Combined Patents (Class 141/98)
  • Patent number: 7350546
    Abstract: A filling valve apparatus having a flange for mounting to a beverage filling machine. A shank extends through the flange and is mounted to the beverage filling machine. A locking device is coupled to the shank with the locking device having an unlocked position loosely connected to the shank and a locked position with at least a portion of the locking device wedged between the flange and the shank for fixedly securing the filling valve apparatus to the beverage filling machine. The subject invention also includes a servicing kit for servicing the filling valve apparatus. The servicing kit includes the shank, the locking device, and a wrench assembly as well as other components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: ADCOR Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Demetrios Stavrakis, Edwin K. Ruble, Michael J. Brown
  • Publication number: 20080053566
    Abstract: An improved funnel allows for easier filling of containers. The funnel allows containers to be filled more completely and to be more easily filled with viscous or granulated material. The funnel is also stabilized during use to minimize the risk of spilling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventor: Lan England
  • Publication number: 20080035236
    Abstract: The invention provides a shutter-operated fuel filler port closing apparatus in which a countermeasure for static electricity is applied. The shutter-operated fuel filler port closing apparatus includes a dust cover which is capable of tilting for closing up a fuel filler port and a hinged haft for the dust cover which have electrical conductivity, and the hinged shaft and a filler neck are electrically connected by an electrically conductive leaf spring, so that static electricity is discharged from the dust cover to the filler neck through the hinged shaft and the electrically conductive leaf spring. Since the dust cover is opened always with a hand or hands for fueling, the static electricity can be discharged inevitably to the filler neck through actions to open the dust cover, so that spark discharge can be prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Hiromitsu Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20080035237
    Abstract: A gas filling system includes a work platform installed in a pod storage cabinet and defining an accommodation chamber for holding a photomask pod, a pod detaching mechanism disposed in one side of the work platform and controllable to unlock the locking members of the photomask pod for allowing removal of a cover member of the photomask pod from its support tray, and a displacement mechanism mounted in a second side of the work platform and controllable to separate the support tray and the cover member of the photomask pod for allowing filling of an inert gas into the accommodation chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: GUDENG PRECISION INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yung-Shun Pan
  • Patent number: 7328729
    Abstract: A dispenser for holding multiple doses of fluids or other substances, and for dispensing the substances, has a variable volume storage chamber. A filling valve is coupled in fluid communication with the storage chamber and defines (1) a normally closed, fluid-tight position hermetically sealing the storage chamber from the ambient atmosphere, and (2) an open position allowing the passage of fluid through the valve both to evacuate the storage chamber and to introduce fluid through the valve to fill the storage chamber. A dispensing valve is coupled in fluid communication with the storage chamber and defines (1) a normally closed, fluid-tight position preventing the passage of fluid out of the dispenser, and (2) an open position for dispensing fluid therethrough. The sealed, empty dispenser is sterilized, such as by applying gamma radiation thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Medical Instill Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Py, Julian V. Chan
  • Patent number: 7325579
    Abstract: A watering can includes a pump and a snorkel which can be used to draw water out of a vessel and into the watering can. The snorkel device is put into a vessel from which water is to be evacuated and the pump is cranked in order to start the flow of water from the vessel and into the reservoir of the watering can. In some embodiments, the pump is a peristaltic pump which includes a mode where the pump is fully disengaged and fluid may flow freely from the snorkel, through the pump, and into the reservoir of the watering can. This allows the operator to use the pump to start a siphoning process which evacuates the remainder of the water from the vessel without further pumping. When not being used to draw water out of a vessel, the watering can may be used in the ordinary manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Nathan H. Harding
  • Patent number: 7318460
    Abstract: A fuel gas charging portion structure of a gas fuel vehicle includes a fuel gas charging port to which a fuel charging nozzle of an external fuel charging station is to be connected, an earthing portion to which a earth wire of the fuel gas charging station to be connected, a lid which is opened or closed selectively for covering both the earthing portion and the fuel charging port, and the earthing portion further includes a plurality of members. The fuel gas charging port is at least partially covered by bringing the earthing portion into a folded state when the lid is closed, while the earthing portion is brought into a state of being connectable with the earth wire 32 from the folded state and the fuel charging nozzle 31 is brought into a state of being chargeable to the fuel gas charging port when the lid is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Ohishi
  • Patent number: 7314068
