Drip, Leakage Or Waste Catching Or Disposal Patents (Class 222/108)
  • Publication number: 20090107166
    Abstract: A portable ice bucket apparatus for storing and dispensing ice includes: (a) an upper bucket portion including an insulated bucket with an opening at the top of the bucket and an ice body chute opening in a bottom wall of the bucket; (b) a motorless lower stand portion, the upper bucket portion being detachably attachable to the stand portion; (c) a dispensing mechanism including a movable gate flap within the bucket portion, a spring-loaded lever, and a gate shaft and a dispensing lever within the stand portion, the dispensing lever being coupled to the gate shaft, the gate shaft being coupled to the spring-loaded lever, the gate shaft being coupled with the gate flap; and (d) a water drainage and collection mechanism including a reservoir in the stand portion, and preferably a drain valve; wherein the movable gate flap in a closed position substantially covers the ice body chute opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Charles L. Sowers, William Frank Buckminster
  • Patent number: 7513392
    Abstract: A fluid capture apparatus comprises a fluid-receiving body, a drain member, a generally flat support body and a fluid-channeling extension body. The fluid-receiving body has an open end and a bottom end. A fluid reservoir is defined between the open end and the bottom end. The drain member is attached to the fluid receiving body and communicative with the fluid reservoir for enabling fluid within the fluid reservoir to pass through the drain member. The fluid-channeling extension body has a first end thereof attached to the support body and a second end thereof attached to the fluid-receiving body. The fluid-channeling extension body includes a front face and spaced apart fluid guide members. The spaced apart fluid guide members protrude above the front face and extend at least partially between the support body and the fluid-receiving body thereby providing means for channeling fluid into the fluid reservoir of the fluid-receiving body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventors: Janice K. Fowler, Bonnie Young
  • Publication number: 20090078724
    Abstract: The mobile confectionary apparatus for dispensing beverages and/or frozen confections and the like, includes a vehicle configured for travel over public roads to a location such as a parking lot, street, festival or fair grounds, or the like. The vehicle includes an enclosure having an interior space in which one or more persons can prepare and dispense confections, or containers for confections or beverages. The enclosure includes one or more service windows or openings for dispensing the prepared confections or containers; and a self-serve liquid dispensing system on or in an outer surface of the enclosure, usable by recipients of the dispensed confections or containers, for selectably dispensing toppings on the confections, or liquids into the containers, separately from the dispensing and selling thereof. The dispensing system is closable or coverable by a person from within the interior space, to prevent access from the outside, and for cleaning, service and travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: Tony Lamb, Tony M. Guard
  • Publication number: 20090045223
    Abstract: A dispenser device for liquors, pastes or foams and the like fluid materials comprises a reservoir (10) for fluid material, an outlet (12) for said reservoir and an outlet passage (18) to connect the reservoir outlet with an outlet orifice (19) of the device. Means (21) defining a post-expansion chamber are provided between the reservoir outlet and said outlet orifice to prevent material from escaping from the outlet after use. The post-expansion chamber is configured to increase in size once actuation of the device has stopped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: Incro Limited
    Inventors: Keith Laidler, Timothy Rodd
  • Publication number: 20090039107
    Abstract: A device and method is provided which allows a consumer prior to purchase to test a skin lotion or cream product in a retail establishment. The device includes a housing sealed against entry by the consumer and having external walls with at least three panel areas for communicating marketing information. A reservoir within the housing stores the product. A dispensing outlet allows exit from the reservoir of a unit sample of product. A motion sensor on the device detects the consumer's hand near an area of the outlet. A drip tray beneath the outlet collects any wastage of the sample not intercepted by the consumer's hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: CONOPCO, INC., D/B/A UNILEVER
    Inventors: Srini Sripada, Gina Marie Stefanik, Jeffrey Joseph Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20090014087
    Abstract: A liquid absorbent device in the form of a fuel spillage interceptor arranged for mounting on a fuel dispensing nozzle, the fuel spillage interceptor being arranged to enclose a portion of the spout of the dispensing nozzle, and where an essentially annular body is formed by a cloth that is permeable to liquid, and which defines a volume of at least one liquid absorbent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Jonny Fevag
  • Publication number: 20090014465
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dosing and dispensing device (1) comprising a double wall structure having an inner wall (10) and an outer wall (20), wherein the inner wall (10) defines a dosing chamber (12) with an opening (14) for filling and dispensing, and the outer wall (20) circumscribes the inner wall (10) at a line of intersection (30) so that an upper part of the dosing chamber lies on one side of the line of intersection (30), within the outer wall (20), and a lower part of the dosing chamber lies on the other side of the line of intersection (30), outside of the outer wall (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Ann De Wree, Filip Dominique Vangeel
