Valve Protector Patents (Class 220/724)
  • Patent number: 11585491
    Abstract: Provided is a portable cylinder including a tank having an upper portion having a valve port, a mounting collar coupled to the upper portion of the tank, and a handle attached to the mounting collar. The mounting collar has an upwardly extending portion surrounding the valve port and a plurality of circumferentially spaced tabs extending radially outwardly from the upwardly extending portion, wherein a respective gap is formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of circumferentially spaced tabs. The handle includes a shroud portion including a plurality of circumferentially spaced ledges for abutting an underside of a respective one of the plurality of circumferentially spaced tabs, and at least one tab for engaging the mounting collar in one of the gaps, and a handle portion extending from the shroud portion and having one or more areas for grasping the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: AMTROL LICENSING INC.
    Inventors: Carlos Aguiar, Filipe Pedrosa
  • Patent number: 11414315
    Abstract: A dispensing system includes a liquid dispensing tap and an associated or integrated measuring cap/cup. The dispensing tap and cap/cup are configured such that the cap/cup is assembled with the tap prior to installation onto a container, and stays assembled with the tap during installation onto the container at the filling line, and which can later be removed for use and then reattached to the tap or container after use by the consumer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: Silgan Dispensing Systems Corporation
    Inventors: William L. Driskell, Leah Smalley, Robert Good, Brian Van Houton, Linn Wanbaugh, Thanhhung Le, Daniel Choi, Joseph Dodd, Zachary Tyler, Bryan Fields, Brandon Ramsuer
  • Patent number: 10871238
    Abstract: A fully removable chime or valve guard that can support the container on its top, side and bottom is provided. The removable chime or valve guard provides protection if the container is dropped on its side or top. The protection provided allows the containers to pass a drop test per 49 CFR section 178.603, so the containers can be certified per 49 CFR 178.504.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: VERSUM MATERIALS US, LLC
    Inventors: John Eric Baker, Charles Michael Birtcher
  • Patent number: 10760935
    Abstract: A fluid evaluation device for analyzing a fluid content within a container includes first and second fluid sampling conduits passing laterally into the container and respectively extending to first and second depths within fluid stored in the container, a common fluid conduit to which the first and second fluid sampling conduits extend for receiving fluid flowing out of the container through either of the first or second sampling conduits, and an optical device positioned along the common fluid conduit and including a viewing window for observing fluid flowing therethrough from the common fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Fahad Sadon A. Alnamasi
  • Patent number: 10239458
    Abstract: A towing vehicle includes a vehicle body, a coupling device, a floor board, and a step. The coupling device is disposed at a rear portion of the vehicle body to connect a towing object to the vehicle body. The floor board is disposed in the vehicle body. The step is disposed in the vehicle body at a position lower than the floor board to form a level difference between the step and the floor board. The step includes an upper surface and a plurality of sides that bounds the upper surface. The plurality of sides includes at a rear portion of the upper surface a rear side that extends rearward and outward from the floor board. The vehicle body includes a rear surface that extends upward from the rear side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKI
    Inventors: Fumihiro Fukatsu, Hiroki Mori
  • Patent number: 10139049
    Abstract: The present invention provides a sub-frame (10) for a valve body (12) having two or more location surfaces (14, 16), said sub-frame (10) comprising a first and a second portion (10a, 10b) having mutually confronting contact surfaces (18a, 18b), sides (20a, 20b) and front and back surfaces (22a, 22b) and mutually confronting engagement surfaces (24a, 24b and 26a, 26b) wherein said mutually confronting contact surfaces (18a, 18b) are shaped to engage with each other upon placement together of the two portions (10a, 10b) and said mutually confronting engagement surfaces (24a, 24b and 26a, 26b) are shaped to engage with one or other of said one or more location surfaces (14, 16) on the valve body (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: LINDE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Piers Lambert, George Gregory, Oliver Gobold
  • Patent number: 8944278
    Abstract: A clip-on handle grip increases the surface area of a handle. The clip-on handle grip includes a grip body configured and adapted to engage a handle. A lock member is engaged with the grip body, for locking the engagement of the grip body with a handle. Such a clip-on handle grip can be used to improve ergonomics, the therefore to improve portability, for pressurized gas cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: AMTROL Licensing Inc.
