With Condition Responsive Vent Or Valve Patents (Class 220/202)
  • Publication number: 20100254838
    Abstract: A pump providing oil suction and oil drain functions includes a barrel and a lid; a first passage is disposed on a bottom of the barrel; the lid contains a second passage, a third passage, and a fourth passage; a regulating member is disposed on the lid to connect the third passage through the second passage and to allow air to flow in sequence from an oil storage space, the third passage, the second passage, a pipe, the first passage, a ventilation pipe, and the fourth passage into the ambient air for producing suction in oil suction operation; and to connect the fourth passage through the third passage for the ambient air to flow in sequence through the second passage, the pipe, the first passage, the ventilation pipe, the fourth passage, and the third passage to enter into the oil storage space for producing pressure during the oil drain operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Tien-Tsai Tseng
  • Patent number: 7798347
    Abstract: A feeding bottle (10) comprises a container (16), a teat (12) and a collar (14) to screw the teat (12) onto and seal the container (16). A vent assembly (18) is mounted between the teat (12) and the container (16) and includes a vent tube (22) passing down to a position close to the base of the container (16) and having a one way valve (34) allowing air to pass into the container (16) on application of suction to the teat (12) but preventing liquid flowing into the vent tube (22), together with a valve flange (36) acting as an anti-choke member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Jackel International Limited
    Inventor: Arnold Edward Rees
  • Publication number: 20100147846
    Abstract: A storage container assembly comprises, a storage receptacle, a removable lid, and a seal. The storage receptacle has a base and a continuous sidewall connected to the base. The sidewall has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The lid has a main body that covers at least a portion of the storage receptacle. The lid has a first and a second receiving channel. The seal has a securing member and a blade portion. The securing member goes into the first receiving channel of the lid to connect the seal to the lid. The blade portion of the seal contacts the interior surface of the sidewall. The exterior surface of the sidewall contacts the second receiving channel. The sidewall of the storage receptacle is within the second receiving channel. The blade portion forms a generally fluid tight seal with the sidewall while the sidewall contacts the second receiving channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Randy Soibel, Tyson Manullang, Kieron Tse
  • Patent number: 7735672
    Abstract: A vented non-spill fuel cap assembly includes a self-sealing, releasable fluid coupling and a visible fill indicator. The fuel cap assembly permits transfer of fuel from a storage vessel such as a gas canister to a fuel tank equipped with the cap assembly in a manner which prevents escape and spillage of liquid fuel and vapors. Fuel is introduced from a supply canister or other source via a hose and coupling releasably matable with the self-sealing coupling on the cap assembly, without removal of the cap assembly. The indicator visibly indicates when the tank is full.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Frederick Voss, III
  • Publication number: 20090321444
    Abstract: A fuel container for a motor vehicle has a structural unit that includes of a separator and an activated carbon filter that forms a ventilation device. The structural unit is attached in a chamber for the collection of fuel and has common container for the retention of the separator and the activated carbon filter. The container is mounted on a fuel conveyance unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Rumpf
  • Publication number: 20090294443
    Abstract: A liquid enclosure has an automatic air bleeding valve that selectively forms a fluid pathway connecting a liquid holding chamber to an ambient environment for bleeding air from the liquid holding chamber. The valve is in a first stage when a liquid in the liquid holding chamber is below a first predetermined level, and the fluid pathway is open and a one-way valve is interposed in the fluid pathway. The valve is in a second stage when the liquid is between the first predetermined level and a second predetermined level, and the fluid pathway is open and circumvents the one-way valve. The valve is in a third stage when the liquid is above the second predetermined level, and the fluid pathway is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Vincent W.S. Lau
  • Patent number: 7625197
    Abstract: A preferred process for degassing a mold piece includes inserting the mold piece into an internal volume within a canister, sealing the internal volume, drawing a vacuum in the internal volume, and introducing into the internal volume a gaseous fluid suitable for degassing the mold piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Donnie J. Duis, Stephen R. Beaton, David C. Byram, Gregory Scott Duncan