    Abstract: While gas in a general storage container with no gas inlet and in the storage container with the gas inlet is replaced in a short time, the semiconductor wafer surface is cleaned. In an apparatus for replacing gas in a semiconductor wafer storage container which includes a lid unit and a storage container main body with a gas inlet, the apparatus includes gas introducing means for introducing the gas into the storage container main body, gas evacuating means for evacuating the gas in the storage container main body, and gas circulating means for circulating the gas in the storage container main body through a chemical adsorption filter. Gas introducing means for introducing the gas from a gap between the storage container main body and the lid unit while the lid unit is opened in the storage container mounting means is provided in the storage container with no gas inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Miraial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Nakano, Yukihiro Hyobu, Yoshihisa Okamoto
  • Patent number: 7299831
    Abstract: In a first aspect, an automatic door opener is provided that includes (1) a platform adapted to support a substrate carrier; (2) a door opening mechanism adapted to open a door of the substrate carrier while the substrate carrier is supported by the platform; and (3) a tunnel. The tunnel is adapted to extend from an opening in a clean room wall toward the platform and at least partially surround the platform. The tunnel is further adapted to direct a flow of air from the clean room wall toward the platform and out of the tunnel. Numerous other aspects are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin R. Elliott, Michael R. Rice, Robert B. Lowrance, Jeffrey C. Hudgens, Eric A. Englhardt
  • Patent number: 7296601
    Abstract: An aboveground fueling facility includes one or more vertical fuel supply tanks, each of which is positioned on a reinforced mounting pad on a fueling island that also includes one or more fuel dispensers. Fuel is supplied from the vertical fuel supply tanks to the dispensers via piping that is secondarily contained within the reinforced mounting pad. Each of the vertical fuel supply tanks may have more than one compartment so as to permit different grades of fuel to be dispensed by the dispensers, including mixtures. Fueling lanes are defined between the vertical fuel supply tanks for permitting vehicular access to the fuel dispensers. A canopy for sheltering the fueling lanes is structurally supported by the vertical fuel supply tanks, and informational signage is provided on the canopy for providing information such as fuel pricing to the consumer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 7293587
    Abstract: A portable fuel assembly has a holder that securely holds a fuel pump, at least one tool and at least one spare part, while at the same time having a base, which may be attached to a fuel container in order to transport fuel for a remote controlled vehicle to a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: James E. Broberg
  • Patent number: 7287560
    Abstract: A door fixture to be fastened to a frame of an isolator includes a door and a double bayonet closure with two bayonet locks for reciprocally transferring the isolator from a first state, in which the door, which opens from inside the isolator, is open and detached from the isolator frame and a container flange surrounding a container is sealingly locked to the isolator frame, and a second state, in which the door is shut and sealingly locked to the isolator frame and the container flange is detached from the isolator frame, there being provided a first safety device, which allows the door to be opened only when a container flange of a container is sealingly locked to the isolator frame, and a second safety device, which allows for the removal of the container flange from the isolator frame only when the door is sealingly locked to the isolator frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Imbolex GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Ostermeyer
  • Patent number: 7287558
    Abstract: Systems for handling and/or dispensing hydrogen or a mixture of fuels containing hydrogen gas including refueling stations for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Pure hydrogen or various mixtures ratios of hydrogen and CNG may be dispensed. Hydrogen handling equipment may include a hydrogen generator, a pressurizing apparatus or compressor, pressure vessels, piping, valves, vent pipes, and/or a dispenser. Substantially vertical orientation of pressure vessels may reduce the amount of land required and facilitate installation in urban environments. Pressurization may take place before hydrogen generation to reduce the power required for pressurization. Safety features include enclosures and surrounding walls that lean away from the equipment. Any leaking hydrogen, fires, or explosions may be contained and/or directed upward, protecting human life and property. Systems may be shop assembled and certified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Arizona Public Service Company
    Inventor: Raymond Hobbs
  • Patent number: 7281551
    Abstract: Device for drawing off hydraulic fluid from a hydraulic brake circuit of a vehicle/refilling the circuit with hydraulic fluid, and bleeding air from hydraulic fluid in the circuit. A pneumatic circuit having line elements from a compressed air connection to a compressed air-driven hydraulic pump, which is coupled into a hydraulic circuit to generate excess pressure and vacuum. A first brake fluid connection for the connection to a brake fluid reservoir or a bleed nipple on any vehicle wheel brake; a second brake fluid connection for drawing off old brake fluid from the brake circuit via the hydraulic circuit; and a third brake fluid connection for supplying fresh brake fluid to the vehicle brake circuit via the hydraulic circuit. A two-way valve, which opens a connection for extracting old brake fluid from the brake fluid reservoir, and opens a connection for refilling the brake fluid reservoir with fresh brake fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: Räto Mengelt
