Abstract: A turbine flow meter used as a vapor flow meter in a vapor recovery-equipped fuel dispenser. The turbine flow meter measures the vapor recovered by the fuel dispenser during a fueling operation that is returned back to the underground storage tank. The turbine flow meter measurements may be ignored when fuel is no longer flowing through the fuel dispenser since the turbine rotors in the turbine flow meter may continue to rotate even after vapor is not longer being recovered.

Abstract: An improved storage reservoir assembly has increased resistance to leakage of fluid from the assembly into the ground. The assembly comprises a storage reservoir suitable for being buried beneath ground level and suitable for containing a fluid and at least one support unit attached to or disposed adjacent to the reservoir and suitable for attachment to an above-ground canopy. The assembly also provides for substantially surrounding the reservoir with a hydrostatic head of a second fluid for detecting reservoir leaks by infiltration of the second fluid within the reservoir. This may be accomplished through an enclosure suitable for substantially surrounding the reservoir or through the use of a double-walled reservoir, with the second fluid contained within the enclosure or between the walls of a double-walled reservoir. In addition, the assembly provides for a piping network of the distribution system for supplying remote service islands to be located within a primary above-ground canopy.

Abstract: A fuel vapor pressure management apparatus for a fuel system performs leak detection on a headspace of the fuel system, performs excess negative pressure relief of the headspace, and performs excess positive pressure relief of the headspace. The fuel vapor pressure management apparatus includes a diaphragm that is deformable between a nearly undeformed configuration that is associated with performing leak detection, a first deformed configuration that is associated with performing excess negative pressure relief, and a second deformed configuration that is associated with performing excess positive pressure relief. A first fluid flow through the diaphragm occurs when the diaphragm is in the first deformed configuration. A second fluid flow through the diaphragm occurs when the diaphragm is in the second deformed configuration, and the second fluid flow is opposite to the first fluid flow.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for managing fuel vapor pressure in a fuel system that supplies fuel to an internal combustion engine. The fuel vapor pressure management apparatus performs leak detection on a headspace of the fuel system, performs excess negative pressure relief of the headspace, and performs excess positive pressure relief of the headspace. The apparatus includes a housing, a pressure operable device, and a printed circuit board. The housing defines an interior chamber. The pressure operable device separates the interior chamber into first and second portions. And the pressure operable device includes a poppet that moves along an axis and a seal that is adapted to cooperatively engage the poppet. The printed circuit board is supported by the housing in the interior chamber. And the printed circuit board includes a sensor that is adapted to be actuated by movement of the poppet along the axis.

Abstract: A method of designing a fuel vapor pressure management apparatus that performs leak detection on a headspace of a fuel system. A pressure operable device separates the housing into first and second portions, and includes a seal and a poppet that cooperatively engages the seal with a contact force. The seal includes a first effective area that is equal to a difference between a first area defined by a major perimeter and a second area defined by a minor perimeter. The poppet moves along an axis and includes a second effective area that is defined by the minor perimeter of the seal. A first pressure level, at which excess negative pressure is relieved, is calculated by dividing the contact force by the first effective area. And a second pressure level, at which excess positive pressure is relieved, is calculated by dividing the activation force by the second effective area.

Abstract: A compact, hand carryable, closed-loop refilling, purging, and pressure testing device adapted for use liquid motor vehicle cooling systems. The disclosed device performs the full range of filling, removal of gasses and contaminants, and pressure testing, in a small unit that can sit on a workbench or the floor to perform the tasks. The device requires no removal or possible damage to any of the hose connections of the cooling system. Another advantage is the limitation of accidental spillage or leakage of the antifreeze fluid into the environment due to the closed nature of the system. Additionally, utility is provided by a surging and unloading valve which causes system fluid to surge toward an exit upon reaching a designated pressure, thereby purging gas from the cooling system by carrying it along in such surges.

Abstract: A vapor pressure equalizer system for reducing the pressure of a storage tank that contains volatile liquid or fuel. A conduit is connected to the storage tank that draws vapors present in the ullage of the storage tank into the conduit. The vapors are circulated through the conduit to cool the vapor and return the vapor to the storage tank. In this manner, the pressure of the storage tank is reduced since the vapors being returned are cooler and smaller in volume than when the vapors entered the conduit. The conduit may be an open system that circulates vapors, or may be a closed system that circulates a cooling media through a radiator in the ullage of the storage tank. An electronic controller controls the operation of the system according to measurements that indicate an overpressure condition or a likelihood of future over-pressurization.

