Hose Nozzle Or Faucet Mounted Patents (Class 141/96)
  • Patent number: 8839831
    Abstract: A method for winterizing boat engines and a system with components designed for performing the method comprising an air-pressure-supply means that can be used to pressurize the system and thereby force water out the inlet port, an anti-freeze supply means that will supply anti-freeze liquid into the system when the component that is to be winterized is operated to draw water, and means for coupling these components to the water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: John Gregal
  • Publication number: 20140221720
    Abstract: The present invention provides systems, methods and devices for storing and/or disposing of hazardous waste material such as calcined material. In certain embodiments, the system comprises a filling nozzle having a valve body having a distal end and an outer surface, the outer surface proximate the distal end being configured to sealingly and removeably couple to an inner surface of a filling port of the container. In certain embodiments, the method comprises (a) coupling an outer surface of a filling nozzle with an inner surface of a filling port of a container to form a first seal (b) adding hazardous waste material into the container (c) decoupling the filling port from the filling nozzle and (d) inserting a fill plug into the filling port, the fill plug forming a second seal with the inner surface of the filling port, the second seal being distally spaced from at least a portion of the first seal with respect to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: AUSTRALIAN NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ORGANISATION
    Inventors: Salvatore Moricca, Walter Guillermo Bermudez, Allan Grant Murray
  • Publication number: 20140190591
    Abstract: The over-fill monitoring system monitors the liquid level of a container as its being filled and visually indicates that the fill process should be stopped, thereby reducing the chance of over-filling and overflow spills. The over-fill monitoring system includes a fuel probe, a visual “fill limit” indicator, and an electronic control unit. The control unit is responsive to the fuel probe and activates the “fill limit” indicator during the fueling process when the fuel level within the tank reaches a predetermined “fuel fill” level. The control circuitry of the control unit also includes a “shut-down” timer, which deactivates the indicator light after a set period of time to prevent the control unit from drawing power from the battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Marty Robert Scott
  • Patent number: 8678049
    Abstract: A method and structure are described for preventing the accidental introduction of gasoline into the fuel system of a diesel-powered vehicle. In a first preferred embodiment, a gasoline fuel nozzle is configured with a magnet, such as magnetic strips, and the entrance to a fill tube of a diesel-powered is configured with a magnetic field sensor ring. When an incorrect fueling operation, such as the introduction of gasoline into the fuel tank of the diesel-powered vehicle, is attempted the sensor ring alerts the operator visually and/or audibly before fueling starts, thereby preventing incorrect fueling. In alternative embodiments, sensing of an attempted incorrect fueling operation may require only the sensor ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Curtis Roys, N. William Parker
  • Publication number: 20140060698
    Abstract: A funnel for transferring a flowable ingredient into a receiving container and which indicates the level of the flowable ingredient in the receiving container. The input end of the funnel extends downwardly to the output end which has a smaller circumference than the input end. At least one sensor is located on the outer surface of the funnel body adjacent to the output end with each sensor located at a different distance from the input end. As the flowable ingredient fills the receiving container, the flowable ingredient is sensed by each sensor which then activates a display to provide an indication of the level of the flowable ingredient in the receiving container, with the final indication being that the receiving container is full. The final indication causes the output end to seal such that transfer of the flowable ingredient is stopped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Tamara L TENNISON, Raymond J. Brissette, JR.