  • Publication number: 20090206079
    Abstract: A container and its airtight closure. By crimping an open container a new rim (050) is made having two salient outer (05B) and inner (05A) sides and planes (05A, 05B) where a gasket (24) can be accommodated. A typical airtight closure for the open container is made up of a protecting cover (2) joined to an outer rim (5) that accommodates with precision to the brim of the can (05). It has also an internal rim (4) which along with the outer rim (5) forms a slot (070) on the protecting lid, which has an inner (5A) and outer (5B) sides which conform to the inner and outer sides (05A) and (05B) of the sealed brim. The closing surface (2) has an inverted arch-like (25) shape, which by mechanical action and gas pressure of the content, renders an airtight seal on the contact planes (2B, 05B).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Mario Valderrama Chaparro
  • Publication number: 20090114651
    Abstract: The break-open valve (1) for a container (21) comprises a break-away element (4) which can be twisted off by turning an activator (3). The valve (1) can be used for hermetically sealing a container (21) until its first opening and also for making it tamper-evident. The activator (3) is rotatably affixed to the valve head (2). The activator (3) comprises an inserted disk (16) with at least one opening (10) and a socket (5) which engages the break-away element (4). The activator (3) further comprises a membrane (17) which protects the contents within the activator (3) from contaminants entering through spout (18). The valve (1) has the advantage that it is cost efficient in its production, that it is easy to use and that it is suitable for dispensing sterile contents in more than one dose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2005
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Hoffmann Neopac AG
    Inventor: Daniel Krebs
  • Publication number: 20080179325
    Abstract: A closure assembly for a tank includes a cap shell and a cylindrical insert connected by a lost motion connection defining a first stop and a second stop for relative axial movement. A dome extends inwardly from the cylindrical insert and includes an orifice defining a valve seat. A stem includes a mating edge for engaging the valve seat. The mating edge abuts the valve seat and displaces the dome axially to seal the orifice at the first stop, and is spaced from the valve seat to at the second stop. Opening the valve allows vapor to vent from the tank along a tortuous path defined through an aperture and between the cap shell and the cylindrical insert. The aperture is open or sealed with the valve depending on the relative position of the cap shell and cylindrical insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: John Clarke, David Butler
  • Patent number: 7351467
    Abstract: In accordance with the invention, thin bodies of plastic, such as sheets or strands, with substantially different thermal coefficients of expansion, are laminated together to make plastic bodies that move in response to temperature change. The thermally movable plastic can be secured to a suitable base to make a variety of devices. In one embodiment, the thermally moveable plastic can be used in a beverage safety lid. The safety lid is particularly useful as a lid for hot drinks, such as hot coffee, soups and other foods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Greg E. Blonder
  • Publication number: 20080023476
    Abstract: A vented non-spill fuel cap assembly includes a self-sealing, releasable fluid coupling and a visible fill indicator. The fuel cap assembly permits transfer of fuel from a storage vessel such as a gas canister to a fuel tank equipped with the cap assembly in a manner which prevents escape and spillage of liquid fuel and vapors. Fuel is introduced from a supply canister or other source via a hose and coupling releasably matable with the self-sealing coupling on the cap assembly, without removal of the cap assembly. The indicator visibly indicates when the tank is full.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Frederick Voss
  • Patent number: 7214311
    Abstract: A filter assembly is provided that includes a hood, a drain manifold, a filter disposed between the hood and the drain manifold, a drainage space that is disposed between and in fluid communication with both the filter medium and the drain manifold, a check valve that is configured to permit air to escape but not to enter the drainage space so that a siphon can be established that draws additional fluid through the filter medium and into the drain manifold, the siphon continuing until air entering the hood disrupts the siphon, and a check valve cap that is configured to permit air to escape the check valve while preserving an air-filled void above the check valve when the filter assembly is submerged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel W. Aberle, James H. Lenhart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7045190