    Inventors: William Chohfi, Carlos Aguiar
  • Patent number: 8919602
    Abstract: A protective shield fits onto a fuel cylinder that is mounted on a propane-powered or LNG-powered vehicle, with a cylindrical flange on the tank surrounds a tank valve. The protective shield is formed of a cylindrical wall of a rubber-like material that fits snugly onto the cylindrical flange of the fuel tank, and has a window affixed into its upper end of the cylindrical wall. The window can be a disk of transparent plexiglass. There are openings in the cylindrical wall to access the tank valve. The shield provides visibility of the tank valve but prevents any spray of the fuel that may escape from the tank valve from reaching the worker's face or other exposed skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Tank Right Systems LLC
    Inventors: Shawn Nolan, Michael Fey, Richard R. Coon, John J. Fitzsimmons
  • Patent number: 8720738
    Abstract: A cover assembly that can be used with all large commercial and residential propane tanks includes a lid proportioned to fit over the collar of the propane tank, an adapter to permit pivotal attachment of the lid to the collar, a cotter pin to enable the lid to pivot opened and closed, and attaching rivets to secure the adapter to the collar. There is also a button that can be attached to the collar to maintain the lid in closed orientation. The lid can be made in a range of sizes to accommodate all large commercial and residential propane tanks currently in service. A single adapter able to conform to the curvature of the collars of all sizes of the propane tanks can be used with all of the lids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Maurice Ryman
  • Publication number: 20130334236
    Abstract: A security device for gas cylinders or crates of gas cylinders, comprises a carrier adapted to be fixed to the gas cylinder or crate; a REID-tag provided on said carrier having a storage for storing an expiry date or any other data regarding the durability of the gas contained in said gas cylinder; a processor for checking the durability; and a display indicating the durability and/or passing of the expiry date. The security device may have a closed electric circuit with a current- or voltage supply adapted to be switched off; and means for generating an optic-, acoustic- and/or wireless transmittable alarm signal upon disruption of the electric circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Joachim Gerstel
  • Patent number: 8534481
    Abstract: An arrangement for transporting uranium hexafluoride, including an inner tank and an outer tank which holds the inner tank and which includes first and second shells. A valve extends from an end face of the inner tank, and is surrounded by the outer tank at a distance and is covered on the outside by at least one shock-absorbing element. In order to ensure a defined positioning of the valve extending from the inner tank and thus of the inner tank to the outer tank surrounding the inner tank, it is proposed that the shock-absorbing protective element extend in a pivoting manner from one of the shells of the outer tank, such that if the inner tank is properly positioned, the protective element can be pivoted into a position covering the valve, and such that if the outer tank holding the inner tank is closed, the protective element is covered on the outside by at least one of the shells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Nuclear Cargo & Service GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Hilbert, Christian Lamamy
  • Patent number: 8528586
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly including a tap for controlling fluid under pressure and a protective cap mounted around said tap, the tap including at least one handling member that includes a lever pivotably connected to the body of the tap and manually actuatable by an operator between at least a first rest position adjacent to the body of the tap and a second active position shifted by a nonzero angle relative to the body of the tap, the cap defining an inner protective space for the tap and being provided with at least one first side opening that enables movement of the lever between the first and second positions, the lever in the second position thereof intercepting the plane of the first opening and optionally projecting beyond the space of the cap, and characterized in that, in the mounted position for the use thereof, the cap is turning, that is, freely movable in rotation relative to the body of the tap around an axis, and in that the portion of the cap defining the first opening has contact e
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude
    Inventors: Gilles Cannet, Renaud Ligonesche, Celine Vervin
  • Patent number: 8464749
    Abstract: A protective sleeve for gas bottle valve stems is provided comprised of an elongated tubular body configured to fit on a valve stem. At least one projection extends from an interior surface of the protective sleeve and is adapted to lockingly engage with at least one orifice in an opposing surface of the valve stem whereby the sleeve is prevented from being easily removed from the valve stem upon being placed thereover due to engagement of the projection with the orifice. A tear strip is provided within a side surface of the protective sleeve, whereby a portion of the protective sleeve may be removed to permit disengagement of the protective sleeve. A housing may be provided in the protective sleeve for storage of a washer which may be used to provide a seal between a regulator and the valve stem of the gas bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Protective Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick W. Zeyfang