  • Publication number: 20080314924
    Abstract: Drip catching device for bottles with contents of all types comprising an annular body made of sponge which may be attached to the neck of a bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: MAPA GmbH Gummi-und Plastikwerke
    Inventors: Gunter Marr, Peter Moeller, Karsten Schnoring
  • Patent number: 7431044
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for adjusting the orientation of a lubricant-retaining basin is disclosed. The apparatus includes a cabinet configured for retaining a vacuum pump and a lubricant-retaining basin. A rotatable member engages the lubricant-retaining basin and elevates the back end of the basin to permit drainage of lubricant from the front end of the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Dallas Ricker, Viet X. Nguyen, Bernard John Permar, Jerome M. Szczepaniak, Lindy T. Miller, Eric Alan Schneider, Bill Van Ocker
  • Publication number: 20080217357
    Abstract: A sanitary collection device for a beverage dispenser that provides an improved and larger collection area as compared to a cylindrical holster; and separation between the dispensing nozzle of the beverage dispenser and collection surfaces of the sanitary collection device such that the dispensing nozzle is prevented from contacting a possibly contaminated surface of the sanitary collection device. The present invention also provides for easy cleaning of the sanitary collection device and its drip cup, since the drip cup can be easily removed without the use of tools to facilitate cleaning and/or replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Hecht
  • Patent number: 7422038
    Abstract: A system for handling chemicals includes a base; a supply container handling area disposed on the base and configured to hold at least one supply container; a drainage vessel disposed on the base and located with respect to the supply container handing area so as to catch liquids spilled or leaking in the supply container handling area; and an overflow vessel receiving area disposed upon the base and configured to hold at least one overflow vessel. The drainage vessel has an outlet and is configured to allow a liquid spilled or leaking into the drainage vessel to flow out of the drainage vessel through the outlet and into an overflow vessel in fluid communication with the outlet of the drainage vessel. The system may also include a supply container, a trigger-pumped spray bottle, an information display board, and a compliance-status indicator. The system may include multiple supply vessels, drainage vessels, and overflow vessels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Lewyn B. Boler, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080210717
    Abstract: A cap is configured to mount on a can to cover a product dispenser included in the can. The cap is formed to include a passage arranged to vent vapor extant in an interior region of the cap to the surroundings outside of the cap while the cap is mounted on the can.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: BERRY PLASTICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Chris A. Dewig, Michael A. Marshall
  • Publication number: 20080148950
    Abstract: A drink preparing device that includes a box and a holding and drip-collecting system that comprises a holding part positionable beneath a drink outlet in order to accept a first, relatively small receptacle, and being configured and dimensioned to be moveable between a deployed holding position suitable for accepting the small receptacle and a second position in which the part is moved at least partly out of the way of the drink outlet to create an unoccupied space in which a second, larger receptacle can be positioned, in place of the first receptacle, beneath the drink outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Antoine Cahen, Philippe Cahen, Christophe S. Boussemart
  • Publication number: 20080087172
    Abstract: A coffee maker with a drip tray (9) which serves for receiving coffee droplets falling from an outlet member of the coffee maker when a path between the outlet member and the drip tray (9) is free from interruptions such as a coffee cup. The drip tray (9) comprises a tray portion (91) and a cover (92) in which a convex droplet landing surface (93) for receiving droplets falling from the outlet member of the coffee maker is arranged. A coffee droplet dropping on this surface (93) breaks apart, gently flows off this surface (93), and is discharged to the tray portion (91) through a hole (95) arranged in the cover (92). In this way, a situation in which coffee splashes out of the tray portion (91) as a result of the direct impact of a coffee droplet is avoided, and the cleanliness of the coffee maker is enhanced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2005
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Peter Rijskamp, Gael Louis Jacques Prat-Pfister
  • Patent number: 7347344
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a plurality of fluids, comprises a plurality of pumps, having a connector for releasably connecting, to the respective pump, a container, which holds a fluid and comprises a connector-counterpart, and at least one actuator for releasing a container from a connector, which the actuator is adapted to operatively engage the connector-counterpart and, upon engaging this counterpart, pull the same onto the connector and establish a fluid connection between the respective pump and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Fluid Management Operation LLC