    Abstract: A packaging material is provided that can provide a packaging bag or container cover in which the contents is shielded from the atmosphere and tightly sealed, a small hole is formed in the appropriate locations, without special processing of the heat seal portion, and the internal pressure is maintained with high stability at a level above the normal pressure. The packaging material is suitable, for example, for heating in a microwave oven. The packaging material uses a film in which a heat sealing agent (4) with a low melting point is applied to a prescribed zone of an oriented film (2) made of a synthetic resin, a cutting line (5) is cut in the oriented film (2) made of a synthetic resin in the form of a solid or broken line passing through the zone coated with the heat sealing agent (4), and a cast film (3) made of a synthetic resin and having heat sealing properties is affixed to the oriented film (2) made of a synthetic resin. Such film is used for a packaging bag (1) or a container cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignees: Plast Corporation
    Inventors: Hiromichi Inagaki, Sakaru Takahashi
  • Patent number: 6698611
    Abstract: A tank cap having an upper breather chamber, a lower breather chamber and a separator having a communication bore permitting communication between the chambers. An auxiliary separator in the lower breather chamber is connected to the separator and is provided with upper and lower transverse bores extending from an annular chamber section surrounding upper and lower central chamber sections in the lower breather chamber to the upper and lower central chamber sections, respectively. This arrangement provides an effective damping function against liquid entering into the lower breather chamber to inhibit the flowing of the liquid from the lower breather chamber into the upper breather chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasunori Matsubara, Yoshikazu Yamada
  • Publication number: 20030233083
    Abstract: A port, a container and a method for accessing a port for injecting or withdrawing a liquid from the container are provided. The port may allow for the administration of, for example, a drug, to a patient and may be located on the container. The port has a septum having a target area. The port also has a support ring in contact with the septum. A cap is provided to protect the septum. The cap has a ring handle and allows for removal and exposure of the target area of the septum. A needle, for example, may be used to penetrate the septum allowing the addition or withdrawal of a liquid or other drug to or from the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventors: Vincent Houwaert, Denis Motta, Patrick Balteau, Francesco Peluso, Silvano Sforacchi
  • Patent number: 6615829
    Abstract: A feeding valve having a hose coupling in the form of an expansion bellows which unfolds automatically into the wearer's field of vision when the sealing cap of the feeding valve is opened, thereby enables a wearer to easily insert the straw of a food or beverage bottle even when wearing protective gloves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Auergeselischaft GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Horn, Klaus Schmidtke
  • Publication number: 20030019872
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems, devices or methods for preventing and/or reducing the occurrence of corrosion in a variety of articles including, but not limited to, tanks (e.g., storage tanks, septic tanks, fuel tanks, etc.); containers (e.g., shipping containers, storage containers, etc.); semi-closed systems (e.g., fuel systems, septic systems, reservoirs, etc.); and/or closed systems (e.g., waste disposal systems, waste disposal drums or containers, etc.). In another embodiment, the devices and/or methods of the present invention may be utilized to reduce and/or prevent corrosion in a variety of pipelines (e.g., gas/oil pipelines, water pipelines, sewage lines, etc.).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Efim Ya Lyublinski, Donald A. Kubik
  • Patent number: 6510958
    Abstract: A plastic container comprising two half-shells which are produced by means of injection molding and have parts of the components integrally formed on them during the injection molding. This does away with the need for fastening said components in the plastic container, with the result that the installation process is simplified to a considerable extent. At the same time, installation errors are largely ruled out. The plastic container is suitable for use in motor vehicles, preferably as a fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventors: Peter Andreas Löw, Christian Kochsmeier, Thomas Zapp, Wolfgang Pfahl, Jerome Coulton
  • Patent number: 6450361
    Abstract: A low pressure cooker is disclosed having a pan and a pressurizable lid. Latch handles that pivot about a generally vertical axis are provided for latching the pressurizable lid in position relative to the pan. The cooker may also include a non-pressurizable lid that cannot be latched in position using the latch handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventors: Lewis A. Mendelson, Blaise M. Wooderson
