Combined Patents (Class 141/98)
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Patent number: 6289616Abstract: An advertising display apparatus on a fluid pump filler gun, such as a fuel pump filler gun at a gas station. The filler gun includes a barrel, a head portion, and a handle. An elongated carrying body, configured to receive an advertising display, attaches to the head portion. The carrying body extends from approximately the junction between the barrel and the head portion, to approximately the connection between the head portion and the handle, providing maximum area for display of the advertisement.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1997Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Alvern Norway A/SInventor: Stein Alvern
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Patent number: 6286626Abstract: An automated system for changing the motor oil in an engine. The system includes a drain plug having a plurality of channels coupled with tubing that extends to a reversible pump. Tubing extends from the pump to both a used oil container and a new oil container. Check valves positioned at the entrance of each container restrict flow so the oil can flow only to the used oil container and only flows from the new oil container. Preferably, both containers are located in the trunk of the vehicle for easy access. In use, the pump is engaged to draw the used motor oil from the engine into the used oil container. Next, the pump is reversed to draw fresh oil from the new oil container into the engine.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1999Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Inventor: Larry D Evans
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Patent number: 6283175Abstract: The process tube of a vertical heat-treating apparatus for semiconductor wafers has a port at the bottom to be opened and closed by a lid. A sealing mechanism is arranged to seal the connecting portion between the flange of the port and the flange of the lid. The flanges are provided with annular mirror surfaces on the inner side, which face and contact each other to form an inner seal. The flanges are also provided with annular counter surfaces on the outer side, which face each other with a gap therebetween. A metal sheet member is arranged in the gap such that an outer seal is formed by the metal sheet member and the counter surfaces. The metal sheet member has sheets vacuum-stuck onto the counter surfaces, respectively. A buffer space is formed between the inner and outer seals, and is vacuum-exhausted by an exhaust unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2000Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventor: Tomohisa Shimazu
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Patent number: 6279624Abstract: Automatic refuelling of vehicles, primarily cars, is effected by a fuelling robot. An optical sensor is disposed adjacent the fuelling robot and is adapted to detect optically the position of the fuel-tank flap of a vehicle parked for fuelling purposes, relative to the rest position of the robot head. The sensor is also adapted to detect the position of the orifice of the fuel-tank filler pipe relative to the position of the robot head. A computer receives position signals from the sensor and guides a robot-carried opening device into abutment with the fuel-tank flap to open the flap, and to effect docking of a fuelling nozzle within the fuel-tank filler pipe orifice.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Autofill Patent ABInventor: Sten Corfitsen
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Patent number: 6276407Abstract: A system for automatically fuelling vehicles, primarily automobiles, that includes a sensor to detect the presence of a person in proximity to the fuelling system. A fuelling robot includes a robot head that can be moved relative to the robot to enable the robot head to be brought by a positioning system from a rest position to a predetermined position in relation to the fuel-tank pipe of the vehicle. The robot head is provided with electrically conductive sheet-metal elements that are connected to an oscillating electric circuit. A sensing circuit senses a change in the frequency of the oscillating circuit that results from a change in the capacitance between the sheet-metal elements, such as when a person is near the fuelling robot. The sensing circuit activates an alarm in response to a predetermined frequency change, to warn a person who is too near the fuelling robot.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2001Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Assignee: Autofill Patent ABInventor: Sten Corfitsen
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Patent number: 6276410Abstract: An oil funnel assembly for providing a user with a more efficient and quicker way to change oil. The oil funnel assembly includes a funnel that includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion includes a distribution opening that is designed for inserting into an oil receiving port of an engine. A plurality of dividers are coupled to the upper portion of the funnel. The dividers are positioned to form a grid that includes a plurality of spaces. Each of the spaces is designed for receiving and holding an inverted oil container such that oil in the inverted oil container drains into the funnel and out of the distribution opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventor: Stephen G. Esmeralda