    Inventors: Marcel Hendrikus Petrus Engels, Bastiaan Albert Simon Peeters, Constantijn Thomas Papaikonomou
  • Patent number: 7331357
    Abstract: A leak diverter for positioning above a suspended ceiling is disclosed. The leak diverter can comprise a liquid collection tray comprising a flexible or substantially rigid sheet of material. The leak diverter can have a drain in flow communication with the liquid collection tray. The leak diverter can comprise a perimeter frame and can be supported by a plurality of support members. The drain can be positioned to extend through either the liquid collection tray or the side barrier and can be positioned above the suspended ceiling. In one embodiment, the width of the leak diverter is less than the standard width of a suspended ceiling panel in order to facilitate installation of the diverter above the suspended ceiling. In another embodiment, the length of the leak diverter may be greater than the standard length or width of a suspended ceiling panel, and may straddle adjacent ceiling panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: New Pig Corporation
    Inventor: Matthew J. Huff
  • 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: 7290558
    Abstract: A waste water and hazardous chemical collection system is provided. The system includes a bottom pan having a plurality of vertically disposed walls, a multitude of outwardly horizontally projecting ledges and a plurality of downwardly depending lips. Each pan further includes a drainage waffle inserted within said pan. A work surface is applied to a top surface of said drainage waffle. A plurality of holes is formed in said work surface permitting any liquids that make contact to the work surface to drain there through and into an area of the bottom pan. A pump is connected to said pan for withdrawing liquids therefrom. The system includes a water source for each pan thereby creating a shower system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventors: Albert DeChard, Charles D. Siminski
  • Patent number: 7255250
    Abstract: A dispensing closure includes a base having a lid integrally connected to the base by a hinge. The base has a deck with a central portion, a dispensing opening in the in the central portion, and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion. The peripheral portion includes a raised wall partially surrounding the central portion, and having a greatest height adjacent to the hinge and decreasing in height around the central portion. The wall has an inner surface that blends with the central portion of the deck to form a concave channel surrounding the central portion of the deck. The channel surface has a base that is angled with respect to the peripheral portion down and away from the raised wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Owens-Illinois Closure Inc.
    Inventor: Darin M. Pugne
  • Patent number: 7234614
    Abstract: The present invention therefore aims at providing a nozzle that reduces the amount of residual fuel left on a spout after fueling by encouraging the residual fuel to drip into the container to be filled. A fuel dispensing nozzle is comprised of a nozzle body, a fuel regulating valve, and a spout for directing the fuel supply from the regulating valve to and in the container to be filled. After a fueling cycle, fuel clings to both the inside and outside spout surfaces and can be considered a falling film. Wherein existing nozzle spouts have discontinuous spout end faces that impede the flow of falling films into the container to be filled, the improved nozzle and endface according to the present invention encourage the falling films to create drops that fall into a container to be filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventors: Paul Allan Knight, Walt D Takisaki
  • Patent number: 7216778
    Abstract: A self-leveling drip catcher for fluid containers. The apparatus comprises an elongated neck and a fluid containment portion at the bottom of the neck. An opening is provided in the top of the neck to releasably attach the apparatus to the fluid container. The fluid containment portion is designed to catch the fluid dispensed from the fluid container which is not received in a drinking receptacle. The fluid is received by the fluid containment portion and is collected therein. The apparatus provides a center of gravity for maintaining a level and balanced equilibrium and substantially vertical orientation when fluid is received into the fluid containment portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Todd Kaeb
  • Patent number: 7134574
    Abstract: An improved resilient pour spout for paint cans and similar containers that seals off the groove into which the lid of the container mates while preventing the liquid contents from flowing down the surface of the container. When not in use, the spout is stored on the sealed container in an inverted position so as not to take up additional space on the storage shelf. In this position, the trough of the spout will be tight against the container while its exposed outer surface provides a surface for retailers to display advertising. The spout also acts as a base for a second container that may be stacked concentrically above, thereby safely and neatly interconnecting the two containers. The pour spout has the option to be molded in a set so as to provide a carrier for the bulk shipment of several containers thereby reducing the cost of packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventors: Richard Braunstein, Gregory Blake McKenna, Trevor Irvin
  • Patent number: 7134580