  • Patent number: 8256474
    Abstract: A beverage bottling plant for filling bottles with a liquid beverage, having a flow meter integrated into the filling element and located in the flow path for filling bottles with a liquid beverage and a filling machine having such a filling element. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Stienen
  • Patent number: 8167004
    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. A receptacle and level detector emits ultrasound to the receptacle and detects the ultrasound reflected from the receptacle to generate a signal. A controller receives the signal from the receptacle and level detector to control the liquid adjusting unit, and an identifying mark at the receptacle accommodator facilitates the correct arranging of the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Young Hyun Lee, Ju Hwan Yun, Dong Joo You, Jong Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 7992600
    Abstract: The apparatus for filling a motor vehicle cooling system includes a communication body, a valve, a flexible connecting hose, a pressure gauge, a relief valve and a hanging portion, in which the valve, the connecting hose, the pressure gauge, the relief valve and the hanging portion are all disposed on predetermined positions of the communication body, while the connecting hose is extended out of the communication body for a distance and it connects to a top opening of the cooling system tightly by a metallic cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Lai-Cheng Liu
  • Patent number: 7320345
    Abstract: An air inflation device is a pass-thru vehicle tire inflation device. It ensures exact air pressure without the use of an air gauge. It works by attaching to a tire valve, and then to an existing air supply, such as those found at gas stations, and utilizing an internal pressure relief valve that is pre-set to exact PSI recommendations. This means that the inflation device will put only the amount of air needed in every tire without having to use a pressure gauge. Air moves through an internal air chamber constructed of plastic or rubber tubes that runs through the nozzle to the head that attaches to the valve of the tire. A plastic valve located on the back of the apparatus connects to any existing air supply. A pressure relief valve is integrated into the bottom of the nozzle that ensures that the exact PSI recommendations are maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventors: Tim Matthews, Joshua A. Matthews, Howard Ashcraft
  • Patent number: 6871678
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for filling a wine barrel is disclosed. The apparatus has a nozzle (4) connected to a hollow handle (15) where the upstream portion of the handle is connected to a hose from a wine supply. Supply of wine in the apparatus is controlled by a control button (17) on the handle (15) which opens an upstream solenoid valve. The apparatus (1) has a locating lug (6) and arm (7) on the nozzle portion to allow generally vertical location of the nozzle in a barrel bung hole. The apparatus has a non-return valve (14) to prevent wine flowing from the hose to the apparatus when the upstream solenoid valve is closed. The apparatus has a conductivity sensor (9) to cause closure of the upstream solenoid valve when the wine in the barrel reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Jim Guszlovan
  • Patent number: 6871677
    Abstract: A method and system for preventing vehicle misfuelling by utilizing an apparatus that receives a fuel nozzle into the filler neck, and activates a vacuum on the nozzle inserted therein. Using the pump's internal shut-off mechanism, this prevents the fuel pump from dispensing fuel until the sensing unit within the apparatus is able to identify the fuel proposed to be added to the tank. If the fuel is deemed acceptable, the vacuum is released, and the fuel is permitted to enter into the desired fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Russell Shane Zerangue, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6732770
    Abstract: A fueling crane comprises an extensible boom rotatably associated with a pedestal wherein the extensible boom has a first end rotatably affixed to a fuel inlet pipe mounted on the pedestal and a second end terminating in a fueling nozzle. The extensible boom has at least one elbow joint between the first end and the second end wherein the elbow joint permits the fueling crane to provide fuel to any vehicle spaced from the pedestal within a given radius. The extensible boom is generally disposed in an upright manner wherein the elbow joint is spaced horizontally from but substantially directly above the pedestal and the second end is substantially adjacent the first end when the extensible boom is in a storage position. The improved extensible boom has means for returning the fueling nozzle to the storage position with the fueling nozzle disposed directly over a fuel drip collector thus providing for an environmentally secure fueling station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph M. Nusbaumer, Ronald Woods
  • Patent number: 6712102
    Abstract: A method and system for preventing vehicle misfuelling by utilizing an apparatus that receives a fuel nozzle into the filler neck, and activates a vacuum on the nozzle inserted therein. Using the pump's internal shut-off mechanism, this prevents the fuel pump from dispensing fuel until the sensing unit within the apparatus is able to identify the fuel proposed to be added to the tank. If the fuel is deemed acceptable, the vacuum is released, and the fuel is permitted to enter into the desired fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Russell Shane Zerangue, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6698462
    Abstract: Assemblies and methods for automatically and electronically controlling and directing the input of solutions into solution receptacles are disclosed. An assembly may deliver an electronic, computer-generated signal having a specific address via hardwires or using wireless methods. One assembly includes a solution reservoir, a solution receptacle feeder and a computer to control the delivery of solution to a solution receptacle. The assembly may also include a number of transmitters, receivers, or transceivers for delivering the computer-generated signals. The assembly may also include any of variety of mechanisms for use in mobilizing the solution delivery assembly or the solution receptacles or both. Each of the solution receptacles for use of the assembly may have its own identifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Scott Schneider
