Drip Collection Patents (Class 141/86)
  • Patent number: 7913722
    Abstract: A fuel fill port that helps prevent spillage of fuel during watercraft fueling includes a housing having an opening for installation on a surface of the watercraft and a cap for sealing the opening. A fill tube has one end sized to accept a fuel dispensing nozzle and another end for connection to a fuel tank. A catch basin defined by a bottom portion of the housing is positioned such that backflow of fuel from the fill tube collects within the catch basin. A fill vent has one end positioned relative the fill tube to allow excess fuel from the fuel tank to flow into the catch basin and another end adapted for connection to the fuel tank. One or more passages from the catch basin to the fuel tank guides fuel from the catch basin to the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Alex W. Dorst
  • Patent number: 7913721
    Abstract: The present invention is a recyclable oil drain pan intended to encourage proper disposal of used motor oil. The recyclable oil drain pan generally consists of a stiff outer container and a flexible inner container. The stiff outer container has a recessed upper surface that can be sloped towards an opening that passes through the upper surface. The opening of the outer container connects to the opening of a flexible inner container that receives the used oil. The opening can be sealed via a cap or plug to effectively contain the used motor oil. Preferably the entire apparatus would be recyclable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: John Henecke
  • Patent number: 7753090
    Abstract: A device is disclosed which acts to contain the contaminated effluent of an operation such as a hydro-blasting operation. The device has flexible bag for containing the effluent. The bag has an opening interfacing with a vessel being fluid blasted, into which opening the blasting effluent is received. A drain port is positioned on the containment bag to gravity empty the effluent from the interior of the bag, and a vent appropriately located on the containment bag to relieve pressure in the interior space during use and emptying. A flange strap disposed secures the bag opening to the vessel, and a support means is arranged to suspend the containment bag in proper relationship with the vessel. An expansion mechanism can be used to hold the containment bag in an expanded condition to facilitate use of the bag to properly contain the effluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Danny Earp
  • Publication number: 20100154926
    Abstract: An injection-molded load line connection spillage container for catching and retaining liquid spilled when liquids are pumped between storage tanks and tankers provides an injection-molded reservoir and an injection-molded cover attached to the reservoir by hinges. Reinforcing ribs molded into the reservoir provide strength and ruggedness without the need for reinforcing steel collars and saddles. Gussets molded into the reservoir hinge brackets ensure repeated stresses produced by energetic opening of the cover does not result in failure of the hinge brackets. An optional load line mounting assembly permits secure mounting of the load line container directly onto the load line. An optional cleanout assembly provides a valved suction line for removing retained spillage, and an optional sampling assembly provides a valved sample line for sampling the liquid being transferred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Jack G. Brewer, Steven L. Shroyer, Darrel B. Fruit, Darrel G. Fruit
  • Publication number: 20100139807
    Abstract: A sump assembly (70) comprising: (i) a sump body (71) including a bottom and at least one side wall (72), the bottom and side wall(s) co-operating to define an open topped internal cavity within the sump body capable of containing fluids, the side walls further defining an opening (76) in the top of said sump; (ii) at least one flange (77) extending outwardly from the side wall(s), the flange incorporating fixing means (79) adapted, in use, to tie the sump into the surrounding structure; (iii) a mounting frame assembly (90) adapted, in use, to be keyed into the surrounding structure and to secure a dispensing unit in place; wherein the sump body and the flange(s) are of unitary construction, the flange(s) being formed as an integral part of the sump body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: John Alexandre Boudry, Lee Markham
  • Patent number: 7730902
    Abstract: Disclosed is a modular spill containment rail system for containing a hazardous spilled substance from at least one battery. The system has a plurality of containment rails that are connectable to one another to define a perimeter around the battery. Each rail has at least one wall with a first end and a second end. At least one male connection device orthogonally protrudes from the first end and at least one female opening may be provided in the second end. A first end of a first rail may be removably received within a second end of second rail. Upon connecting the rails, at least a part of the first end of the first rail may be in an overlapping relationship with the second end of the second rail. A method for assembling a system and a containment system with a flexible liner and a neutralizing material are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Enviroguard
    Inventor: Douglas Frazier
  • Patent number: 7690405
