Combined Patents (Class 141/98)
  • Patent number: 5609190
    Abstract: A refuelling system is provided, the system comprising: a seal cylinder defining the outside surface of an axial vapor recovery volume within the seal cylinder having a first end and a second end; a first flexible conduit to supply fuel to within the seal cylinder through the first end; a movable seal piston within the seal cylinder connected to the first flexible conduit, the seal piston effective to isolate a vapor recovery volume within the seal cylinder from the atmosphere surrounding the flexible fuel conduit; a fuel insert tube connected to the seal piston and extending through at least a portion of the vapor recovery volume; a boot seal attached to the seal cylinder at the second end of the axial vapor recovery volume, the boot seal effective to seal with a fuel tank inlet nozzle; and a device to move the seal piston laterally through the seal cylinder and thereby extending the second flexible conduit through the second end of the axial vapor recovery volume and into a fuel tank inlet nozzle when the b
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Scott R. Anderson, Chin T. Tham, Joseph A. Padula, Owen R. Williams, Jesse S. Houle, David A. Besler, William D. Ramsey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5605182
    Abstract: A vehicle identification system for use in a refueling station for identifying vehicle requirements, in which a control unit is located in a fuel dispenser for controlling functions of the dispenser such as fuel selection and activation of the dispenser's vapor recovery systems, and a driver circuit is located on the nozzle spout. The control unit communicates with the driver circuit through an intrinsically safe connection in a fuel hose and is programmed to periodically transmit a low power pulse signal to the driver circuit through this connection. The driver circuit includes a power generating means and an antenna for generating an RF interrogation signal in response to each pulse. The RF interrogation signal is detected by a transponder disposed on a vehicle adjacent the vehicle's fill pipe, when the nozzle is positioned adjacent to or in the fill pipe for refueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: David Oberrecht, Stephen J. Stephenson, Sean Scott, Curtis E. Frederick, Jonathan P. Young
  • Patent number: 5603359
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing a material in a container which is exposed to various weather conditions, including rain. The container includes a spreader for distributing the material within the container, as well as a rain shielding member extending from the container for inhibiting the flow of rain along a converging portion of the container. The method includes forming the container having a cover, a sidewall member, a converging portion connected to an outlet portion and a rain shielding member. Thereafter, during a rainfall, the flow of rain is deflected along the cover and the sidewall member away from the converging portion to maintain the converging portion of the container in a substantially dry condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: CTB, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Geiser
  • Patent number: 5603362
    Abstract: An efficient apparatus for changing oil, hydraulic components, solvents, and fuel cells with the least amount of fluid spills. The apparatus comprises a collecting tray for collecting the liquids, a vertical stand and a base having casters. The collecting tray is adjustable vertically to accommodate different sized aircraft. The collecting tray contains a trap door which may be opened to accommodate an aircraft landing gear. The collected liquids are fed through a tube into plastic containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Patrick Telder
  • Patent number: 5601128
    Abstract: A sterile method of simultaneously breaking a number of ampules (22) containing medication and transferring the liquid drug into syringes (58), which include cutting the ampule shipping container (20) in half and enclosing the ampules in a holder (26). Further, cleaning the ampules and breaking the ampule necks (30) with a shear plate (40) struck by a mallet (44). Finally, transferring the medication with a filtered needle (50) to a sterile container (56) and filling the syringes from the container. The method utilizes apparatus which has a holder (26) of the same configuration as the shipping container (20) and a shear plate (40) that fits over the ampule necks (30). The mallet (44) is used to strike the shear plate breaking all of the necks simultaneously. A tray (34) collects the necks and debris and a sweep (46) clears the debris away into a bio-hazard container (62), or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Inventor: Charles F. Furphy
  • Patent number: 5590696