  • Patent number: 6149866
    Abstract: The invention relates to a closure device and a method for performing an assay of a sample using the closure device. The closure device, mountable on the mouth of a test vessel, comprises a body part (1) with an axially passing cylindrical bore. The bore is covered at one end with an openable lid (7). The closure device further includes a plunger (3), slidably mounted in the bore for the formation of a sealed reagent storage chamber (9) in the space remaining between the closed lid and the plunger. The inner wall of the bore (2) is provided with at least one groove (4), whose depth is so deep as not to be within the reach of the outer diameter of the plunger (3). The groove extends from exterior end of the bore, over such a length as to maintain a gas flow communication between said reagent storage chamber (9) and the exterior end of the cylindrical bore when the plunger (3) is in a partially inserted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Orion-yhtyma Oyj
    Inventors: Juhani Luotola, Henry Backman, Tapani Hellman, Kauko Kahma, Antti Kaplas
  • Patent number: 6076570
    Abstract: A closure including an integral chamber for storing a fluid separately from a beverage stored in a container to which the closure is attached is provided with a pre-formed court or aperture and a valve, the valve being operable to an open position when intended to allow release of the fluid in the chamber to mix with beverage in the container, the apparatus being particularly suitable for carbonating or recarbonating beverages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Paul Anthony Byrne
  • Patent number: 5907284
    Abstract: A gas cap removal alert system is provided including a gas tank input mounted on a vehicle. The gas tank input includes a pipe with a threaded inner periphery defining an opening with a circular peripheral edge. A gas cap is included for being removably coupled within the gas tank input. A battery is situated within an interior space of the gas cap. Further provided is an indication mechanism mounted on the gas cap and adapted to alert a user upon the receipt of power. A switch is mounted on the gas cap and further electrically connected between the indication mechanism and the battery. During use, the push button switch has a first orientation for allowing the transfer of power to the indication mechanism and a second orientation for precluding the transfer of power to the indication mechanism upon the coupling of the gas cap within the gas tank input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Ehi R. Israel
  • Patent number: 5795552
    Abstract: Apparatus for heating and venting a container. The apparatus has a heating station for the container. A heater is disposed to supply heat to the heating station. A drive has a body and a reciprocable member. The body is mounted in predetermined relation to the receiving station. The reciprocable member is movable relative to the receiving station between a first position and a second position. A cannula is joined to the reciprocable member. The cannula has a hollow bore. The cannula is movable between a retracted position and an extended position by movement of the reciprocable member between the first position and the second position. A vent line communicates with the bore and the ambient environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Kenneth Dean Corby, David Edward Foeller, Dana Andrew Carlile, Jacob Michael Shmois, Fugui He, Stephen Albert Mruczek
  • Patent number: 5735430
    Abstract: An underground storage container for the storage of personal valuables and possessions to protect such items from theft, fire, riots and natural disasters. A generally cylindrical tapered container, made preferably of fiberglass, is hermetically sealed through the employment of seals and a cover designed to mate with corresponding flanges on the upper portion of the container's body. The underground storage container has a vacuum release mechanism to facilitate opening and closing the container and a raised spiral auger around the base of the container to assist in anchoring the underground storage container and facilitating its extraction upon removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventor: Dewitt Y. Gorman
  • Patent number: 5668349
    Abstract: A roof vent for preventing the buildup of hydrogen gas produced by battery charging in a remote digital telephone cabinet is provided with a movable splash guard for blocking the vent outlet when impinged upon by water and/or wind, thereby preventing the entry of water into the cabinet. The vent also includes a weatherproof cover whose lower edge is formed with scallops or undulations to maintain air gaps between the cover and the cabinet roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: James H. Durham, Wilfred L. Gleadall, Richard A. Carmichael, Ray E. Medcalf
  • Patent number: 5611424