Abstract: A waste processing system is provided herein which entails the use of at least one fixed-position plasma arc generator for primary processing and at least one moveable plasma arc generator for secondary processing assistance and/or final conditioning of the slag prior to exit from the reactor vessel. This optimum processing environment is provided by control of reactor vessel configuration and real time control of processing characteristics to ensure maximum processing efficiency.

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.

Abstract: Interconnecting a fluid interchange apparatus with a power steering system of a vehicle; pumping spent fluid from the power steering system into a fluid receiving container to compress air pressure therein; interconnecting, with a pressure actuated valve, the fluid receiving container and a replacement fluid container, the replacement fluid container holding a replacement fluid; automatically opening the pressure actuated valve when a selected amount of the spent fluid from the power steering system is transferred into the fluid receiving container resulting in an air pressure sufficient to open the pressure actuated valve; and draining, under the force of the sufficient air pressure, the replacement fluid from the replacement fluid container into the power steering system to replace the spent fluid in the power steering system with the replacement fluid.

Abstract: A fluid servicing apparatus including a manifold body with a fluid transfer circuit defining a plurality of pathways between a number of ports including first and second pump ports opening into a pump cavity for receiving a pump body coupled to a motor for driving the pump body to circulate fluid in the cavity and through the fluid transfer circuit to exchange fluid between the new and used fluid tanks and a vehicle subsystem fluid reservoir.

Abstract: A process and system for the recovery of vapour from a vessel holding a volatile liquid. The delivery of liquid to a vessel (6) is carried out such that at least one zone of negative pressure is created by the movement of the liquid whereby any vapour in the vessel is drawn into the liquid and returned to the vessel therein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for controlling the recovery of vapour at stations for the dispensing of liquid fuels, e.g. petrol of various grades, from a first tank or container to a second tank or container by the intermediary of a pump and a line and/or hose with a nozzle, e.g.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plastic fuel safety system comprising (i) a liquid fuel tank which is fitted with a filler pipe that is equipped with a guide for a supply gun comprising a sealing device, (ii) a float valve, which is normally open, for the degassing and venting of the tank and (iii) a pipe for channelling the vapours and for fixing the maximum level of the liquid in the tank, said pipe connecting the upper part of the tank with an area located downstream of the sealing device. The invention also relates to a tank for a vehicle which is fitted with one such safety system and to an end plug for the filler pipe which, when in closed position, isolates the tank degassing and venting circuits.

Abstract: A method for controlling pressure in the vapor or ullage space of an underground storage tank of volatile liquid fuel includes treatment or conditioning of gaseous flow of vapor and air and/or air into the ullage space in a manner to increase the fuel vapor concentration of the gaseous flow toward saturation. A system for controlling pressure in the vapor or ullage space of an underground storage tank of volatile liquid fuel is also described.

Abstract: A fuel cut valve is disposed at a higher position than a fill up level in a fuel tank and communicates with an evaporative passage communicating between the fuel tank and a canister through an orifice. Further, a volume chamber is disposed at a higher position than the filling up level in the fuel tank and communicates with the evaporative passage downstream of the orifice. Further, a liquid level restricting valve is disposed in the vicinity of the fill up level and communicates with the evaporative passage through the volume chamber. When the liquid level of fuel reaches the fill up level at refueling, the liquid level restricting valve is closed to prevent overfilling of fuel by restricting the volume of the fuel vapor passing through the orifice. During traveling of a vehicle, fuel vapor is fed to the canister through the fuel cut valve and the liquid level restricting valve.

Abstract: A vapor pressure equalizer system for reducing the pressure of a storage tank that contains volatile liquid or fuel. A conduit is connected to the storage tank that draws vapors present in the ullage of the storage tank into the conduit. The vapors are circulated through the conduit to cool the vapor and return the vapor to the storage tank. In this manner, the pressure of the storage tank is reduced since the vapors being returned are cooler and smaller in volume than when the vapors entered the conduit. The conduit may be an open system that circulates vapors, or may be a closed system that circulates a cooling media through a radiator in the ullage of the storage tank. An electronic controller controls the operation of the system according to measurements that indicate an overpressure condition or a likelihood of future over-pressurization.