  • Patent number: 6681814
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser contains a vapor sensor in the non-hazardous electronics chamber. The vapor sensor is operatively connected to a power interlock. When hydrocarbon vapors exceed a predetermined threshold in the electronics chamber, power is decoupled from the electronics in the electronics chamber to prevent explosions. The power interlock may further decouple power from the entire fuel dispenser. The detection of hydrocarbon vapors may also be communicated to another system including a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Jack F. Bartlett, Howard M. Myers, Russel D. Leatherman
  • Patent number: 6532999
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a pair of inputs for determining the pressure within a vapor recovery path. The inputs are positioned about a flow restrictor within the vapor recovery path. The vapor recovery path may include a mounting platform for attaching the pressure sensor and positioning the inputs relative to the flow restrictor. In one embodiment, a vapor sensor may also be positioned within the vapor recovery path. An inlet port and an outlet port direct vapor from the vapor recovery path to a sensor. The inlet and outlet ports are positioned relative to the flow restrictor for forcing the vapor through the sensor. In this embodiment, a common flow restrictor within the vapor recovery path may accommodate both the vapor sensor and the pressure sensor. If vapor is not being returned in the vapor return path properly, the fuel dispenser may set an alarm condition and/or shut down the fuel dispenser operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Pope, William P. Shermer
  • Patent number: 6520071
    Abstract: A hand-held suction pump for creating a vacuum in a container (2) provided with a suction valve (3), comprising an elongated outer casing in which an electric motor (7) and a piston pump (14, 15) driven by the motor (7) are accommodated, wherein the pump chamber (14) of the piston pump is connected by an inlet valve and a suction duct (28) to a hollow tip (34) at the free end of the casing for direct coupling with the suction valve of the container, the pump chamber being further connected by an outlet valve to an exhaust duct (29) having a duct opening on the outer surface of the wall of the outer casing for porting an exhaust flow to the exterior of the outer casing. In order to reduce noise caused by the exhaust flow, the duct opening of the exhaust duct (29) is overlapped by a baffle (38) which is separated by a gapped distance from the outer surface of the wall of the outer casing so as to deflect the exhaust flow exiting the duct opening by a substantial angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Aracaria B. .
    Inventor: Fabrizio Lanza
  • Patent number: 6170542
    Abstract: Electronic air-supplying and pressure-equalizer system for tires, to be preferably installed at petrol stations, service areas, mechanical assistance points on roads or the like, similar to those comprising a compression unit, which, either through a deposit or directly, supplies a gas, preferably compressed air, to an inflating unit, which has several inflating conduits having, at their free ends, mechanisms for coupling the inflating conduits to a tire valve, as well as a structure for supporting the conduits, which is provided with a working unit or machine (1), including a housing (2), a metal framework (11), an electronic measuring instrument, and a pneumatic equipment (35) a propeller or compressor equipment, having an inner or outer compressing unit, a basis or supporting unit and an air-delivering unit (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Fast Air S.L.
    Inventor: Fermin Jaime Loureiro Benimeli
  • Patent number: 6151955
    Abstract: A device and method for testing for the recovery of vapor in a system in which a fluid is dispensed into a tank through a nozzle, according to which a vacuum is created to induce the flow of the vapor into the nozzle. The vacuum is measured and a display is provided that indicates whether or not the vacuum attains a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Dresser Equipment Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Michael Ostrowski, Richard Michael Smith
  • Patent number: 6131769
    Abstract: An apparatus for is disclosed for detecting low liquid level in a bottom-draining container (12), the apparatus including a spout (14, 48) extended outwardly from the container, the spout having a central bore (18) through which liquid can drain from a bottom of the container; at least one guide member (26, 56, 62) positioned in the spout; at least one float (38) mounted for movement in the spout along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container; a source (42) for directing a beam of radiation into the spout along a path intersected by the float when a liquid drains to a preselected level within the spout; and a device (44, 46) for detecting when the float intersects the beam. The guide member may be omitted in one embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Clark Eugene Harris, Dennis Robert Stell
  • Patent number: 6068030
    Abstract: A fueling system is substantially composed of one or more fueling units, a liquidation managing machine, a first fueling state communicator, and a second fueling state communicator. The units contains a fuel sort discrimination unit for supplying fuel of which sort is consistent with fuel in a tank to be fueled, and a full-tank fueling unit for filling up the tank with fuel to a full-tank level. The liquidation managing machine settles accounts and controls signals input from the fueling units. The first fueling state communicator and the second fueling state communicator indicate fueling states of the fueling units, the first fueling state communicator functions by receiving signals from the liquidation managing machine, and the second fueling state communicator functions by receiving signals from the first fueling state communicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Tatsuno Corp.
