Combined Patents (Class 141/98)
  • Patent number: 6138721
    Abstract: A tilt and go assembly included as part of a load port interface assembly is disclosed for providing quick and easy attachment and adjustment of the load port interface assembly to a BOLTS interface. When a load port interface assembly according to the present invention is positioned adjacent to a BOLTS interface, the assembly is tilted away from the BOLTS interface, so that a socket in the load port interface assembly may raise upward slightly and be seated on the ball joint. Thereafter, the upper portions of the load port interface assembly may be tilted upward so that the assembly is roughly parallel and adjacent to the BOLTS interface. Once the load port interface assembly is seated on the ball joint of the BOLTS interface, the vertical and lateral positions of the load port interface assembly may be adjusted as desired with respect to the BOLTS interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony C. Bonora, Edward J. Cortez, John D. Kyffin, Michael Ng
  • Patent number: 6135168
    Abstract: A standard mechanical interface wafer pod gas filling system, comprising: a platform, carrying a wafer pod cover of a wafer pod; a pod hold-down latch mechanism; a port, carrying a wafer pod base, with lateral gaps between the platform and the port; a pod door lock/unlock mechanism, mounted on the lower side of the platform; a port door up/down mechanism; several nozzles, mounted on one lateral side of the platform, having widening ends, wherein the lateral gap located opposite to the nozzles is wider than the other lateral gaps; a charging box, mounted on the lower side of the platform; and a gas supply unit for supplying inert gas through the nozzles and taking out air from the wafer pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Tung-Fang Yang, Tzong-Ming Wu
  • Patent number: 6135136
    Abstract: An apparatus for recovering coolant from a motor vehicle includes an inlet tube with a sharply pointed end for penetrating a wall of a hose of the vehicle cooling system. The inlet tube is connected to an inlet of a closed container. An outlet of the closed container is coupled to a suction port of a venturi that also has a fluid inlet for attachment to a source of a pressurized fluid, and a fluid outlet. The flow of fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet creates a suction at the suction port which draws coolant from the cooling system of a vehicle into the closed container. A muffler is provided at output from the venturi to reduce noise produced by fluid flowing form that output. Specific structures for the venturi and the muffler are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: UView Ultraviolent Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Klamm
  • Patent number: 6123120
    Abstract: Storage equipment simply and effectively maintains the cleanness of substrates stored therein. The substrates in the storage equipment are set in a pod. The storage equipment has removable covers, a unit for fitting the covers to pods, respectively, a unit for holding the pods with the covers, a gas supply unit for individually supplying gas into the pods through the covers, and an exhaust unit for individually discharging an atmosphere from the pods through the covers. Each pod is closed with the cover in the storage equipment, and the gas supply unit and exhaust unit periodically replace an atmosphere in each pod with inert gas or evacuate each pod, to control the storage conditions of each pod in the storage equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Tadashi Yotsumoto, Terumi Muguruma, Noriaki Yoshikawa, Yuichi Kuroda
  • Patent number: 6123118
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser's vapor recovery system nozzle capable of responding to the presence of an onboard vapor recovery system (ORVR) in an automobile. The invention includes a vapor recovery nozzle having a vapor passage in its nozzle spout and a vapor inlet in communication with the vapor passage. The spout includes a moveable seal mounted on the spout with the seal having a first position adjacent to the plurality of vapor inlets and a second position covering the vapor inlets so as to substantially block the passage of vapors through the vapor inlets. The seal may be biased in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Seifollah S. Nanaji
  • Patent number: 6119433
    Abstract: A system and method for sterile packaging of beverages in plastic containers forms the plastic containers and fills them with sterile beverages in a common sterile environment. The containers are formed from a blow molding process in which the containers reach elevated temperatures sufficient to at least in-part sterilize the interior of the containers, are filled with sterile beverages immediately after the containers are formed in the same sterile environment. This eliminates the need for heavy use of sterilizing fluids for the plastic containers such as hydrogen peroxide or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Nobuya Kitahora, Osamu Aoyagi
  • Patent number: 6119737