    Abstract: A sealed metal ammunition container for holding at least one round of ammtion. The container body is sized to hold the ammunition and has an opening at one end thereof. A metal bottom flange is fixedly attached to file container body at the one end and includes an opening therein sufficiently large to vent pressure from ignited energetic contained therein. A metal top flange is provided for attachment to the bottom flange, the top flange also having a similar opening therein. A fuse formed from a material having a melting point below the ignition temperature of the ammunition is positioned between the top flange and the bottom flange to form a meltable closure at the open end of the body. A rubber flange gasket is positioned between the bottom flange and the fuse to form a hermetic seal when compressed upon closure thereof. Equally spaced screws mount the top flange, fuse, and flange gasket to the bottom flange to form a hermetic seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Frank Sniezek, Eugene M. Ivankoe, Steve Ruffini
  • Patent number: 5605710
    Abstract: A single cup disposable coffee brewing device foldable from a generally flat position to an unfolded position. The device has a coffee filter on the interior and a cardboard main body portion on the exterior and can be placed on top of a cup or mug. Coffee grounds are disposed in the filter and hot or cold water is poured into the unfolded device. The main body portion has a hole at bottom normally closed by a sealing element which dissolves after a predetermined period of time and allows brewed coffee to drip out into the mug or cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Marathon Partners
    Inventors: Carl Pridonoff, Kenneth Tarlow
  • Patent number: 5576937
    Abstract: A connector for protecting an IC comprising a connector body, a closed plate, and an annular air-tight sealing material. An air-tight chamber is formed centrally of the annular air-tight sealing material by compressing the annular air-tight sealing material between the connector main body and the closed plate. The IC is received in the air-tight chamber so as to be electrically contacted with the connector body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: Yamaichi Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaaki Kubo
  • Patent number: 5480054
    Abstract: A lid assembly for use with a beverage container which retains and dispenses beverages therefrom. The container includes a body having a reservoir chamber and a mouth communicating with the reservoir chamber. The lid assembly is cooperatively attachable to the body of the container for selectively closing the mouth. The lid assembly includes an exterior segment and an interior segment which are spaced apart and define a lid chamber therebetween. A breathing vent is provided in the exterior segment for communication between the outside atmosphere and the lid chamber. An anti-spill vent is provided with the vent for preventing leakage of liquid therethrough when the container is tipped. A second vent extends between the interior segment and communicates with the lid chamber for passing atmosphere between the reservoir chamber and the lid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic Corporation
    Inventor: William E. Midden
  • Patent number: 5325882
    Abstract: A valve plug is biased inwardly by a spring (90) to close an opening (10) in a cap (2) for a fuel tank filling and venting tube. A valve stem includes a first portion (62) which is engaged by the spring (90) and a second float cage portion (40) that is secured to and extends axially inwardly from the plug. A collapsible retainer (70) is secured to the cage (40) and has an abutment surface (74) which engages an abutment surface (68) on the first portion (62) to hold the cage (40) and the first portion (62) in position relative to each other and to transmit axial forces therebetween. A fusible material ring (88) is positioned radially between the retainer (70) and the cage (40) to prevent the retainer (70) from collapsing. At elevated temperatures, the ring (88) melts to allow the retainer (70) to collapse, the cage (40) and first stem portion (62) to separate from each other, and the valve plug and cage (40) to move away from the opening (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignee: GT Development Corporation
    Inventors: Alan K. Forsythe, Zdenek Gabrlik, John M. Morris
  • Patent number: 5306430
    Abstract: The method of removing hot liquid coolant from an internal combustion engine cooling system, which includes a radiator having a by-pass outlet, the method including applying suction to the by-pass outlet to draw a by-pass stream of hot fluid, including hot pressurized gas, from the radiator, thereby to reduce fluid pressure in the radiator; and then opening the radiator for safely removing hot liquid coolant therefrom; The removed liquid may be disposed of or treated in a zone or zones outside the cooling system; and returning the treated coolant liquid may then be returned to the cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: Wynn Oil Company
    Inventors: Patrick L. Dixon, Robert B. Sweeney
  • Patent number: 5248052