  • Publication number: 20120116293
    Abstract: A valve assembly comprising a housing and a valve, the valve being disposed within the housing, a first indexed member integral to the housing, the first indexed member adapted to be complementary to a second indexed member, and a radio frequency identification device adapted to communicate with a radio frequency receiver, the valve being configured to align with a canister, seal the canister and open in a single movement. A drug containment device having said valve assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: INO Therapeutics, LLC
    Inventors: Frederick J. Montgomery, Duncan P. Bathe, Daniel J. Lee, Scott I. Biba, Todd J. Bakken
  • Patent number: 8141578
    Abstract: A protective sleeve for gas bottle valve stems is provided comprised of an elongated tubular body configured to fit on a valve stem. A projection extends from an interior surface of the protective sleeve and is adapted to lockingly engage with an orifice in an opposing surface of the valve stem whereby the sleeve is prevented from being easily removed from the valve stem upon being placed thereover due to engagement of the projection with the orifice. A tear strip is provided within a side surface of the protective sleeve, whereby a portion of the protective sleeve may be removed to permit disengagement of the protective sleeve. A housing may be provided in the protective sleeve for storage of a washer which may be used to provide a seal between a regulator and the valve stem of the gas bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Protective Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick W. Zeyfang
  • Publication number: 20110278316
    Abstract: A protective cap for a tank, such as a LPG tank, with a valve normally at the top. The protective cap covers the top of the tank in a fashion to protect the valve. The protective cap may have ribs that enable for stacking of the tanks on top of one another. The ribs also allow for easier handling, such as hooking onto. The protective cap may also have a protrusion to provide a secondary seal to the main service valve of the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Bernardo Herzer, David Kostka, Shmuel D. Newman
  • Patent number: 8056756
    Abstract: The present invention provides a communication member for a medical container capable of allowing communication between the inside and the outside of a container body containing a liquid in a state of being fixed to the container body. The communication member includes: a valve 2 having an insertion hole 2a; a tubular body 3 supporting the valve 2; and a closing film 4 for closing a bore of the tubular body 3 in the bore and in the vicinity of the valve 2. The tubular body 3 and the closing film 4 are molded integrally. A groove 4a that passes through the center of the closing film 4 is formed on either a surface of the closing film 4 on the valve 2 side or a surface opposite to the valve side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadashi Okiyama
  • Publication number: 20110210134
    Abstract: A protective sleeve for gas bottle valve stems is provided comprised of an elongated tubular body configured to fit on a valve stem. At least one projection extends from an interior surface of the protective sleeve and is adapted to lockingly engage with at least one orifice in an opposing surface of the valve stem whereby the sleeve is prevented from being easily removed from the valve stem upon being placed thereover due to engagement of the projection with the orifice. A tear strip is provided within a side surface of the protective sleeve, whereby a portion of the protective sleeve may be removed to permit disengagement of the protective sleeve. A housing may be provided in the protective sleeve for storage of a washer which may be used to provide a seal between a regulator and the valve stem of the gas bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Rederick W. Zeyfang
  • Publication number: 20110140850
    Abstract: A gas cylinder transport cap is described. The cap has a bottom opening adapted for reversible attachment to a gas cylinder, where the attached cap surrounds a cylinder valve coupled to the gas cylinder. The cap also has a side surface which at least in part defines the perimeter of the bottom opening, where the side surface include a plurality of side openings; and a top surface formed on an opposite side of the cap from the bottom surface, where the top surface includes a top opening. The side openings and top opening improve transmissions of radio-frequency signals from a RFID device positioned inside the cylinder cap when the cap is attached to the gas cylinder. A method of tracking a gas cylinder transported between a first and second location is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin A. Wassel, Edward R. Coughlin