    Abstract: Spout assemblies are provided for dispensing liquid from a nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Garrison, Harold M. Schubert, Bryan S. York, Daniel E. Preston
  • Patent number: 7128243
    Abstract: An Integrated Drip Proof Stopper System for wine and other liquid-containing bottles is installed during the manufacture of the bottle. The Integrated drip Proof Stopper System contains a shrink-wrap shell disposed about the throat of the bottle. The shrink-wrap shell has an opening strip that separates a shrink-wrap shell extension from a lower portion of the shrink-wrap shell. When pulled, the strip exposes an absorbent pad that is adhesively bonded to the bottom portion of the shrink-wrap shell. The absorbent pad captures drips that occur when wine or liquid is poured from the bottle, preventing damage to tablecloths or tabletops on which the bottle is placed. The upper portion of the absorbent pad has a plurality of slits and teeth forming a teeth-like structure adapted for expansion by the user to increase drip capture efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Khalil M. Fallaha
  • Patent number: 7124772
    Abstract: A laundry room protective mat includes a rubber base mat with a perimeter rim and an inner fabric cushion to protect the floor in the laundry room from incidental and accidental water leaking from the washer, water and drain hoses and water connections. The mat also provides a cushion to dampen vibrations and prevent movement of the washer and dryer during operation and to protect the floor from movement of the washer and dryer located upon the mat within the perimeter rim. The perimeter rim is also provided with a drain outlet and a connecting hose to evacuate water within the perimeter rim of the mat and may also include a water sensor integrated within the perimeter rim to detect the presence of water within the perimeter rim to alert the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: David L. Browning
  • Patent number: 7114514
    Abstract: A water management and leak detection has a containment system to contain hot water tank leaks and and electrical circuits that manage water flow and electricity to the hot water tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Andre Houle
  • Patent number: 7111636
    Abstract: A leak collection chamber is provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any leaked fuel from fuel handling components inside the fuel dispenser so that the fuel does not leak to the environment. The leak collection chamber can be removed from the fuel dispenser for evacuation. The control system inside the fuel dispenser can determine the liquid level inside the leak containment chamber and generate signals and alarms if the liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level value and/or the rate of increase in liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level increase value. The control system can alert service personnel and/or other systems of the leak collection chamber liquid level. Further, the control system and/or other systems shut down the submersible turbine pump that services the fuel dispenser with fuel in response to catastrophic leak condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden
  • Patent number: 7111747
    Abstract: An article of manufacture is placed in cooperative relationship with a liquid-containing bottle, such as a wine bottle, to absorb liquid which runs down the neck of the bottle. The article comprises a length of flexible cord with opposite ends passed through closely spaced, laterally adjacent passageways of a retaining member to form a closed loop on one side of the retaining member and the cord extending to free ends on the other side. The closed loop is placed around the bottle neck and the retaining member, which is in frictional engagement with the cord, is moved to essentially remove slack from the closed loop. The retaining member then rests upon the bottle neck and the free ends extend down the bottle base. Weight members may be attached to the free ends of the cord after passing through the passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Cynmark Designs, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Paikin, Cindy Paikin
  • Patent number: 7104278
    Abstract: A leak collection chamber is provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any leaked fuel from fuel handling components inside the fuel dispenser so that the fuel does not leak to the environment. The leak collection chamber can be removed from the fuel dispenser for evacuation. The control system inside the fuel dispenser can determine the liquid level inside the leak containment chamber and generate signals and alarms if the liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level value and/or the rate of increase in liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level increase value. The control system can alert service personnel and/or other systems of the leak collection chamber liquid level. Further, the control system and/or other systems shut down the submersible turbine pump that services the fuel dispenser with fuel in response to catastrophic leak condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden
  • Patent number: 7103944
    Abstract: The invention comprises a decorative lid strap for securing the cover of a casserole to the top of the casserole or container so that the casserole can be transported safely while food and etc. is in the casserole. The lid strap has an elongated elastic strap with hooks mounted to the outer ends of the elastic strap so that the strap may be stretched over the top of the cover of the container and the hooks attached to the opposing handles of the container to secure the cover to the casserole or container. A decorative sleeve is removably mounted over the strap while the strap is mounted over the cover of the casserole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Gary M. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7052549