    Abstract: The present invention is an inflation system utilizing an inflation device and an adaptor therefor. The inflation device includes a cylindrical housing which receives a pressurized cartridge of gas, a head unit, and a nozzle. The head unit of the device includes structure for creating and delivering a metered bolus of gas per each actuation of the device. The device audibly indicates to the user when a single bolus of gas has been successfully delivered to an inflatable bladder. In another aspect of the invention, an elastomeric inflation port which serves as an adaptor for connecting the inflation device of the invention to an inflatable bladder is provided. The inflation port of the invention may also function as a fluid release mechanism to vent fluid from the bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Reebok International Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthew L. Phillips, Bert D. Heinzelman, Paul J. Mulhauser, David R. Schiff, Christopher Brooks, Stanley H. Remiszewski
  • Patent number: 5590698
    Abstract: A fill spout that allows you to fill a liquid fuel tank. This design allows you to recapture overfill regardless of ovenrun or overfill running backward up the vent tube in most of today's tanks, thus, helping to prevent petroleum spills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Gerald Whitley
    Inventors: Gerald E. Whitley, Mary F. Whitley
  • Patent number: 5588473
    Abstract: In order to transfer fluid products such as powders between a storage container (10) and a mobile container (18) an interface device comprising a tight chamber (24) is proposed. This tight chamber contains mechanisms making it possible either to seal an access opening (30) to the mobile container (18), or place a transfer tube (36) between the containers (27, 30). The transfer tube is formed by at least two sections (38, 40) having an internal cross-section which is substantially uniform and identical, so that a product can be transferred in any random orientation, without any risk of product being retained. The two sections (38, 40) can in particular be installed on the same tilting arm (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Sne La Calhene
    Inventor: Charles Glachet
  • Patent number: 5588502
    Abstract: A unitary device for a vehicle for removing spent oil from an oil pan reservoir installed in an access aperture located in a floor bottom of the oil pan reservoir. The device includes a quick connect nipple having a first end threadably sealing into the access apertures and a second end releasably engageable with a mating fitting positioned on an externally located fluid delivery device and further having a fluid tight closure when the second end is disengaged from the fluid delivery device. The quick connect nipple includes a throughbore from the first end to the second end for the passage of spent oil when the second end is engaged with the fluid delivery device and a cylindrical magnet secured to the first end of the quick connect nipple for capturing metallic material in the oil pan reservoir as the oil passes through the cylindrical magnet prior to passage in the throughbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: K. J. Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Ram D. Bedi, Adrianus J. van der Griendt
  • Patent number: 5586586
    Abstract: A unitized tank structure including a vessel having at least first and second compartments. Fill lines are coupled to the vessel providing access to fill the first and second compartments of the vessel. At least one sump riser portion is coupled to the vessel and extends therefrom. At least first and second dispensing lines are disposed within the sump riser portion and penetrate the vessel. Each dispensing line extends within the vessel and within the first and second compartments. Cross-over venting structure is provided within the vessel and is constructed and arranged to provide venting between the first and second compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: Manfred M. Fiech
  • Patent number: 5586583
    Abstract: A fluid exchange apparatus for the transfer of fluids from a first containment area to a second containment area, including a total fluid reconciliation process, whereby the same amount of fluid transferred from the first containment area to the second containment area is replenished into the first containment area, or is replenished to a preset amount. The fluid exchanger includes an evacuation section having a vacuum pump therein, and a fill section. The fluid being vacated from the first containment area is transferred to the second containment area by vacuum pressure introduced into the first containment area. An air purge is used to drive fluid out of the fluid passages/filters into the first containment area. The pressure may be developed internally to the fluid exchange apparatus or externally thereto. CPU controlled electronics are utilized to measure, monitor, and control, via a user interface screen, the fluid exchange machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Tokheim Corporation
    Inventors: Robert W. Edwards, Terry M. Fulmer, Patrick J. Schultz
  • Patent number: 5586585
    Abstract: A loadlock chamber for transferring one or more semiconductor wafers from a storage and transfer pod into high-vacuum process chambers in a contaminant free environment. The loadlock chamber includes mechanisms for separating a wafer-carrying cassette from the storage and transfer pod, mechanisms for transferring the cassette into a chamber which may be sealed and evacuated, and mechanisms for allowing transfer of wafers between the cassette and the various process chambers, wherein each of the mechanisms operates in an environment that is sealed against the external environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Asyst Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony C. Bonora, Joshua T. Oen