Abstract: Described are a method of and an apparatus for supplying fuel for a motor vehicle comprising at least one hydrogen consumer wherein the hydrogen is liberated by catalytic reaction of a hydrogen donor provided as the fuel and recyclable fuel which has reacted in that operation is produced. The method comprises taking unreacted fuel from a first storage volume, filling at least one second storage volume separate from the first storage volume with reacted fuel and at least partially additionally using the first storage volume which has become vacant by virtue of unreacted fuel being taken therefrom, for storage of the reacted fuel. A fuel container arrangement includes at least one storage container for unreacted fuel and communicating with a removal container for supplying the fuel to the reaction, and a collecting container communicating with a storage container, when vacated of unreacted fuel, by way of a flow transfer conduit for transferring reacted fuel to the storage container.

Abstract: An electrically operated valve is connected in the vapor recirculation line from a float operated vent valve, or a direct vapor recirculation line from the tank top to the upper end of the tank filler tube. The electrically operated valve is actuated by an electronic controller (ECU) which receives a fuel level signal either from the float operated level sender or from a thermistor located in the tank adjacent the top wall of the tank.

Abstract: A containment system for biohazardous fluids is described. The containment system operates under the action of gravity at substantially constant atmospheric pressure. The system includes a container having a first membrane and a second membrane coupled together to enclose a containment volume. The first membrane is characterized by being permeable to gases and impermeable to liquids and aerosols. The second membrane is characterized by being impermeable to gasses and liquids and includes an inlet port configured to receive a tube. A self-sealing inlet port minimizes splashing back and spillage. Particular embodiments include a single-use liner assembly and a rigid, reusable receptacle with a securable lid and a drain for disposing of collected fluids. The receptacle may be coupled to the liner assembly to substantially enclose the liner.

Abstract: This device is intended for a motor vehicle tank (2) having on the one hand a filler pipe (4) provided with a flap (12) mounted so as to pivot about a spindle (34), prestressed in the closed position and intended to be opened by the end of a filling nozzle (10), and on the other hand a pipe (16, 18) for venting the tank. A device (20) is provided for closing off the vent pipe (16, 18) of the tank whilst it is being filled, being controlled from the pivoting of the flap (12) about its spindle (34).

Abstract: Interconnecting a fluid interchange apparatus with a power steering system of a vehicle; pumping spent fluid from the power steering system into a fluid receiving container to compress air pressure therein; interconnecting, with a pressure actuated valve, the fluid receiving container and a replacement fluid container, the replacement fluid container holding a replacement fluid; automatically opening the pressure actuated valve when a selected amount of the spent fluid from the power steering system is transferred into the fluid receiving container resulting in an air pressure sufficient to open the pressure actuated valve; and draining, under the force of the sufficient air pressure, the replacement fluid from the replacement fluid container into the power steering system to replace the spent fluid in the power steering system with the replacement fluid.

Abstract: A manifold assembly for use in conjunction with a servicing apparatus for exchanging fluid between a serviceable automobile component and new and used fluid tanks and including a rigid manifold body with a fluid circuit defining a plurality of pathways connecting a plurality of ports whereby fluid is directed through the fluid circuit and ports by selectively operating first and second valves and circulated using a common pump to exchange fluid, recirculate fluid, and drain both the used and new fluid tanks as desired.

Abstract: A single-point connection apparatus for a closed fluid transfer delivery system having a mobile dispense to transfers liquid from a chemical delivery vessel to a chemical-receiving device, e.g., a dry cleaning machine, with return flow of vapor therefrom to the delivery vessel. A first passage selectively connects the delivery vessel to the liquid-receiving device. Liquid is only then pumped to the liquid-receiving device. A second passage connects the receiving device to the delivery vessel for a vapor return flow. A chamber of the apparatus has a filling valve to receive a filling adapter to deliver liquid. Associated with the filling valve is a relief valve mechanism providing continuous, uninterrupted liquid flow at an increased liquid flow rate through the first passage, inhibiting backflow of liquid through the second passage for continuous, uninterrupted vapor flow from the liquid-receiving device while liquid is being received by that device.

Abstract: An automatic water shutoff system for filling water tanks on concrete mixer trucks, including a nozzle assembly attached to a water hose. The nozzle assembly includes a first elongated tube surrounded by a second shorter tube. A flange closes the proximal end of the second tube and forms an air chamber between the first and second tubes. The end of the first tube closest to the flange forms a water inlet nipple. An air pressure sensing tap is formed by a small tube passing through the flange. One end of the tap communicates with the air chamber and a second end of the tap is attachable to an air pressure sensing tube, operatively coupled to a pressure switch. When pressure in the air chamber reaches a predetermined, water tank full level, the pressure switch causes the pump or valve to turn off the flow of water into the tank.