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Patent number: 6273155Abstract: A oil collecting and draining device for easy transportation and depositing of oil drained from a vehicle. The oil collecting and draining device includes a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall. The top wall is generally divided into a first portion positioned adjacent to the back wall and a second portion positioned adjacent to the front wall. The top wall is collapsed toward the bottom wall and has a lowest point located in a central area of the first portion. The top wall has an aperture therein extending into an interior of the housing. The aperture is located in the central area of the first portion. A pipe is attached to the front wall and is in communication with an interior of the housing. A valve is positioned on the pipe for selectively opening or closing the pipe. A support structure supports the housing above a ground surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Inventor: Leonardo C. Cacho
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Patent number: 6269848Abstract: Automatic refuelling of vehicles, primarily cars, is effected by a fuelling robot. An optical sensor is disposed adjacent the fuelling robot and is adapted to detect optically the position of the fuel-tank flap of a vehicle parked for fuelling purposes, relative to the rest position of the robot head. The sensor is adapted to sense a code that is optically readable and that is carried by the vehicle. A computer is adapted to guide a robot-carried opening device into abutment with the fuel-tank flap, to open the flap, to effect docking of a fuelling nozzle in accordance with a movement plan, and also to carry out those movements in a reverse order and thereby close the fuel-tank flap when fuelling has been completed.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2000Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Assignee: Autofill Patent ABInventor: Sten Corfitsen
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Patent number: 6267158Abstract: To provide a sealed container, a storage apparatus, an electronic part conveyance system and methods of storage and conveyance of an electronic part able to inhibit growth of a native oxide film on the electronic part without an excessive supply of an inert gas.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2000Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Koichiro Saga
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Patent number: 6267160Abstract: A system and method for exchanging used hydraulic fluid with fresh hydraulic fluid in an accessed hydraulic fluid system. The system including a fluid exchange assembly having a fluid receptacle and an interior fluid separation member, which may be a distendable diaphragm member. The exchange system further includes features of automatic fluid flow alignment, an exchange mode indicating system, and a bypass system for removing at least a portion of the exchange system during a bypass mode of operation. The invention particularly relates to an automatic flow alignment structure for use in association with a fluid exchange apparatus for extracting and exchanging used hydraulic fluid with fresh fluid.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1999Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Inventor: James P. Viken
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Patent number: 6263924Abstract: The present disclosure provides a dispensing system for a fuel additive. This dispensing system comprises two subsystems, one being located in a vehicle and the other located in a fuel pump. The dispensing system of the present disclosure dispenses a liquid fuel additive into a fuel additive storage container of a vehicle at the time the vehicle is fueled at a fuel pump. According to the present disclosure, the fuel additive is a solution of urea, water and a monohydric or polyhydric alcohol. A gasoline performance enhancer may also be used as a fuel additive in the dispensing systems of the present disclosure.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Mobil Oil CorporationInventor: Richard W. Grosser
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Patent number: 6260588Abstract: A bulk chemical delivery system, that includes a cabinet that houses a delivery system. The delivery system may include a canister within the cabinet that is connected to a manifold within the cabinet that includes at least one output line for providing chemical from the canister outside the cabinet. The delivery system may further include an input system that provides input for operation of the delivery system, wherein the input system is housed in an enclosure, and an inert gas line that connects and supplies inert gas to the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1999Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: Craig M. Noah, John N. Gregg, Robert M. Jackson, Craig Esser
