Gas Treatment Patents (Class 141/63)
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Patent number: 6668877Abstract: A filling system having a discharge unit to fill still beverages under an open ambience into containers. The filling system has an annular nozzle from which blows a sterile gas in the direction of filling. The nozzle is mounted on the filling system concentrically with the discharge unit such that sterile gas encircles beverages being discharged from the discharge unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Alfill Engineering GmbH & Co KGInventors: Jorn Richard Fehland, Jens H. Popplau
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Patent number: 6659144Abstract: A system for strengthening containers in a high-speed filling operation is disclosed. The system includes a solenoid-driven injector apparatus positioned at an angle to the containers being filled. The injector apparatus includes a chamber connected via an intake line to a supply tank. A solenoid is adapted to open an injector valve, allowing liquefied gas within a chamber to forcibly flow through an outflow line into the container. The solenoid is also adapted to close the injector valve, thereby blocking the liquefied gas within the chamber from entering the outflow line. The injector apparatus also includes a heater positioned adjacent to the outflow line and an adjustment device for the injector valve.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Coors Brewing CompanyInventors: Robert H. Schultz, Christopher S. Derks, Elizabeth J. McTeer
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Patent number: 6648034Abstract: A manifold comprising a container having two ports; a conduit connecting the container to a source/dispense of chemical having a first end and a second end and a connector for the ends; first block valve having two diaphragm valves, each valve having a valve seat side and a diaphragm side, each valve seat side faces the other valve seat side, and connected to the first end of the conduit, one diaphragm side connected to a first port, and another diaphragm side connected to vent; a second block valve having two diaphragm valves, having a valve seat side and a diaphragm side, wherein each valve seat side faces the other valve seat side, and each valve seat side connected to the second end of the conduit, the diaphragm side of one valve connected to purge, and the diaphragm side of another valve connected to push gas or chemical outlet.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Charles Michael Birtcher, Martin Castaneda Martinez, Thomas Andrew Steidl, Gil Vivanco, David James Silva
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Patent number: 6609542Abstract: A cutter assembly for cutting a membrane which seals a transfer spigot on a container, the cutter assembly including a valve including a valve body adapted to engage the transfer spigot, the valve body, including a valve closure member, adapted to be moved between open and closed positions to open and close the valve, at least one elongate cutter which terminates in a cutting tip, the cutting tip being adapted to rupture or slit the membranes, actuation means for providing axial movement to the elongate cutter within the valve body, and the actuation means and/or the elongate cutter being adapted to move and cut a membrane independently of the operation of the valve closure member, and when the valve is in the open condition, the at least one elongate cutter can pass the valve closure member to engage the membrane to be cut.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: Visy Films and Laminates Pty LimitedInventor: Ian Anderson
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Patent number: 6568435Abstract: A system and method that removes an unwanted gas or unwanted gases or volatile liquids from containers or spaces that have only one venthole. The unwanted gases are replaced by a desirable, usually inert gas. The containers may be filled with granular solids of any size or shape; the containers may be of any size or geometry. The method consists of a pump system that applies small pressure oscillations to the single vent hole. These oscillations compress and expand the gas in the container. The resulting gas displacements in the container generate vortices in the gas spaces between the granular solids which mix the gases, replacing the unwanted resident gas by a desirable gas. The theory is related to the dispersion in porous media. Experiments are presented that document the time needed for the washout of the unwanted resident gas.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Inventor: Marc J. Jaeger
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Patent number: 6557593Abstract: A highly reliable bulk chemical delivery system for high purity chemicals employing a manifold that ensures contamination free operation and canister change outs with a minimum of valves and tubing.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: Stephen H. Siegele, Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg
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Patent number: 6543493Abstract: An apparatus of measuring both concentration and amount of a liquid in a liquid chemical container is presented, comprising viewing light emanating from a first optical member that is in visual contact with the liquid, the light emanating from the optical member having a level indicating quality; and routing light from a second optical member that is in visual contact with the liquid to means for optical discrimination between liquid chemical based on different optical properties.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignees: L'Air Liquide - Societe'Anonyme a' Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude, American Air Liquide, Inc.Inventors: Gregory M. Jursich, Kevin Sirk