  • Patent number: 7900852
    Abstract: A combination of a cover and a sprinkler head. The sprinkler head includes a fusible linkage mounted within a frame and having a protruding portion. The cover includes a first member adjacent to the protruding portion of the fusible linkage. The first member has a first connecting end and a first fastening end opposite the first connecting end. A second member is opposite to the first member and has a second connecting end and a second fastening end opposite the second connecting end. The first and second connecting ends are coupled to each other. A first projection and a second projection extend from the first member toward the second member and are in spaced relation to each other for receiving the protruding portion of the fusible linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: The Viking Corporation
    Inventor: Shawn Feenstra
  • Publication number: 20100320219
    Abstract: A gas cylinder, such as a scuba tank, is formed with raised ribs that extend longitudinally from near the top of the cylinder to near the bottom of the cylinder. The longitudinal ribs may be arcuate and equally spaced along the outside circumference of the cylinder so as to protect the body of the cylinder from damage. The gas cylinder may be made from steel or an aluminum alloy, such that the longitudinal ribs are formed by backward impact extrusion. The gas cylinder may be configured with a cylindrical neck at the top of the body so as to house a valve and valve stem. The gas cylinder may be transported using a wheeled pedestal having an adjustable strap for securing the cylinder to the pedestal. A valve protector with an optional handle and retaining clip is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Ian Albert
  • Publication number: 20100193529
    Abstract: A gas bottle (1) provided with a container (2) in which a gas, for instance an Ultra High Purity Gas is receivable, with an outlet opening (3) for letting the gas out of the container, wherein the gas bottle (1) is provided with filter means (4) for operatively filtering the gas flowing out of the container (12), wherein the container (2) comprises a protective element (6) for protecting the outlet opening (3), wherein the filter means (4) are provided downstream of the outlet opening (3), on an outside of the container (2) and are surrounded by the protective element (16) and/or the filter means (4) are arranged such that they can resist a load exerted thereon. The invention further relates to a protective element (6) and a filter (4) for use with such a gas bottle (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: SCIENTIFIC GLASS TECHNOLOGY SINGAPORE PTE LTD.
    Inventors: Marinus Frans van der Maas, Martinus van der Maas
  • Patent number: 7757967
    Abstract: A protection device for a fire-fighting/protection instrument and its operational components. The device includes a proximal end surface and a distal end surface with a wall member extending therebetween having an outer surface and an inner surface. The proximal and distal end surfaces define a chamber with the wall member for housing at least a portion of the instrument. The wall member includes a first portion and a second portion defining at least one pivot axis therebetween. At least one of the first and second portions further defines a core element disposed between a first lateral member and a second lateral member. The inner surface of the device includes a plurality of projections for supporting the instrument in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Su Yang
  • Patent number: 7703821
    Abstract: The present invention provides a handle or shroud for carrying or manipulating portable gas cylinders and gas cylinder valves for the administration of medical gases, such as oxygen. The shroud of the present invention provides improved safety and versatility to the handling process of such cylinders and valves. In one embodiment, the handle or shroud allows an individual to lift the cylinder, valve and shroud from about 26? off the ground or floor with the wrist turned up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: David Swain
  • Publication number: 20100096407
    Abstract: A container and valve assembly for storing and dispensing substances including edible substances. The container has a body that has a storage chamber for storing the substance and a head portion for holding the valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve body and a valve seat surrounded by a flexible outer cover that includes a valve portion. A seam between the valve portion and valve seat form a one-way release valve wherein a portion of the seam remains closed when the substance is dispensed. To dispense the substance, pressure is applied to the body forcing the substance into the valve assembly, which in turn, controls the flow and release of the substance without exposing the remaining substance to the external atmosphere; thus, the sterility of the storage chamber and remaining substance is maintained, and the shelf life of the substance is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: Daniel Py, Julian V. Chan
  • Patent number: 7681587
