Level Or Pressure In Receiver Patents (Class 141/95)
  • Publication number: 20090272139
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a floor pan assembly for use with an evaporative cooler structure includes a base that has a first height and includes a plurality of preformed first members that are located at select locations around a bottom edge of the base. The assembly also has at least one shim member that intimately engages one of the preformed first members to locally increase the height of the base relative to a ground surface. An upper floor pan is disposed above the base and includes a floor and side walls that define an interior space for collecting fluid, the upper floor pan including at least one drain port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Steven A. Straface, Sr., Shari E. DeFonce
  • Publication number: 20090266442
    Abstract: In order to determine a level, especially a safety level of a liquid container of an appliance operating with or processing a liquid, particularly a household appliance, a detector circuit is connected to a liquid level sensor array and emits a warning signal when the respective liquid reaches or exceeds a certain defined level in the liquid container accommodating the same. The aim is achieved by the fact that the liquid level sensor array contains at least one liquid level sensor which is provided with an electrically conducting contact part that is disposed in an isolated manner and encompasses an area which is uncovered or exposed for contacting the liquid only at the height of the defined level while the contact part is connected to a signal input of the detector circuit whose reference potential input associated with the corresponding signal input is connected to the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERÄTE GMBH
    Inventors: Christian Duscher, Bernhard Kobl
  • Patent number: 7600541
    Abstract: A fluid supply system is provided which includes a filling station operable to provide a fluid to a fuel storage vessel. The fluid supply system is operable in a first mode to provide a fluid in a liquid phase from the filling station to the storage vessel and is operable in a second mode to prevent the supply of the fluid to the storage vessel. The storage vessel is in fluid communication with the fluid supply system and is operable to receive the fluid in the liquid phase when the fluid supply system is in the first mode and discharge the fluid in a gaseous phase to the filling station. At least one sensor is in communication with the discharge passage and the fluid supply, and operates to cause the fluid supply to operate in the second mode in response to a detected pressure drop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventor: Rainer Pechtold
  • Patent number: 7597124
    Abstract: A volumetric displacement device, especially good for preserving and dispensing carbonated beverages has been constructed that is extremely light, small, safe, attractive, easy to use, energy efficient and inexpensive. It can use battery power, has an ovaloid shape, can be constructed of thin flexible plastics, and operates in various positions that eliminate the need for a pickup tube. A consistent problem with soda savers, in that they destroy carbonated beverages by delivering them in a violent manner, has been solved by utilizing a low pressure delivery mode. The described volumetric displacement device can operate in a conventional refrigerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Claude Litto
  • Patent number: 7591288
    Abstract: A fuel feeder includes a fuel reserve body reserving a fuel, a fuel feed unit feeding the fuel in the fuel reserve body to electric equipment, and a control unit controlling the fuel feed unit, wherein the control unit obtains equipment information from by the electric equipment and operates the fuel feed unit to feed the fuel to the electric equipment after the control unit has performed authentication of the electric equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyasu Bitoh
  • Patent number: 7591287
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing system includes a fluid dispensing pump interchangeably connected to a fluid dispensing pump manipulator that is capable of translating the fluid dispensing pump between two known positions along the Z-axis, and at least one open ended container, such as a seedcoat, disposed below the fluid dispensing pump for receiving fluid therefrom. The fluid dispensing system further includes a controller. The controller 30 sends control signals for automating the fluid dispensing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser NR Company
    Inventor: Edwin Hirahara
  • Publication number: 20090218006