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Patent number: 6533000Abstract: A hermetic substrate transportation container permitting storage of an electronic substrate is provided, keeping a rise of internal moisture concentration low, thus preventing generation of natural oxidation film on the surface of the electronic substrate and allowing detection of the contents inside the substrate transportation container, from outside. A container body having an aperture for loading and unloading an electronic substrate, the substrate transportation container comprising a lid for sealing such aperture, in which the container body and the lid are made of a material having an amorphous polyolefin as its main constituent. By constituting the container body and the lid using the amorphous polyolefin with low hygroscopic characteristic as a main constituent, it is possible to keep discharge of moisture from the internal wall thereof low and also to prevent an increase of moisture concentration in the sealed compartment.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Koichiro Saga
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Patent number: 6520218Abstract: In a first respect this invention is a container, comprising: a cylindrical, hollow body capped on both ends by a base and a top; a conduit that bisects the top and extends into the interior of the container; and a perforated housing that encompasses the portion of the conduit that extends into the interior of the container. In another broad respect, this invention is a removable splash guard, comprising: a housing having a top and bottom that define an internal space; a lower tube that bisects the bottom, wherein the lower tube has a upper portion which is angled; an upper tube that bisects the top, wherein a portion of the second tube that extends into the internal space contains at least one hole; and a partition interposed between the upper and lower tubes that serves to block movement of a chemical from the lower tube to the opening at the inboard end of the upper tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1998Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: John N. Gregg, Gregory W. Harris, Frank L. Cook, Robert M. Jackson
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Publication number: 20030019539Abstract: A container for product storage including an expandable portion is provided to eliminate space between the container and the product to prolong the remaining products usable life within the container after opening. The invention includes a storage container (30) that has a cover (32) and product (34) within its interior. An inflatable bladder (36) is disposed within the storage container and a tube (38) penetrates through the container and is connected to the bladder. A valve (48) is attached to the tube's distal end and a pressure source, which could include heat or cooling, is connectable to the valve. The combination of the valve and the pressure source supplies the required pressure to inflate the bladder (36) which occupies the space between the product within the storage container (30) and the cover (32) thereby precluding ambient atmospheric contact with the product. A releasable pressure valve (66) is provided to discharge pressure created within the container when the bladder is inflated.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2001Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventor: Rick L. Hornwood
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Patent number: 6505656Abstract: A system for strengthening containers in a high-speed filling operation is disclosed. The system includes a solenoid-driven injector apparatus positioned at an angle to the containers being filled. The injector apparatus includes a chamber connected via an intake line to a supply tank. A solenoid is adapted to open an injector valve, allowing liquefied gas within a chamber to forcibly flow through an outflow line into the container. The solenoid is also adapted to close the injector valve, thereby blocking the liquefied gas within the chamber from entering the outflow line. The injector apparatus also includes a heater positioned adjacent to the outflow line and an adjustment device for the injector valve.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2002Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Coors Brewing CompanyInventors: Robert H. Schultz, Christopher S. Derks, Elizabeth J. McTeer
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Patent number: 6470922Abstract: Apparatus for the recovery of an inert gas, preferably for the recovery of CO2, for use in counterpressure filling machines, the filling elements of which—prior to introduction of a liquid filling material into a container—evacuate this container and at least prepressurize this container with an inert gas under pressure from the pressurizing gas distribution channel:and which elements, during the subsequent introduction of a filling material, conduct the inert gas containing return gas displaced from a corresponding container into a return gas collection channel, wherein a first evacuation system is provided with which the air can be removed from the bottle, and then there is carried out a prepressurizing of the bottles using an inert gas; and a second independent evacuation system is provided with which can be removed and collected, independently of the first evacuation, the inert gas that is being removed by suction.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: KHS Maschinen- und Anlagenbau AGInventor: Siegmar Sindermann