    Abstract: A manifold for distributing liquid and process air to at least one dispensing module including a manifold body adapted to overlie at least a portion of a substrate. The manifold body includes a front surface having a liquid outlet vertically spaced above a process air outlet. The front surface of the manifold body is configured to carry at least one dispensing module having a liquid inlet and a process air inlet in communication with the liquid outlet and process air outlet in the manifold body. A groove is formed in the front surface of the manifold body between the liquid outlet and process air outlet and adapted to collect any liquid dripping from the liquid outlet toward the process air outlet when the dispensing module is removed from the manifold body thereby preventing the liquid from reaching the process air outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Jerry Chambers, Mark A. Gould, Kenneth Jones
  • Patent number: 6997207
    Abstract: A water-heater pan includes a bottom wall for receiving the bottom of a water heater. The bottom wall defines a relatively narrow, arcuate flow receptacle extending continuously outwardly from a portion of the perimeter of the bottom wall. The flow receptacle defines a floor-drain outlet disposed completely through an area of the bottom wall. A continuous side wall extends integrally upwardly and divergently from the entire perimeter of the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: William S. McKesson
  • Patent number: 6976501
    Abstract: An improved surround structure and method of installation for surrounding the base of a water-containing appliance to prevent water leakage onto a concrete floor is disclosed where a lower portion of the surround structure is embedded in the concrete floor as it is being formed and an upper portion of the surround structure extends above the basement floor to surround the base of the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: James M. Pratt
  • Patent number: 6968979
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for conveniently reducing spillage from dispensers. A base secures to, or is secured by the base. A holder secures to the base and receives a disposable cup. The disposable cup is typically readily available and may be readily replaced when the cup becomes full. The holder may be adjustable with respect to the dispenser to vary the position of the holder with respect to a spigot. The holder may be secured to the dispenser in an out-of-the-way position for ready storage and transportation. An adjustable holder, or a selectively inserted insert, may enable the holder to accommodate disposable cups of differing sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventors: Gerald Dennis Gribble, Richard Allen Wall, Gary Arnold Barnes
  • Patent number: 6953132
    Abstract: An ice delivery system includes an ice bin with an ice maker thereon. An auger dispenses ice from the bin and agitators within the bin prevent blockage. The agitation may follow a pattern depending on the location of the agitators with some about the periphery less employed than those adjacent the auger. An ice gate receives ice and flowing air to direct the ice pneumatically to a multistation diverter. The flow through the diverter is vertically downwardly. Tubes from the diverter convey ice to remote dispensing stations. The dispensing stations have prechambers with drains and lockable gates to advantageously receive ice for delivery into the remote station bins or block the ice storage area to allow cleaning. Conduit couplings are configured to connect tubing without creating an area of ice blockage or allowing the buildup of contamination. Germicidal lights or ozone may be used in the ice bin to avoid contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventors: Gerald P. McCann, Donald J. Verley, Leonid Zatulovsky, Richard M. Humphreys
  • Patent number: 6926171
    Abstract: A paint colorant dispenser for dispensing colorants into both large and small containers includes a cabinet for accommodating a plurality of color and canisters in fluid communication with a common dispense outlet. A container shelf unit is disposed in front of the cabinet and below the dispense outlet. The shelf unit includes a horizontal base disposed below the dispense outlet upon which large containers can rest. The shelf unit also includes a pivoting shelf which can pivot upward and provide a horizontal resting surface closer to the dispense outlet for smaller containers. A controller, keyboard and monitor are contained in a second modular cabinet that can be disposed on either side of the first cabinet. An additional modular cabinet can be provided for accommodating additional colorant canisters. A drip containment system is disposed in the modular shelf unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike Reedy, Kenneth R. Kaufnold, Michael Prince, William A. Miller, Robert D. Blakeman, II, Chris Davis, Dan Gremonprez
  • Patent number: 6908012
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser includes a back splash wall with a plurality of vertically spaced openings to provide edges for the connection of the drain tray assembly, said drain tray assembly comprising at least one drain opening and a substantially vertical back wall terminating in a channel adapted to receive and be positioned over an edge defined by one the vertically spaced openings of said back splash wall. The drain tray assembly can be vertically adjusted by lifting the channel off one edge of the back splash wall and then repositioning the same over another edge of the back splash wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Grindmaster Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Pfeifer
