in the fuel tank. The valveless fuel tank assembly includes a fill-limit tube connected to the fuel tank and communicating with the interior chamber and a tank vent tube connected to the vapor canister and operatively connected to the fill-limit tube. The valveless fuel tank assembly further includes an oleophobic filter connected to the fill-limit tube to allow vapor fuel to communicate with the vapor canister and to prevent liquid fuel from communicating with the vapor canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David Howard Burke, Mahlon Richard Pachciarz
  • Patent number: 6213171
    Abstract: A method and a system are disclosed for filling a straw which is fitted with a stopper that is permeable to gases and impermeable to liquids and which has a diameter greater than or equal to approximately three millimeters with a liquid while it is vertical. A primary vacuum is established in the straw. The straw is then filled and a quantity of air remaining above the resulting column of liquid is evacuated, enabling homogeneous filling of the straw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: IMV Technologies
    Inventors: Jean-GĂ©rard Saint-Ramon, Christian Beau, Alain Ehrsam
  • Patent number: 6206057
    Abstract: A refueling fuel level responsive control valve with a two-stage closing operation providing an initial soft shutoff cue to the filler nozzle operator, and a subsequent final shutoff after a limited amount of “roundoff” filling to a maximum fuel level. The control valve includes two float-operated valve elements which dose serially in response to initial shutoff and final shutoff refueling fuel levels. The initial shutoff partially closes the control valve to create a temporary shutoff-inducing increase in fuel tank pressure. Final shutoff occurs after allowing a few round-off “clicks” of the filler nozzle to fully close venting through the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: G. T. Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Benjey, Rudolph Bergsma
  • Patent number: 6199958
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydraulic unit for an automotive vehicle brake system according to the recirculation principle, wherein each brake system in the area of the hydraulic unit includes a prefilling location which opens into the pump suction conduit to take up brake fluid. Thus, filling of the hydraulic unit can be simplified by prefilling of the secondary circuit in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co., OHG
    Inventor: Martin Baechle
  • Patent number: 6199602
    Abstract: A large drum for containing high dispersion, high air content solids for repeated filling and emptying by means of vacuum filling plants and a method for filling them. The drums consist of at least two layers, an inner layer consisting of uncoated air-permeable fabric and an outer layer being coated so as to be dust tight and provide a moisture barrier. These layers being connected to one another by means of a special seam, so that it is possible for the drum to be deaerated solely through this seam. The seam includes an air-permeable dust-retaining filter strip material disposed between the drum layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Wacker-Chemie GmbH
    Inventors: Helmut Maginot, Armin Grossmann
  • Patent number: 6199600
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for injecting working liquid into a micro-injecting device and a method for injecting the working liquid into the micro-injecting device. A container filled with the working liquid is in a vacuum chamber connected to a vacuum device, a plurality of cartridges having micro-injecting devices are inserted into the container and the working liquid in the container is filled into heating chambers of each micro-injecting device. Accordingly, the total manufacturing processes can be simplified so as to increase a production yield and the total manufacturing time of the products can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Byung-sun Ahn, Lavrishev Vadim Petrovich, Dunaev Boris Nikolaevich
  • Patent number: 6196280
    Abstract: A combination of a nozzle and a fuel tank fitting for delivering liquefied natural gas (LNG) from a dispenser to a fuel tank. The fuel tank fitting comprises first and second valve assemblies coupled to the fuel tank in close proximity to each other. Each valve assembly has a flow passage extending therethrough in communication with the interior of the tank. The nozzle comprises a housing forming a handle portion and a nozzle portion for mating with the valve assemblies of the fuel tank fitting to form a liquid-tight seal therebetween. First and second flow passages extend through the nozzle and provide respectively a fuel supply line and a vent return line. First and second valve assemblies are disposed in the first and second flow passages in the nozzle. A releasable cooperative clamp is carried by the fuel tank fitting and the nozzle for securing the nozzle to the tank fitting when the nozzle has been mated to the fuel tank fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Liberty Fuels, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond E. Tate, Jr., Harold M. Lee, Alan T. Ziegler
  • Patent number: 6193500
    Abstract: The present invention combines the gasoline vapor recovery efficiency advantages of a Hirt “Partial Seal System”, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,680,004 to Hirt, with the customer convenience advantages of gasoline vapor recovery systems employing “bootless” nozzles. The use of bootless nozzles in combination with strict environmental vapor emissions compliance is made possible because of specific system advantages, which include the use of a burner designed to operate at two different flow rates, a coaxial processor stack which permits second and third stage combustion of excess gasoline vapor generated by the system before it is released to atmosphere, and a remote sensor which continually monitors system vacuum pressure to ensure that a sufficient vacuum is maintained at all times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventors: Robert Bradt, Thomas J. Smith, Gilbert Castro