  • Patent number: 5579815
    Abstract: A drain valve assembly for draining fluid from a container, for example an engine crankcase, is constructed with a first threaded bolt portion having external threads for engaging in a threaded drain outlet of the container and internal threads in an axial passage passing through the first threaded bolt portion, a second threaded bolt portion having external and internal threads whereby, use, the external threads engage in the internal threads of the first threaded bolt portion to seal therewith and whereby passages extend through the first and second bolt portions to permit flow of fluid therethrough. A sealing member forms part of the second threaded bolt portion whereby on full insertion of the second threaded bolt portion in a first position within the first threaded bolt portion, the sealing member engages an adjacent surface to prevent the escape of fluid from the container and, on retraction to a second position, the flow of fluid through the first and second threaded bolt portions is permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Roger E. Labonte
  • Patent number: 5579811
    Abstract: A container module includes a closed hollow body. A first tube has an upper end disposed outside of the closed hollow body and communicating with the waste supply and a lower end mounted in the closed hollow body. A second tube has an upper end disposed outside of the closed hollow body and communicating with the pump and a lower end mounted in the closed hollow body. The lower end of the second tube is at a level higher than that of the lower end of the first tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Huan-ling Hsu
  • Patent number: 5579814
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for charging a damper with pressurized gas by forming a flow passage between the dust lip of the oil seal and the piston rod. The flow passage is formed by locally deforming the dust lip under the action of a distortion clamp. A source of pressurized gas is then placed in communication with the flow passage. The pressurized gas causes the oil seal to be displaced away from the piston rod, and the gas enters the damper between the oil seal and the piston rod. When the gas within the damper has attained the desired pressure, the distortion clamp is released allowing the dust lip to return to normal circumferential contact with the piston rod, and the source of pressurized gas is removed. The pressurized gas is retained in the damper after charging by the seal engaging the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Monroe Auto Equipment Company
    Inventors: Gareth M. Jones, Jeffrey A. Jenkins, Michael J. Shnier
  • Patent number: 5573045
    Abstract: The invention relates to an engine coolant changing apparatus for changing,an engine coolant such as LLC (long-life coolant) in an engine coolant path containing a radiator, comprising coolant storing container possessing a pressure action port and a liquid inlet and outlet, detaching device to be attached or detached to or from a filler port of a radiator, communicating device for communicating between the liquid inlet and outlet and the detaching means, and pressure action device for applying a negative pressure to the pressure action port and for concurrently causing overheating and the coolant to a low temperature by driving an engine when discharging the coolant from an engine coolant system, and device for applying a positive pressure to the pressure action port when feeding a fresh liquid, so that the coolant can be changed promptly in a short time, without requiring manipulation of radiator drain cock or jack-up of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventor: Yasumasa Akazawa
  • Patent number: 5566781
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for flushing and cleaning the oil strainer and crankcase of an internal combustion engine of a type having a removable full-flow oil filter. The oil filter is temporarily replaced with a cartridge which has at least one passage therethrough which will communicate with the discharge side of the engine oil pump but does not communicate with the normal outflow port of the filter apparatus. A second passage therethrough may communicate with the outflow port of the filter system but does not communicate with the discharge of the oil pump. In a preferred method, the inlet of the first passage may be connected to a source of pressurized fluid to force the fluid, in a direction opposite to normal flow, through the passage, the oil pump and the oil strainer to agitate and flush contaminants in the oil strainer and crankcase. The pressurized fluid and contaminants are drained from the crankcase after which the cartridge is removed, a new oil filter installed and clean oil added to the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventors: Jimmie H. Robert, Eddie L. Robert
  • Patent number: 5566730