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Patent number: 6463964Abstract: A method of operating a carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, with a beverage, and also a carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, with a beverage. The beverage in the corresponding container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, is carbonated in the container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, while the container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, is being filled in the carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2001Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: KHS Maschinen- und Anlagenbau AGInventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
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Patent number: 6457494Abstract: A chemical delivery system which utilizes multiple techniques to achieve a suitable chemical purge of the chemical delivery system is provided. A purge sequence serves to purge the manifold and canister connection lines of the chemical delivery system prior to removal of an empty chemical supply canister or after a new canister is installed. More particularly, a purge technique which may utilizes a variety of combinations of a medium level vacuum source, a hard vacuum source, and/or a liquid flush system is disclosed. By utilizing a plurality of purge techniques, chemicals such as TaEth, TDEAT, BST, etc. which pose purging difficulties may be efficiently purged from the chemical delivery system. The chemical delivery system may also be provided with an efficient and conveniently located heater system for heating the chemical delivery system cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: John N. Gregg, Craig M. Noah, Robert M. Jackson
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Patent number: 6435227Abstract: An apparatus and method for transferring liquid chlorine or other process material from a larger container to one or more smaller containers, including a valve assembly used to minimize chemical loss, is disclosed herein. The valve assembly minimizes chlorine or other process material loss to the environment by sealing the manifold and the filled cylinder from the environment while the valve assembly is disconnected. The apparatus and methods disclosed herein minimize caustic use associated with purging of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2001Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: California International Chemical CorporationInventor: Michael W. Heinle
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Publication number: 20020069930Abstract: A chemical delivery system which utilizes multiple techniques to achieve a suitable chemical purge of the chemical delivery system is provided. A purge sequence serves to purge the manifold and canister connection lines of the chemical delivery system prior to removal of an empty chemical supply canister or after a new canister is installed. More particularly, a purge technique which may utilizes a variety of combinations of a medium level vacuum source, a hard vacuum source, and/or a liquid flush system is disclosed. By utilizing a plurality of purge techniques, chemicals such as TaEth, TDEAT, BST, etc. which pose purging difficulties may be efficiently purged from the chemical delivery system. The chemical delivery system may also be provided with an efficient and conveniently located heater system for heating the chemical delivery system cabinet.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2001Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventors: John N. Gregg, Craig M. Noah, Robert M. Jackson
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Patent number: 6378571Abstract: A system for strengthening containers in a high-speed filling operation is disclosed. The system includes a supply tank having an intake line connected to a source of liquefied gas. A solenoid-driven injector apparatus positioned at an angle to the containers is connected via another intake line to the supply tank. A back pressure regulator controls the pressure within the supply tank and the injector apparatus. A liquid level control valve within the supply tank prevents liquefied gas from entering the back pressure regulator. Upon sensing the presence of a container, a sensor actuates a solenoid which opens an injector valve, allowing liquefied gas within a chamber to forcibly flow through an outflow line into the container. The solenoid is then deactivated, closing the injector valve and blocking the liquefied gas within the chamber from entering the outflow line. The injector apparatus also includes a heater positioned adjacent to the outflow line and an adjustment device for the injector valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2001Date of Patent: April 30, 2002Assignee: Coors Brewing CompanyInventors: Robert H. Schultz, Christopher S. Derks, Elizabeth J. McTeer