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Patent number: 6253805Abstract: An apparatus for replacing transmission fluid in an automatic transmission. The apparatus comprises a tank separated into a pair of compartments by a bladder or diaphragm. At least one pressure regulator communicates with the tank. A vent valve assembly also communicates with the tank. A process for cleaning an automatic transmission and for replacing after cleaning used automatic transmission fluid in the automatic transmission with fresh automatic transmission fluid. The process includes flowing fresh ATF into a first compartment of a tank and into a pliable tub or bladder member in communication with the first compartment until the pliable tub or bladder member and the first compartment are filled with a volume of fresh ATF. A chemical cleaning compound is disposed in the used ATF of the automatic transmission and is circulated through the automatic transmission and its associated components to clean the same and produce contaminated used ATF.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2000Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: BG Products, Inc.Inventors: Harold Edward Erwin, Michael Jason Erwin, Craig James Dittmar
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Patent number: 6247509Abstract: Apparatus and method of replacing old fluid in a transmission system by feeding clean fluid into the system from a clean fluid tank using a pump and draining the old fluid into a waste tank and using a processor to monitor the clean fluid pressure in the clean tank and the old fluid pressure in the waste tank and adjusting the pump's speed using the processor such that the old fluid is drained at substantially the same rate as the clean fluid is fed.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2000Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: Motorvac Technologies, Inc.Inventors: John A. Rome, Eduardo Betancourt
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Patent number: 6248242Abstract: This invention relates to a Spring Water Delivery System and in particular to a system for bulk delivery of potable spring water to a customer's home. This system includes a bulk water supply truck equipped with a pumping system and an onboard ozone generator for delivery of potable tank water to a customer's supply tank.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1999Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Inventor: Andrew G. Martin
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Patent number: 6244384Abstract: A hand held transmission fluid exchanger including a housing block having parallel new and used fluid passages therein, such passages being joined by a return passage having a pressure relief valve therein. The method involves connecting such exchanger with a conventional on-demand transmission fluid supply system having a meter therein and holding the dispensing gun open so that flow is controlled by valves incorporated in the exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Flo-Dynamics, Inc. LLCInventor: Jeffrey P. Few
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Publication number: 20010002601Abstract: A container for use in a processing chamber to lessen the amount of contaminant particles found within the chamber after processing. The container fits closely within the chamber and includes ports for a gas conduit and a vacuum conduit. The container may be locked to the chamber through a locking mechanism and a recess in the container. The container may be guided into the chamber with a plurality of chamfers. The container may be used in inductively coupled plasma chambers, electron cyclotron resonance chambers, and chambers capable of receiving microwaves.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2001Publication date: June 7, 2001Inventor: Kevin G. Donohoe
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Patent number: 6237647Abstract: An automatic refueling station and method detects the arrival of a vehicle to be refueled at the refueling station. Upon detection of the vehicle, the vehicle is polled by the station to obtain information from the vehicle which identifies the vehicle and the customer associated with the vehicle. The information is stored on an identification transponder or tag affixed to the vehicle windshield. The system uses the identifying information to access a vehicle database and a customer database. The vehicle database can provide information about the vehicle such as the location of the vehicle's fuel filler opening, the size of the vehicle and other information related to a recommended fuel filling rate for the vehicle. The customer identifying information is used to access the customer database to obtain information such as customer billing information and the amount of fuel being purchased.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Inventors: William Pong, Edward Fredkin
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Patent number: 6234215Abstract: An apparatus for adding coolant to a cooling system of a motor vehicle includes a cap with a resilient sleeve that expands against the inside wall of a radiator filler neck to provide an air-tight connection. A valve attached to the cap controls the flow of air and coolant through the cap. A gauge on the cap indicates the pressure inside the radiator. A venturi assembly connected to the valve provides a source of vacuum for evacuating air from the cooling system. Thereafter, coolant is drawn through the cap by the vacuum created in the system.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2000Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: UView Ultraviolet Systems, Inc.Inventor: Thomas L. Klamm