  • Patent number: 7275569
    Abstract: Systems for handling and/or dispensing hydrogen or a mixture of fuels containing hydrogen gas including refueling stations for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Pure hydrogen or various mixtures ratios of hydrogen and CNG may be dispensed. Hydrogen handling equipment may include a hydrogen generator, a pressurizing apparatus or compressor, pressure vessels, piping, valves, vent pipes, and/or a dispenser. Substantially vertical orientation of pressure vessels may reduce the amount of land required and facilitate installation in urban environments. Pressurization may take place before hydrogen generation to reduce the power required for pressurization. Safety features include enclosures and surrounding walls that lean away from the equipment. Any leaking hydrogen, fires, or explosions may be contained and/or directed upward, protecting human life and property. Systems may be shop assembled and certified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Arizona Public Service Company
    Inventor: Raymond Hobbs
  • Patent number: 7275568
    Abstract: A liquid reclamation apparatus for use in changing automobile oil includes a container, a portable receptacle within the container and dimensioned to hold a volume of oil sufficient to perform an oil change and a cover releasably secured to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas Fredette, David Fredette
  • Publication number: 20070221290
    Abstract: The system disclosed herein relates to a tank tag system. The system comprising, a mounting member fixedly attachable to a tank spill containment, at least one rigid member being slidably engaged with the mounting member, and a plate pivotally attached to the at least one rigid member with indicia applied thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Applicant: WALTER T. GORMAN LLC
    Inventor: Walter T. Gorman
  • Publication number: 20070215240
    Abstract: A fuel tank filler neck is formed to include an opening. A filler neck closure system includes a closure and a lock for the closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Publication date: September 20, 2007
    Applicant: STANT MANUFACTURING INC.
    Inventor: J. Bradley Groom
  • Patent number: 7252121
    Abstract: A urine disposing apparatus and method utilizes a cart-like structure to permit a bed-ridden patient to utilize a single urinal for multiple urinations. Following each use, the contents of the urinal are poured into a director, from which they empty into a receptacle located within the disposing apparatus. The empty urinal may then be re-used and emptied as needed. After a period of use, a caregiver may remove the receptacle, clean the component portions of the apparatus as required, and re-position the apparatus and empty urinal for use by the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Greg Hillis
  • Patent number: 7246641
    Abstract: A resilient foodstuff bag opener is disclosed, wherein the resilient bag opener is forcibly bent or bowed for easily entering a pliable food stuff bag, and upon relaxation of the bending forces, the bag opener resiliently deforms from its bent configuration to thereby open the food stuff bag in a manner that allows a food stuff residing on a food support surface of the bag opener to flow into the food stuff bag. The food support surface of the bag opener may be also used for processing foods such as cutting, dicing, washing, straining, etc. depending on the embodiment used. An inclined support may be optionally provided for maintaining the bag opener in a “hands-free” inclined position so that a food stuff provided on the food support surface can flow into the food stuff bag without a user having to hold the bag opener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Brad Blessman
  • Patent number: 7246639
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for containing aircraft fuel. According to some embodiments the apparatus includes a structural connector comprising an open shape, a first surface and a second surface, a seal defining a suction area disposed in the first surface, and a boot extending from the structural connector. The boot may comprise a lateral opening. The boot includes first and second ends, such that the first end of the boot may be attached to the structural connector and the second end may be spaced from the structural member. According to some embodiments the second end comprises a center offset laterally from the center of the structural connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Spokane Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Kuntz
  • Patent number: 7246642
    Abstract: A filler neck closure unit includes a frangible portion that is configured to break along a fracture line when an outer portion of the closure unit is hit by a strong blow. The closure unit includes an inner portion that remains coupled to a filler neck to block discharge of liquid fuel and fuel vapor from the filler neck and an outer portion that takes the blow and separates from the inner portion at the fracture line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Dean C. Foltz, Jason K. Jobe, Wallace D. Tallent
  • Patent number: 7240700
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for reducing the noise that enters the vehicle compartment through a hole in a drain plug. In an embodiment, the system includes a drain plug with a washer, a shank with an inlet fluidly coupled to an outlet, a cylindrical wall and a disc configured to occlude the outlet. The assembly may include a seal. When installed, the seal seals the washer to the mounting surface while the disc occludes the outlet so as to reduce the entry of noise through the drain plug while providing a passageway that allows the accumulated water to drain away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventors: Christopher Michael Pangallo, Duane M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 7237579