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Patent number: 6374871Abstract: A container for use in a processing chamber to lessen the amount of contaminant particles found within the chamber after processing. The container fits closely within the chamber and includes ports for a gas conduit and a vacuum conduit. The container may be locked to the chamber through a locking mechanism and a recess in the container. The container may be guided into the chamber with a plurality of chamfers. The container may be used in inductively coupled plasma chambers, electron cyclotron resonance chambers, and chambers capable of receiving microwaves.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2001Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Kevin G. Donohoe
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Publication number: 20020038676Abstract: A highly reliable bulk chemical delivery system for high purity chemicals employing a manifold that ensures contamination free operation and canister change outs with a minimum of valves and tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2001Publication date: April 4, 2002Inventors: Stephen H. Siegele, Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg
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Publication number: 20020014276Abstract: A method of operating a carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, with a beverage, and also a carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, with a beverage. The beverage in the corresponding container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, is carbonated in the container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, while the container, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans, is being filled in the carbonated beverage filling machine for filling beverage containers, such as beverage bottles and beverage cans.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2001Publication date: February 7, 2002Inventor: Ludwig Clusserath
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Patent number: 6296026Abstract: A chemical delivery system which utilizes multiple techniques to achieve a suitable chemical purge of the chemical delivery system is provided. A purge sequence serves to purge the manifold and canister connection lines of the chemical delivery system prior to removal of an empty chemical supply canister or after a new canister is installed. More particularly, a purge technique which may utilizes a variety of combinations of a medium level vacuum source, a hard vacuum source, and/or a liquid flush system is disclosed. By utilizing a plurality of purge techniques, chemicals such as TaEth, TDEAT, BST, etc. which pose purging difficulties may be efficiently purged from the chemical delivery system. The chemical delivery system may also be provided with an efficient and conveniently located heater system for heating the chemical delivery system cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: John N. Gregg, Craig M. Noah, Robert M. Jackson
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Patent number: 6296025Abstract: A chemical delivery system which utilizes multiple techniques to achieve a suitable chemical purge of the chemical delivery system is provided. A purge sequence serves to purge the manifold and canister connection lines of the chemical delivery system prior to removal of an empty chemical supply canister or after a new canister is installed. More particularly, a purge technique which may utilizes a variety of combinations of a medium level vacuum source, a hard vacuum source, and/or a liquid flush system is disclosed. By utilizing a plurality of purge techniques, chemicals such as TaEth, TDEAT, BST, etc. which pose purging difficulties may be efficiently purged from the chemical delivery system. The chemical delivery system may also be provided with an efficient and conveniently located heater system for heating the chemical delivery system cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: John N. Gregg, Craig M. Noah, Robert M. Jackson
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Patent number: 6234219Abstract: A container for use in a processing chamber to lessen the amount of contaminant particles found within the chamber after processing. The container fits closely within the chamber and includes ports for a gas conduit and a vacuum conduit. The container may be locked to the chamber through a locking mechanism and a recess in the container. The container may be guided into the chamber with a plurality of chamfers. The container may be used in inductively coupled plasma chambers, electron cyclotron resonance chambers, and chambers capable of receiving microwaves.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Kevin G. Donohoe
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Patent number: 6216751Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 16, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Cardinal IG CompanyInventor: Paul Trpkovski
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Patent number: 6213169Abstract: In a mechanical single-chamber filling system for filling bottles or similar containers with a liquid product, each filling element has a return gas tube that forms a gas or return gas duct that emerges in a gas space of a toroidal bowl. In this gas or return gas duct there is a mechanically actuated pressurization gas valve. The pressurization gas valve is simultaneously realized in the form of a Trinox valve, namely to regulate a Trinox pressure in the respective container, largely independently of the pressure in a Trinox duct.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1999Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: KHS Maschinen- und Anlagenbau AGInventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