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Patent number: 6233855Abstract: Display apparatus is removably attachable to the filler gun of a fuel pump, the filler gun including in series connection a gun nozzle having a forward discharge end and a rear end, a gun head having both a forward end portion which connects with the rear end of the gun nozzle and a rearward handle portion whose forward end connects to the rear of the gun nozzle and a rearward handle portion whose forward end connects to the rear end of the gun head.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1996Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Alvern ASAInventors: Stein Alvern, Øyvind Alvern
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Patent number: 6234220Abstract: New or unused consumable product is distributed with a package capable of capturing the used or spent product for transmission to a recycling or disposal facility. The package is preaddressed for delivery to an appropriate reclamation center or disposal facility, with prepaid delivery charges for a commercial package service. At the reclamation center or disposal facility, the used or spent product is separated from the package for recycling and reusable portions of the package are again packaged with new or unused product, with any waste materials being properly handled. In the exemplary embodiment of motor oil, the package includes a drain pan jug for capturing the used motor oil and a shell for transmitting the drain pan jug and its contents to a reclamation facility. The shell may be reused until no longer serviceable, at which time it may be recycled. The drain pan jug, after use, may be shredded and utilized as fuel.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Inventors: Gary W. Davis, Jon W. Fisher
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Patent number: 6234219Abstract: A container for use in a processing chamber to lessen the amount of contaminant particles found within the chamber after processing. The container fits closely within the chamber and includes ports for a gas conduit and a vacuum conduit. The container may be locked to the chamber through a locking mechanism and a recess in the container. The container may be guided into the chamber with a plurality of chamfers. The container may be used in inductively coupled plasma chambers, electron cyclotron resonance chambers, and chambers capable of receiving microwaves.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Kevin G. Donohoe
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Publication number: 20010001131Abstract: A process and apparatus for preparation of custom blended fuels is disclosed. A bar code on a fuel tank or vehicle, such as an automobile, is scanned by a bar code reader operatively associated with a fuel dispensing means to convey information about a fuel required or desired to a computer controlled customized blender associated with the fuel dispensing means. Multiple fuel components, such as gasoline and replenishable fuel components such as methanol and ethanol may be custom mixed at the point of purchase. Preferably an octane analyzer and other fuel property analyzers, such as RVP analyzers, are associated with individual component or blended gasoline streams.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2000Publication date: May 10, 2001Inventor: Charles B. Miller
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Patent number: 6227263Abstract: A fluid diverting assembly for preventing the oil from the oil filter from running onto unwanted parts and surfaces includes a base assembly designed for removably coupling to a structure, a shaft extending from the base assembly, and a tray member coupled to an end of the shaft opposite the base assembly. The shaft is flexible for facilitating positioning of the tray member into a desired location by manipulation of the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2000Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Inventors: Terry Kust, James T. Terp
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Patent number: 6223793Abstract: An automotive vehicle remote fill fluid reservoir is provided. In a preferred embodiment the fluid reservoir includes a main body to contain the fluid. A neck is fluidly connected with the main body and is inclined toward a region of the engine compartment which is more readily accessible. An extendable funnel is also provided which has flanges along its extreme ends to prevent the funnel from falling into the fluid reservoir or being inadvertently pulled out of the fluid reservoir. The funnel is flexible and has an outwardly flared upper end to prevent fluid spills.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2000Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Michael F Donoughe, Daniel J Flesher
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Patent number: 6223790Abstract: This invention provides a fluid system for exchanging used hydraulic fluid with fresh hydraulic fluid in an accessed hydraulic circuit. One particular application provides an exchange apparatus for exchanging fluids of the type found in motor vehicle hydraulic circuits. The exchange apparatus may utilize pressurized spent fluid flow as a fluid power medium to activate the auto-replenishing fluid exchanger system to replace the spent fluid with fresh fluid at equalized flow rates. Alternatively, the exchange apparatus may utilize pressurize fresh fluid as a fluid power medium to activate the exchange system. Additional power may be supplied by an external boost pump to supplement the flow of fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Inventor: James P. Viken