    Abstract: A tablet packing apparatus of the present invention have a tablet feeding section 2 for feeding tablets, tablet vessel feeding sections 3 for feeding tablet vessels 11, and a tablet packing section 4 for packing tablets fed from the tablet feeding section 2, into a tablet vessel 11 fed from the tablet vessel feeding sections 3. The tablet feeding section comprises a plurality of feeder vessels 36 for storing different types of tablets and a tablet conveyor 27 for conveying the tablets discharged from the feeder vessels 36, to the tablet packing section 4. In the apparatus, the following restoring process is executed. After the apparatus is stopped due to abnormality, the tablets remaining in the guide paths 31 and the tablets conveyor means 27 are conveyed to the tablet packing section 4 by the tablets conveyor means 27 to recover them into the tablet vessel 11 and then the tablet vessel 11 is transferred to the container chamber 6 of the storage shelves 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Yuyama Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shoji Yuyama, Tsuyoshi Kodama, Shinichi Honda, Hirotaka Hayashi, Hirofumi Hayashi, Kouichi Sugimoto, Akitomi Kohama
  • Patent number: 6116298
    Abstract: A fueling system including a fuel supply subsystem including at least one fueling nozzle, a recipient identifier associated with a fill location of a recipient fuel store, a fueling communicator associated with the at least one fueling nozzle and communicating in a wireless manner with the recipient identifier, at least in order to obtain recipient identification information therefrom, and an authorization and monitoring assembly operative to communicate in a wireless manner with the fueling communicator for receiving at least recipient identification information therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Hi-G-Tek Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosef Haimovich, Yehuda Armoni
  • Patent number: 6112782
    Abstract: A collar for fitting over at least a portion of the housing of a fuel delivery nozzle. The collar comprises a main body, an arrangement for securing the main body to the housing, and a collar portion shaped to mateably engage around a portion of the housing and arranged to engage the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Nozzad (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Howard J. Farthing
  • Patent number: 6106712
    Abstract: A vehicle liquid waste collection system for collecting fluids from a vehicle and separating non-water soluble materials from water soluble materials. The vehicle liquid waste collection system includes a support member having an upper surface. A ramp assembly extending from the support member. A containment wall extending upwardly from the upper surface. The support member includes an aperture in the upper surface such that the upper surface is angled downwards towards the aperture. A collection member having a hollow interior. The hollow interior has a first chamber and a second chamber in environmental communication. A duct in environmental communication between the aperture and the first chamber of the collection member. The duct is elevated relative to the first chamber whereby liquid waste collected passes through the duct and into the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Gerald R. New
  • Patent number: 6105635
    Abstract: A self-regulating valve assembly for use with a fluid exchange system for matching fluid in-flow and out-flow from an accessed hydraulic system. Particular applicability of the valve assembly is found in fluid exchange systems for vehicle automatic transmissions. An external pump assembly may be regulated by the valve assembly to match the introduction of fluid into the vehicle automatic transmission with a flow rate of fluid extracted therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: James P. Viken
  • Patent number: 6102159
    Abstract: A portable system for removing oil from an oil containing device. The system includes a pump, fluid conduit apparatus, and power conduit apparatus. The pump pumps the oil out of the oil containing device. The fluid conduit apparatus is in fluid communication with the pump and with the oil containing device. The power conduit apparatus is in electrical communication with the pump. The pump is in fluid communication with a receptacle for the oil, with circumferential threads around the pump threadably engaging a pre-existing threaded hole in the lid of the receptacle. The pump further has a lower vent hole in fluid communication with the receptacle and an upper vent hole in fluid communication with the lower vent hole and the ambient, which allows the pump to be self-venting. The fluid conduit apparatus comprises a tube that is in fluid communication with the pump and interfacing apparatus disposed on the tube and in fluid communication with the oil in the oil containing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Steven Rogate
  • Patent number: 6098752
    Abstract: An oil changing device and process that allows a customer to service the fluids in an internal combustion engine or automatic transmission (their application) in a completely environmentally safe manner. The device is a conveniently located oil changing center where the entire process can be accomplished safely, quickly, cleanly, and at a low cost. The oil changing center includes a sealable container (4) containing an oil filter (2), a first quick disconnect coupling (14), and a second quick disconnect coupling (16). The couplings allow access to the application's oil sump (32) and lubrication system. When a customer wishes to change their oil, they attach an evacuation oil pump (18) to the quick disconnect couplings and evacuate all the dirty oil from the oil sump and lubrication system into a dirty oil holding tank (22). They then replace the oil filter. A fill oil pump (24) is attached to the quick disconnect couplings and fills the application with an appropriate amount of oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: David A. McCaleb