    Abstract: A liquid crystal dispensing system includes a container for containing liquid crystal; a liquid crystal measuring sensor proximate the container; a discharge pump for pumping liquid crystal from the container, and a nozzle for dispensing liquid crystal discharged from the discharge pump onto a substrate. In an exemplary embodiment, the crystal dispensing system includes a control unit for controlling a discharge amount of liquid crystal discharged from the discharge pump and calculating and compensating a dispensing amount of liquid crystal based on an amount of measured liquid crystal in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Joung-Ho Ryu, Soo-Min Kwak, Hae-Joon Son, Man-Ho An, Joon-Young Kim
  • Patent number: 7213619
    Abstract: A method of replacing fluid in an automotive system requires interconnecting a radiator fill port of the radiator with a first external tank through a closed control valve, disconnecting an upper hose from an upper radiator port and reconnecting the upper hose to a second external tank containing a replacement fluid. The system is sealed so that fluids are constrained for movement only within and between the engine, radiator and external tanks through the various hoses. When a pressure differential is applied within the system, fluid is forced from the automotive system into the first external tank, while automatically refilling the automotive system with the replacement fluid from the second external tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Link New Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: Adam Awad
  • Patent number: 7216040
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing hydrogen deployment within a heterogeneous hydrogen supply environment is provided. An electronic controller monitors hydrogen supply modules, evaluates conditions relating to the hydrogen supply modules, and affects hydrogen deployment. The electronic controller may also monitor hydrogen utilizers within the heterogeneous hydrogen supply environment. Various means for adjusting hydrogen deployment are discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Tama Maya Copeman, Christy John Sutton
  • Patent number: 7207418
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling a transmission at the transmission assembly plant including the steps of pumping fluid through the transmission entering at a first port and exiting through a second port, rotating the torque converter to purge trapped air, shifting the transmission, filling the transmission to a desired level and plugging the first and second ports. Through use of the method and apparatus of the present invention, the transmission is placed in a “road ready” condition and will not require additional fluid to be added in a top off operation at the vehicle assembly plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Cinetic Automation Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth B. Richardson, David W. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 7188807
    Abstract: Refueling booms with multiple couplings, and associated methods and systems, are disclosed. A system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a deployable boom carrying a refueling passage. A first coupler carried by the boom can be operatively coupleable to the refueling passage. The first coupler can be configured to be releasably connected to a receiver aircraft during refueling. A second coupler can be carried by the boom and can be operatively coupleable to the refueling passage, with the second coupler being configured to be releasably connected to a receiver aircraft during refueling. In particular embodiments, the first and second couplers can have different configurations so as to be compatible with aircraft having different refueling arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Jerell L. Smith
  • Patent number: 7185682
    Abstract: A fuel flange assembly for a vehicle fuel system provides Electro Static Dissipation without an undue increase in cost or reduction in the durability of the tank components. The fuel flange assembly generally includes a fuel tube, a tank flange, and a pressure control device. The fuel tube is constructed of a conductive polymer and has an inlet and an outlet. The fuel tube includes a portion defining a housing positioned between the inlet and the outlet. The tank flange is constructed of a non-conductive polymer. The pressure control device is fitted within the housing and includes a conductive outer casing engaging the fuel tube and forming an electrical pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Taylor Leslie Riegel, Stephen T. Kempfer, Daven Chinubhai Bhavsar, Jason Nicholas Schultz, Matthew Edward Wiethoff
  • Patent number: 7182105
    Abstract: A machine for packaging solid pharmaceuticals includes a plurality of storage locations for storing a variety of pharmaceutical dispensing canisters and a robotic arm for retrieving said dispensing canisters and providing the canister at a location proximate the package to be filled thus minimizing the distance which the pharmaceutical travels from the dispensing canister and the package cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: MTS Medication Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Feehan, Robert Barrett
  • Patent number: 7174927
    Abstract: A vacuum device and method for extraction of a substance from a fluid source, the vacuum device including an upper member that may be selectively, and operably, connected to a lower member. The upper member defines a bottom opening, and has a vacuum pump in fluid communication with the bottom opening. The vacuum pump is selectively coupled to an energy source. The lower member defines an inner cavity, a first opening, and a second opening, the inner cavity in communication with the first opening and the second opening. An elastic membrane defining an interior cavity is disposed in the inner cavity and is coupied to the first opening of the lower member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: SpectRx, Inc.