    Abstract: An improved multi fluid dispenser for simultaneous dispensing of a plurality of fluids shown and described. The dispenser includes a controller that is linked to a coordinator board. The controller has a memory with a plurality of recipes stored in the memory. A coordinator board is linked to a first module. The first module may include one or two pumps, each connected to a fluid reservoir. The module is then linked in series to a plurality of other modules as well as a manifold module. Each module includes a module board for controlling the pump or pumps of that module. The controller, coordinator board and module boards are all programmed for the simultaneous or sequential pumping of multiple fluids from the reservoirs through outlet nozzles of the manifold in accordance with a recipe selected by the user and retrieved from the memory of the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Miller, Tim Hogan, Christopher Khoo, Ryan Hanawalt, Marty Leider, James R. Cleveland, Anton Obrecht
  • Publication number: 20100071804
    Abstract: A method of repairing a leaking spill container by lining the existing unit. Additionally the liner can be used to convert a single walled spill container into a double walled spill container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: John W. Rowe
  • Patent number: 7673658
    Abstract: An injection-molded load line connection spillage container for catching and retaining liquid spilled when liquids are pumped between storage tanks and tankers provides an injection-molded reservoir and an injection-molded cover attached to the reservoir by hinges. Reinforcing ribs molded into the reservoir provide strength and ruggedness without the need for reinforcing steel collars and saddles. Gussets molded into the reservoir hinge brackets ensure repeated stresses produced by energetic opening of the cover does not result in failure of the hinge brackets. An optional load line mounting assembly permits secure mounting of the load line container directly onto the load line. An optional cleanout assembly provides a valved suction line for removing retained spillage, and an optional sampling assembly provides a valved sample line for sampling the liquid being transferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Jack G. Brewer, Steven L. Shroyer, Darrel B. Fruit, Darrel G. Fruit
  • Patent number: 7665491
    Abstract: A multi-part biowaste container configured to provide a low profile design while providing sufficient storage volume to accommodate the amount of blood, tissues, and other biological materials generated during a typical surgical procedure. The multi-part biowaste container includes an anti-splash container, a dual purpose lid container, and a supplemental container. The use of three separate container members increases the total volume and storage capacity of the biowaste containers while minimizing the overall profile or height of the containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred P. Lampropoulos
  • Patent number: 7647953
    Abstract: A system for reclaiming residual unspent automotive fluid having a fluid receiver which seats open containers of the automotive fluid in an inverted orientation to allow influences of gravity to self-drain the open containers. The fluid receiver accumulates the residual unspent automotive fluid into classifying compartments. Each compartment can be individually pumped or drained of the accumulated and stored residual automotive fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Gang Jin
  • Patent number: 7635010
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a unique portable system of washing out and cleaning the inside and outside of pipes and hoses along with the other equipment used when dealing with cement and mortar at a construction site where the residue and water must be contained and removed from the site. The system consisting of a base frame unit with a pivoting waste holding basin and one or more washout trays can easily pass through a three foot doorway and be used on the upper floors of high-rise buildings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph J. Manno, Tullio J. DeCollibus
  • Patent number: 7594524
    Abstract: A slurry capture system and kit, and methods of using them, are disclosed for facilitating the recovery of a concrete residue, such as from a chute of a cement mixer truck. The system includes a collector for attaching to the chute of the cement mixer truck and for collecting the concrete residue therefrom. The system further includes a container for storing the collected residue and a conduit in fluid communication between the collector and the container for transferring the residue collected in the collector to the container for subsequent disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: SRS Global Solutions
    Inventors: Tullio J. DeCollibus, Joseph J. Manno
  • Publication number: 20090223595
    Abstract: A spill containment apparatus includes a container adapted to be coupled to an end of a riser pipe of a storage tank and having a proximal end and a distal end. A tubular socket is formed in the container adjacent its distal end for receiving the riser pipe therein. The socket includes a securing mechanism for securing the container to the riser pipe, wherein the securing mechanism is spaced proximally of the distal end of the container to define the socket. The socket is configured to allow the riser pipe to support and balance the container during coupling of the container to the riser pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher A. Kane, Peter E. Manger, James E. Kesterman
  • Patent number: 7581570