    Abstract: A protective sleeve for use in connection with valve stems for gas bottles is provided, the protective sleeve being comprised of an elongated body of such length as to extend along at least a portion of the length of the valve stem. A projection extends from an interior surface of the protective sleeve and is adapted to physically engage with an orifice in an opposing surface of the valve stem in locking engagement whereby the protective sleeve is prevented from being easily removed from the valve stem upon being placed thereover due to engagement of the projection with the orifice. At least one tear strip is provided within at least a portion of at least one side surface of the protective sleeve, whereby at least a portion of the side surface of the protective sleeve may be removed by tearing the tear strip so as to permit disengagement and removal of the protective sleeve from the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Protective Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick W. Zeyfang
  • Patent number: 7631780
    Abstract: The invention relates to a compressed gas container (10?) comprising a block flange (14) that is provided on an upper opening in its wall (12), a flange cover (15) that is equipped with two extraction valves (22) being screwed onto said flange. The block flange (14) is extended radially beyond the region covered by the flange cover (15) by a solid annular flange (40), whose outer periphery is welded to the wall (12) of the container (10?) and whose inner section lying adjacent to the region covered by the flange cover comprises a peripheral groove (44) in an upper front face (42), for holding the sealing rib (46) of an emergency cap. If required, said cap can be screwed onto the annular flange (40) if a leak occurs in the flange region of the container (10?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: C + S Chlorgas GmbH
    Inventor: Bernhard Plattner
  • Publication number: 20090223982
    Abstract: A protective cover for a valve which is mounted proximally on an inlet pipe extending from a distal wall surface along a longitudinal axis provides a base cylinder wall aligned with the longitudinal axis and terminating distally with an integral base end wall. The base cylinder wall has a base slot extensive longitudinally, the slot contiguous through the base end wall radially to a medial position. a cover cylinder wall aligned with the longitudinal axis and frictionally engaged with the base cylinder wall; the cover cylinder wall having a cover slot extensive longitudinally therethrough from a distal end of the cover cylinder wall to a medial position therein. In an alternate embodiment, the base cylinder wall and end wall are replaced by a block with a longitudinal recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Lynn Eric Borne
  • Patent number: 7448402
    Abstract: Fluid storage and leak containment comprising (a) a fluid storage vessel comprising at least one vessel having an interior, an exterior, and an outlet opening between the interior and the exterior; (b) a fluid flow fitting sealably connected to the outlet opening and adjacent the exterior of the at least one vessel, wherein the fluid flow fitting is adapted for withdrawing reactive gas from the interior of the vessel; and (c) a containment enclosure having an interior, an exterior, an open end, and an extraction port adapted for the withdrawal of gas from the interior of the containment enclosure, wherein the open end is adapted to fit over and around the fluid flow fitting such that the containment enclosure surrounds the fluid flow fitting and is adapted to collect any reactive gas leaking from the fluid flow fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Lee Martrich, Gordon Leon Whitesell, Eugene Yin Ngai, James Francis DeiTos
  • Patent number: 7415988
    Abstract: A tank jacket that has a top portion and a body portion made of a durable flexible material such as nylon is dimensioned to fit over the outside of a storage tank. The top portion includes a hole for receiving the regulator assembly. Specifically, the regulator assembly is removed from the tank, typically by unscrewing the assembly from the tank, and the jacket is fit over the tank so that the hole aligns with the tank's fill/dispense port. The regulator assembly is then reattached to the tank to retain the jacket on the tank. The tank jacket supports a hose support assembly for storing the supply hose and a plurality of pockets for retaining various accessories and tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: David J. Trettin, Jon Aaron Schlosser, Mark Allen Catron
  • Patent number: 7373947
    Abstract: A tank jacket fits over the outside of a storage tank. The jacket includes a hole for receiving the regulator assembly. The tank jacket supports a hose support assembly for storing the supply hose and a plurality of pockets for retaining various accessories and tools. A gauge protector fits over the regulator assembly and includes a first housing section defining a first cavity for receiving the regulator and a second housing section defining a second cavity for receiving the pressure gauge. A handle is formed on the gauge protector to facilitate carrying of the tank. The gauge protector and tank jacket protect the tank and regulator assembly and provide a system for transporting the tank and related equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: David J. Trettin, Jon Aaron Schlosser, Mark Allen Catron