    Inventors: Danny F. Lincoln, Krishna Kumar, Mark A. Samuels
  • Patent number: 7171989
    Abstract: This application relates to a fuel dispensing system and method for safely regulating transfer of fuel between a fuel dispenser and a fuel recipient. The fuel dispensing system may be used, for example, to replenish electric vehicles that use refillable electro-chemical power generation systems, such as fuel cell hybrid systems using hydrogen fuel. The system employs a combination of interlocks and other safety features specifically adapted for high-risk indoor environments. Fueling cannot commence until the dispenser and the recipient are electrically bonded to minimize the risk of spark generation. The system may include, for example, a fuel supply subsystem for preventing fuel flow except during a fueling session, an immobilization subsystem for preventing relative movement of the dispenser and the recipient during a fueling session, a communication subsystem for enabling data exchange between the dispenser and the recipient, and a leak detection subsystem for monitoring the fueling site for fuel leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Cellex Power Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Adrian James Corless, Noel Christopher Buckley, Darrin Grant Elliott, Carolyn A. Lawrence, David Reinhold Pfeil
  • Patent number: 7165581
    Abstract: Systems and methods for preserving a perishable material sensitive to oxygen and bacterial spoilage are taught. The systems in some embodiments comprise a pressurized source of a first gas other than oxygen and a container for the perishable material, the container having a sealable lid, a passage including a one-way valve through the lid connected by a gas conduit to the pressurized source, and a mechanism for venting the container. In various embodiments oxygen exposure to the perishable material in the container is diluted by at least one cycle of pressurizing the container with the first gas other than oxygen, and then venting the container. In some embodiments oxygen dilution is by vacuum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Vinit Chantalat
  • Patent number: 7163036
    Abstract: In a method of delivering high purity fluorine to a processing system, an on-site fluorine generator supplies high purity fluorine to a fixed storage tank, from which the high purity fluorine is supplied to the processing system. To provide a back up to the fluorine generator, high purity fluorine is also provided in a transportable gas storage vessel, for example, a multi-cylinder pack at a relatively low pressure, typically less than 35 psig. The transportable storage vessel is selectively connected to the fixed storage tank as required to enable the amount of fluorine within the storage tank to be maintained at a desired level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: The BOC Group plc
    Inventors: Graham Hodgson, Andrew William Shuttleworth
  • Patent number: 7163034
    Abstract: A portable fluid transfer apparatus for handling volatile fuels or other chemicals comprises a jug-like container of a convenient volume having a removable cap that can be screwed or clamped onto the neck of the jug and mounted atop the cap is a manually operable rotary vane pump having a first inlet/outlet port disposed within the container when the cap is in place and a second inlet/outlet port external of the jug or container. An elongated, suction/discharge hose having a tether for anchoring the end of the hose in place is affixed to the second inlet/outlet. Manual actuation of the vane pump is then used to transfer a liquid from or into the portable container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Normal Alton Franks
  • Patent number: 7156129
    Abstract: A system is disclosed allowing non-invasive, continuous local and remote sensing of the internal environmental characteristics of transportable containers. The system utilizes a variety of sensors inside the container to sense internal environmental conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry A. Speasl, Edward Dante
  • Patent number: 7156131
    Abstract: A filling device for use to manually or automatically refill a fuel cartridge using a separate fuel container or a second fuel cartridge is disclosed. The filling device provides for the sharing or fuel among numerous fuel containers and fuel cartridges in various consumer electronic devices. Fuel cartridges can be filled in-situ using an adapter for connecting the fuel container to the fuel cartridge. The adapter includes an input connector and an output connector arranged to adapt various fuel containers and fuel cartridges together. The adapter can be arranged as a passive device or as an active device and can include pumps, valves, power sources and control units as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Paul Adams, Andrew J. Curello
  • Patent number: 7147022
    Abstract: The invention concerns an assembly comprising balanced loading and unloading arm (14) installed at a first location and having articulated pipeline arms (15, 16) mounted through one of its end on a base (18) and provided at the other of its ends with a system connecting (28) the articulated pipeline arms to coupling means (29) installed at the second location. It further comprises a cable (32) linked through one of its ends to the connecting system (28) and through the other of its ends to means (35–39) adapted to subject said cable to constant tension, and a connecting winch (42) whereon is wound a connection cable (41) for bringing the connecting system (28) in a position to be connected to the coupling means (29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, S.A.