  • Patent number: 6089420
    Abstract: A mobile vending apparatus for potable water is described. A flat bed truck has both one or more tanks for a large supply of potable water and one or more delivery cabinets for dispensing such water into bottles or other containers provided by consumers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Roman D. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 6089284
    Abstract: A fuel dispensing system for providing dual-stage preconditioning and authentication for enhancing a fueling transaction. The system includes a fuel dispenser associated with a control system and a receiver adapted to receive signals, including a first indicia, from a remote communications unit of a customer. The receiver is operatively associated with the control system and enables the control system to retrieve the first indicia and precondition the dispenser for fueling. The control system is adapted to receive second indicia subsequent to receiving the first indicia, and authenticate a transaction involving the remote communications unit by determining the requisite authentication data based on the first indicia and correlating the authentication data with the second indicia. Authentication occurs when the second indicia and the requisite transaction indicia correlate. Various security and encryption techniques may be used when receiving the first and second indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Kaehler, John S. McSpadden, Timothy E. Dickson, Anthony G. Blake
  • Patent number: 6087954
    Abstract: A system for assisting handicapped individuals in operating gasoline dispensers which includes a transponder in which data is stored according to the specific gasoline requirements of the individual. A transceiver is located proximate the gasoline dispenser and interrogates the transponder to obtain such stored data, and generates a signal which is a function of the stored data that is transmitted to a computer which receives the signal and generates predetermined control signals for operating the gasoline dispenser. The system may also include a warning signal device activated by the transponder to notify an attendant that the handicapped individual is approaching and this device may include a read-out device which displays predetermined personal information relating to the handicapped individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventors: John Steven McSpadden, David Lee Kaehler, Timothy Earle Dickson
  • Patent number: 6085806
    Abstract: An oil drain kit for collecting used motor oil comprising an oil drain collection pan, having a bottom wall raised at the center and sloping to its marginal extremity where it is joined with a side wall having a radial flange at the top of the wall and which extends circumferentially thereabout with a downwardly extending edge portion. The bottom wall is provided at its extremity adjacent its junction with the side wall with at least three discharge openings, each with a funnel spout extending downwardly therefrom. The spouts are adapted to receive the necks of empty oil containers which connect therewith and serve as supporting legs for the drain collection pan. A tray receives the containers when placed therein and facilitates sliding the kit under the oil drain plug of a motor to collect used oil draining therefrom and for removing it when draining is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventors: Chester Ray Davis, Joann Davis
  • Patent number: 6082414
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for replacing an attachment device on a vacuum chamber is disclosed. The apparatus is constructed by the major component of two shut-off valves, a rough vacuum pump, and a pressure gauge. The attachment replacement apparatus can be advantageously connected between an attachment, such as a vacuum gauge or a flow control valve and the vacuum chamber. By utilizing the present invention novel apparatus, the down time required for replacing an attachment device on the vacuum chamber can be drastically reduced by at least 90%. For instance, only a 10 minutes down time is required by utilizing the present invention novel apparatus when compared to the conventional method which requires a 10.about.30 hour pump-down time for resuming vacuum in a chamber that has broken vacuum. The present invention novel apparatus can be used in conjunction with any type of vacuum chambers, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd
    Inventors: Wen Sheng Wu, Cheng Li Cho, Hung-Yeh Li
  • Patent number: 6082416
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: James P. Viken
  • Patent number: 6076568
    Abstract: A method for inerting a generator in a power station includes flushing the generator in a rapid manner which is favorable in terms of power consumption and is simplified in terms of process technology. Cooling gas which is present in the working state for cooling in the generator is displaced through the use of an inert gas stored in gaseous form, in particular argon. A phase transition from, for example, a liquid to a gaseous inert gas, which prolongs the inerting operation and consumes large amounts of power, can thus be dispensed with. The supply of inert gas can easily be monitored by pressure measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Helmut Rehm, Klaus Weller, Christoph Lehmann