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasing superatmospheric pressure in an engine cooling system when the engine is turned off and maintaining the cooling system at atmospheric pressure whenever the engine is not running is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a radiator cap having an over pressure valve for releasing excess pressure during engine operation and a suction return valve, or coolant recovery valve, for allowing coolant in a coolant recovery tank to be returned to the radiator and cooling system by a vacuum condition within the cooling system. The apparatus further comprises a push rod that penetrates the top of the radiator cap and reciprocates within a vertical sleeve seated in the center of the top of the radiator cap to open the suction return valve when the engine is not running, that is, the push rod is in the down position, and moves into an up position to allow the suction return valve to close, when the engine is running.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Inventors: Larry L. Mellinger, Larry J. Henry
  • Patent number: 5242072
    Abstract: A cap for a fill pipe of a fluid container, such as a gas tank, is provided. It has a vent hole which is normally held unsealed by the weight of a ball which impinges against and thereby tilts a spring loaded pin carrying an O-ring. When the cap tips away from the vertical by more than a pre-selected angle, the ball rolls away from the pin and the spring urges the pin to an orientation where the O-ring seals the hole. When the container is tipped beyond the pre-selected angle, should the internal tank pressure exceed a pre-determined level, the pressure overcomes the force of the spring allowing relief venting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignee: The Kelch Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald E. Koebernik
  • Patent number: 5232016
    Abstract: A vacuum storage container, which comprises a container with a lid for sealing the container; the lid is mounted with a sucking valve, which is a check valve to have the air in the container pumped out only in one-way upon the container being closed hermetically; after the container being in vacuum or similar to a vacuum condition, a substance in the container can be stored for a long time without changing the quality thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Inventor: Tseng L. Chun
  • Patent number: 5193709
    Abstract: A filtered vent useful for venting drums, such as 55-gallon drums, includes a cylindrical housing having an anular activated carbon filter cartridge disposed therein. The cylindrical housing has a threaded collar with vents at one end and a pressure relief valve at the other end. The pressure relief valve is connected to a J-shaped tube which has an open end positioned proximate the threaded collar. An annular filter is disposed in the housing, the annular filter has an inner surface in communication with an inlet connected to the pressure relief valve and an outer surface in communication with the vents in the threaded collar. Volatile liquid in the air space between the top wall of the container and the top surface of the liquid passes through the activated carbon filter before venting into the atmosphere. If nesessary or desired, a HEPA filter may be disposed upstream of the activated carbon filter and a GORTEX.TM.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: Gilbert W. Brassell
  • Patent number: 5121590
    Abstract: Apparatus for evacuating and sealing containers of perishable food or other substances includes a rigid lid for fitting onto the container and a resilientt valve which is situated over a small passage in the lid. The valve has a hollow interior region which is open at the underside of the member and a stem extends down through the passage in the lid and carries an enlargement at its lower end that is broader than the passage. A hollow cup, coupled to a vacumm pump, is temporarily placed over the valve to draw air from the container after which atmospheric pressure urges the lid against the container and urges the valve against the lid to seal the container. The hollow interior of the valve is broader than the passage in the lid and thus atmospheric pressure is effective against an area of the valve that exceeds the area of the passage thereby assuring a very strong and reliable sealing effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Inventor: Gregory P. Scanlan
  • Patent number: 5031675
    Abstract: A device for sealing a container intended to be connected to a recipient provided with a connector for supply of its contents to the recipient in such a way that the container can be applied to and removed from the recipient without leakage and is sealed after the removal. For this purpose an elastic body is included in the device, which contains a cavity with a thin bottom, which cavity is adapted to the connector and is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the body, so that the interior portion of the body is displaced radially time of application of the device to the connector and opens a channel between the body and the container wall for air supply to the container. The interior portion of the cavity is smaller than the exterior portion of the connector to enable the connector to open the sealing device by widening a normally closed hole or slit located at the bottom of the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Assignee: Rexinell AB