    Abstract: An aircraft gas turbine oil tank 1 includes a casing, which is connected to a filler port, with an optical indicator 2 being associated with the oil tank 1, which includes at least one light emitter 3. This light emitter is associated with a specified filling level and emits an optical signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Arnaud Pisseloup
  • Patent number: 7578292
    Abstract: A pressurized gas system controls a gas flow from one or more gas pressure storage vessels by means of an electronically controlled electro-mechanical shut-off valve located in close proximity to each of the vessels. The shut-off valves are electrically wired to actuation switches on the control panel. Pressure transducers mounted on each vessel provide a signal output which is electrically connected to a digital numeric display located on the control panel so that the pressure of each vessel can be monitored. Gas flow from the vessels is controlled by means of the electric shut-off valves operated from the control panel. A pressure regulator at the air access station controls the final output pressure delivered to the tool or personnel air bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventors: Brett A. Musselman, Curtis G. Kuder
  • Patent number: 7568507
    Abstract: A diagnostic method for a gas supply system includes: determining a desired ramp rate for filling a vessel from a supply of compressed gas; monitoring the actual pressure of gas entering the vessel; and discontinuing the flow of gas into the vessel when the actual pressure deviates from the intended pressure at the desired ramp rate by an undesired amount. A system for carrying out the method includes a flow controller for controlling operation of the supply system to deliver compressed gas from a source to a vessel through a supply line at a desired ramp rate. The system employs a pressure monitor downstream of a control valve for measuring the pressure of gas directed into the vessel and transmitting pressure-related data to the flow controller, which closes the control valve to discontinue filling of the vessel if the actual pressure exceeds a permissible deviation from the intended pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: David John Farese, Todd Eric Carlson, Joseph Perry Cohen, Amanda Elizabeth Witmer, Keith H. Schultz
  • Publication number: 20090183796
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes a dispenser having a dispenser well, a control for regulating a product dispensing operation, and a select fill sensor system for automatically initiating and terminating the dispensing operation. The sensor system includes a touch sensor mounted in the dispenser well and configured to sense the selection of a desired product level. A feedback array indicates the product level selected and tracks the product level within a container during the dispensing operation. The control automatically initiates a product dispensing operation based on the selection of a product level and the presence of the container in the dispenser well, and automatically terminates the dispensing operation when the product level in the container reaches the selected product level. In this manner, a hands-free dispenser is provided that can be utilized regardless of the shape or size of container utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: KEVIN M. CHASE, RONALD L. VOGLEWEDE, JONATHAN C. VALENTINE, PETER J. RICHMOND, RANDELL L. JEFFERY, MARTIN P. WINIK, TONY L. KOENIGSKNECHT
  • Publication number: 20090173409
    Abstract: A device for controlling the filling of a receptacle with liquid by a drink vending machine. The device includes visual marking device for marking the liquid fill level in the receptacle, a device for emitting a signal towards the receptacle, a device for receiving an incident signal and which receives the incident signal returning from the receptacle and a controlling device configured for commanding the stoppage of filling on the basis of a variation of the incident signal. The receiving device includes a series of photoelectric receivers and at least one variable which is a displacement of a light incident signal measured by the receivers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Matthieu Ozanne, Alexandre Kollep, Ralph Piguet, Gregoire Terrien, Xavier Greppin
  • Patent number: 7546854
    Abstract: A device for controlling the filling of a receptacle with liquid by a drink vending machine. The device includes visual marking device for marking the liquid fill level in the receptacle, a device for emitting a signal towards the receptacle, a device for receiving an incident signal and which receives the incident signal returning from the receptacle and a controlling device configured for commanding the stoppage of filling on the basis of a variation of the incident signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Matthieu Ozanne, Alexandre Kollep, Ralph Piguet, Grégoire Terrien, Xavier Greppin