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Patent number: 6199604Abstract: Using a clean box comprising a box body having an aperture in one side surface, a side lid for hermetically closing the aperture, and gas inlet and outlet valves provided in the box body and having neither an evacuation device nor a transfer device, the gas inlet and outlet valves are opened by a gas feeding/discharging mechanism in a state in which the aperture of the box body is closed by the side lid, a non-oxidizing gas is introduced through one of the gas inlet and outlet valves into the clean box, and a gas having filled the clean box before the introduction of the non-oxidizing gas is discharged through the other of the gas inlet and outlet valves.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: TDK CorporationInventor: Toshihiko Miyajima
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Patent number: 6199599Abstract: A chemical delivery system which utilizes multiple techniques to achieve a suitable chemical purge of the chemical delivery system is provided. A purge sequence serves to purge the manifold and canister connection lines of the chemical delivery system prior to removal of an empty chemical supply canister or after a new canister is installed. More particularly, a purge technique which may utilizes a variety of combinations of a medium level vacuum source, a hard vacuum source, and/or a liquid flush system is disclosed. By utilizing a plurality of purge techniques, chemicals such as TaEth, TDEAT, BST, etc. which pose purging difficulties may be efficiently purged from the chemical delivery system. The chemical delivery system may also be provided with an efficient and conveniently located heater system for heating the chemical delivery system cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: Advanced Delivery & Chemical Systems Ltd.Inventors: John N. Gregg, Craig M. Noah, Robert M. Jackson
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Patent number: 6196277Abstract: Disclosed is a method for filling barrels (4), specially kegs, with liquids, wherein at least one gas is dissolved. The barrel (4) is pre-stressed using a gas before the liquid is filled. Liquid is then fed into the barrel (4) by means of a filling valve (2) pertaining to a filling station (1) and connected to a feed line (3, 8). During filling, the pre-stress gas contained in the barrel (4) is evacuated. In order to guarantee economical and ecological product processing, the pre-stress gas in the barrel (4) is pre-stressed at only a partial pressure which corresponds approximately to the saturation pressure of the CO2 or N2 which is dissolved in the filled liquid. The flow rate speed is measured in the product feed line and is directly adjusted by adapting the volumetric flow rate of said product.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1999Date of Patent: March 6, 2001Assignee: Gea Till GmbH & Co.Inventors: Volker Till, Hans-Jürgen Wall
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Patent number: 6192946Abstract: A bottling system for filling bottles or similar containers with a liquid product has a plurality of filling elements. Each filling element has a liquid valve for the controlled dispensing of the product as well as a plurality of gas ducts realized in a housing of the filling element, which gas ducts can be controlled by at least three separate and individually controlled control valves for each filling element, whereby the bottling method can be changed from an unpressurized bottling, bottling under counter pressure using the single-chamber bottling principle, as well as bottling under counter pressure using the three-chamber bottling pressure, essentially merely by modifying the control program.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1999Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Assignee: KHS Maschinen- und Anlagenbau AGInventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
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Patent number: 6182715Abstract: A liquid-nitrogen injection system comprises a vacuum-insulated reservoir that is held aloft and to one side of a flexible dosing arm. Such reservoir is completely sealed and capped on its top and sides, the vent, feed, return, and supply conduits enter only from the bottom. The feed and return conduits connect to the dosing arm through a long flexible, stainless steel, vacuum-insulating jacket. Such allows an injection nozzle at the end of the dosing arm to be adjusted up and down, in and out, and even tilted relative to both the assembly line and the reservoir. This also means the hydraulic pressure head at the control nozzle can be adjusted in the field. A metering orifice is positioned within the dosing arm such that it is behind the control nozzle valve. A nitrogen gas purging system is connected to provide a freeze-up shielding gas flow from a liquid nitrogen tap in the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2000Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventors: Alex R. Ziegler, Alan T. Ziegler
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Patent number: 6182714Abstract: A safety-enhancing management system for storing, transporting, or transferring hydrocarbon fuel whereby inert gas conveyance provides hydrocarbon fuel receptacles with a combustion suppressing volume of inert gas which displaces potentially combustible fuel vapor/air mixtures which can otherwise collect in the ullages of such receptacles. In one embodiment the inert gas is readily stored, transported, and conveyed in an inert gas-enriched fuel that degasses inert gas from the fuel within one or more receiving receptacles ullage(s). In a second embodiment, a separate controllable supply of inert gas, such as carbon dioxide, is storable in one or more gas receptacle(s), in a gaseous or liquefied state.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventors: Irwin Ginsburgh, Clyde LeRoy Tichenor, Darrell Jay Metcalf