  • Patent number: 7322487
    Abstract: A propane tank cover, which safely covers, protects, and locks a propane tank having a protective cage. The propane tank cover has a protective cover, a safety cover, a tabletop, and a tablecloth for use as an end table. The safety cover has an upper circular plate having an outer edge for covering the protective cage, and a lower locking collar for fitting around the protective cage. The tabletop has a bottom surface having a centrally positioned track having a slotted channel. The slotted channel receives the outer edge of the upper circular plate for securing the tabletop to the safety cover and propane tank. The tablecloth is draped over the tabletop for fully covering the tabletop, safety cover, and propane tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Frederick Hill
  • Patent number: 7273189
    Abstract: A cover mountable on a support frame for protecting a frangible item mounted within the frame is disclosed. The cover has first and second cover portions engaging the frame on opposite sides of the item. A hinge connects first ends of the covers together and a releasable fastener connects the other ends. Fingers extend from one or both of the cover portions toward the opposite cover portion and are positioned in spaced relation to the ends of the cover portions. The fingers and the ends of the cover portions define spaces at opposite ends of the cover which receive and engage portions of the support frame. The fingers are in spaced relation to one another and define a space between them for receiving the frangible item. The fingers are sized and spaced so that they transfer any force on the cover to the frame exclusively. The covers have an arcuate shape to provide increased stiffness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Stephen R. Ide, Richard D. Schilling
  • Patent number: 6935360
    Abstract: A fire hydrant protective cover and visibility marker comprising a hollow body having an interior space, a cap portion, middle portion and bottom portion, the bottom portion having an opening for accessing the interior space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Leonard V. Knappmiller
  • Patent number: 6871518
    Abstract: A removable retaining bracket that prevents removal of a connection fitting from a gas distribution system component is described. The retaining bracket has a base that defines an opening that accepts the connection fitting and prevents removal of the fitting from the gas distribution component. The retaining bracket extends along the gas distribution system component and defines openings in which a securing component is positioned. The openings are positioned to locate the securing component to prevent removal of the retaining bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Engineered Controls International Inc.
    Inventors: Jason L. Olsen, Vincent J. Avillion
  • Patent number: 6854616
    Abstract: A protective cap for a threaded valve stem includes a generally cylindrical portion including a closed end, an open end and a cylindrical wall portion therebetween. A plurality of locating ribs are located on an internal surface of the cylindrical wall portion. A plurality of fingers project radially inward from the internal surface between the locating ribs. A tear strip formed by two frangible members, and a pull tab are formed on an external surface of the cylindrical wall portion. Each finger is located between a pair of the locating ribs and has a flexible portion adjacent the internal surface for locating the fingers in unlocked state and a locked state. The fingers in the unlocked state are inclined toward the open end, and the fingers in the locked state curl toward the closed end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Alliance Plastics
    Inventor: Daniel J. Steffan
  • Patent number: 6816072
    Abstract: A detection and signaling apparatus is mountable in a fire hydrant to detect a parameter, such as unauthorized movement of a discharge nozzle cap relative to the fire hydrant. A housing carrying a sensor, such as a motion detector, is mounted inside of the cap. The sensor has an output connected to a transmitter. Movement of the cap relative to the fire hydrant activates the motion detector which generates an output signal causing the transmitter to remotely transmit a tamper detection signal and, also, a fire hydrant location identification code. A pressure sensor can also be coupled to the transmitter to sense water supply main pressure and water flow through the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Zoratti
  • Publication number: 20040084454
    Abstract: A one-piece aerosol can cap formed of molded plastic has a top wall with an outside edge. A skirt depends from the outside edge of the top wall to a lower perimeter edge. A plurality of arcuate segments depends from the top wall inside the skirt. Each arcuate segment has an inwardly protruding detent. Each arcuate segment has an inner wall and an outer wall coupled to each other so as to define a space between the walls. An opening is provided in the top wall leading to the space between the walls of an arcuate segment for receiving a tool capable of moving the lower end of the arcuate segment outward sufficiently to release the detent so that the cap can be removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventors: Ricky W. Tumlin, L. Cullen Underwood