  • Patent number: 6895990
    Abstract: Apparatus for automatically shutting off the water supply to a leaking water heater includes a water collecting tray positionable beneath the heater, a valve mechanism attachable to the tray, a float mechanism, and an action arm interactive between the float mechanism and valve mechanism. When water collects in the tray, the float mechanism rises, causing the action arm to trigger the release of a spring-urged component of the valve mechanism to discontinue flow of water to the heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: James H. Carroll
  • Patent number: 6892907
    Abstract: A device for holding and dispensing a fluid for decontaminating a condensate drip pan of an air conditioner includes: (a) a vessel at one end of the device for holding the fluid; and (b) at least one fluid line having a first end inserted in a lower end of the vessel, and an opposite, lower, second end inserted in the drip or drain pan; (c) a flow control device on the fluid line for controlling a rate of fluid drip from the fluid line into the drip or drain pan; and (d) a drip chamber in the fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventor: Theodore Sherwood Varney
  • Patent number: 6892899
    Abstract: A pump transfers syrup through a supply line and through a valve assembly for mixing with ice cream in a mixing chamber to form a frozen dessert or milkshake. When the syrup flows through the passive valve, the pressure along the supply line increases. When syrup delivery is complete, a first timer is initiated to dispense ice cream into the mixing chamber for 0.4 seconds to flush out any remaining syrup. A second timer is also initiated when the syrup delivery is complete to reverse the pump for 0.2 seconds to remove the residual pressure in the supply line. By removing the residuals pressure, syrup in the supply line is prevented from oozing out of the valve apparatus and into the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Carrier Commerical Refrigeration, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Minard, Pete McNamee, Mark Bush
  • Patent number: 6880726
    Abstract: A toothpaste dispensing apparatus for dispensing toothpaste from a tube. The toothpaste dispensing apparatus includes a housing comprising a perimeter wall. The perimeter wall defines an interior space of the housing. The housing is designed for engaging a support surface whereby the support surface supports the housing. A dispensing assembly extends through the perimeter wall of the housing from the interior space of the housing. The dispensing assembly is designed for engaging the tube whereby the dispensing assembly squeezes toothpaste from the tube onto the toothbrush when the dispensing assembly is actuated by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Victor G. Perez
  • Patent number: 6845784
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler water catching apparatus includes a funnel member which has a funnel top portion, a funnel bottom portion, a funnel drain portion connected to the funnel bottom portion, and a pole-reception fitting. A drain hose is connected to the funnel drain portion. The end of a support pole is received in the pole-reception fitting. The fire sprinkler water catching apparatus of the invention is used to catch and carry away unwanted water that is sprayed from a fire sprinkler when the fire sprinkler is spraying water at an unwanted time, such as when a fusible link on the fire sprinkler is accidentally broken. Preferably, a flexible funnel cover is fitted onto the top of the funnel top portion. The flexible funnel cover includes a plurality of flexible and resilient funnel cover flaps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: James J. Pascznk
  • Patent number: 6827097
    Abstract: A water cooler with a drip tray in which liquid in the drip tray drains through a drain hole connected to a pump. When liquid is detected, the pump activates to pump the liquid to a remote drain. An optional filter between the drip tray and the pump traps overly-large particles. Optionally, the drip tray is covered by a removable strainer. A vent in the hose between the drip tray and pump includes a pressure relief vent. Optionally, an access point between the drip tray and vent provide drainage for another source of liquid. The pump is activated by a sensor that detects the presence of liquid in the inlet hose and remains on for a period after liquid is no longer detected so that the liquid is pumped the full distance to the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Charles S. Goodman
  • Patent number: 6827243
    Abstract: A portable kit for transporting and dispensing liquid concentrates for beverage mixing includes receptacles for liquid concentrate containers has locking mechanisms for sealing the containers while not in use, as well as, a removable drip tray with a removable grate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Nuzzolese
  • Patent number: 6824015
    Abstract: A closure device for closing off the dispensing orifice (5) of a fluid dispenser. The closure device comprising a removable cap (10) provided with a closure element (20) which, in the closed position, closes off the orifice (5). The closure device being characterized in that the closure element (20) is provided with a bactericidal and/or bacteriostatic substance which acts on the small quantity of fluid remaining at the orifice (5) after the dispenser has been actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Valois S.A.