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Patent number: 6158483Abstract: An apparatus and method for replacing air with an insulating gas during manufacture of an insulated glass article having two parallel panes and a peripheral spacer between the panes. The apparatus includes an upright first platen, a second platen confronting the first platen, a mechanism for moving at least one of the platens toward and away from the other platen, and a peripheral resilient seal positioned to define a sealed enclosure between the platens. The apparatus may further include a conveyer for conveying a partially assembled insulating glass article between the platens, an exhaust mechanism for drawing gas from the enclosure, and an intake mechanism for introducing insulating gas to the enclosure. One method of the invention involves filling such an insulated glass article and measuring the thickness of the article to detect bulging or cupping.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Cardinal IG CompanyInventor: Paul Trpkovski
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Patent number: 6152192Abstract: A cylinder-filling system includes plural manifolds, for respectively coupling to groups of product containers to be filled, each manifold being connected through suitable valving and pumps to sources of different compressed gases. Respectively connected to the manifolds are reference cylinders which are in turn connected to load cells. A processor, coupled to a touch screen display, executes a program routine which enables user selection of the gas or gas mixture to be added through each manifold, including the identity and proportions of gases in each mixture and the order in which they are to be added, a number of operating parameters including vent and evacuation pressures, number of purge cycles, purge gas, alarm levels and pump and valve operating delay times. The processor controls automatic calculation of gas mixture fill weights from mixture proportions, and controls manual or automatic filling of the containers.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignees: Welding Company of America, Gary K. SchuemanInventors: Maynard F. Klotz, Gary K. Schueman
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Patent number: 6135165Abstract: A pressurized package of paint additives is prepared by mixing water, emulsion, stabilizers and a propellant in a pressurizable container. This pressurized container is then sold to retail stores where a water borne paint composition is injected into the pressurized container and sold directly to the end user.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2000Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: Seymour of Sycamore, Inc.Inventors: William G. Zanellato, John W. Lovell
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Patent number: 6079461Abstract: A method and apparatus for transferring comminuted product from an unpressurized storage unit to a tank, especially a trailer-mounted tank. According to this method, an inert gas source is provided, preferably mounted on the trailer, and a conduit is provided to carry the product, which conduit is connected between the storage unit and the tank. The tank and conduit are evacuated so as to create a pressure differential between the storage unit and the tank, and the inert gas is allowed to flow into the evacuated tank in response to the partial vacuum therein. The product is then allowed to flow through the conduit to the tank in response to the partial vacuum therein. An improved trailer for receiving comminuted product according to a practice of the method is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1999Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: The Heil Co.Inventors: Larry Nelson Fisher, Warren Peery Groseclose
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Patent number: 6079460Abstract: A rotary liquid container-filling machine has valve assemblies (3), mounted on a rotating platform (2), each of provided with a duct (4) intercepted by an obturator (5) for regulating the supply of liquid from a storage tank (6) to the container (7) and having an air return pipe (8). A centering cone (10) receives in abutment the mouth of the container (7) to cause opening of the obturator (5) mounted at the bottom of each valve assembly (3). A flushing station (14) associated with the rotating platform (2), but fixed with respect thereto, is provided with at least one collecting tray (15) which is moved by a linear actuator (16) so as to be positioned underneath the valve assemblies (3) passing above it. For this purpose first a actuator means (17) opens each obturator (5) when valve assemblies (3) pass above the collecting tray (15).Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: MBF S.p.A.Inventors: Mauro Ballan, Martino Biscardo, Pierluigi Allegro