  • Patent number: 7543611
    Abstract: Method for spill free refuelling includes establishing a liquid tight connection between a refuelling gun nozzle for fuel dispensing and a coupling piece of the fuel receiving object (6), through which fuel is provided to a fuel container (7), detecting a predetermined fuel level (8?) and automatically interrupting the fuel flow when said level is detected. A level detection signalling configuration is established by moving the gun into position for establishment of the liquid-tight connection. The invention further relates to a system for spill free refuelling, a method and a device for detecting a predetermined liquid fuel level and a fuel pipe arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Identic AB
    Inventor: Sylvid Källberg
  • Patent number: 7533703
    Abstract: A system, device, and method for quantifying fuel flow from a substantially stationary consumer container is contemplated. The system includes a flow sensor, a communications medium, and a receiver. Both the flow sensor and the receiver are in communication with the communications medium. The system may include a display, a computing device in communication with the receiver and an environmental sensor in communication with the communications medium. The communications medium may be wireless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Elster Electricity, LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Shuey
  • Publication number: 20090120811
    Abstract: An apparatus for storage and liberation of compressed hydrogen or other gases is provided. The apparatus includes a housing defining a chamber that includes a cartridge comprising an array of hollow microcylinders defining cavities for storage compressed gas. Each microcylinder has at least one end sealed with a plug made of an easily meltable alloy. The apparatus also includes a gas liberating tool configured for controllable liberating the gas from the cartridge into the chamber; and a control system operatively coupled to the discharge valve and liberating tool, and configured for controlling operation thereof. According to another aspect of the invention, there are provided a system and method for filling a cartridge having an array of hollow microcylinders having open ends. The filling includes placing the cartridge into a chamber of an autoclave, and compressing the gas in the chamber, thereby providing permeation of the gas through the open ends into cavities of the microcylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicants: C. EN. LIMITED
    Inventors: Nikolay ZHEVAGO, Emil DENISOV
  • Publication number: 20090107580
    Abstract: A modification to the vent control system of a fluid tank is provided. More particularly, an electronically controlled vent control system used in connection with a fuel tank is provided. The vent control system disclosed is operable to automatically sense the beginning of a fueling event and to open a venting valve allowing fuel to enter the tank. Subsequently, as the fuel reaches a predetermined fill level, the vent control system is operable to automatically close the venting valve, halting the flow of fuel into the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Trevor Enge, Michael Teets
  • Publication number: 20090090431
    Abstract: A dispensing source container suitable for containing and dispensing fluid concentrate has an opening suitable for receiving a closure. The source container includes a fluid-tight vessel configured to hold fluid concentrate, and a pump connectable to the opening of the source container, the pump having a temporary reservoir, the pump being operable to withdraw a portion of the fluid concentrate from the source container and to store the portion of fluid concentrate in the temporary reservoir. The pump is also operable to dispense a metered amount of the fluid concentrate from the temporary reservoir to dispense the fluid concentrate from the source container into receiving containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: IDISPENSE LLC
    Inventors: R. Bruce Yacko, Edward L. Mueller, Jeffrey C. Gayer, Douglas F. Taylor, Luke Stonis, Gary E. Myers, Tim C. Rothwell, Robert J. Hayes
  • Patent number: 7500497
    Abstract: A method for filling a compressed-gas container, in particular a compressed gas container in an airbag system, with a gas or gas mixture, or for producing a gas mixture in a compressed gas container. The filling is accomplished by introducing a gas mixture, or at least one gaseous component of the gas mixture, into a cooled compressed-gas container in the form of a gas or liquid-cooled gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Friedel Michel, Ulrich Klebe
  • Patent number: 7497229