  • Patent number: 6691732
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mueller International
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Mikail German, Ken Clark
  • Patent number: 6688326
    Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an outlet port, a valve access hole, and an outer surface with a recess defined therein. The recess is configured to receive a locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole. A locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole is mounted on the fire hydrant body such that the locking cap is received in the recess defined in the outer surface of the fire hydrant body. The recess shields an interface between the locking cap and the fire hydrant body from access by unauthorized tools. A fire hydrant body, a method for restricting unauthorized access to a fire hydrant, and a method for locking an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: George Sigelakis
  • Patent number: 6536462
    Abstract: A cover is provided for selectively covering and uncovering a fire hydrant or the like so that the hydrant is protected and easily located and maintained. The cover has an upper cover portion formed to enclose the fire hydrant when positioned over the fire hydrant. The upper cover portion has a bottom portion terminating in a bottom perimeter. The cover also a cover securing portion adapted to be removably attachable to the fire hydrant. The cover securing portion has an outer peripheral portion adjacent the bottom of the upper cover portion and plurality of flexible securing tabs. The flexible securing tabs extend inwardly from the outer peripheral portion to a tab securing surface which contacts the fire hydrant when the cover is positioned over the fire hydrant and secures the cover to the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: David G. Laugen
  • Patent number: 6463953
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed comprising a first cover and an attachment device to which the first cover is connected, wherein the attachment device can be used to attach the first cover to a fire hydrant such that the first cover covers the first nozzle cap. The apparatus may also be comprised of second and third covers which are also attached to the attachment device and which can be used to cover second and third nozzle caps of the fire hydrant. The attachment device may be comprised of a first portion, the first portion substantially in the form of a ring. The attachment device may be comprised of a second portion, and the second portion can be connected to the first portion so that the first portion and the second portion provide a closed ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph Cuzzo, William Spilfogel, Jeffrey A. Spilfogel, Donald C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6415946
    Abstract: A head ring protects the valving assembly, or regulator, flow adjuster, and content gauge, commonly attached to a pressure vessel, such as a conventional pressurized gas cylinder. The head ring includes a base securable to the dispensing end of the pressure vessel. A plurality of posts are distributed about a perimeter of the base, each of the posts extending vertically upward from about the base to beyond the valving assembly. Each of the posts has a first end and a second end. A collar is secured to a portion of the perimeter of the base, and the collar extends vertically downward from the perimeter of the base. The collar includes a radially-extending flange at each end. A first ring horizontally extends from the posts and is secured adjacent to the first end of the posts. A second ring horizontally extends from the posts and is secured adjacent to the second end of the posts. The first ring and the second ring are radially positioned outward of the regulator, the flow adjuster and the content gauge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Aviation Mobility, LLC
    Inventors: Charles C. Carlo, Stephen H. Mauldin
  • Publication number: 20010047998
    Abstract: A head ring protects the valving assembly, or regulator, flow adjuster, and content gauge, commonly attached to a pressure vessel, such as a conventional pressurized gas cylinder. The head ring includes a base securable to the dispensing end of the pressure vessel. A plurality of posts are distributed about a perimeter of the base, each of the posts extending vertically upward from about the base to beyond the valving assembly. Each of the posts has a first end and a second end. A collar is secured to a portion of the perimeter of the base, and the collar extends vertically downward from the perimeter of the base. The collar includes a radially-extending flange at each end. A first ring horizontally extends from the posts and is secured adjacent to the first end of the posts. A second ring horizontally extends from the posts and is secured adjacent to the second end of the posts. The first ring and the second ring are radially positioned outward of the regulator, the flow adjuster and the content gauge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventors: Charles C. Carlo, Stephen H. Mauldin