  • Patent number: 6070762
    Abstract: A device (1) for emptying closed containers which are under pressure, especially fuel filters, which can be detachably fastened to the container, firmly seated thereon, and which has a drain channel with a drain opening, in which a drill (12) which can be actuated via a spindle drive (9) is arranged for drilling through the container wall (54). To break a vacuum generated during the emptying, a vent hole is created by a piercing spike (7) in the container wall (54) on the side opposite the drill (12). The piercing spike (7) is part of the entire device (1) and is used together with the drill (12) as a holding element for clampingly receiving the container during the drilling of the container by the drill (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Angelika Weibhaar
    Inventor: Horst Klann
  • Patent number: 6068032
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for receiving, transporting, and dispersing a viscous product from one storage tank to another. The assembly, includes a housing container, comprising a reusable fill bag and a sealable container secured within the housing container. A hose attaches at one end to the reusable fill bag and at the other end to a male portion of a drain valve system. A female portion of the drain valve system fixably mounts to the storage tanks The viscous product flows between a storage tank and the housing container fill bag after the male portion is inserted into the female portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Alan R. Milner
  • Patent number: 6068029
    Abstract: A method of filling a transmission with oil is provided. The method compensates for temperature variations of the oil initially put into the transmission prior to a final top off oil fill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Edwige K. Toussagnon, David N. Concannon, Charles J. Redinger
  • Patent number: 6065567
    Abstract: A fail-safe transmission service machine (12) allows old ATF to be pumped out of a transmission (10b) as a vehicle engine (10a) runs while the vehicle (10) is stationary. The machine (12) responsively pumps a matching volume of new ATF into the transmission so that dry running of the transmission can not occur. If the supply of new ATF runs out or if power to the service machine (12) is interrupted, the machine reverts to closed loop fluid circulation for the transmission. A hydraulic rectifier (42) provides for universal connection of hoses between the transmission cooler fluid circulation loop (39) of the vehicle (10) and the service machine (12). An electrically driven assistance pump (94) allows the service of vehicles which have low-flow or low-pressure transmission pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Wynn Oil Company
    Inventors: Michael Camacho, Mark Sasaki
  • Patent number: 6065511
    Abstract: A vehicle fueling system which uses a tank vehicle similar to or the same as those used for jets to rapidly and efficiently refuel trucks and other land motor vehicles. The truck driver parks his truck in a designated vehicle fueling station, gives the station attendant the station identifier, and arranges for payment. The station attendant then radios a tank vehicle operator. The tank vehicle operator takes a tank vehicle to the corresponding station and refuels the truck. The amount of time required to refuel the truck is dramatically reduced from one hour to approximately ten minutes. The driver has the option of returning to the road immediately or enjoying the amenities of a driver respite area. The driver can eat, sleep, or shower. The driver may also have his vehicle washed or repaired. When the driver is ready to leave, he is given a metered record detailing the amount of fuel delivered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Gene McClintock
  • Patent number: 6061942
    Abstract: A display device is attachable to a fluid filler gun. A carrying body attaches to a gun head of the fluid filler gun. A frame attaches to an upper portion of the carrying body, the frame and an upper surface of the upper portion defining a display portion. A placard is removably mounted to the display portion. The upper surface of the placard presents a three-dimensional image. The image can either be a molded image projecting through an opening defined by the frame, an embossed image, or a hologram having a three-dimensional optical effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Alvern-Norway A/S
    Inventor: Stein Alvern
  • Patent number: 6062275
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Motorvac Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Rome, Eduardo Betancourt
  • Patent number: 6056026