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Patent number: 6076570Abstract: A closure including an integral chamber for storing a fluid separately from a beverage stored in a container to which the closure is attached is provided with a pre-formed court or aperture and a valve, the valve being operable to an open position when intended to allow release of the fluid in the chamber to mix with beverage in the container, the apparatus being particularly suitable for carbonating or recarbonating beverages.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1997Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Inventor: Paul Anthony Byrne
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Patent number: 6044874Abstract: First and second wall portions respectively spread along first and second opposing inner surfaces of a housing portion, and a plurality of vent pores that are distributed along the first and second inner surfaces are formed in the first and second wall portions. Hence, when an ambient gas is supplied to a space between the first inner surface and the first wall portion and another ambient gas is simultaneously discharged from a space between the second inner surface and the second wall surface, a laminar flow of an ambient gas directed from the first inner surface toward the second inner surface is formed to be parallel to a plate-like body held by a base portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1998Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Koichiro Saga
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Patent number: 6039090Abstract: An improved pressurizable wide mouthed vessel is provided which is capable of storing beverages under pressure and also of being used as a drinking vessel. The wide mouthed drinking vessel is closed by a closure urging a seal to sealingly engage the vessel. The closure is so configured that when the vessel is pressurized, the closure is deformed to transmit additional pressure to the seal to effect tighter sealing engagement with the vessel. The closure has pressure release means for venting the vessel in order to release the pressure on the seal, and so allow the closure to be more readily removed from the mouth of the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Assignee: Able Industries LimitedInventors: Brian Leslie Gunn, James Moore, Michael Turley Hancocks
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Patent number: 6032704Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing wafers without the moisture absorption problem by providing a wafer storage container that has a cavity therein and an inert gas supply line into the cavity for flowing an inert gas at a substantially constant flow rate into the cavity while allowing a portion of the inert gas to escape into surrounding environment outside the cavity such that there is always a positive pressure differential maintained between the cavity and the outside environment to keep out moisture.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hsin-Chieh Huang, Yeh-Jye Wann, Hsi-Shan Kuo
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Patent number: 5988233Abstract: A system for providing uniform, controlled and efficient purge gas flow rates and gas flow patterns for removing contaminants and/or particulates from wafers within a pod. The purge system includes seals at the interfaces between the gas inlet and removal lines to substantially prevent leakage at the interfaces. The system may establish seals at the inlet and outlet without having to use conventional fluid flow pins extending above the support surface. The negative pressure applied at the outlet controls the flow rate through the pod, and the rate at which gas leaves the pod will limit the rate at which gas may enter the pod. In a preferred embodiment, the inlet flow is approximately equal to the outlet flow. With substantially equal inlet and outlet pressures, the purging gas flows through the upper and lower portions of the pod in a substantially uniform flow pattern so that contaminants and particulates are removed evenly from wafers throughout the pod.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1998Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.Inventors: William J. Fosnight, Anthony C. Bonora, Raymond S. Martin, Jay Tatro
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Patent number: 5957169Abstract: An apparatus and method for replacing air with an insulating gas during manufacture of an insulated glass article having two parallel panes and a peripheral spacer between the panes. The apparatus includes an upright first platen, a second platen confronting the first platen, a mechanism for moving at least one of the platens toward and away from the other platen, and a peripheral resilient seal positioned to define a sealed enclosure between the platens. The apparatus may further include a conveyer for conveying a partially assembled insulating glass article between the platens, an exhaust mechanism for drawing gas from the enclosure, and an intake mechanism for introducing insulating gas to the enclosure. One method of the invention involves filling such an insulated glass article and measuring the thickness of the article to detect bulging or cupping.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1997Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: Cardinal IG CompanyInventor: Paul Trpkovski
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Patent number: 5916110Abstract: A controlled environment sealing system and method of operating the same. The controlled environment sealing system having a transport system for transporting containers between processors, a lid placement processor positioning lids on the containers, a controlled environment processor providing the containers with a controlled environment and pre-sealing the lids to the containers, and a permanent sealing processor permanently sealing the lids to the containers in a contaminating environment.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1996Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Inventors: James J. Sanfilippo, John E. Sanfilippo