    Inventor: Hiyoshi Tatsuno
  • Patent number: 6067025
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling the height of packaging above an integrated circuit package (30) comprising, a substrate (12), a silicon chip (16) and a signal wire (20), one or more height detection wires (32) extending above the top surface (26) of the silicon chip (16) and the signal wire (20) and a detector electrically connected to the height detection wire (32), wherein the height detection wire (32) and the detector form an electric circuit that is affected when a polisher of encapsulant (40) is in proximity to the height detection wire (32), is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony M. Chiu, Alan H. Kramer
  • Patent number: 6041966
    Abstract: A valve assembly and a bottom-draining container having the valve assembly. The valve assembly comprising a first body member, a guide member supported by the first body member so that the guide member will extend upward into the container, and a float mounted for movement along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container, the float having a mating surface for engaging a second mating surface on the valve assembly when the float is in the unsensed position, the mating surface of the float having a configuration for minimizing sticking of the float with respect to the valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Ralph L. Piccinino, Jr., Kevin H. Blakely
  • Patent number: 6012606
    Abstract: An apparatus for is disclosed for detecting low liquid level in a bottom-draining container (12), the apparatus including a spout (14, 48) extended outwardly from the container, the spout having a central bore (18) through which liquid can drain from a bottom of the container; at least one guide member (26, 56, 62) positioned in the spout; at least one float (38) mounted for movement in the spout along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container; a source (42) for directing a beam of radiation into the spout along a path intersected by the float when a liquid drains to a preselected level within the spout; and a device (44, 46) for detecting when the float intersects the beam. The guide member may be omitted in one embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Clark Eugene Harris, Dennis Robert Stell
  • Patent number: 5855851
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for transferring a liquid capable of accurately performing detection of a liquid level using a pipetting probe even in a case of a high electric conductivity of a in-flow-passage moving fluid which transmits sucking and discharging operation of a syringe (107) to the pipetting probe (100, 400, 500, 600). The probe has a liquid level sensing electrode (103, 401, 501, 601) and an inner tube (102, 402, 502, 602). The liquid level sensing electrode capable of contacting with a liquid to be pipetted is electrically separated from an inner tube filled with the moving fluid, and the both are insulated by an electric insulating member (104B, 403, 503) between them. A container (111) containing the liquid to be pipetted is held by a container holder (112), and a liquid level can be detected by change in an electrostatic capacitance between the container holder and the liquid level sensing electrode of the probe when the probe is moved downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Boehringer Mannheim GmbH
    Inventors: Shigeki Matsubara, Kazuhiro Tanaka, Akira Inagaki, Bernd Rosicke
  • Patent number: 5829492
    Abstract: There is provided a device for filling an inflatable protective cushion to a predetermined air pressure. The inflating device has a handle having an inlet port for receiving compressed air and a valve for opening and closing the inlet port and an air outlet port. A housing having an air chamber is connected to the handle and receives the air from the handle outlet port through an air channel terminating in an orfice which creates a vacuum in the chamber. The venturi effect draws additional air through a muffler connected to the housing chamber during filling. The muffler serves to restrict air flow from and to the atmosphere during and after filling of the cushion. The housing also includes a nozzle connected to the air outlet for insertion into a self-sealing valve in the cushion for filling with air. Also provided is a fill indicator comprising an indicator mount secured in the housing, an indicator button extending through an opening in the mount and moveable upward and downward therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: German Gavronsky, Gerard Anthony Cahalan, Abraham N. Reichental
  • Patent number: 5765608
    Abstract: A hand held device for forming a vacuum within a container. The device includes a pump for drawing a vacuum within the container and a motor for driving the pump. A vacuum sensor is connected to control circuitry for indicating when a vacuum has been established within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Tilia International
    Inventor: Hanns J. Kristen
  • Patent number: 5756882
    Abstract: A method is provided for accurately determining the volume of gas that has leaked through and around a cap having a mouth and a seal situated about the circumference of the mouth. The method includes the steps of positioning the cap within a testing neck on a fuel cap testing apparatus, fixing the cap in the neck to create a general sealing engagement between the seal and the neck and to cause the seal to move into the neck, and "staging" the cap for at least 2.5 seconds. Staging refers to the necessary waiting period that must pass in order to allow the seal to complete moving into the testing neck. A test is then conducted for changes in pressure within the testing neck due to low-volume gas leaks through and around the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard J. Cranfill, Jeff M. Bunyard