Abstract: A servicing apparatus for exchanging fluid between a serviceable automobile component and new and used fluid tanks and including a manifold with a fluid circuit defining a plurality of pathways connecting a plurality of ports whereby fluid is directed through the fluid circuit and ports by selectively operating first and second valves and circulated using a common pump to exchange fluid, recirculate fluid, and drain both the used and new fluid tanks as desired.

Abstract: A fluid servicing apparatus for exchanging fluids with a power steering fluid reservoir including drain and supply conduits with inline pumps coupled to a control board on a cabinet housing new and used fluid receptacles and a remote pump actuator in communication with the control board including a switch selectively operable to actuate either of said pumps to drain and fill the reservoir.

Abstract: A method in which large-volume gas containers, for example, airships having a gas holding capacity of, for example, 400,000 m3, can be filled with a process gas, includes first completely filling the container with an auxiliary gas, the density of which differs from that of the process gas. The process gas is then quiescently introduced into an upper area of the gas container in such a way that no significant mixing with the air occurs and, at the same time, the auxiliary gas is removed by suction from the lower area of the gas container. To purify the contents of the gas container, purified or fresh process gas is quiescently introduced into the upper area of the gas container in such a way that no significant mixing with the contaminated process gas present in the gas container. At the same time, the contaminated process gas is removed by suction from the lower area of the gas container. To empty the gas container, the above-described process is reversed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring a fuel vapor recovery system to determine if a leak condition exists in either the vapor return passage in a fuel dispenser or a common vapor return pipe. An air-flow sensor (AFS) may be located in the common vapor return pipe for all of the dispensing points at a service station, or in each fuel dispenser and coupled to the dispensing points of the fuel dispenser. The AFS registers vapor flow recovered by a dispensing point(s) that is returned back to the storage tank. If the AFS measures vapor flow when such dispensing point(s) coupled to such AFS is not actively recovering vapor, this is indicative of a leak in such dispensing point(s). The leak condition is reported by a tank monitor or other reporting system so that appropriate measures can be taken.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for extracting fuel vapour displaced during the simultaneous operation of at least two fuel-dispensing units using a gas pump device. Each fuel-dispensing unit comprises a vapour extraction conduit in which a control valve is arranged. The different vapour extraction conduits are connected to a single gas pump device. The underpressure to be created by the gas pump device and essential for discharge of the correct quantity of vapour is determined, whereafter the control valves are adjusted such that they each allow through the correct quantity of vapour at the specific underpressure.

Abstract: A vapor recovery system in a fuel dispenser includes the ability to self diagnose the continued viability of a hydrocarbon sensor positioned within the vapor recovery system. A control system associated with the vapor recovery system performs a series of tests including passing pure air over the hydrocarbon sensor and passing a gas known to have hydrocarbons therein over the sensor and evaluating the output of the sensor to see if expected values are output. If the measured values are not within tolerable limits, an alarm is generated.

Abstract: A fuel feed pipe 1 having a branch pipe 6 for releasing evaporated fuel to a canister is provided, wherein the fuel feed pipe 1 is provided with a branch pipe blocking mechanism 8 for blocking an opening of the branch pipe 6 by being mechanically linked with the motion of inserting a fuel feed gun G. The branch pipe blocking mechanism 8 consists of a leaf spring 9 made of stainless steel and a rubber seal 10. A base end section of the leaf spring 9 is secured to a fuel feed guide 3 and a top side of the leaf spring 9 is provided with the rubber seal 10. When a shutter valve 4 is rotated by the insertion of the fuel feed gun G, the leaf spring 9 is elastically deformed by being mechanically linked with the rotation of the shutter valve 4 to allow the rubber seal 10 to close the opening of the branch pipe 6.

Abstract: A system is provided that includes a load lock apparatus having an interior configured to receive an object. At least one inlet valve may be flow coupled to the interior of the load lock apparatus, and at least one outlet valve may also be flow coupled to the interior of the load lock apparatus. A controller may be configured to selectively control opening and closing of the at least one inlet valve. The load lock apparatus may include an object receiving mechanism that is movable within the interior of the load lock apparatus to throttle the evacuation of the interior. Several methods of using the system and load lock apparatuses are also disclosed.