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Patent number: 6221163Abstract: The system and method for molecular contamination control permits purging a SMIF pod to desired levels of relative humidity, oxygen, or particulates. The SMIF pod includes an inlet port including a check valve and filter assembly for supplying a clean, dry gaseous working fluid to maintain low levels of moisture, oxygen, and particulate content around materials contained in the SMIF pod. The SMIF pod outlet port, which also includes a check valve and filter assembly, is connected with an evacuation system. Flow of purge gas inside the SMIF pod can be directed with one or more nozzle towers to encourage laminar flow inside the pod, and one or more outlet towers,, having a function similar to that of the inlet tower, may also be provided. The purge gas can be dried by exposure to a desiccant, heated to temperatures between about 100° C. and about 120° C., and can be tested for baseline constituent levels prior to or after introduction into a SMIF pod.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Semifab IncorporatedInventors: Glenn A. Roberson, Jr., Robert M. Genco, Robert B. Eglinton, Wayland Comer, Gregory K. Mundt
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Patent number: 6220311Abstract: An apparatus and method including providing a container (12) containing a given quantity of usable material (50). A full container (12) is maintained by providing displacement matter (52) separated from the usable material (50) by a mobile partition (28).Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: Claude R. Litto
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Patent number: 6213175Abstract: Method and apparatus, for servicing engine cooling systems, including a service inlet, a vacuum pump, a two-way solenoid interposed between the vacuum pump and the service inlet, a service outlet, a disposal hose, a new fluid tank, a pressure pump interposed between the service outlet and the new fluid tank, a three-way solenoid interposed between the service outlet and the two-way solenoid, a low-level trigger mechanism, a flow control relief valve and other elements to enhance various modes of operation. The apparatus is capable of performing various operations, including closed-loop fluid cycle, fluid vacuum, fluid top-off, fluid exchange and fluid flow control.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1999Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Motorvac Technologies, Inc.Inventors: John Rome, Eduardo Betancourt
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Patent number: 6212802Abstract: A display apparatus is removably attachable to a filler gun of a fuel pump, where the filler gun includes in series connection, a gun nozzle having a forward discharge end and a rear end; a gun head having both a forward end portion which connects with the rear end of the gun nozzle and a rearward handle portion whose forward end connects to the rear of the gun nozzle; and a rearward handle portion whose forward end connects to the rear end of the gun head. The display apparatus includes a carrying body adapted to fit onto the filler gun and to extend from approximately a first junction between the rear end of the gun nozzle and the forward end of the gun head to approximately a second junction between the rear end of the gun head and the forward end of the handle. The carrying body has an upper surface defining an elongate display surface for messages, and includes a first member and a second member where there are various techniques for releasably interconnecting the first and second members.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1998Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Alvern Norway A/SInventor: Stein Alvern
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Patent number: 6209592Abstract: A self-closing cap for the filling neck of a container, the self-closing cap having integral therewith a smart card having a container coil antenna for communicating with a supply station coil antenna fixed to a supply nozzle when the supply nozzle is inserted into the container through the self-closing cap.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: On Track Innovations Ltd.Inventors: Ronnie Gilboa, Oded Bashan, Nehemya Itay, Moshe Aduk
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Patent number: 6206055Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing, flushing contaminants from and replacing vehicle brake fluid. The apparatus has storage tanks for fresh and waste hydraulic fluid, a fill pump to pump hydraulic fresh hydraulic fluid to the vehicle braking system, an adapter for sealably connecting a fill hose to the master cylinder, a suction pump to suction used hydraulic fluid from the vehicle braking system to the waste fluid tank, a suction hose for suctioning fluid out of the master cylinder and hoses for connecting the waste fluid tank to the bleeder valves located at the vehicle wheels. A by-pass valve is provided between the fill pump and master cylinder to by-pass fluid when the fill hose reaches or exceeds a predetermined level. A computer and ancillary electrical and fluid connections between the various parts of the apparatus and the hydraulic fluid system of a vehicle are also utilized. The apparatus can also be used when replacing the master cylinder or when replacing fluid in other hydraulic systems (i.e.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Inventors: Peter C. Hollub, Harold J. Blanchard, Robert McLaughlin