    Abstract: A system for supporting a fuel delivery device in a fueling position with respect to a vehicle is provided with an elongated retaining member, having first and second ends. The first end removably couples with a portion of the fueling system. The second end of the retaining member is coupled with the vehicle. Various structural devices are provided for coupling the retaining member with the fuel delivery device as well as the vehicle. Various safety designs provide a detachable coupling with the vehicle. The retaining member may be provided to be length adjustable to customize its use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Travis Lamke
  • Publication number: 20090212057
    Abstract: A frame assembly for anchoring a containment box with a top opening in a surrounding driveway surface and for removably attaching one of a plurality of different product dispensers to the containment box. The frame assembly includes an anchor frame attached to the top opening of the containment box wherein the anchor frame is configured to be removably attached to any one of a plurality of different dispenser frames and a dispenser frame removably attached to the anchor frame, the dispenser frame including a plurality of frame walls having a frame area larger than an area of the top opening of the containment box such that the frame walls define an offset opening adjacent to the top opening of the containment box, wherein the dispenser frame is adapted to be mounted to one of the plurality of different product dispensers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Sergio M. Bravo, Don K. Mukai
  • Patent number: 7575015
    Abstract: An in-dispenser leak pan provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any fuel that leaks from fuel-handling components located inside the fuel dispenser above the pan. The pan is secondarily contained by an outer pan or container such that an interstitial space is formed therebetween. If a breach exists in the top part of the pan, the captured leaked fuel will be contained in by the outer pan in the interstitial space. The interstitial space of the pan is drawn under a vacuum level using a vacuum-generating source to monitor for leaks. If a leak is detected, a control system may generate an alarm and/or cause the submersible turbine pump to stop supplying fuel, or cause the dispenser product line shear valves to close, thereby only stopping fuel flow to the individual fuel dispenser containing the leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Gilbarco, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Reid, Ray Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden, Jeremy R. Baillargeon, David J. Bolt
  • Publication number: 20090194171
    Abstract: Disclosed is a modular spill containment rail system for containing a hazardous spilled substance from at least one battery. The system has a plurality of containment rails that are connectable to one another to define a perimeter around the battery. Each rail has at least one wall with a first end and a second end. At least one male connection device orthogonally protrudes from the first end and at least one female opening may be provided in the second end. A first end of a first rail may be removably received within a second end of second rail. Upon connecting the rails, at least a part of the first end of the first rail may be in an overlapping relationship with the second end of the second rail. A method for assembling a system and a containment system with a flexible liner and a neutralizing material are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: ENVIROGUARD
    Inventor: Douglas FRAZIER
  • Patent number: 7562680
    Abstract: An improved multi fluid dispenser for simultaneous dispensing of a plurality of fluids shown and described. The dispenser includes a controller that is linked to a coordinator board. The controller has a memory with a plurality of recipes stored in the memory. A coordinator board is linked to a first module. The first module may include one or two pumps, each connected to a fluid reservoir. The module is then linked in series to a plurality of other modules as well as a manifold module. Each module includes a module board for controlling the pump or pumps of that module. The controller, coordinator board and module boards are all programmed for the simultaneous or sequential pumping of multiple fluids from the reservoirs through outlet nozzles of the manifold in accordance with a recipe selected by the user and retrieved from the memory of the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Fluid Management Operations, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Khoo, William A. Miller, James R. Cleveland
  • Patent number: 7543612
    Abstract: A fuel vent recovery system for collecting and retaining fuel discharged through a fuel vent of a vessel. The system includes a hull-side fuel vent fitting, an annular elastomer seal, and a recovery container. The annular elastomer seal has an outer wall that is bifurcated by a groove to form two parallel annular flanges. The annular flanges and groove are fitted over and engage the wall of an aperture of the recovery container. The annular seal includes an inner wall that contacts a complementary seal interface surface of the fuel vent fitting. The annular seal is fitted around the fuel vent fitting. The recovery container is attached to the annular seal and thus sealed to the fuel vent fitting. The system prevents fuel discharged through the vessel's fuel vent from spilling into and contaminating the surrounding environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce A. Angel, Glenn Lyle Spain, Kurt Bergstrom, Scott Wildermuth
  • Patent number: 7513392