  • Patent number: 5720324
    Abstract: Free space within a chamber is filled with a flowable material via an opening in a surface of the chamber. A delivery force is used to deliver the flowable material into the chamber via the opening. An outwardly directed force, independent of the delivery force, is applied to draw the flowable material away from the opening. The extent to which the free space within the chamber has been filled is sensed. And the delivering of the flowable material is controlled in response to the sensing. A wall of the chamber defines a longer dimension and a shorter dimension and the opening is in a portion of the wall that defines the longer dimension. The flowable material is delivered into the chamber via the opening in a manner such that, as the flowable material fills the chamber, a surface of the flowable material moves toward the opening along the longer dimension of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: VLT Corporation
    Inventor: Patrizio Vinciarelli
  • Patent number: 5697408
    Abstract: A container filling apparatus comprising a filling chute in the form of an extendable and retractable telescopic tube for extending downwardly into a container. The tube has a closure device for closing the otherwise open lower end of the tube and a cable device to lower the tube as it extends downwardly into the container. A filling device is provided to supply material into the upper end of the tube as it is lowered, as well as device for sensing contact with the floor of the container. There is an operating device to open the closure device in response to a signal from the device for sensing the floor of the container. There is also a probe mounted at the bottom of the tube to sense the proximity of the bottom of a container and/or the level of material in the container. A second probe is mounted at the top of the tube to sense when the tube has been filled to the level of the probe and to temporarily interrupt the feed of material to the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Leslie Neville Reeves
  • Patent number: 5575316
    Abstract: A device for automatic filling of a mobile container (4) with a material stream (13) from a harvester (1) moving alongside a discharge knee/discharge pipe which is controllably pivotable around a vertical and/or horizontal axis, with a pivotable discharge flap (5) at the end from the harvester (1) to the container (4). At least one optical and/or acoustic range finder (6) for measuring the container (4) and measuring fill levels is disposed on the discharge knee/discharge pipe (3). The range finder (6), either together with the discharge knee/discharge pipe (3) or independently thereof, can be pivoted horizontally and/or vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: Claas oHG beschraenkt haftende offene Handelgesellschaft
    Inventor: Manfred Pollklas
  • Patent number: 5507325
    Abstract: A dispenser for volatile liquids with a vapor collection system is disclosed which controls the rate of operation of a vacuum pump 118 so that a simple vacuum intake 148 disposed preferably inside, but not sealed with, the filler neck can be used to collect only the vapors displaced from the fuel tank 110 by the fuel 104. The vacuum pump 118 is controlled by a controller 114 which receives, from various sensors 124, 128, 132 and 136, signals representative of the fuel vapor/air ratio immediately outside the tank, inside the tank, and/or inside the vapor recovery conduit 122, and/or of the pressure relative to atmosphere inside the tank 110 and/or of the rate of flow of liquid being dispensed. Based on these input signals, the controller 114 operates the vacuum pump 118 at an optimal rate to collect fuel vapor displaced from the tank 110.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Inventor: Ian M. Finlayson
  • Patent number: 5429166
    Abstract: An apparatus for regulating the pneumatic pressure of a tire according to the invention calculates the pressure difference between the specified pneumatic pressure entered therein through an input section and the actual pneumatic pressure of a tire measured by a pressure sensor and operates its air charging or discharging valve by specifying an extent of openness of the valve and a time for keeping the valve open as a function of the obtained pressure difference. Thereafter, it calculates the rate of change in the pneumatic pressure of the tire from the actual pneumatic pressure of the tire measured for the second time during the valve is kept open and, at the same time, the pressure difference between the specified pneumatic pressure value and the actual pneumatic pressure of the tire measured for the second time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Assignee: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidenobu Anzai, Moritaka Gotoh, Minoru Tanaka
  • Patent number: 5341859
    Abstract: Apparatus for filling tubular dispensing cartridges with paste or viscous fluid comprises a mandrel adapted for a sliding fit within the cartridges, the mandrel having an axial fluid passage and a parallel air passage which extends from the mandrel top to an radial opening near the mandrel bottom surface. A pneumatic control system controls the amount of paste or fluid by sensing the flow of air through the air passage. If air passes through the passage, the fluid valve is closed; if air is blocked by a cartridge on the mandrel, the fluid valve is enabled and a manual control valve may be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: William E. Howseman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5322097