Abstract: A housing for a fluid transfer machine includes a base and a pedestal extending outward from the base in a substantially vertical orientation and terminating in a platform. The base has a perimeter defined by an edge, and the pedestal is offset inward from the edge to provide an open space beneath the platform between an underside of the platform and a topside of the base member. This space stores at least one container for a fluid. A cover is mounted to move between an open position where the platform is exposed and a closed position where the platform is covered.

Abstract: A fuel tank for a motor vehicle comprises at least one fuel filling opening, at least one fuel delivery pump, at least one operational vent and at least one refueling vent valve. The vent and vent valve are connected to a fuel vapor filter by way of at least one vent conduit. At least one bead removal container is connected on the upstream side of the fuel vapor filter. At least one bead removal container and the refueling vent valve are combined to form a functional unit in the form of a vent unit adapted to fit into an opening through the wall of the tank.

Abstract: An electric motor driven pump has a regulator valve for establishing a system pressure within a predetermined pressure range. The regulator valve has three bias pressures and a spring force imposed thereon. One of the bias pressures assists the spring to increase the system pressure and the other two bias pressures either balance the spring and one bias pressure or lower the system pressure. The one bias pressure is established by an electro-hydraulic control mechanism as a function of operating parameters in a powertrain which uses the fluid pressure from the pump. One of the other bias pressures is equal to system pressure and the last bias pressure is available when a predetermined drive condition is requested in the powertrain. A first electrical switch is activated by fluid pressure from the regulator valve if the system pressure is below the demanded pressure and a second electrical switch is activated by fluid pressure from the regulator valve if the system pressure is above the demanded pressure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for controlling the recovery of vapour at stations for the dispensing of liquid fuels, e.g. petrol of various grades, from a first tank or container to a second tank or container by the intermediary of a pump and a line and/or hose with a nozzle, e.g.

Abstract: An apparatus for changing power steering fluid in an automotive power steering system, uses the components of an fluid receiving container; an fluid supply container; a utility fluid pump, a pressure actuated fluid valve; and a fluid conducting means. The components are arranged such that air is compressed in the fluid receiving container by entry of spent power steering fluid and builds to open the pressure actuated valve so as to drive replacement power steering fluid into the power steering system, replacing the spent fluid.

Abstract: An improved storage reservoir assembly has increased resistance to leakage of fluid from the assembly into the ground. The assembly comprises a storage reservoir suitable for being buried beneath ground level and suitable for containing a fluid, at least one support unit attached to the reservoir and suitable for attachment to an above-ground canopy and an enclosure suitable for partially surrounding the reservoir. The enclosure is spaced from the reservoir so as to define a void therebetween, and the void is filled with a filling material suitable for decreasing leakage of fluid into the ground and/or assisting maintaining the buried condition of the reservoir within the ground. In an alternative embodiment, a reservoir includes at least one fluid-tight passageway therethrough for accommodating the insertion of at least one support unit suitable for attachment to an above-ground canopy and for supporting the above-ground canopy external to the reservoir.

Abstract: A powder packing apparatus of the present invention is capable of sending a gas uniformly into powder to thereby fluidize the powder with a minimum amount of gas. The gas conveys the fluidized powder to the bottom of a container that may have a small mouth or a sophisticated configuration. The gas present in the powder introduced in the container is released via a powder layer between a nozzle and the mouth. The apparatus can therefore easily, densely pack the container with the powder without causing the powder to fly out of the container. Further, the apparatus is miniature, easy to carry and easy to operate and can therefore be handled by any person at any plate.

Abstract: A coupling device for fueling automobile gasoline tanks is disclosed and claimed. The coupling has two parts: a cap assembly (female half) and a nozzle assembly (male half). Little or no spillage occurs due to opposing flush faces of the female main valve and the plug of the male. The cap assembly is affixed to an existing gasoline tank (fuel storage tank) or alternatively can be supplied as original equipment on a new automobile. Fuel vapor is extracted from the automobile fuel tank with high efficiency and returned to the pumping station for storage and/or reprocessing. Vapors and/or liquid fuel are extracted through the portion of the gasoline tank cap assembly which resides within the tank. Apertures in the cap assembly communicate with an annular passageway which removes the vapors to ports which mate with peripheral apertures in a concentric nozzle having an outer sheath and an inner fluid conduit.