    Abstract: A fluid capture apparatus comprises a fluid-receiving body, a drain member, a generally flat support body and a fluid-channeling extension body. The fluid-receiving body has an open end and a bottom end. A fluid reservoir is defined between the open end and the bottom end. The drain member is attached to the fluid receiving body and communicative with the fluid reservoir for enabling fluid within the fluid reservoir to pass through the drain member. The fluid-channeling extension body has a first end thereof attached to the support body and a second end thereof attached to the fluid-receiving body. The fluid-channeling extension body includes a front face and spaced apart fluid guide members. The spaced apart fluid guide members protrude above the front face and extend at least partially between the support body and the fluid-receiving body thereby providing means for channeling fluid into the fluid reservoir of the fluid-receiving body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventors: Janice K. Fowler, Bonnie Young
  • Patent number: 7509983
    Abstract: A system for filling a vented tank without spilling is disclosed. A fuel or similar liquid tank typically includes a filling tube and a vent tube secured thereto. A vent hole and the vent tube of the tank are in fluid communication with each other. A tube is in fluid communication with the vent hole for transporting any liquid located within the vent tube to a remote location. A vacuum source is connected to the tube. The vacuum source is adapted to draw the liquid through the tube and into a receptacle attached to the vacuum source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Mark Harris
  • Patent number: 7506672
    Abstract: The present application is directed at a cement slurry collection chute basin that incorporates a leak proof means, no matter what the size or condition of the end of the concrete flop chute. By using a forward angled entry trough with a square large basin area having the attachment hooks in a forward position, the weight is put in the rear and the forward edge of the device is held forward of the end flange and tight against the lower surface of the concrete chute. A screen separates the aggregate from the cement slurry, which flows out a drain orifice in the bottom. An alternate embodiment is constructed from “half-pipe” housing. This alternate embodiment cement slurry collection chute basin will be much more efficient and economical to manufacture because of the “half-pipe” construction and the ease with which it could he welded and fabricated into form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph J. Manno
  • Publication number: 20090050233
    Abstract: A nozzle for dispensing fuel into a vehicle. The nozzles includes a body portion and a spout extending from the body portion. The spout passes fuel from the body portion to a vehicle during refueling. The body portion includes a fuel flow control member for allowing or preventing fuel from passing through the body portion and the spout into the vehicle. A fuel collector collects fuel remaining in the body portion and the spout after the fuel flow control member shuts-off the flow of fuel through the body portion and the spout. Preferably, the fuel collector is configured to allow fuel collected in the fuel collector when the vehicle is being refueled to drain into the fuel tank of the vehicle after the flow control member prevents fuel from passing through the body portion and the spout but prior to removal of the spout from the fuel tank of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventors: James L. Lawrence, Charles S. Pearson, Didier Kaczmarek
  • Publication number: 20090014087
    Abstract: A liquid absorbent device in the form of a fuel spillage interceptor arranged for mounting on a fuel dispensing nozzle, the fuel spillage interceptor being arranged to enclose a portion of the spout of the dispensing nozzle, and where an essentially annular body is formed by a cloth that is permeable to liquid, and which defines a volume of at least one liquid absorbent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Jonny Fevag
  • Patent number: 7455194
    Abstract: A fueling environment that distributes fuel from a fuel supply to fuel dispensers in a daisy chain arrangement with a double walled piping system. Fuel leaks that occur within the double walled piping system are returned to the underground storage tank by the outer wall of the double walled piping. This preserves the fuel for later use and helps reduce the risk of environmental contamination. Leak detectors may also be positioned in fuel dispensers detect leaks and provide alarms for the operator and help pinpoint leak detection that has occurred in the piping system proximate to a particular fuel dispenser or in between two consecutive fuel dispensers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Ray J. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 7431044
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for adjusting the orientation of a lubricant-retaining basin is disclosed. The apparatus includes a cabinet configured for retaining a vacuum pump and a lubricant-retaining basin. A rotatable member engages the lubricant-retaining basin and elevates the back end of the basin to permit drainage of lubricant from the front end of the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Dallas Ricker, Viet X. Nguyen, Bernard John Permar, Jerome M. Szczepaniak, Lindy T. Miller, Eric Alan Schneider, Bill Van Ocker
  • Patent number: 7431056