    Inventor: Lars Lindgren
  • Patent number: 5000339
    Abstract: A flip-top replacement gas cap for replacing conventional screw-on caps provided as original equipment with present day motor vehicles. Two embodiments of the invention are disclosed. The first is a manually actuated device. The second is a key actuated device. In both embodiments pressure relief valves are included to vent over-pressure within the gas tank and to bleed off pressure prior to opening of the flip-top cap. The key actuated emboidment includes a rachet cam assembly which permits the cap to be screw fastened to a motor vehicle gas filler vent but precludes the unscrewing of the cap thereafter. "Gas cap" is used herein as a generic descriptor for any closure cap used to seal a filler tube of a fuel tank or any other storage vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventors: Richard Wheat, William Thornton
  • Patent number: 4974745
    Abstract: A pressure equalizing element for an electrical device enclosure, e.g. for a control device under the hood of a vehicle, features a water-tight but air-transmitting region (6) which equalizes pressure between the interior airspace of the enclosure and ambient airspace. The element is preferably thimble-shaped so that all exterior surfaces are curved and water will not pool on it and clog the air pores. Thus, it will be operative, and can be installed, in any desired orientation. The thimble-shaped element preferably has a threaded (40) or dovetailed (4) rim which facilitates engagement with a correspondingly shaped aperture in the wall of the electrical device enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhold Jocham
  • Patent number: 4948566
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sterilizing system for sterilizing containers. In accordance with the invention, an external actuating element is provided in an autoclave chamber structure to hold special closure elements and/or the container lid in an open position and to bring them into a closed position before the autoclave is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Aesculap-Werke AG
    Inventors: Lorenz Gabele, Hausler, Walter Lohrer, Johannes Seibert, Harald Stallforth, Wolfgang Taschner, Otmar Wawrik, Wilfried Wofle
  • Patent number: 4886089
    Abstract: A venting valve (2) for a liquid tank, such as a vehicle fuel tank, has a float (64) confined in a cage (10). A valve element (86) is mounted on a mounting post (76, 78) carried by the top surface (72) of the float (64). The element (86) is pivotable about a horizontal axis (X). A rising liquid level in the cage (10) causes the float (64) to move upwardly and seat the valve element (86) against a valve seat (42). When the liquid level falls and the float (64) descends, the valve element (86) pivots on the mounting post (76, 78) and thereby acts as a lever to increase the effective weight of the float (64). This enables the lightweight float (64) to overcome vapor pressure in the tank and unseat the valve element (86). The valve of the invention may be incorporated into a cap (102) for closing a vehicle fuel tank filling and venting tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: GT Development Corporation
    Inventors: Zdenek Gabrlik, John M. Morris, Charles J. Green
  • Patent number: 4884716
    Abstract: A fuel cap has an anti-splash attachment which includes an outer splash-back baffle, an inner foam plug element and a retainer post which supports the outer baffle and inner plug element and tethers them by a releasable snap-on connection to an inner baffle-supporting stem of the fuel cap. The inner plug element when substantially dry is in a contracted state wherein it is smaller in diameter than the inside diameter of the fuel tank filler neck to which the fuel cap is applied. An annular gap is then present between the exterior side surface of the plug element and the interior surface of the filler neck, making it easy to insert and withdraw the fuel cap with the anti-splash attachment thereon into and from the filler neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Assignee: Tecumseh Products Company
    Inventor: Ronald O. Steiner
  • Patent number: 4873100
    Abstract: A bistable expandable bottle preferably including a concentrated material to be diluted, said bottle being comprised of convex shaped bellows when in its expanded condition, said bottle also including opposed handle means for facilitating the extension of the bottle from its collapsed to its expanded condition. In a preferred embodiment a self-venting closure is also employed to seal the orifice in said bottle to permit extension of the bottle from its collapsed to its expanded condition without loosening or removing of the closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Robert S. Dirksing, Richard M. Girardot, Theodore P. Merz