    Inventor: Renaud Le Devehat
  • Patent number: 7143794
    Abstract: A device for assisting in granular bed reconstruction projects such as catalyst bed construction, includes a frame, a tracked drive, a turret and a boom with an actuator to move the boom relative to the turret. The boom includes a tube for fixing to a vacuum source at one end and an opening for sucking catalyst granules out of the bed on the other end. The device can be operated remotely from a controller. The device is small enough and light weight enough to be able to gain access to the bed and to work on the catalyst without destroying the catalyst. Use of the device eliminates or considerably reduces the need to put persons within the reactor vessel for this stage of reconstruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: WGNS Investments Inc.
    Inventors: W. G. Neil Smith, D. A. Sandy McKinty, Harold J. Hildebrandt, Mike Girard, Denis Blais, Claude Laurin
  • Patent number: 7134641
    Abstract: A valve includes a valve body (100) disposable within a chamber (103) of a housing (101) and capable of being fluidly sealed with respect to the housing (101) when the valve is closed. At least one radial passage (117) is disposed in the valve body (100). At least one axial passage (119) is disposed in the valve body (100) in fluid communication with the at least one radial passage (117). When the valve at least partially opens, a fluid path opens between the valve body (100) and the housing (101), which fluid path (301) in is fluid communication with the at least one radial passage (117), and fluid from within the housing (101) is capable of passing out of the at least one axial passage (119).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel W. Jensen, Jonathan T. Wild, Kenneth R. Seymour, II, James P. Burke
  • Patent number: 7114532
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin G. Donohoe
  • Patent number: 7111650
    Abstract: A radiator fluid exchanging apparatus including at least one fluid supply tank and a pressure vessel with a pressure generator, the tank and the vessel each including a multi-directional supply coupling in communication with first and second selectively operable fluid control manifolds, one manifold being in communication with a pump for supplying fluid from the supply tank to an influent port of an engine cooling system to be serviced, the other manifold being interposed between the pressure vessel and an effluent port of the engine cooling system, when coupled thereto, for drawing waste fluid into the vessel and resupplying fluid from the fluid supply tank under negative pressure to the engine cooling system as determined by the selective operation of the control manifolds and actuation of the pump and pressure generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Few
  • Patent number: 7112027
    Abstract: A pod cover removing-installing apparatus can open and close any covers for a variety of pods made by a various manufactures, can satisfy an allowable distortion error capable of being normally operated even if conditions such as temperature, humidity, and can remove and install the cover without causing it to collide with any one of the parts of the pods. The pod cover removing-installing apparatus to remove and install a cover 203 for an opening 202 of a pod 200, of which the inside is kept extremely clean, by causing the cover to engage a door 13 for an opening 12 of a high cleanliness room, while maintaining high cleanliness of the pod and the room by closely attaching the circumference of the two openings. The apparatus is provided with positioning pins 14a, 14b for positioning the cover 13, a fine adjustment mechanism 20 for fine adjustment of the positioning pins 14a, 14b, and a holding mechanism 40 for holding the position of the cover 13 engaging the positioning pins 14a, 14b.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Right Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tatsuhiko Nagata
  • Patent number: 7111651
    Abstract: An engine cooling system liquid insertion and removal system has an adapter disposed in a vehicle radiator service opening via which old coolant is removed from the engine system by partial vacuum applied to an old coolant container via a conduit. New coolant is introduced via the adapter by atmospheric pressure from a portable container. Conduits interconnect the engine cooling system, the old and new coolant containers, and a source of partial vacuum applied to conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Robert E. Flynn
  • Patent number: 7104289
    Abstract: A system and method for generating a gas-supersaturated fluid and delivering the fluid at high delivery pressures to thereby prevent bubble nucleation is disclosed. The system comprises a housing for containing a removable fluid assembly for housing a fluid to be gas-supersaturated and a drive assembly for delivering the fluid to a delivery site. The housing assembly comprises a cylinder and a piston which-may be advanced along the inner surface of the cylinder to pressurize and to deliver the fluid. To generate a gas-supersaturated fluid, the housing assembly is removed from the system housing, filled with a fluid, and gas is introduced at or slightly above the desired gas partial pressure into the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: TherOx, Inc.