    Abstract: A gas actuator assembly for supplying a compressed gas to a container, the assembly includes a self contained supply of compressed gas, preferably in the form of a cartridge of compressed gas which is transmitted through a tube to below the level of a liquid contained in a vessel such as a wine bottle or into a resealable container such as that for the storage of food, an evacuation tube that is provided to remove air from the vessel and an activating device for simultaneously activating the flow of compressed gas and the evacuation of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: George W. Liebmann, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5564525
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transporting a new fluid from a point of origin to a destination where a used fluid and a used filter are located. The used filter and the used fluid are to be obtained and to be disposed in a container after the new fluid has been removed from the container. The apparatus comprises a container having a hollow body for containing said fluids, and a pair of apertures for pouring fluids into and from the container. The container containing a new or unspent fluid is transported from an origin or source to a destination. The new fluid is poured from the container and into an engine. The used fluid from the engine is disposed into the container, along with any associated filters from the engine, and the container containing the used filter totally immersed in the used fluid is transported to the origin or source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventors: Garry W. Dunnegan, Gary Cain
  • Patent number: 5562131
    Abstract: A drip-free oil drain pan comprising a tray is disclosed. The pan has a lower imperforate plate with an enlarged first section of a generally circular configuration and has co-extensive therewith, in a common plane, a second section in a generally circular configuration. The first and second sections are coupled together at a common throat area of reduced size. The drain pan further comprises an upstanding side wall for the plate including a first side wall extending upwardly from around the majority of the first section of the planar plate except in the reduced throat area. Also provided is a second side wall extending upwardly from around the majority of the second section of the planar plate except in the reduced throat area and formed as an extension of the first side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas W. Drawbaugh
  • Patent number: 5562130
    Abstract: A self-contained, hermetic module for the transport of hazardous fluids such as space craft fuels. The module includes a base and a removable cover hermetically sealed to the base. The combination of the base and the cover define an enclosure. Located within this enclosure are a pressurized gas cylinder, a fuel tank and an evacuated vessel. An inert gas contained within the pressurized vessel expels a fuel contained in the fuel tank to fill the space craft. The evacuated vessel purges all lines and conduits to prevent hazardous fluids from escaping to the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignees: Olin Corporation, Anderson Columbiana Trading of Texas
    Inventors: Robert D. Peha, James A. Dreyfuss, Richard McNealy
  • Patent number: 5560404
    Abstract: An improved oil drainage and disposal device comprising a generally box-like container having a large opening formed eccentrically in one surface of the container to permit a plurality of oil containers to be inserted into the interior of the container for storage and to allow oil being drained from a vehicle to enter the container through the opening, a plurality of annular openings formed in a second surface of the container perpendicular to the one surface for releasably retaining the necks of oil containers, closures mounted in each of the annular openings and resiliently urged into a position to seal the openings, and funnels formed in the second surface about each of the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Inventors: Rodney L. Blair, Philip G. Chauvet
  • Patent number: 5558140
    Abstract: A fluid container draining device for draining fluid from a fluid container, an oil filter, in a controlled manner. The fluid container draining device has a threaded screw with a sharpened tip and a channel communicating between an opening at a forward end of the screw and a rear region of the threaded screw. When the screw is turned it will penetrate the wall of the fluid container and enter the fluid containing cavity of the fluid container. The threaded screw has a radially extending abutment surface to provide fluid tight sealing between the screw and the fluid container's walls to prevent fluid leakage. A fluid valve is positioned at the rear region of the screw to provide fluid flow control between the interior of the fluid container and outside the fluid container. The fluid valve is provided with a fitting for connection to a suction line to thereby permit fluid to be evacuated from the fluid container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Clark Technology Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 5555919
    Abstract: A hydraulic filling device for filling control elements with a hydraulic fluid. The device has a tank that contains the hydraulic fluid and, a pump and the hydraulic control element to be filled is always provided with a filling connection and a ventilation connection so that the device is connectible to the filling connection of the hydraulic control element to be filled. The tank of the filling device containing the hydraulic fluid is connectible to the ventilation connection of the control element to be filled by way of a ventilation line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Industrie GmbH