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Patent number: 6202712Abstract: A system for delivering fuel comprising a receiver coupled in liquid communication with a fuel tank of a vehicle, a nozzle coupled in liquid communication with a fuel source and interactive alignment structure for mating the nozzle with receiver in response to movement of the receiver and the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Inventor: Freddie S. Aguilar
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Patent number: 6199604Abstract: Using a clean box comprising a box body having an aperture in one side surface, a side lid for hermetically closing the aperture, and gas inlet and outlet valves provided in the box body and having neither an evacuation device nor a transfer device, the gas inlet and outlet valves are opened by a gas feeding/discharging mechanism in a state in which the aperture of the box body is closed by the side lid, a non-oxidizing gas is introduced through one of the gas inlet and outlet valves into the clean box, and a gas having filled the clean box before the introduction of the non-oxidizing gas is discharged through the other of the gas inlet and outlet valves.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: TDK CorporationInventor: Toshihiko Miyajima
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Patent number: 6199578Abstract: A fluid container draining device (10) for use in draining a fluid container, such as an oil filter (12) in a controlled manner. It has a drill bit (14) with a sharpened tip (16) and exterior channels (20) on its shaft (18) extending from its tip (16) to a rear region (22). The drill bit (14) is immobilized in an axial bore (3) of a drill bit holder (24) which has a threaded front region (26) which is preferably frustum-shaped. Located rearwardly of the drill bit holder (24) is a valve (42) which when opened up permits fluid to be drained from the fluid container (12) through the channels (20) on the drill bit's shank (18), through the axial bore (30) in the drill bit holder (24), and out through the valve (42).Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: C.H. & I. Technologies, Inc.Inventor: James E. Clark, II
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Patent number: 6196279Abstract: An electric circuit for a system to prevent accidental discharge of hot-mix asphalt at asphalt plants with multiple silos includes a manual switch which energizes a relay holding the circuit closed. A time delay relay is also energized to provide a time period to determine whether the process should continue. When the time delay times out, a solenoid is energized to open a hot mix storage silo. A closed circuit TV camera and a system of flashing lights are included to provide a fixed view of the loading area with a monitor at the control panel. When hot-mix asphalt is to be discharged into a truck, a switch is activated which causes a light beneath the bin to flash. This identifies the bin selected to open. The TV monitor is viewed and the position of the truck can now be visually confirmed along with the flashing light on the bin that has been activated. The manual switch must be pushed in order to complete the discharge of the hot-mix asphalt from the bin.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1999Date of Patent: March 6, 2001Assignee: Ashland Chemical CompanyInventor: Richard L. Baker
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Patent number: 6192609Abstract: Display apparatus is removably attachable to the filler gun of a fuel pump, the filler gun including in series connection a gun nozzle having a forward discharge end and a rear end, a gun head having both a forward end portion which connects with the rear end of the gun nozzle and a rearward handle portion whose forward end connects to the rear of the gun nozzle and a rearward handle portion whose forward end connects to the rear end of said gun head.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1998Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Assignee: Alvern-NorwayInventor: Stein Alvern
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Patent number: 6186195Abstract: A system for the alternative charging of at least one sack filling machine and/or of at least one truck with pourable material, which is stored in a plurality of silos, which are firmly braced by columns, whereby each of the truck and the sack filling machine can be moved under desired silo outlets, and whereby, following the filling of the sacks, the sacks can be transported from the filling system over a totally or partially traversible intermediate conveyor to one of several conveyor belts. The intermediate conveyor, assigned to at least one filling machine, is designed as a traversible elevator at least over some regions. When in the working position, the discharge end of the conveyor corresponds with one of the conveyor belts, arranged above the required passage height necessary to move the sack filling machine or the truck.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1999Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Assignee: Windmoller & HolscherInventor: Peter Anstötz