    Abstract: The invention as presently conceived discloses a device for an environmentally safe storage and organization of multiple funnels, especially, but not limited to, those funnels conventionally used in servicing motor vehicles. The new and novel device's industrial design resembles an empty five-gallon bucket with a detachable lid having multiple openings cut into the lid to accept the work funnels for environmental safe draining in an upright position, storage and proper organization. Each opening leads to a dedicated fluid collection device. After use, the remaining fluids in the funnels are allowed to collect via gravity within fluid collection device within the sealed bucket-like container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Nicholas P. Smith
  • Patent number: 7428911
    Abstract: A battery spill containment system and method are provided for containing a hazardous spilled substance from at least one industrial battery in service as a back-up power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Expo Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Frazier
  • Patent number: 7427182
    Abstract: An agitator loading system for loading mixture ingredients, the system includes a loading bay, a delivery chute for delivering mixture ingredients from a storage area, and a dust containment apparatus for minimizing the dust dispersion during agitator loading. A method for loading an agitator from an agitator loading system is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Intray Consolidated Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Michael N. Galijan
  • Publication number: 20080223480
    Abstract: A manually operated seal/closure system for a fluid dispenser manifold is disclosed The manifold includes at least one nozzle and, more typically, a plurality of nozzles ranging from more than one to twelve or more. The manifold housing includes a sidewall or other stationary structure. The stationary sidewall is pivotally connected to an arm. The sidewall further includes a lateral slot and a curved slot. The arm includes a proximal end pivotally connected to the sidewall and a distal end with an elongated slot disposed therebetween. The closure system also includes a bracket for supporting a cup and a seal. The bracket is coupled to the arm and the sidewall by a first pin that extends from the bracket through the lateral slot in the sidewall and through the elongated slot of the arm. The brackets also coupled to the sidewall by a second pin that extends through the lateral slot of the sidewall and laterally between the first pin and the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: John Hsing, Christpoher Khoo
  • Patent number: 7422038
    Abstract: A system for handling chemicals includes a base; a supply container handling area disposed on the base and configured to hold at least one supply container; a drainage vessel disposed on the base and located with respect to the supply container handing area so as to catch liquids spilled or leaking in the supply container handling area; and an overflow vessel receiving area disposed upon the base and configured to hold at least one overflow vessel. The drainage vessel has an outlet and is configured to allow a liquid spilled or leaking into the drainage vessel to flow out of the drainage vessel through the outlet and into an overflow vessel in fluid communication with the outlet of the drainage vessel. The system may also include a supply container, a trigger-pumped spray bottle, an information display board, and a compliance-status indicator. The system may include multiple supply vessels, drainage vessels, and overflow vessels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Lewyn B. Boler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7401621
    Abstract: A sump for a dispensing unit is disposed beneath the footprint of the dispensing unit and includes an auxiliary communication line receiving structure proximal to a drip area of the dispensing unit. The auxiliary communication line receiving structure delivers electrical and/or other communication line(s) to the dispensing unit from beneath the dispensing unit footprint without creating a potential leak path into or out of the sump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Pisces By OPW, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael T. McCann
  • Publication number: 20080099098
    Abstract: The present invention is a recyclable oil drain pan intended to encourage proper disposal of used motor oil. The recyclable oil drain pan generally consists of a stiff outer container and a flexible inner container. The stiff outer container has a recessed upper surface that can be sloped towards an opening that passes through the upper surface. The opening of the outer container connects to the opening of a flexible inner container that receives the used oil. The opening can be sealed via a cap or plug to effectively contain the used motor oil. Preferably the entire apparatus would be recyclable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: JOHN HENECKE
  • Publication number: 20080060716
    Abstract: A concrete wash-out bin includes a primary receptacle having a rim positioned at an elevation that exceeds the elevation of a discharge port of certain items of concrete-handling equipment. An auxiliary receptacle is positioned in leading relation to the primary receptacle and is hingedly mounted to the primary receptacle. The auxiliary receptacle has a position of repose where it is horizontally disposed at an elevation lower than the discharge port of the concrete-handling equipment and a discharge position where it is disposed in elevated and angled relation to the position of repose. The discharge position is effective to discharge the contents of the auxiliary receptacle into the primary receptacle. The auxiliary receptacle is repeatedly lifted and lowered as needed until the concrete-handling equipment is free of residual concrete or until the primary bin is full.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: ECOSITE, INC.