    Inventor: Herbert Lipp
  • Patent number: 5549141
    Abstract: A method for dispensing a sample of liquid from a sealed thermoplastic container which includes both a volumetrically flexible chamber holding the liquid and also a plurality of spaced axially vertical nozzles on the container underside, the nozzles having an inlet in fluid communication with the chamber. The container is first manipulated to increase the volume of the chamber, rotated from a right side up position to an upside down position, and after the two preceding operations an axial opening is non-invasively created in the nozzle while the container is upside down without decreasing the volume of the chamber. The container is then rotated from the upside down position to a right side up position without decreasing the volume of the chamber, manipulated to decrease the volume of the chamber and expel a sample of the liquid from the chamber through the nozzle opening, then rotated to an upside down position and the opening in the nozzle is closed by melting and clamping it closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: KVM Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Meador, Thomas L. Kraft, Thomas G. Miller
  • Patent number: 5549178
    Abstract: An oil collecting mat for collecting oil drippings from a motor vehicle. The mat has a bottom with upstanding side walls coated with an oil and water proofing agent, and a plurality of sheets of corrugated cardboard stacked on end to absorb oil. In one embodiment the sheets of corrugated cardboard are rolled into cylinders and glued to the bottom portion. In another embodiment the sheets of corrugated cardboard alternate with sheets of foam sponge, which includes plastic foam or rubber foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: Gary R. Yuhas
  • Patent number: 5546999
    Abstract: An external adapter includes an elongated housing formed with a pair of internal open ended longitudinal fluid passageways defining, respectively, a used fluid and an unused fluid passageway. The used fluid passageway is internally threaded at one end thereof for engagement with a mounting fitting formed on a transmission filter mount for vehicles with external transmission fluid filters. The opposite end of the used fluid passageway is threaded for engaging one end of a used fluid fitting which includes an opposite end for connection to a drain hose for withdrawing used fluid from the used fluid fitting. The unused fluid passageway includes a first end which aligns with at least one filtered fluid port on the filter mount when the adapter is engaged with the mounting fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Flo-Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Zachary T. Parker
  • Patent number: 5546979
    Abstract: A fluid container draining device for draining fluid from a fluid container, such as an oil filter, in a controlled manner. It has a front threaded screw with a sharpened drill tip. It has an internal channel communicating between an opening at the forward end of the screw and a rear region of the threaded screw. A fluid valve is positioned at the rear region of the screw in fluid connection with the channel. The fluid valve provides fluid flow control between the interior of the fluid container and the outside of the fluid container. The fluid valve has an internally threaded front region which screws into the externally threaded rear region of the screw, and an externally threaded rear region, onto which a fluid evacuation line is to be attached. A turning portion for turning the device into the wall of the container is located on the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Clark Technology Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Clark, II, Poul Van Santen
  • Patent number: 5544683
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the automatic quantitative filling of powdered or granulated samples for analytic measurement purposes as well as a shaking and holding device for sample substances utilized therefor with which precisely admeasured amounts of the sample substance can be filled into a measuring vessel. The shaking device permits the sample substance to be filled in a continuous, slow and defined flowing stream. The shaking and holding of the sample vessel transpires preferentially pneumatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: Bruker Analytische Messtechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Guhl
  • Patent number: 5540327
    Abstract: The present invention features a kit and method for replacing used antifreeze/coolant in the cooling system of an automobile. The kit is composed of inexpensive parts, consisting of: (1) a plastic, flexible capture tank; (2) a flexible plastic drain sleeve for directing fluid from a cooling system hose to the capture tank; (3) a funnel for introducing fluids into the cooling system via said radiator; (4) a hose adaptor for placement of a funnel into the hose line; (5) differently-sized hose menders for re-establishing a severed radiator hose line; and (6) metal clamps for tightening the severed hose portions about one of the appropriately sized hose menders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: Prestone Products Corporation