    Abstract: A seal support system (1) for maintaining barrier fluid in a mechanical seal (2) including a vessel (10) for containing barrier fluid, a system for feeding barrier fluid between the vessel (10) and the mechanical seal (2), a system for automatically detecting barrier fluid within the vessel (10) and a system for automatically restoring barrier fluid within the vessel (10), and a system (100) for automatically draining barrier fluid from the vessel (10) after a predetermined period of time. The system for discharging (100) may automatically drain barrier fluid from the vessel (10) for a predetermined period of time. The system of discharging (100) may automatically drain barrier fluid from the vessel (10) with a predetermined rate of discharge. The system of discharging (100) preferably includes a system for draining barrier fluid from the vessel (10) and a valve for automatically controlling the draining of barrier fluid from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: AES Engineering Ltd
    Inventors: Nadim Tahir, Desmond Hall, James Frances McKeever
  • Patent number: 7490635
    Abstract: A method for filling a pressure vessel, for example an airbag system, with a gas or gas mixture. The filling is accomplished by cooling a pressure vessel, filling said vessel with at least one type of gas at a temperature which is higher than the boiling point thereof and closing the cold vessel. A pressure is produced in the filled and closed vessel by heating said vessel at an ambient temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Hermann Grabhorn, Ulrich Klebe, Friedel Michel
  • Patent number: 7487807
    Abstract: A fueling assembly for a fuel tank positioned in an engine driven welder. The fueling assembly includes a filler tube, a fuel level monitor and a grommet. The filler tube has a bottom portion and a top portion. The bottom portion of the filler tube has a cross-sectional area that is greater that any region in the top portion of the filler tube. The fuel level monitor includes a fuel level sensor position in the fuel tank and/or filler tube. The fuel level monitor includes a fuel level indicator positioned on a side of the housing so as to enable an operator to simultaneously view the fuel level indicator and the opening used to direct fuel into the filler tube during the filling of the fuel tank. The grommet at least partially seals the tube access opening to inhibit fluids entering the interior of the housing of the engine driven welder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Bender, Jason R. Stapp
  • Publication number: 20090025824
    Abstract: Recovery of dehydrogenation product must be done separately from supply of hydrogen fuel. However, there is a problem that it takes much time when dehydrogenation product recovery and fuel filling are done separately. A fuel filling/waste solution recovery apparatus includes measuring means to measure a volume of supplied fuel and a volume of recovered waste solution by measuring flow rates of solutions passing through a fuel filling nozzle and a recovery nozzle or piping, and a display which shows the volume of supplied fuel and the volume of recovered waste solution which are measured by the measuring means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Masafumi Noujima, Takeyuki Itabashi, Takao Ishikawa, Hiroshi Kanemoto, Shinji Yamada
  • Publication number: 20090025821
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a nitrogen tire inflation and deflation system and associated usage methods. In one exemplary embodiment, the system includes a dispenser and a nitrogen storage device along with an associated usage method. In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a decommissioned pay phone is converted into an air or nitrogen dispenser. The conversion utilizes the form-factor and payment component of the pay phone with the additional of parts to regulate air flow. Advantageously, this provides an environmental solution to waste disposal of decommissioned pay phones. The air/nitrogen dispenser of the present disclosure can be placed at gasoline stations, convenience stores, car washes, and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel S. Graham
  • Publication number: 20090000689
    Abstract: A system for managing liquid supply suitable for a process equipment with a liquid tank is disclosed. The system includes a host, a data-reading tool, a system controller and a tank-locking device. The host stores a built-in liquid database. The data-reading tool used for reading data related to the liquid tank is electrically connected to the host. The host receives the data related to the liquid tank from the data-reading tool, and the received data mapped with the liquid database. The system controller drives the tank-locking device according to the signal from the host to whether or not allow replacement of the liquid tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: POWERCHIP SEMICONDUCTOR CORP.