    Inventors: Roy F. Fitzgerald, Charles B. Kleinmetz
  • Publication number: 20080047630
    Abstract: A shallow pan to capture fluid from a supported object. The pan is generally circular and includes a sealable radial slot to receive the shaft of a jack supporting the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventor: Allen Allers
  • Patent number: 7316248
    Abstract: A liquid crystal dispensing apparatus includes a container containing liquid crystal material; a discharge pump drawing in and discharging the liquid crystal material; a nozzle dispensing, onto a substrate, liquid crystal material discharged by the discharge pump; and a detector arranged near the nozzle to detect the presence of residual liquid crystal material accumulated on the surface of the nozzle. When the presence of residual liquid crystal material is detected, a dummy dispensing operation and/or a cleaning operation may be performed to remove the residual liquid crystal material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae-Gyu Jeong, Sang-Hyun Kim, Soo-Min Kwak, Yong-Keun Kwak
  • Patent number: 7296601
    Abstract: An aboveground fueling facility includes one or more vertical fuel supply tanks, each of which is positioned on a reinforced mounting pad on a fueling island that also includes one or more fuel dispensers. Fuel is supplied from the vertical fuel supply tanks to the dispensers via piping that is secondarily contained within the reinforced mounting pad. Each of the vertical fuel supply tanks may have more than one compartment so as to permit different grades of fuel to be dispensed by the dispensers, including mixtures. Fueling lanes are defined between the vertical fuel supply tanks for permitting vehicular access to the fuel dispensers. A canopy for sheltering the fueling lanes is structurally supported by the vertical fuel supply tanks, and informational signage is provided on the canopy for providing information such as fuel pricing to the consumer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 7287555
    Abstract: A dispenser assembly for a door of a refrigerator includes a tray of flap construction which is moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the tray is received within a cavity of the dispenser assembly to present a support surface for a container such as a water glass. The tray is pivotable into a second position outside of the dispenser assembly so that an area normally underneath the tray is open to provide a second support surface for supporting larger containers than is possible with the tray in its first position. The now exposed bottom of the flap provides a third support surface outside of the cavity. The dispenser assembly can be used for dispensing water, ice, combinations thereof and may include lighting and other features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Heger, Mac McMillan, Peter Nalbach, Matthew Ricket, Ernest Spangler
  • Patent number: 7275568
    Abstract: A liquid reclamation apparatus for use in changing automobile oil includes a container, a portable receptacle within the container and dimensioned to hold a volume of oil sufficient to perform an oil change and a cover releasably secured to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas Fredette, David Fredette
  • Patent number: 7255137
    Abstract: A spilled fuel containment apparatus including a drive-on substrate and at least one side that is substantially vertically extendable. The at least one side being substantially fluidically sealed with the substrate when the at least one side is substantially vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: William David MacDonald
  • Patent number: 7255138
    Abstract: A fuel bib which connects over and about gas tank filler tube door of a vehicle includes a semi-flexible plastic cover having an outer protective surface and an inner surface material which is made to removably adhere to the vehicle's body, a precut inner portion which is of a size and configuration substantially that of the gas tank filler tube door, wherein the precut inner portion, an outer remaining portion of the fuel bib surrounding the precut inner portion is intended to remain on the vehicle surrounding the fuel door, and at least one detachable portion interconnecting the precut inner portion and the outer remaining portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Curtis Greg Coffman
  • Patent number: 7246639
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for containing aircraft fuel. According to some embodiments the apparatus includes a structural connector comprising an open shape, a first surface and a second surface, a seal defining a suction area disposed in the first surface, and a boot extending from the structural connector. The boot may comprise a lateral opening. The boot includes first and second ends, such that the first end of the boot may be attached to the structural connector and the second end may be spaced from the structural member. According to some embodiments the second end comprises a center offset laterally from the center of the structural connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Spokane Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Kuntz
  • Patent number: 7225841