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Patent number: 6182717Abstract: In filling hydrogen into a hydrogen storage tank provided in an automobile from a hydrogen station provided with a hydrogen supply tank having a metal hydride with hydrogen absorbed therein, the quantity of heat generated by the metal hydride in the hydrogen storage tank is utilized effectively for the heating of metal hydride in the supply tank, which is required for releasing of the hydrogen in the hydrogen station. Pure water which is a heat transfer medium, is circulated between the hydrogen supply tank and the hydrogen storage tank through water conduits. In the hydrogen storage tank, a metal hydride heated by absorption of hydrogen, is cooled by the pure water, and the pure water raised in temperature by such cooling and is discharged toward the hydrogen supply tank. In the hydrogen supply tank, a metal hydride is heated by the pure water to release hydrogen, and the pure water is lowered in temperature by such heating and is discharged toward the hydrogen storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ikuya Yamashita
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Patent number: 6179018Abstract: An apparatus for replacing transmission fluid in an automatic transmission. The apparatus comprises a tank separated into a pair of compartments by a bladder or diaphragm. At least one pressure regulator communicates with the tank. A vent valve assembly also communicates with the tank. A process for cleaning an automatic transmission and for replacing after cleaning used automatic transmission fluid in the automatic transmission with fresh automatic transmission fluid. The process includes flowing fresh ATF into a first compartment of a tank and into a pliable tub or bladder member in communication with the first compartment until the pliable tub or bladder member and the first compartment are filled with a volume of fresh ATF. A chemical cleaning compound is disposed in the used ATF of the automatic transmission and is circulated through the automatic transmission and its associated components to clean the same and produce contaminated used ATF.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1997Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: BG Products, Inc.Inventors: Harold Edward Erwin, Michael Jason Erwin, Craig James Dittmar
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Patent number: 6179392Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of bubble-free filling of brake fluid into a hydraulic automotive vehicle brake system, which is equipped with slip control and/or automatic braking intervention, the pump of which, under operating conditions, delivers brake fluid from the secondary circuit into the primary circuit according to the return delivery principle. In this arrangement, exclusively the primary circuit is bled and filled with undersaturated brake fluid.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1999Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co., OHGInventors: Martin Baechle, Stefan A. Schmitt
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Patent number: 6176275Abstract: A system for recovering fuel vapor during delivery of fuel by a mobile fueler includes a storage tank covered with a layer of insulation, a supply pump connected to the storage tank for delivering fuel therefrom, and a fuel dispensing assembly, preferably a coaxial hose and nozzle, including a supply outlet for delivering fuel to a vehicle being fueled, and a vapor recovery inlet proximate the supply outlet. A diverter valve diverts a portion of the fuel in the supply line, and a vacuum jet pump is connected to the storage tank and, by a vapor line, to the vapor recovery inlet, which is driven by the diverted fuel to create a vacuum in the vapor line to draw vapor into the vapor recovery inlet, through the vapor line, and into the storage tank. A vapor pot is provided in the vapor line for separating liquid fuel from vapor in the vapor line and for returning separated liquid fuel back into the supply line.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Inventor: Bob J. Hill
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Patent number: 6170541Abstract: A leak detection dye introduction system for introducing a leak detection dye composition into a climate control system includes an adaptor having an outlet and an inlet connected by a flow path to the outlet, and a valve assembly located between the inlet and the outlet. The outlet is connectable to a transfer unit having an actuating valve and the inlet is connectable to a housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1998Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: Bright Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Rahhali Sanhaji
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Patent number: 6169938Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel delivery system capable of controlling a fuel dispenser's vapor recovery system based on the absence or presence of an on-board vapor recovery system on the vehicle. This system includes a fuel dispenser having a vapor recovery system, a controller capable of controlling the vapor recovery system, a receiver and an antenna operating in conjunction with the receiver to receive a signal emitted from a transponder on a vehicle indicative of the absence or presence of an on-board vapor recovery system, in addition to a type of vehicle tank or characteristic thereof. When the controller determines from the transponder signal information relating to on-board vapor recovery and/or tank characteristics, the controller will control its vapor recovery system accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1998Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.Inventor: Hal Craig Hartsell, Jr.