  • Patent number: 4815621
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an above-ground double wall portable container for storing liquid products. The container has a primary tank for holding liquid, a secondary tank substantially surrounding the primary tank for containing the stored liquid in the event of a failure in the primary tank, a removable cover for closing the secondary tank and a sealable inlet box through which liquid is introduced into and withdrawn from the primary tank. The inlet box houses a screen for removing debris from liquid being introduced into the tank, a suction port for withdrawing liquid from the tank and integral vents for permitting vapors to escape to the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Inventor: Peter A. Bartis
  • Patent number: 4795050
    Abstract: A system is provided for activating a sensor during an initial stage of a vehicle refueling activity. The system includes a fuel tank filler neck having a mouth and a fuel cap having a closure rotatably engaging the filler neck for closing the mouth. A sensor is positioned in close proximity to the filler neck. The fuel cap further includes a seal between the closure and the filler neck, an outer shell providing a hand grip, a hub, and an actuator member movable between an inactive position and a sensor-activating position. The hub interconnects the closure and the outer shell for applying a torque to the closure after a predetermined amount of movement of the shell relative to the filler neck so that a lost motion connection is established between the closure and the shell. The lost motion of the hub acts to move the actuator member to its sensor-activating position before rotating the closure relative to the filler neck in an amount sufficient to break the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1989
    Assignee: Stant Inc.
    Inventors: Dwight Smith, Robert S. Harris
  • Patent number: 4790445
    Abstract: A cap for containers used to store volatile liquids is provided characterized by a gas venting port formed in the main body of the cap which is attached to an opening in a container, a filter accomodation space which connects with the aforementioned gas venting port formed in the bottom surface of the main body of the cap, a channel formed in the central portion of a filter assembly installed in the aforementioned filter accomodation space, two hydrophobic porous filter membranes, one installed between the filter assembly and the aforementioned gas venting port and one installed over the innermost end of the aforementioned channel, whereby a liquid passageway is formed, and an aqueous liquid partly, but not completely, fills the interior of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1988
    Assignee: Japan Gore-Tex, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshihiko Shibata
  • Patent number: 4666058
    Abstract: A cap for closing the filler neck of a vehicle is provided. The cap includes a valve body and a vent adapted to allow a maximum amount of fuel vapor to vent to the atmosphere. The cap also includes a ball disposed within the valve body to seal the vent when the vehicle is rolled over to a substantially inverted position to prevent fuel from leaking from the cap. The cap further includes a baffle to prevent fuel from splashing through the vent when the vehicle is operated on a rough and uneven surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1987
    Assignee: Stant Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Harris
  • Patent number: 4646772
    Abstract: A roll-over valve assembly is adapted for mounting on a fuel tank so as to expose internal portions of the valve mechanism to the tank headspace. Because liquid may slosh about in the tank, the valve includes a structure for shedding liquid fuel away from the main orifice so as to minimize intrusion of liquid fuel through the main orifice into an associated vapor control system to which the valve is connected. The roll-over valve further includes a relief and return vent valve mechanism which has a cooperative association with the tank headspace and the associated vapor control system. The valve assembly comprises a relatively small number of individual parts and it is cost effective for the various functions which it performs. The preferred embodiment utilizes a caged ball for closing the valve upon roll-over.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Assignee: G.T. Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Rudolph Bergsma
  • Patent number: 4555041
    Abstract: Tank valve apparatus providing the usual functions of excessive pressure venting and relief of normal over pressure and negative pressure conditions, and also adopted to instantaneously close the venting system on tanker truck rollover. This is done by an inertia valve which remains closed until the vehicle is righted. The apparatus also includes gravity sensitive flap closures which pivot to a position blocking large fuel surges against the tanker dome cap on vehicle rollover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1985
    Inventor: Herman D. Muehl