    Inventor: Richard F. Creeron
  • Patent number: 5535849
    Abstract: A hand held transmission fluid changer includes a compact housing internally plumbed with a pair of open ended drain and supply tubes for connection at respective first ends with the first ends of a pair of hoses connected at their opposite ends with remote waste and unused fluid tanks. The respective tubes include respective second ends for connection with a second pair of tubes leading to respective upstream and downstream transmission components for, respectively, withdrawing used fluid from and introducing unused fluid to a transmission. A demand pump is connected in fluid circuit with the supply hose to flow unused fluid from the unused fluid tank to the supply tube. A pair of flow control valves are disposed in the respective tubes to allow the operator to adjust and match the respective flow rates through such tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: Flo-Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Few
  • Patent number: 5529097
    Abstract: An evacuator housing ( 14) of a gas tank evacuator (10) receives a gas tank (12). A valve seal of a movable seal head (34) and a puncture seal (66) of the evacuator housing are clamped onto the gas tank at opposite ends by a hollow threaded shaft (32) to form a sealed test space (58) exteriorly of the gas tank at a valve (22) and a sealed evacuation space (68) exteriorly of the gas tank at a puncture spot (24). A pressure gauge (60) coupled to the test space rides on the seal head and a valve actuator in the form of a rod (40), passes through the hollow threaded shaft into the sealed test space. A puncturing mechanism (18) punctures the gas tank at the puncture spot. The sealed evacuation space is positioned vertically below the puncture spot and communicates with a carbon filter positioned vertically above the evacuation space so as to form a U-shaped trap (90).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventor: Michael C. Campbell
  • Patent number: 5526854
    Abstract: A through-the-door ice and cold water dispenser for domestic refrigeration units provides a housing positioned within a recess formed in the door insulation. The dispenser provides an actuation cradle formed with a smoothly curved concave surface in combination with a switch operating system which requires low forces for operation so that the dispenser can be actuated by fragile containers, such as polystyrene foam cups. An insulated damper door is closed when the dispenser is not operating to prevent heat transfer into the freezer compartment where the ice is produced and stored. A heater positioned against the damper door operates to release the damper door should it become frozen in the closed position. All of the controls for the dispenser are located in the upper portion of the housing and are accessible with a minimum amount of disassembly when service or maintenance-is required. A spill tray is located in the bottom of the dispenser recess to contain and retain spilled water and melted ice water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry E. Unger
  • Patent number: 5522474
    Abstract: A system and method for extracting used transmission fluid from an automatic transmission in a motor vehicle utilizing the vehicle engine. A reservoir is provided having a free floating piston therein, dividing the reservoir into two chambers. A first flexible line connects from a first chamber to a transmission fluid outlet of the transmission, and a second flexible line connects from a second chamber to a fluid input of a transmission fluid cooler. The second chamber is initially filled with fresh fluid forcing the piston toward the first chamber. Operation of the vehicle engine causes the transmission pump to pump used fluid into the first chamber, forcing the piston to expell fresh fluid from the second chamber, and into the cooler and transmission. A sight gauge in the first flexible line permits visual monitoring of the flow of dark, used fluid to determine when all of the fluid in the transmission has been ejected, collected in the first chamber for disposal, and completely replaced with fresh fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Inventor: Jerry L. Burman
  • Patent number: 5515893
    Abstract: A splash control nozzle assembly for the dispensing of fluids includes a detachable tether assembly which forces back the resilient sealing bellows member on a gasoline pump nozzle to allow unobstructed viewing while filling unconventional receptacles to prevent overfilling. The tether main body is either a bungee cord or a strip of inelastic material with hook and loop fasteners at each end. An S-hook and snap clip are provided to secure the ends of the main body of the tether in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas E. Donohue
  • Patent number: 5513677
    Abstract: A remote fill receptacle device is provided comprising (1) a receptacle body and (2) a receptacle conduit, the device being employed in conjunction with a tree stand including a water reservoir for conveniently filling/refilling the tree stand's water reservoir in the invention process by receiving water additions via an inlet opening in the upper portion of the body and permitting said water to gravity discharge from the body via an outlet opening in the lower portion of the body through the receptacle conduit which directs the discharged water from the outlet opening to the water reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventor: O. Thomas McCurry