    Abstract: A valve seated within a SMIF pod support platform is disclosed for activating and deactivating the flow of gas to a pod on the platform. In preferred embodiments, the valve includes a central poppet capable of moving between a first, closed position where the poppet blocks the flow of gas through the valve, and a second, open position where the poppet allows gas flow through the valve. In the absence of a pod on the support platform, pressurized gas from the gas source downstream of the valve biases the poppet into the first position to thereby block gas flow. In this first position, a top portion of the poppet extends slightly above the upper surface of the pod support platform. When a pod is seated on the support platform, the weight of the pod moves the poppet from its first position to its second position where gas is allowed to flow through the valve and into the pod to allow purging of the pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Fosnight, Joshua W. Shenk
  • Patent number: 6056028
    Abstract: A portable vehicle fueling device is described wherein fuel is dispensed directly from the vehicle fuel tank directly from the vehicle fuel tank by the vehicle fuel pump through the hose of this invention so that a supply of gasoline can be provided for auxiliary engines such as boat, lawn mowers, and the like. A Schrader valve is provided in the fuel line and the portable device of this invention includes a coupling for opening the Schrader valve at the end of the hose and a nozzle at the opposite end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Dale W. Crawford
  • Patent number: 6044874
    Abstract: First and second wall portions respectively spread along first and second opposing inner surfaces of a housing portion, and a plurality of vent pores that are distributed along the first and second inner surfaces are formed in the first and second wall portions. Hence, when an ambient gas is supplied to a space between the first inner surface and the first wall portion and another ambient gas is simultaneously discharged from a space between the second inner surface and the second wall surface, a laminar flow of an ambient gas directed from the first inner surface toward the second inner surface is formed to be parallel to a plate-like body held by a base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Koichiro Saga
  • Patent number: 6044873
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for detecting the presence of a vehicle equipped with an onboard refueling vapor recovery system. The apparatus has a body that is equipped with an inlet fluid port and an outlet fluid port that is in fluid communication with the inlet fluid port. The body also has an inlet vapor port that is in fluid communication with the outlet fluid port. The apparatus further includes a vacuum chamber that is located within the body, and that is in fluid communication with the vapor port and the outlet port. The apparatus has a vaccum activated detecting switch coupled to the body that is in fluid communication with the vacuum chamber. A vacuum-generating nozzle is coupled within the body between the inlet port and the vacuum chamber. Fuel may be provided to the inlet port and routed through the nozzle to create a vacuum within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Zane A. Miller
    Inventor: Zane A. Miller
  • Patent number: 6042651
    Abstract: 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.degree. C. and about 120.degree. C., and can be tested for baseline constituent levels prior to or after introduction into a SMIF pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Semifab Incorporated
    Inventors: Glenn A. Roberson, Jr., Robert M. Genco, Robert B. Eglinton, Wayland Comer, Gregory K. Mundt
  • Patent number: 6035902
    Abstract: A fail-safe service machine for the power steering system of automotive vehicles includes a pair of pumps each driven by electrical power from a vehicle under service, and a suction/delivery probe extending into the power steering system reservoir of the vehicle, both to remove old power steering fluid, and to simultaneously deliver new power steering fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Wynn Oil Company
    Inventor: Patrick Lewis Dixon
  • Patent number: 6035903
    Abstract: An automatic transmission fluid changer for connection with a cooling circuit of an automatic transmission, including a used fluid receptacle for collecting fluid pumped from the transmission and a new fluid receptacle for containing new fluid supplied to the transmission. The device monitors the quantity change in the new and used receptacles and regulates the flow of new fluid into the transmission in order to replace the used fluid expelled from the transmission with an equal amount of new fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Flo-Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Few, Daryl D. Hochstetler, Roger Burger
  • Patent number: 6032703
    Abstract: A system for fueling an automotive vehicle includes a transmitter mounted on the vehicle for identifying the type of fuel required by the vehicle and a fuel control and communication subsystem providing fuel which is blended to achieve the characteristics called for by the vehicle mounted transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Eugene Baker, Bradford Bates
  • Patent number: 6032704
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing wafers without the moisture absorption problem by providing a wafer storage container that has a cavity therein and an inert gas supply line into the cavity for flowing an inert gas at a substantially constant flow rate into the cavity while allowing a portion of the inert gas to escape into surrounding environment outside the cavity such that there is always a positive pressure differential maintained between the cavity and the outside environment to keep out moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsin-Chieh Huang, Yeh-Jye Wann, Hsi-Shan Kuo