    Abstract: A funnel body includes an exit tube, wherein a mesh web pocket is arranged for securement to a lowermost end of the exit tube secured to an annular groove, with the pocket including a buoyant sphere arranged for projection into the exit tube exit opening for curtailing fluid flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Inventor: Terry M. Wright
  • Patent number: 5309957
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing apparatus for automatically discriminating a sort of fuel in a fuel tank of a vehicle in advance of fuelling, by sucking the fuel vapor in the tank into a chamber provided on a fuelling nozzle and accomodating a gas sensor for sensing the vapor introduced into the chamber. The nozzle is further provided with an air ejecter having a base port communicated with an air supplying means through an air hose, a top port for ejecting the air from the base port toward the atmosphere when it is opened, and a side port connected with the gas sensor chamber. A valve body is movably arranged in the nozzle and moved in a forward direction by a nozzle lever and in a backward direction by a pressure of fuel supplied to the nozzle so as to open and close the top port of the air ejector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Tatsuno Corporation
    Inventor: Yasushi Saisuu
  • Patent number: 5277233
    Abstract: An overfill safety adapter is provide which is suitable for use on the outlet end of funnel like devices being used to transfer fluid from one container to another to prevent the overfill of the container and spilling of the fluid which includes an elongated frusto conical shaped housing member adapted to be releasably fitted within an opening of a container to be filled having a bore therethrough, the bore of the housing having a conically shaped upper portion adapted to be releasably mounted on an outlet end of a funnel or spout and a substantially cylindrically shaped lower discharge portion which slidably supports a float operably responsive to the level of fluid in a container; and a magnetically operative valve within the bore of the housing which magnetically co-acts with the float to close the flow of fluid through the bore responsive to the level of fluid in a container to be filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Inventor: Larry L. Fleming
  • Patent number: 5156198
    Abstract: A fuel lock and dispensing system utilizes a data transformer made up of the dispensing nozzle inserted into the fuel tank filler pipe or opening, two pairs of coils, one pair on the hose or nozzle and one pair on the fuel tank filler pipe. A vehicle on-board computer and a fuel pump computer can communicate with each other through the data transfer transformer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Inventor: Gerald L. Hall
  • Patent number: 5016686
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for loading particulate materials, in particular calcined coke, into a transport vehicle are disclosed, wherein the loading operation under steady state conditions is carried out in a "plugged chute" mode, so that a major portion of the loading chute is maintained in a filled condition with the particulate material being loaded. In this manner, the product drop height is maintained at an acceptably low level so as to reduce the velocity of the particulate material throughout the loading process below a damaging rate and thereby prevent significant degradation of the material. In a preferred embodiment, the major portion of the loading chute comprises a telescoping chute arrangement and level control means located above the major portion of the loading chute is employed to maintain the chute in the plugged or full condition by regulation of the discharge valve when the telescoping chute arrangement is fully extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Company
    Inventor: Ralph Gerstenkorn
  • Patent number: 4997013
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for filling vessels with liquid has a non-electric fill indicator having an air passageway leading up and out of the vessel to an air flow indicator, air escaping during filling causes the indicator to whistle and when the whistle stops, the vessel is filled and the user stops filing; a funnel has an elongate air inlet port through a side wall to an adjustable height air inlet to the indicator, air flow is not stopped until the height level of opened air inlet port is covered by the vessel liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Arganius E. Peckels
  • Patent number: 4976297
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for filling vessels with liquid has a non-electric fill indicator having an air passageway leading up and out of the vessel to an air flow indicator, air escaping during filling causes the indicator to whistle and when the whistle stops, the vessel is filled and the user stops filling. The air flow is not stopped until the height level of opened air inlet port is covered by the vessel liquid. The funnel has a full height slot along one side and a vertically slidable air tube in the slot; air is admitted transversely into an aperture through the tube with the aperture being vertically movable along with the tube for easy adjustment of relative fill level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Inventor: Arganius E. Peckels