Abstract: A method of managing fuel vapor pressure in a fuel system. The method includes locating between first and second ports a poppet and a seal cooperating with the poppet, positioning the seal in a substantially symmetrically deformed configuration so as to sense a negative pressure at a first pressure level, positioning the seal in a generally asymmetrically deformed configuration so as to vent negative pressure below the first pressure level, and positioning the seal in an undeformed configuration so as to vent positive pressure above a second pressure level. The poppet is movable along an axis. And the seal is flexible between the undeformed configuration when disengaged from the poppet, the substantially symmetrically deformed configuration when engaged with the poppet, and the generally asymmetrically deformed configuration when engaged with the poppet.

Abstract: A vapor pressure equalizer system for reducing the pressure of a storage tank that contains volatile liquid or fuel. A conduit is connected to the storage tank that draws vapors present in the ullage of the storage tank into the conduit. The vapors are circulated through the conduit to cool the vapor and return the vapor to the storage tank. In this manner, the pressure of the storage tank is reduced since the vapors being returned are cooler and smaller in volume than when the vapors entered the conduit. The conduit may be an open system that circulates vapors, or may be a closed system that circulates a cooling media through a radiator in the ullage of the storage tank. An electronic controller controls the operation of the system according to measurements that indicate an overpressure condition or a likelihood of future over-pressurization.

Abstract: A method of filling a bag with pourable, especially powdery material, by means of a dispensing device with a vertical filling pipe which can be introduced into the bag and which comprises flanging-on means at its upper end and a closing device at its lower end, wherein prior to or during the filling operation, air is extracted from the material above the closing device via the inside of the filling pipe.

Abstract: A system and method for removing, compressing, and storing excess air and vapors from a fuel dispensing facility fuel storage containment system during periods of over-pressurization without venting or processing the excess air and vapors. The stored air and vapors are subsequently returned back to the containment system during periods of under-pressurization that typically occur diurnally during periods of high fueling activity. The system may be used to compliment an ORVR compatible dispensing system that typically encounters over-pressurization problems when low or no refueling activity is occurring.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recovering vapor during the dispensing of gasoline via a hose into a vehicle tank, according to which a turbine disposed in a vapor passage and is activated in response to the dispensing of the gasoline for drawing the vapor from the tank and into the vapor passage. Blades on the turbine separate the air from the gasoline vapor. The vapor is returned to the liquid stream and the air discharged to atmosphere. The apparatus therefore does not require vapor return piping to the underground tanks.

Abstract: A method for controlled proportioning of liguids with a postive-displacement device (2) for dislocating a gas cushion (17) includes measuring the pressure (pab) in the gas cushion (17) at the time of a complete discharge of a liquid volume, measuring the discharge time (tab) for a complete discharge of the liquid volume and determining the time demand (&Dgr;t) to compress the gas cushion (17) by the postive-displacement device by means of the pressure (pab), the dead volume (Vo) of the gas cushion (17), a gas condition equation, and the volumetric gas flow (Q) discharged by the postive-displacement device. A corrected discharge time (toab) is determined as a proportioning control magnitude by a deduction of the time demand (&Dgr;t) from the measured dischage time (tab) with outputting, and/or saving, and/or resorting to the deviation of the corrected discharge time (toab) from a desired discharge time (tsoll) for regulating the discharge of the liquid volume.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recovering vapor during the dispensing of gasoline via a hose into a vehicle tank, according to which a turbine disposed in a vapor passage and is activated in response to the dispensing of the gasoline for drawing the vapor from the tank and into the vapor passage. Blades on the turbine separate the air from the gasoline vapor. The vapor is returned to the liquid stream and the air discharged to atmosphere. The apparatus therefore does not require vapor return piping to the underground tanks.

Abstract: A system and method for evacuating potential wafer-corroding and contaminating residual process gases from the interior of a semiconductor wafer pod before, after or both before and after a process is performed on the wafers. The residual process gases are first evacuated from the wafer pod, which is next charged with a fresh supply of inert gas. The system is adapted to evacuate and charge the wafer pod as the wafer pod typically rests on a load port of a SMIF prior to transfer of the pod to another destination in the semiconductor fabrication facility, prior to internalization of the wafers into a processing tool, or both.

Abstract: An assembly for transferring solid particulate matter has a pressurized vessel for retaining a pre-determined quantity of the solid material. A discharge conduit connected to the vessel carries the solid material to a loading vessel, be it a processing tank, a storage vessel, or any other similar container. A discharge nozzle carried by a distant end of the discharge conduit is also connected to a dust collection container. Vacuum created in the dust collection container facilitates entrapment of dust particles generated during transfer of the solid material through the discharge container and carrying of the dust particles away from the discharge opening of the discharge nozzle into the dust collection container.