  • Patent number: 6024142
    Abstract: A communications system for communications between a vessel and a fluid management system, the communications system comprising a proximity detector supported by the vessel and configured to detect presence of a fuel nozzle in a fluid entry port of the vessel; and an RFID supported by the vessel, coupled to the proximity detector, and configured to communicate with a RFID interrogator to identify the vessel to the RFID interrogator, and to communicate whether the nozzle is in the fluid entry port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin G. Bates
  • Patent number: 6024137
    Abstract: An automatic fueling system includes a pump having a telescoping arm capable of placement in three-dimensional space, a flexibly mounted nozzle on the end of the arm and a docking cone to mate with the fuel port on a vehicle. A camera provides a view of the side of the vehicle on a monitor with guides visible to the operator of the vehicle to assist in locating the vehicle within range of the pump. A light and a camera located adjacent to the nozzle are used to recognize retro-reflective light from an annular target about the intake port. Multiple approximations of the distance and location of the intake port are made with the nozzle moving closer to mating with the intake port. A data link is provided through the mated nozzle with a keypad accessible by the vehicle operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: R. Strnad Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Rudolph A. Strnad, Spencer P. Magleby, John F. Marshall, W. Douglas Stout, Carl D. Sorensen, Ryan W. Warnick, Lee Baroldy, Lisa Cloward, David S. Bent, Adam Gaglione, Robert Cvetko, Aaron T. Schellenberg
  • Patent number: 6022473
    Abstract: An oil changing system that utilizes one oil pump for draining contaminated oil from a vehicle and pumping clean oil into the vehicle without contamination. The inventive device includes a tank, a pair of wheels attached to the tank, a motor connected to a pump, a pair of couplers attached to opposing sides of the pump, a first filter and a second filter, a volume indicia attached to the side of the tank, a cavity within the tank which contains a light, and a drain pan fluidly connectable to the pump by a drain hose. The user positions the drain pan below the oil drain spout of the engine to receive the contaminated oil. The contaminated oil that is received by the drain pan is then drawn by the pump through the drain hose where after the contaminated oil is dispersed through an exhaust hose. The exhaust hose may be connected to a pipe system within a building structure to drain the contaminated oil into a common reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Doug Mickelson
  • Patent number: 6014995
    Abstract: An onsite petrochemical storage and transport system comprising a land based facility, which provides storage at a well site for hydrocarbon reservoir products which include gas, oil and water at a high pressure. The pressurized mixture is transferred, by means of pressure equalization, into a truck with multiple pressure containing vessels and transported to a plant suitable for processing the raw hydrocarbon mixture. The well site facility and transport truck are configured to allow for separation of gas and liquids to selectively transfer the gas or liquids as desired. Remote well sites may be periodically serviced by transport trucks while maintaining continuous production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: A. Patrick Agnew
  • Patent number: 6003568
    Abstract: An automatic fueling system includes a pump having a telescoping arm capable of placement in three-dimensional space, a flexibly mounted nozzle on the end of the arm and a docking cone to mate with the fuel port on a vehicle. A camera provides a view of the side of the vehicle on a monitor with guides visible to the operator of the vehicle to assist in locating the vehicle within range of the pump. A light and a camera located adjacent to the nozzle are used to recognize retro-reflective light from an annular target about the intake port. Multiple approximations of the distance and location of the intake port are made with the nozzle moving closer to mating with the intake port. A data link is provided through the mated nozzle with a keypad accessible by the vehicle operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: R. Strnad Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Rudolph A. Strnad, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5996651
    Abstract: An injector employs a method for introducing an exact amount of liquid additive into operating vapor-compression systems and the like. The injector has a chamber and a piston-cap which have a loose fitting threaded connection to define a leakage path for removing excess liquid additive and undesirable non-condensable gas. After filling the chamber with the liquid additive and screwing the piston-cap back onto the chamber, each end of the injector is connected via Schraeder valves to the high and low sides of an operating vapor-compression system through refrigeration hoses with valve depressors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Mainstream Engineering Corp.