    Inventors: Yen-Liang Chen, Yuh-Shyang Su, Sou-Yung Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7469727
    Abstract: An improved method for measuring and automatically disposing of infectious waste generated during and after surgical and clinical procedures is provided. The infectious waste removal device includes a suction source, a method for pressure verification, separation chamber for isolating fluids, containment reservoir, measurement chamber for determining fluid received, an information source for such fluid volumes, a quantitative method for calculating fluid dynamics, a post use cleaning method, and other attributes for use by the surgical team or healthcare staff in order to while minimize healthcare worker handling of said infectious waste and to limit their possible exposure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: BioDrain Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Ryan C. Marshall
  • Patent number: 7469725
    Abstract: A system for accurately measuring and delivering a predetermined amount of fuel to a vehicle for a specified mission. This system rapidly refuels vehicles to a specific wet vehicle weight. The fuel loading value is determined based upon an algorithm, which accounts for interactions of mission duration, and/or mission payload weight, and/or mission environmental effects. The fuel loading is accomplished by using one or more measuring tubes with a floating valve, which precludes the continued flow of fuel into the tank when the predetermined amount of fuel is delivered. The measuring tubes can be of specific lengths each corresponding to an output of the algorithm or a single telescoping tube that enables varying the length of the tube. Each unique tube length corresponding to a unique output of the algorithm. An alternative system comprises different sized fuel bladders. These systems enable a rapid foolproof method of refueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Richard E. Annati
  • Publication number: 20080302439
    Abstract: A method for measuring a fill level (7) of a fill substance (1) in a container (3) and for monitoring at least one predetermined fill level (LMIN, LMAX), using a fill level measuring device (5) working according to the travel-time principle, as well as a corresponding fill level measuring device (5), wherein the monitoring satisfies high safety standards, wherein, in each measuring cycle, transmission signals (S) are sent toward the fill substance (1) and their echo signals (E) are received, the fill level (7) is determined, based on the echo signals (E), in a first evaluation method, and it is determined, based on the echo signals (E), in a second evaluation method independent of the first evaluation method, whether the fill level exceeds or falls beneath the predetermined fill levels (LMIN, LMAX).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Dietmar Spanke, Edgar Schmitt, Reinhard Schaefer, Holger Steltner
  • Patent number: 7458401
    Abstract: A tool that can be used to load catalyst into a chemical reactor. In a preferred embodiment, the tool may also be used to measure the outage in the reactor tube. Also in a preferred embodiment, the tool provides a way to prevent dust from accumulating on the upper tube sheet of the reactor while loading catalyst into the reactor tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: TubeMaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 7451789
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically maximizing the quantity of a fluid which can be placed within a tank car having a maximum product weight based on the lesser of either an industry maximum product weight limit and a maximum calculated product weight at 2% outage. The system includes a magnetostrictive probe having a movable float and a temperature gauge thereon and mounted within a tank car, such that the float is capable of being buoyed by a fluid. The system further includes a fluid pump capable of activation to transfer fluid from a bulk source to a tank car, and a controller coupled wirelessly to the magnetostrictive probe and an input device, and wired to one of either a fluid pump or shutoff valve, such that the maximum product weight is entered to the controller by the input device and the controller activates the pump or shutoff valve to begin addition of fluid to the tank car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph C. Fiore
  • Patent number: 7441569
    Abstract: A wireless tank level monitoring system is provided. The system includes a transmitter that is located in close proximity to the storage tank. The transmitter is coupled to a remote-ready tank level gauge, which provides a ratio-metric voltage output proportional to the liquid volume inside the tank. The transmitter periodically monitors the output from the level gauge and transmits the information to a base station located remotely from the storage tank. The base station displays the tank level numerically in percent full, graphically with a bar chart, or both. A conspicuous visual indication is provided by the base station when the tank level drops below a predetermined set point. In battery powered applications, the base station also reads and provides a visual indication of a low battery condition for both the transmitter and base station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Benjamin N. Lease
  • Patent number: 7441568