  • Patent number: 5511593
    Abstract: A graphite funnel inserted into a metal funnel support sleeve guides hot glass gobs from a furnace to the glass blowing mold. The graphite insert is adjustable by set screws and is easily repositioned. The graphite insert has an outer diameter slightly less than the metal retainer to allow ambient air to pass upwardly past it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: Union Oil Company of California
    Inventor: James E. Sweetland
  • Patent number: 5511590
    Abstract: In an automotive cooling system made up of a radiator, overflow bottle, engine and heater core members, a method of removing spent antifreeze therefrom involves applying air pressure at the highest vertical point of the cooling system members, and draining the antifreeze via the lowest vertical point thereof. A method of refill via the radiator or pressurized overflow bottle involves utilization of a refill element with vacuum and coolant prongs. Simultaneous vacuum and refill of coolant is achieved with the refill element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventors: David E. Turcotte, John J. Conville, Stephen M. Zeld, Daniel E. Coker, James T. Lyon
  • Patent number: 5511594
    Abstract: A modular pharmacy and a modular pharmacy system and process for the admixture of intravenous drugs and total parenteral nutrition solution which includes automatic daily computer download of hospital prescriptions and the daily compounding under controlled systematic aseptic conditions including individually controlled environments at each work station and following systematically controlled process steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventors: Eric L. Brennan, Arnold E. Rivero, William S. Bohn, Jean Pfeiffer, Robert R. Snider
  • Patent number: 5503246
    Abstract: The invention provides a container for collecting, storing and transporting a liquid. The container includes a hollow container body having a top wall having a central, inwardly directed fluid directing portion and an opening in the fluid directing portion for permitting liquid collected in the fluid directing portion to pour into the hollow container body. The container also has a spout sized for pouring out liquid collected in the container body. A roller assembly on an underside of the container body permits rolling movement of the container body along a supporting surface. The container also has suitable means such as bearing grooves for securing the roller assembly to the container body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Western Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Raboin, Allan Brown
  • Patent number: 5501255
    Abstract: A fuel recovery system warns a user of an impending overflow of fuel and also provides an overflow chamber into which relatively small amount of overfilled fuel are captured, thus preventing fuel spillage into the surrounding environment. The system is adapted for use with a fuel tank attached to a fuel fill line and an overflow line, and comprises a float assembly adapted to be coupled inline to the overflow line; an overflow chamber coupled via a check valve to the main fuel tank; and an optical/electronic warning system for warning the user when fuel in the float assembly rises to a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Matthew P. Tortu
    Inventors: Matthew P. Tortu, Jay Ross
  • Patent number: 5499666
    Abstract: A sanitary meat purge eliminator includes a circular upright wall that loosely fits within the opening of a supporting barrel and an outwardly protruding ledge that supports the device on the barrel top. A transverse wall extending across the upright wall includes a perforated section designed to support prepackaged meat and an adjacent discharge opening. The perforated section and discharge opening are separated by an upright divider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: F & F Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Foster, Guy D. Forbes
  • Patent number: 5495876
    Abstract: The spill resistant bubble machine is an invention that because of its unique geometry and design, prevents spillage of liquid when filled to the fill line or below, and oriented in any position. At the same time the invention is capable of automatic and continuous bubble generation. It is principally intended for use by young children in the hands free automatic generation of bubbles, especially while riding a bicycle, without spilling its liquid contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Michael R. Schramm
  • Patent number: 5492158
    Abstract: Described is a system for collecting organic material, such as oil, etc., underneath rail vehicles, in particular railway locomotives, the systen having at least one absorption material in at least one pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Werner Haag
  • Patent number: 5489042