  • Patent number: 6227404
    Abstract: A hood cover insert for substantially filling the opening in a hood cover of a propane tank. The hood cover insert includes a block member having a base wall and a top wall. A perimeter wall extends between and is integrally coupled to the base and top walls. The base wall has an elongate slit extending upwardly therein. The block member comprises a resiliently flexible material. The block member is positioned in the opening of the hood cover such that the gas line is movably extended upwardly in the slit and the opening is substantially closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Robert L. Hellebuyck
  • Patent number: 6209749
    Abstract: A lower portion of a shell is slidable along the length of the body of a gas cylinder, the upper portion of the shell is larger than the lower portion and includes a wall extending fixedly from the lower portion configured to laterally surround the valve, gauge and regulator on an end of the gas cylinder and is movable with the lower portion so that it can movably extend over the body of the cylinder. In another design, a rigid shield is mounted on a bar so that it extends over a periphery of the valve, gauge and regulator group that is mounted on an end of the gas cylinder to protect the group against damage by a foreign object when the cylinder is pressed into spaced apart brackets on the bar that prevent rotation of the cylinder around the bar, by a belt around the cylinder and bar. At least one of the brackets is configured to receive a second cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: William H. Guess
  • Patent number: 6189719
    Abstract: The plastic cover is easily removed from a metal container to allow the plastic cover and the metal container to be separately recycled. The lip that holds the plastic cover to the metal container has two or more circumferential ends which have a lower degree of engagement than the remaining portion of the lip. A press point on the cover which transforms the circular cover into an elliptical shape is positioned on the outside of the cover opposite the circumferential ends and a shoulder is mounted inside the cover opposite the press point. The shoulder bears against the container to assist in removal of the cover. Where the cover has both an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder, a rib is employed to connect the inner cylinder of the cover to the outer cylinder of the cover and to transfer pressure from the press point to the inner cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Mitani Valve Co.
    Inventors: Katsuhiko Kanoya, Hideo Okada
  • Patent number: 6145706
    Abstract: A set for restricting the operation of a spray valve of a flask comprising three main parts, namely: a shoulder, a collar and a lid. The shoulder of the set rests on the shoulder of the flask and is connected to a mouth of the flask by projections from the neck of the set. The shoulder of the set is also solidly linked to the collar of the set by an indentation. The collar constitutes a circular section ring that fits inside a mouth of the of the set's shoulder. The lid constitutes a cylindrical piece having a top with a peripheral skirt. The lid is connected to the collar of the set by an extension and a pin. The lid rotates about the pin through a limited arc and has a closed position. When the lid is in the closed position, it encloses a valve of the flask and restricts the operation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Industria e Comercio de Cosmeticos Natura Ltda
    Inventor: Pierre Dinand
  • Patent number: 6112933
    Abstract: A cap is provided for mounting on a necked-in can. The cap includes a shell formed to include an interior region and a tool-receiving aperture opening into the interior region. A ridge is appended to the shell and positioned to lie in the interior region of the cap. The ridge includes a downwardly facing ridge edge that lies inside the interior region of the cap and adjacent to the tool-receiving aperture. The ridge edge overlies a portion of an annular lip of the necked-in can when the cap is mounted on the can so that a cap-removal tool can be inserted into the interior region of the shell through the tool-receiving aperture simultaneously to engage the annular lip of the can and the ridge edge. When the cap-removal tool is rotated manually about its longitudinal axis, the cap-removal tool acts between the ridge edge and the annular lip to demount the cap from the necked-in can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Berry Plastics Corporation
    Inventors: Erin M. Meyer, David J. Jochem
  • Patent number: 6109292
    Abstract: A method and system for installing, removing and actuation a rotatable keyed actuation portion or lower valve stem portion of a fire hydrant or other valve device consisting of a first device for installing a rotatable keyed actuation portion, a second device for removing a rotatable keyed actuation portion and a third device for actuating a rotatable keyed actuation portion or a lower valve stem portion of a fire hydrant or other valve device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Peter M. Fox