    Inventor: Claude Ammann
  • Publication number: 20040226962
    Abstract: A free-standing or wall-mounted dispenser and system for automatically dispensing liquid, includes a base, which may be shaped so that the dispenser remains free of dispensed liquid, and may include a removable tray to catch accidentally or residually dispensed liquid. The dispenser generates an infrared signal in the proximity of the dispenser's spigot. A user's hand, or other object, intersects the infrared signal and causes the unit to dispense liquid. The dispenser accepts a DC power source, and includes an on-off switch, which can be switched off for refilling, moving or cleaning the dispenser, and prolonging battery life. A disposable liquid cartridge in the form of a bag or bottle with a valve can be incorporated into the system, together with a master switch disabling the dispenser until an acceptable keyed cartridge is properly inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Richard Mazursky, David Waskin
  • Patent number: 6811056
    Abstract: Device designed to supply water to aircraft galleys. The device operates simply, autonomously and independently and is provided with a simple structure. The device comprises a system which supplies a quantity of pressurized water from bladder tank of a container, consisting of a receptacle and a cover, and which recovers an equivalent or greater quantity of contaminated water in bladder tank of the same container. In this way, there is no longer an outflow of water. The device requires no electrical or pneumatic pump. The pressure in the water circuit is generated by the spring which is compressed in the container when bladder tank is being filled with drinking water and which acts on the piston, which in turn compresses the bladder tank. The water circuits are reduced to a minimum. The device is installed in a pressurized area and eliminates all frost-related risks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: André Gabes
  • Patent number: 6805262
    Abstract: A mouthwash dispenser includes a housing having a bottom wall, a top wall and a peripheral wall extending between and being attached to the top and bottom walls. A dispensing outlet is fluidly coupled to the housing and extends away from the bottom wall. A valve assembly is fluidly coupled to the dispensing outlet for selectively opening or closing the dispensing outlet. A drain assembly retrieves fluid from the dispensing outlet. A mouthwash solution may be positioned in the housing such that mouthwash may be dispensed through the dispensing outlet. The drain assembly is positioned below the housing such that any spilled mouthwash will be caught in the drain assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel P. Frazier
  • Patent number: 6779688
    Abstract: A system for collecting undesired concrete discharged from the concrete supply pipe of a mobile concrete pumping vehicle. The system includes a catch basin having an outer wall and a bottom wall that define an open reservoir. The catch basin includes an open top end that receives the second, discharge end of a delivery hose connected to the concrete supply pipe that distributes concrete out through the delivery hose. Preferably, the reservoir is sized to receive a sufficient volume of concrete to prevent the undesired discharge of the concrete during movement of the boom arm of the pumping vehicle. The catch basin includes a plurality of suspension straps that suspend the catch basin around the discharge end of the delivery hose during movement of the boom arm. The suspension straps are each connected to a support bracket mounted to the boom arm of the concrete pumping vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Putzmeister, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin G. Mayer
  • Publication number: 20040155060
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device that is designed to supply water to aircraft galleys. The inventive device operates simply, autonomously and independently and is provided with a simple structure. Said device is characterized in that it comprises a system which supplies a quantity of pressurized water from bladder tank I of a container, consisting of a receptacle (1) and a cover (2), and which recovers an equivalent or greater quantity of contaminated water in bladder tank S of the same container. In this way, there is no longer an outflow of water. The invention requires no electrical or pneumatic pump. The pressure in the water circuit is generated by the spring (4) which is compressed in the container when bladder tank I is being filled with drinking water and which acts on the piston (3), which in turn compresses L The water circuits are reduced to a minimum. The inventive device is installed in a pressurized area and eliminates all frost-related risks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Andre Gabes