    Inventor: Robert Peter Scaringe
  • Patent number: 5992481
    Abstract: A filling aid for field filling the engine cooling system of automotive vehicles with cooling liquids. For field service, the filling aid is mounted in a stabilized upright orientation by an integral fluid sealing connection to a filler neck of the deareation chamber of a coolant bottle of the system so that it extends above the bottle. Coolant is added into the cooling system through the filling aid until the filling aid and deareation chamber are filled with coolant. Because a taller column of coolant has been established by use of the filling aid, potential energy is increased and coolant is quickly fed by increased pressure and force into the engine cooling system. When sufficient coolant fills the system, any coolant left in the filling aid may be released by removing a closure clamp previously installed on an overflow tube leading from the deareation chamber so that it drains with no spills from the filling aid to an overflow chamber of the coolant bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Gary M. Smith
  • Patent number: 5988951
    Abstract: The present apparatus relates to a pneumatic transport system to transport samples of grain between a filling station in a grain handling and storage structure and a receiving station in an office or inspection laboratory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventors: Gregory DiFrank, Jan M. Elzey, Bryan E. Krupp
  • Patent number: 5988233
    Abstract: A system for providing uniform, controlled and efficient purge gas flow rates and gas flow patterns for removing contaminants and/or particulates from wafers within a pod. The purge system includes seals at the interfaces between the gas inlet and removal lines to substantially prevent leakage at the interfaces. The system may establish seals at the inlet and outlet without having to use conventional fluid flow pins extending above the support surface. The negative pressure applied at the outlet controls the flow rate through the pod, and the rate at which gas leaves the pod will limit the rate at which gas may enter the pod. In a preferred embodiment, the inlet flow is approximately equal to the outlet flow. With substantially equal inlet and outlet pressures, the purging gas flows through the upper and lower portions of the pod in a substantially uniform flow pattern so that contaminants and particulates are removed evenly from wafers throughout the pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Fosnight, Anthony C. Bonora, Raymond S. Martin, Jay Tatro
  • Patent number: 5983962
    Abstract: A portable fuel dispensing system which eliminates the need for underground storage tanks that are subject to leaks resulting in contamination of the stored fuel, soil and ground water creating costly environmental hazards. A semi-tractor trailer supported fuel receptacle has a plurality of metered fuel dispensers along the sides thereof allowing several customers to park along side the trailer and fuel their vehicles. The trailer may be taken to a central location for filling and then transported to a convenient retail location for dispensing the fuel to customers' vehicles. When empty, the trailer is returned to the central location for refuelling. During this return trip, the tank may be connected to a fuel/air inlet of the tractor so fuel vapor remaining in the tank may be burned rather than escaping into the atmosphere. The system is a completely closed system with no venting of fumes into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Nolan P. Gerardot
  • Patent number: 5983960
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an oil container repository designed to separately collect used motor oil containers and the residual oil left over within each container so that each can be recycled. The invention, in one embodiment, comprises an upper and a lower compartment. The upper compartment has an opening on the top to receive discarded oil containers. A divider separates the upper compartment with the lower compartment. The divider may have a tilted V shape surface and an opening at the bottom. The opening connects the upper compartment to the lower compartment such that the collected containers remain in the upper compartment as they can not fit through the opening. However, opening is sufficiently large to allow the residual motor oil flow through and into the second compartment. The second compartment in turn has an opening for drainage which will permit the drainage of collected motor oil from said second compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Carlton Haugh
    Inventor: Carlton Haugh
  • Patent number: 5979515
    Abstract: A transfer device for aseptic and automatic transfer of filled, unsealed pharmaceutical containers (2) which comprises a transport vehicle (11) with a vertically adjustable platform (12) supporting a transportable and sealable chamber (1). The chamber (1) comprises an upper part (8) provided with a protective-gas inlet (7), a lower part (9) provided with a frame (13) for supporting the containers (2), a closable opening (14), and an intermediate, substantially horizontal flow distributor (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Astra Aktiebolag
    Inventor: Bert-.ANG.ke Olsson
  • Patent number: 5979516
    Abstract: A funneling apparatus for selectively directing the flow of materials out of a container. The funneling apparatus has a funnel with an inlet having a device for detachably securing the funnel to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Edward M. Grant
  • Patent number: RE36650
    Abstract: A system for providing total fluid exchange for an automatic transmission which interconnects with the transmission's opened cooling circuit to deliver new, fresh fluid to the transmission while simultaneously extracting the spent, used fluid. The system provides a means of quick and random interconnection to an opened cooling circuit and means of identifying and aligning direction of flow in such cooling circuit. The system can accurately calibrate and regulate the rate that fresh fluid will flow into the transmission to be the same as that at which the used fluid is extracted, both of which are regulated to flow at the same rate that fluid normally circulates at in the cooling circuit when it is closed under similar operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: James P. Viken