    Abstract: An adhesive liquid dispensing apparatus includes a gun manifold, a dispensing module, and a dispensing orifice. The inlet port of the gun manifold is directly coupled with a reservoir of adhesive hot melt liquid that is fixedly attached to the manifold. The contents of the reservoir are under pressure so that the adhesive hot melt liquid is dispensed from the adhesive liquid dispensing apparatus without the need for heated supply hoses to connect the inlet port of the manifold to a remote source of adhesive hot melt liquid. Preferably, the adhesive liquid dispensing system is coupled with a robot that controls the positioning of the system during an adhesive liquid dispensing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: George O. Porter, Leslie J. Varga
  • Publication number: 20080223482
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preventing overfilling of a plurality of fuel tanks (8) at a gasoline station, in the event that fuel tanks are filled simultaneously by multi-chamber tank vehicles (7). The fuel tanks (8) are equipped with filling level threshold indicators (3) linked to a transmitter (1) for wireless transmission of a signal. A receiver (2) mounted in the tank vehicle (7) is provided to control one or several tank valves. In order to ensure safe closure of the tank valves, the filling level threshold indicators (3) of the fuel tanks (8) at the gasoline station are connected each to a signal line (5) leading to a common interface (4). Only one transmitter (1) along with an interrogation control device is provided for connecting to said interface (4) and cooperates with the receiver (2) mounted in the tank vehicle (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Dagmar Hockner
  • Patent number: 7418964
    Abstract: An anesthetic agent cassette is provided for selectively communicating with an anesthesia machine using either analog or digital communication techniques. The anesthetic agent cassette includes an input contact that receives an input signal from an anesthesia machine. Based upon the input signal, the control circuit in the anesthetic agent cassette determines whether the anesthetic agent cassette is coupled to an anesthesia machine that utilizes either digital communication or analog communication. The anesthetic agent cassette includes an output circuit that selectively connects either a digital output line or an analog output line to a single output contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Information Technologies
    Inventor: Douglas Kirk Bottom
  • Patent number: 7419548
    Abstract: A liquid crystal dispensing apparatus includes a container to contain liquid crystal, a discharge pump, and a nozzle to dispense liquid crystal from the discharge pump onto a substrate. The discharge pump has a separably formed case, a cylinder received in the case, a piston inserted into the cylinder and having a groove at a lower portion such that the piston draws in and discharges liquid crystal by rotating and moving up-down, and a suction opening and a discharge opening through which liquid crystal is to be respectively drawn in and discharged as the piston is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: LG Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae-Gyu Jeong, Soo-Min Kwak, Hae-Joon Son
  • Patent number: 7415995
    Abstract: A canister filling system is provided for independently filling multiple canisters from a common set of storage stations prioritized in a cascaded manner. The system includes first and second fill stations configured to receive and independently fill canisters with pressurized gas. First and second storage stations store gas at corresponding first and second charge pressures, respectively. A supply-chain joins each of the first and second fill stations to both of the first and second storage stations. First and second valve assemblies are provided in the supply-chain to monitor, independent of one another, the canister pressures at the corresponding first and second fill stations. The canister pressures represent the pressure within corresponding canisters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Scott Technologies
    Inventors: Darrill Lee Plummer, Gaylord Kern Posod
  • Patent number: 7412994
    Abstract: This application relates to a fuel dispensing system and method for safely regulating transfer of fuel between a fuel dispenser and a fuel recipient. The fuel dispensing system may be used, for example, to replenish electric vehicles that use refillable electrochemical power generation systems, such as fuel cell hybrid systems using hydrogen fuel. The system employs a combination of interlocks and other safety features specifically adapted for high-risk indoor environments. Fueling cannot commence until the dispenser and the recipient are electrically bonded to minimize the risk of spark generation. The system may include, for example, a fuel supply subsystem for preventing fuel flow except during a fueling session, an immobilization subsystem for preventing relative movement of the dispenser and the recipient during a fueling session, a communication subsystem for enabling data exchange between the dispenser and the recipient, and a leak detection subsystem for monitoring the fueling site for fuel leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Cellex Power Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Adrian James Corless, Noel Christopher Buckley, Darrin Grant Elliott, Carolyn A. Lawrence, David Reinhold Pfeil
  • Publication number: 20080190514