  • Patent number: 4913179
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device for washing off the inner surface of a reaction vessel and/or of the outer surface of at least one spherodial reagent body present in the reaction vessel, the device comprising a small tube (6) connectable to a washing liquid suction device having a suction opening (2) and being pressable by means of a spring (4) in the direction of the bottom of the reaction vessel, a mantle (8) radially surrounding the small tube (6) at an axial distance from its suction opening (2), which mantle bounds between its inner surface and the outer surface of the small tube (6) a washing liquid inlet canal (10) connectable to a washing liquid supply device, holes (12) being provided in an end section of the mantle (8) facing the suction opening (2) for the exit of the washing liquid and two electrodes (14,16) arranged outside the mantle (8) at a distance from one another, axially further remote from the suction opening (2) than the holes (12) in the mantle (8), the electrodes (14,16) being
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Assignee: Boehringer Mannheim GmbH
    Inventors: Wolf D. Engel, Johann Karl, Friedrich Stabler
  • Patent number: 4877066
    Abstract: A filling apparatus for filling liquid into a container to either of at least two levels has a liquid pouring gun unit for dispensing a liquid and a sensor thereon for sensing that the distance of a surface of the liquid from the end of the gun unit closest to the liquid is a predetermined distance and producing a signal when this distance is sensed. A liquid supply line is connected to the gun unit and has a valve therein and counter for determining the amount of liquid which is flowing in the liquid supply line. The sensor and the counter are connected to a controller, which in turn is connected to the valve. The controller can be set for actuation at either of at least two levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1989
    Assignee: Mazda Motor Manufacturing (USA) Corporation
    Inventor: Shigeo Okamizu
  • Patent number: 4674546
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a fueling nozzle vapor collecting apparatus attachable to a standard fuel dispensing nozzle spout. The apparatus includes a rigid plate connected to the spout having an annular resilient cup-shaped hood affixed to the plate periphery having a foam cushion defined on its outer edge for sealingly engaging the surface surrounding a fuel tank inlet. A collecting hose for the vapor is attached to a port defined in the plate for venting the vapor to a location remote from the nozzle, and a sight glass is adjustably positionable within a seal located in the plate providing visual observance of the fuel level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Paul J. E. Fournier, Ernest F. Kulikowski
  • Patent number: 4492294
    Abstract: A bulk material conveyor comprises an elongated flexible conveying duct and apparatus for viewing the materials being transferred within the duct. The apparatus maintains a fluid stream proximate to the apparatus for viewing. The apparatus for maintaining a fluid stream in one form includes first, second and third truncated conical members which are disposed in generally coaxial relationship. At least part of each truncated conical member overlaps at least one other truncated conical member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1980
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1985
    Assignee: The W. W. Sly Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: David C. Ball
  • Patent number: 4197883
    Abstract: A fuel system in which a fuel dispensing nozzle removably and sealably engages a fuel tank. Pressure sensing means in the nozzle monitors the degree of vacuum established adjacent to the nozzle seal, and in response thereto, actuates a vacuum control apparatus. The latter then functions by regulating the volume of vapor flow withdrawn from the fuel tank, to maintain a desired degree of vacuum adjacent to said seal whereby to avoid or minimize the intake of air into the fuel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1980
    Assignee: Texaco Inc.
    Inventor: Edward A. Mayer
  • Patent number: 4176695
    Abstract: There is disclosed a device for holding the lever of a nozzle assembly in a position to open a valve controlling the flow of fuel through a passageway in the handle of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1979
    Inventor: Walter O. A. Raske
  • Patent number: 4130146
    Abstract: A system for allowing an operator to accurately observe the liquid level in a tank truck or transport trailer that is filled from a bulk storage tank through a flange on the line from the storage tank that is attached to a matching flange of the tank truck or transport trailer by incorporating a float gauge structure into the flange on the line from the storage tank, thus, enabling the operator to accurately observe the level of the liquid in the tank truck or transport trailer and manually shut off the flow from the storage vessel when the tank truck or transport trailer contains the desired amount of liquid. The system includes sensors designed to indicate sealed engagement of the flange on the line from the storage tanks with the matching flange on the tank truck or transport trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1978
    Inventors: Ronald A. Dunster, John A. Savage