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Patent number: 5911249Abstract: An apparatus for exposing product to a controlled environment includes a rail top, a rail base, and a longitudinally oriented gas limiting member including two sections connected at their longitudinal ends and providing a gap between the sections. The controlled environment gas may be provided to one longitudinal end of a baffle positioned in a channel region formed in the rail top. The gas is distributed along a longitudinally oriented baffle which is aligned with a gassing element positioned in the rail base. A T-shaped port block may be attached to the rail top and engage with a bracket and adjustment member for positioning.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: Jescorp, Inc.Inventors: James J. Sanfilippo, John E. Sanfilippo
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Patent number: 5878793Abstract: A highly reliable bulk chemical delivery system for high purity chemicals employing a manifold that ensures contamination free operation and canister change outs with a minimum of valves and tubing.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1997Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Inventors: Stephen H. Siegele, Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg
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Patent number: 5878791Abstract: A gas exchange device designed to displace existing air or gas inside a pressurizable or inflatable article with an inert, dry gas such as nitrogen. The gas exchange device includes an elongated injection tube which inserts into a valve or opening of a pressurizable or inflatable article. As an inert gas is injected into the article through the elongated injection tube, the interior gas is exhausted through the article valve or opening into an exhaust receiving orifice. The exhausted gas is controlled so that it may be monitored for moisture content.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1997Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Inventor: William D. Kane
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Patent number: 5865220Abstract: A liquid crystal material filling apparatus which includes, in a vacuum chamber, a liquid crystal pot having a liquid crystal reservoir for storing a liquid crystal material. A groove part is coupled with the liquid crystal reservoir at a certain angle and contains a medium for holding the liquid crystal material. A filling jig cassette is provided to accommodate a plurality of liquid crystal panels having injection ports faced downwardly, and an elevation device is provided for moving the liquid crystal pot up and down. Also, a posture control mechanism is provided for switching a posture of the liquid crystal pot in accordance with the up/down movement of the liquid crystal pot thereby to cause the liquid crystal material to flow from the liquid crystal reservoir to the groove part at a raised position and bring the medium in touch with lower faces of the injection ports of the liquid crystal panels.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 1997Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chihiro Nakamura, Kiyohiko Kitagawa, Takafumi Kaneda, Susumu Matsuoka, Tsukasa Hashimoto, Tomoya Maeda
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Patent number: 5860461Abstract: A bottle or a can as a small container intended for consumers for the aseptic cold filling with beverages in a filling and sealing machine comprises a manual seal to be operated by the consumer and is characterized by an additional mechanical seal for filling and machine sealing.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1996Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Assignee: Kettner GmbHInventor: Geiss Helmut
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Patent number: 5806574Abstract: A portable closed container has a container body, and a lid for opening and hermetically closing the opening of the container body, in which an internal atmosphere thereof is replaced with an inner atmosphere suitable for an article contained in the container through a gas purging operation. The container is improved such that the lid is a hollowed body with at least one purging wall hole.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1995Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Assignee: Shinko Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Teppei Yamashita, Masanao Murata, Tsuyoshi Tanaka, Hitoshi Kawano, Teruya Morita
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Patent number: 5735318Abstract: An automatic method and device for filling, with gases other than air, insulating glazing units. The method entailing a step for injecting the gas and expelling the air so as to produce a laminar flow through a manifold constituted by the hollow region of the profile that forms the spacer frame. The method and the device allow a considerable saving in costs, reducing the amount of gas required for filling to an amount very close to the volume of the inner space provided in the insulating glazing unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1995Date of Patent: April 7, 1998Assignee: For.El. Base di Vianello Fortunato & C. S.n.c.Inventor: Fortunato Vianello