    Abstract: An automatic liquid dispenser is disclosed wherein a liquid adjustor is disposed to prevent liquid from splashing outside of a receptacle, thereby saving the automatic liquid dispenser from being polluted with splashed liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Young Hyun LEE, Ju Hwan Yun, Dong Joo You, Jong Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 7404420
    Abstract: A portable sprayer includes a tank and a measuring device in selective fluid communication with the tank. The measuring device may be located adjacent to a funnel at the top of the tank and a valve provided to selectively control the flow of fluid from the measuring device into the funnel. The measuring device may include a plurality of surfaces extending from the internal wall of the measuring device to provide indicia of the amount of fluid within the measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Rick L. Leer, Douglas Burnworth
  • Patent number: 7398803
    Abstract: A pneumatic system consists of an inflatable/deflatable article, for example, a compression garment connected to a pump by connectors, respectively. The connector attached to the garment carries an RFID transponder and a corresponding radio circuit is located within the pump. In use, the transponder transmits and receives information to and from the pump radio circuit. The information exchanged is used by the pump control system to activate the pump and to operate the pump to provide the particular operating parameters for that garment, for example, pressure, inflation/deflation cycle duration of treatment, etc. The pneumatic system may include communication means for the pump, such as a radio circuit, that is located remote from the pump. Also, the pneumatic system may include a support mechanism that functions both as a handle and a hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology LTD
    Inventor: Michael David Newton
  • Publication number: 20080128049
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus for automatically maintaining a pressure differential for the continuous delivery of a liquid to semiconductor manufacturing equipment. A refillable bulk liquid delivery system includes a plurality of canisters residing along a liquid flow path, whereby an over pressure is detected within at least one of the canisters. The over pressure may be detected using an automatic venting circuit or a programmable logic controller programmed for detecting such over pressures. The over pressure is then exhausted by removing excess pressure from the canister through a venting valve to maintain a Delta pressure across the canisters for continuously delivering the liquid along the liquid flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Mark C. Easton
  • Patent number: 7373958
    Abstract: A liquid crystal dispensing apparatus facilitating detection of vapor within liquid crystal material, facilitating removal of residual liquid crystal material, and facilitating precise control of predetermined dispensing positions and dispensing amounts includes a container containing liquid crystal material, a discharge pump drawing in and discharging liquid crystal material, and a nozzle dispensing liquid crystal material, discharged from the discharge pump, onto a substrate. The discharge pump includes a case, a window at a lower portion of the case, a cylinder within the case, a piston rotatably arranged within the cylinder and having a groove for drawing in and discharging liquid crystal material, and a suction opening and a discharge opening through which liquid crystal material is drawn into and discharged from with respect to the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignees: LG Displays Co., Ltd., Top Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae-Gyu Jeong, Soo-Min Kwak, Hae-Joon Son, Man-Ho An, Joon-Young Kim
  • Publication number: 20080105331
    Abstract: An automatic liquid dispenser and automatic liquid dispensing method are disclosed capable of transmitting ultrasonic to an upper surface of a receptacle, and receiving the ultrasonic reflected from the upper surface of the receptacle to detect a receptacle height, whereby the receptacle height may be freely detected regardless of shape, material and surface state of the receptacle, and regardless of a position where the receptacle is placed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Dong Joo You, Ju Hwan Yun, Jong Hwan Kim, Young Hyun Lee
  • Patent number: 7363948
    Abstract: A liquid crystal dispensing apparatus dispenses liquid crystal onto a substrate. The liquid crystal dispensing apparatus includes a frame, a table, at least one liquid crystal discharge device, and a liquid crystal amount inspecting portion. The table is installed on the frame to have the substrate to be mounted thereon. The liquid crystal discharge device adjustably discharges an amount of liquid crystal, and the liquid crystal amount inspecting portion inspects a liquid crystal dispensing amount by comparing an actual amount of liquid crystal discharged from the liquid crystal discharge device with a preset liquid crystal amount. The liquid crystal discharge device includes a piston to perform ascending motions to draw in the liquid crystal and descending motions to discharge the liquid crystal with an angle of at least a portion of the liquid crystal discharge device determining a magnitude of the ascending/descending motion to control an amount of liquid crystal discharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Joung-Ho Ryu, Hyug-Jin Kweon, Hae-Joon Son, Kyu-Yong Bang, Joon-Young Kim, Man-Ho An, Yong-Kyu Seo