    Abstract: The present invention provides a way for the do-it-yourself oil and filter changer to safely and cleanly drain used oil from the filter, then seal and store both filter and drained filter oil in the same container that crankcase oil is collected and stored in while keeping the drained filter dry and separate from the drained and collected oil. The invention solves a recent problem that has become apparent as used oil filters have become a culprit of land and water pollution. By allowing the do-it-yourselfer a convenient, safe, clean, and economical way to manage his used oil filter along with his used oil, it hampers the tendency to improperly dispose of these recyclable wastes by allowing more convenient and cleaner transport of these wastes to a collection center. This reusable container also eliminates the disposable items currently being used to transport used oil filters, thus eliminating these oily wastes from the wastestream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Bart W. Ewald
  • Patent number: 5487447
    Abstract: System for facilitating the changing of the oil and the oil filter in internal combustion engines, the system being comprised of an external unit for extracting the spent oil and filling in the new oil, and oil filter support which provide for its operation at a remote position from the engine unit while facilitating the changing thereof and a system of hydraulic conduits for connecting the filter support to the engine unit and the crankcase to the external auxiliary unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventor: Manuel J. Martinez Velazquez
  • Patent number: 5483999
    Abstract: A waste collection system for receiving contaminated fluids in a manner which helps to prevent splashing of fluids or spilling them while they are being collected, thereby increasing protection to personnel, and which also keeps the fluids safely contained until ready for permanent disposal. In one presently preferred embodiment, the waste collection system includes a receptacle in which an absorbent pad is placed. The top of the receptacle is then sealed with a lid in an essentially fluid-tight fit. The surface of the lid is concave and slopes inwardly to a point at which an opening is formed, and a circular foam disc is placed at the opening. The foam material is provided with slits so that fluid can be introduced to the interior of the receptacle by either injecting a device such as a syringe through the slits or by permitting fluid to directly contact the foam material of the disc, which provides absorption and wicking action so that fluids will readily pass through the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred P. Lampropoulos, Richard L. Young, Cindy A. Bushman, Bryan R. Lampropoulos
  • Patent number: 5482181
    Abstract: A portable liquid drain pan includes a V-shaped front end having a pour spout centered thereon and includes cantilever extensions projecting forwardly of the front end. When draining the pan, the extensions serve as lever arms to elevate the pouring spout. The extensions also move the pour spout forward toward the center of a bucket placed under the pour spout. A bottom of the drain pan is raised in a stair-step arrangement to direct the liquid to an outer channel between a lowest step and side walls of the container. When the back end of the container is lifted, the liquid travels along this channel to the front of the container. A raised partition formed in the front of each step guides the liquid to the pour spout. Casters are formed on the bottom of the drain pan to improve mobility. The front two casters are positioned slightly behind the front end wall to prevent slippage during draining and to allow the back end of the container to be raised easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Donald L. Weaver
  • Patent number: 5482095
    Abstract: This invention relates to a case for dosing accessories adapted to be adhered to a bottle. Said case comprises a front wall, a rear wall, two side walls, an open upper end and a lower end, and presents a housing adapted to receive, at least partially, a dosing accessory received via said open upper end. The housing is delimited by the front rear and side walls, which are integral with one another. The rear wall is capable of being adhered to the bottle, and is elastically deformable to fit on bottles of different curvatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Assignee: Laboratoire Suppo Steril
    Inventor: Michel de Chollet
  • Patent number: 5482093
    Abstract: A catch basin for automotive fluids, such as oil, adapted for use beneath a mechanic's catwalk which is itself extended beneath an automobile undergoing maintenance or repair operations, is disclosed wherein the catch basin comprises a generally rectangular, planar body portion formed of two dihedrally angled planar body halves and supports for supporting the body portion beneath the catwalk. The basin may be tilted toward a downstream end, at which is located a drain hole and a selectively removable plug. The catch basin supports may be supported from the catwalk or may themselves support the catwalk. The basin may also be provided with a bay adapted to receive and support a plurality of oil filters which are to be drained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Assignee: Baytech, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian M. Tremonti, Michael S. Belling, Douglas W. Holmes, Robert B. Kujawski