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Patent number: 6167922Abstract: A cover assembly for use in a fuel dispensing cabinet includes an upper shroud member and a lower shroud member that are arranged at a side area of the cabinet chassis proximate the sump facility. The shroud members are provided in a shingle-type configuration in which the upper shroud member at its lower edge portion overlaps with the lower shroud member at its upper edge portion. A pair of elongate column channel members are configured at respective corner posts of the chassis and each includes a vertical channel portion that receives the side edge portions of the upper and lower shroud members. A fluid diversion assembly is arranged within the chassis end area adjacent the electronics compartment at the upper section of the cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Tokheim CorporationInventors: Gary L. Seitz, Adam T. Graham
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Patent number: 6164346Abstract: A first structure has a flexible outer wall system defining a first vessel. The first vessel is used to contain one or more fluids and is expandable and compressible to one or more states dependent on a volume of one or more fluids in the first vessel. A second structure has a flexible outer wall system defining a second vessel. The second vessel is used to contain one or more fluids and be expandable and compressible to one or more states dependent on a volume of one or more fluids in the second vessel. A first conduit assembly is used for communication of a first fluid to or from one of the first structure and the second structure. A second conduit assembly is used for communication of a second fluid to or from the other of the first structure and the second structure. The first structure and the second structure may operatively cooperate with one another such that a change in a volume of the first vessel is proportional to a change in a volume of the second vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1999Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Inventor: James P. Viken
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Patent number: 6161600Abstract: A filling device (1) for filling bags (5) with bulk material (6), which filling device (1) comprises a carrier (3) which is adapted for fixing to a lifting device (2) and which is provided with a number of load hooks (4) for fastening thereto of a bag (5), which bag (5) is provided for this purpose with fastening means (7) such as loops (7) or eyes (7), characterized in that the load hooks (4) are formed such that during operation a wholly or partially filled bag (5) is automatically released from the load hooks (4) by setting down the bag (5) and moving the lifting device (92) away.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventor: Aloys Borkes
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Patent number: 6152193Abstract: An apparatus for adding coolant to a cooling system of a motor vehicle includes a cap with a resilient sleeve that expands against the inside wall of a radiator filler neck to provide an air-tight connection. A valve attached to the cap controls the flow of air and coolant through the cap. A gauge on the cap indicates the pressure inside the radiator. A venturi assembly connected to the valve provides a source of vacuum for evacuating air from the cooling system. Thereafter, coolant is drawn through the cap by the vacuum created in the system.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: UView Ultraviolet Systems, Inc.Inventor: Thomas L. Klamm
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Patent number: 6148875Abstract: A vacuum food storage system comprising:(a) a storage container open at its top or front and suitable for containing fruit, vegetables or cold cuts;(b) a lid to cover the open top or front of the storage container and having an air-tight gasket surrounding its perimeter adjoining the open top or front of the storage container;(c) an electrical vacuum pump for evacuating the air from the storage container to a preset pressure when fruit, vegetables or cold cuts are placed in the storage container and the lid is securely seated on the open top or front of the storage container; and(d) mechanism for releasing the vacuum when it is desired to remove fruit, vegetables or cold cuts from the storage container.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1997Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Inventor: James Breen
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Patent number: 6138722Abstract: An apparatus for reconditioning transmission fluid and motor oil is mounted on a cart for portability. The apparatus has a pump and a single hose with two passageways which allow the fluid to be both extracted from the vehicle and delivered back thereinto. One of the passageways allows transmission of fluid out of the vehicle, through the pump and into a reconditioning unit. The other passageway allows transmission of fluid out of the reconditioning unit and into the vehicle after the reconditioning unit has removed particulates and other contaminants from the fluid. The reconditioning unit includes a cellulose filter element in which is embedded activated charcoal located at a medial portion thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1999Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Inventor: Darryl B. Willingham