  • Publication number: 20080083475
    Abstract: Beverage fill detection apparatuses may take the form of a coaster, where opaque beverage containers are placed on top, and a fill level for the beverage container is indicated. The apparatus includes a pressure sensor which determines the pressure associated with the beverage container, and based on comparisons to one or more reference values, determines a fill level of the beverage container and displays the fill level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: George William Lamb
  • Publication number: 20080078467
    Abstract: An overfill protection device which includes a first tubular member, a cylindrical piston slidably fitted within the first tubular member, a spring arranged within the first tubular member, a first and second O-rings fitted in the first and second neck portions of the piston, a second tubular member having a cylindrical recess open at a top, a plug arranged within the second tubular member, a float rod having a cam plate at an upper end, a float connected with a lower end of the float rod, a valve body having a lower end extending upwardly into said valve body and provided with a first magnet and a lower end inserted in said cam plate, a gauge mounted on said valve body, and a second magnet arranged within said gauge and operatively engaged with said needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: William HOME
  • Patent number: 7343943
    Abstract: An automated system is provided and includes a safety and cost reducing feature that is capable of detecting whether an underfill condition exists within the product container as a unit dose of medication is delivered thereto. More specifically, the medication is typically injected into the product container under action of a delivery device, such as a pump, and the underfill detection device is capable of calculating if air (air bubbles) has been dispensed into the product container and based on this information, the device is able to measure the amount of the unit dose of medication within the product container and if necessary, additional medication can be added if it is determined that an underfill condition exists in order to compensate for the presence of the air bubbles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: ForHealth Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Abdul Wahid Khan, Abdolhosein Nasiri
  • Publication number: 20080060717
    Abstract: A method of determining a fill volume of a clutch of an automatic transmission. A clutch fill sequence is observed from measurement of fluid pressure applied to the clutch, wherein the sequence may include a initial rise, a plateau, and a final rise. A fill end time may be identified as corresponding to an intersection of a forward extrapolated portion of the plateau and a backward extrapolated portion of the final rise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventors: Hussein A. Dourra, Gary J. Binienda, Laszlo M. Hideg
  • Patent number: 7325577
    Abstract: A tank venting system includes a diaphragm valve movable to open and close a passageway leading to a fuel tank. The system also includes a fuel vapor recovery canister used to adsorb hydrocarbons associated with fuel vapor flowing through the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Devall
  • Publication number: 20080023100
    Abstract: A source of compressed air, such as one or more air compressors and/or one or more tanks of compressed air, is used to sequentially fill a plurality of compressed air storage cylinders. A plurality of pressure-sensitive, one way check valves cause the storage cylinders to be automatically filled up, one at a time, in a determined sequence. The outputs of the storage cylinders are connected through a plurality of differential air pressure valves to a fill station, to cause the storage cylinders to fill up individual air breathing tanks, in which the storage cylinders are depleted in a determined sequence, one at a time. By depleting first the first to be filled storage cylinder, first in-first out, the same filling procedure can be used to refill the air storage cylinders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Scott F. Wonders
  • Patent number: 7322387
    Abstract: An integrated energy hub facility capable of bringing together all aspects of hydrocarbon and other fluid product movement under controlled conditions applicable to the reception, storage, processing, collection and transmission downstream is provided. Input to the energy hub includes natural gas and crude from a pipeline or a carrier, LNG from a carrier, CNG from a carrier, and carrier-regassed LNG, as well as other products from a pipeline or a carrier. Storage can be above surface, in salt caverns or in subterranean formations and cavities, and include petroleum crude, natural gas, LPG, NGL, GTL and other fluids. Transmission downstream may be carried out by a vessel or other type of carrier and/or by means of a pipeline system. Cryogenic fluids are offloaded and sent to the energy hub surface holding tank, then pumped to the energy hub vaporizers and sent to underground storage and/or distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Freeport-McMoRan Energy LLC
    Inventors: David Charles Landry, Roger Jacques Maduell