    Inventors: Adib G. Daoud, James M. Gessert
  • Patent number: 7100644
    Abstract: The invention relates to a container for receiving fuel from a fuel outlet of an aircraft, which container comprises means of attachment for effecting a detachable, liquid-tight coupling with the fuel outlet. In the coupled condition, the container extends at least partially perpendicularly to the direction of outflow of the fuel from the fuel outlet of the aircraft. The invention furthermore provides a method for receiving and discharging fuel from a fuel outlet of an aircraft, comprising the steps of coupling a container for receiving fuel to a fuel outlet of an aircraft, draining the fuel outlet, disconnecting the container from the fuel outlet, and transporting the fuel in the container to a storage location for discharged fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Askove Kunststof Industries B.V.
    Inventor: Joan Jozef Antonius Maria Van Aspert
  • Patent number: 7086427
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hemi-cannula for tracheotomy patients, comprising a main tubular body (1.1) which is made from a suitable flexible material and which comprises peripheral end fixing flanges (1.2 and 1.3). One of said flanges (1.2), which is intended to be disposed inside the trachea next to the inner face of same, takes the form of a wing comprising a cylindrical surface with an oblique axis in relation to an axis perpendicular to the main axis of the main body (1.1). The other flange (1.3) takes the shape of a truncated cone comprising a larger outer base. According to the invention, a conduit forming the main tubular body passes through the centre of both of said flanges. The invention is suitable for producing tracheotomy cannulas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Marta Brucart Bonich
  • Patent number: 7082969
    Abstract: A closed loop system is disclosed for transferring fluid from a fluid storage vessel to a fluid receiving container. The system is adapted to vent the fluid receiving container while preventing discharge of both vapor and fluid into the surrounding environment. The system includes an enclosed fluid receiving container having upper and lower portions. A fluid flow receiving unit is mounted proximate the fluid receiving container. The receiving unit has a pair of spaced fluid ports and a pair of non-spill coupling connectors extending from the fluid ports, one port being a fluid inlet port and one being a vapor-fluid exit port. A movable cover element is provided for selectively covering and protecting the fluid ports and coupling connectors from contaminants when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Christopher J. Hollerback
  • Patent number: RE39241
    Abstract: Modular cartridges which may be inserted into and removed from a well or receptacle on the bottom of a pod. The cartridges may be configured to include various types and combinations of valves, filters, and/or conditioning agents. A standalone cartridge replacement station may be provided for inserting and removing various cartridges from one or more of the receptacles on the bottom of a pod while wafers are seated within the pod. The standalone replacement unit may decouple an existing cartridge from the pod by rotating the cartridge from a locked to an unlocked position and then lowering the cartridge out of the pod. Thereafter, the replacement station may insert a new cartridge up into the appropriate receptacle and rotate the cartridge into a locked position in the pod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Fosnight
  • Patent number: RE39443
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing both bubbles and streams of water that because of its unique geometry and design, will when oriented in any position prevent spillage of its bubble solution when filled to the fill line or below, and is capable of automatic and continuous bubble generation while simultaneously generating amusing water streams. It is principally intended for use by young children as a lawn water toy as well as a bubble creating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Michael R. Schramm