    Abstract: A collapsible container for retaining and disposing liquids is described. The container includes an expandable liquid retaining portion and an inflatable top ring. As liquid, such as used motor oil, pours into the expandable liquid retaining portion the inflated top ring floats on top of the liquid as the liquid retaining portion expands. A top cover, which may be formed by flexible flaps with zip lock closures, may be included to seal the container for transport. A drain hole may be provided through a bottom portion of the container to drain the liquid out of the container. A handle may be provided to facilitate carrying the container filled with oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Randall W. Folk
  • Patent number: 7213621
    Abstract: An oil change equipment includes an oil barrel, an oil-collecting pan, and a vacuum oil-pumping device; the oil barrel has an inlet thereon, and a control valve connected thereto; an oil conduit is joined to the oil inlet of the oil barrel at one end, and connected to a pipe communicating with a containing space in the oil-collecting pan; a supporting rod is secured on top of the oil barrel; the vacuum oil-pumping device is connected to the control valve of the oil barrel; therefore, the oil collecting pan can be supported on the upper end of the supporting rod secured on top of the oil barrel, thus allowing drained oil received in the oil collecting pan to flow into the oil barrel directly; or alternatively, the oil collecting pan can be positioned apart from the supporting rod to receive drained oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Yung Yen Hsin Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Min-Chung Chang
  • Patent number: 7174928
    Abstract: A multi-part biowaste container including a plurality of biowaste containers having a low profile design and collectively providing sufficient storage volume to accommodate the amount of blood, tissues, and other biological materials generated during a typical surgical procedure. In one embodiment, the multi-part biowaste container includes an anti-splash container, a dual purpose lid container, and a supplemental container. The use of three separate container members increases the total volume and storage capacity of the biowaste containers while minimizing the overall profile or height of the containers. The individual containers of the multi-part biowaste container can include adhesive backing allowing the containers to be secured to the surgical work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Fred P. Lampropoulos
  • Patent number: 7171994
    Abstract: A matter-isolating system for use in combination with an underground storage tank assembly comprises primary and secondary spillage containment assemblies and a double-walled manhole assembly. The manhole assembly comprises a manhole lid, an outer skirt wall, and an inner skirt wall. The inner skirt wall defines an inner manhole cavity and an outer manhole channel. The outer manhole channel directs moisture from the lid to certain backfill material thus isolating the inner manhole cavity from channel-directed moisture. The spillage containment assemblies form concentric primary and secondary spillage-containing chambers in radial adjacency to a tank access conduit of the underground tank assembly. The inner manhole cavity functions to isolate the secondary spillage containment chamber from the outer manhole channel and the primary spillage containment chamber isolates the secondary spillage containment chamber from the tank access conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Patrick E. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7147013
    Abstract: A spillage-control boot apparatus for use during removal of a spin-on fluid filter from an engine block or other substrate. The boot apparatus includes a boot with a substantially cylindrical boot body, including a flared bell portion for placement surrounding a filter, and a constricted portion integrally attached to and extending from the flared bell portion, for placement closely surrounding a portion of the filter. The flared bell portion of the boot body is adapted to form an annular pocket therein when the boot is placed surrounding a cylindrical filter. The apparatus also includes an absorbent member, for placement in the flared bell portion of the boot body, for absorbing spillage from the filter base when the filter is removed from the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary B. Zulauf, Michael S. Lynch
  • Patent number: 7131965
    Abstract: Liquid collection apparatus usable during surgery, comprising a shallow tray defining a liquid receiving zone that is upwardly exposed for receiving liquid dropping from a surgery area, and a liquid collector in a zone for collecting dropping liquid while allowing a surgeon to tread over a collector, during surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Hemotrans, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Thornbury, Pradip V. Choksi, Julie A. Ryan
  • Patent number: 7124771
    Abstract: A spill containment system and method that contain leaks and spills from devices including but not limited to batteries. The system neutralizes and absorbs leaks and spills to prevent the leaks and spills from spreading. The system not only detects leaks, but also indicates whether a leak has occurred. The system can communicate with personnel or devices to raise an alarm or cause corrective measures to occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Expo Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Frazier