With Casing Or Support Patents (Class 222/173)
  • Publication number: 20010050292
    Abstract: A deodorizer device for deodorizing shoes, includes a container containing deodorizer material, and a dispenser assembly at one end of the container for dispensing deodorizer material. The dispenser assembly includes a feed tube having one end located within the container and the opposite end communicating with one or more discharge openings for discharging deodorizer material laterally of the container. The dispenser assembly further includes an actuator attached at one end to the feed tube and configured to enable the actuator to be inserted into a shoe, when the container is inverted, to stably support the container in the inverted position, and to be pressed against the inner surface of the shoe bottom for discharging a quantity of deodorizer material from the discharge opening laterally into the shoe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: MELVYN ROSENBERG
  • Patent number: 6318600
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing shaving cream or other aerosol dispensed products from cans having different heights and diameters. The device can be easily mounted on a wall or retained on a counter for easy dispensing of the can's contents through the use of only one finger. The device provides a simple mechanical dispensing member which can accommodate cans of a given diameter and different heights and can also accommodate cans having a shorter height and wider diameter, and which is configured so that each specific can is brought into alignment so that its dispensing nozzle is aligned with the dispensing peg on the transverse handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventors: Harold G. Winnett, Bernard Ilan Urfig
  • Patent number: 6311873
    Abstract: A system for automated vending of automotive fluid such as windshield washer fluid from large volume tanks. In one embodiment the system includes two or more vending control units and a fluid storage system that includes one or more fluid storage tanks mounted at a level above the vending control units. Preferably the fluid storage tanks are mounted to an over head canopy, either on the roof of the canopy or on one of the canopy support columns. Where two or more fluid storage tanks are utilized, fluid equalization conduits connect the storage tanks to each other so that fluid levels in the storage tanks equalize as fluid is added to or withdrawn from any one of the tanks. Two or more fluid dispensing hoses are provided, each one being associated with and controlled by one of the vending control units. Each hose is connected to the fluid storage system and dispenses fluid by force of gravity in response to selective activation of the corresponding vending control unit by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Clean Shield Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Willeke, Jeffrey M. Eliason, Dale A. Severson
  • Publication number: 20010004081
    Abstract: Liquid is supplied from a bottle B to a discharge outlet 8 via a moulded plastics reservoir 15 by pressurising the bottle using an air pump 22. A pressure sensor responds to a rise in air pressure supplied to the bottle by shutting off the pump. Liquid is removed from the reservoir through a dip tube 17 having a main outlet 18 adjacent to the bottom of the reservoir and a smaller auxiliary outlet 21 adjacent to the top of the reservoir. The upper region of the reservoir is received in a finned heat-conducting holder 16 provided with a thermoelectric cooling element. For hygienic purposes the bottle has a connector 12 which can be replaced together with the reservoir 15 and associated supply tubes 24, 13, 14, 17 and 19. A temperature-control mixer 51 may be to mix liquid from the reservoir with liquid from the bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Publication date: June 21, 2001
    Inventors: Robert Tansley, Hugh Connell
  • Patent number: 6230939
    Abstract: A system for automated vending of windshield washer fluid from large volume tanks. In one embodiment the system includes two or more vending control units and a fluid storage system that includes one or more fluid storage tanks mounted at a level above the vending control units. Preferably the fluid storage tanks are mounted to an over head canopy, either on the roof of the canopy or on one of the canopy support columns. Where two or more fluid storage tanks are utilized, fluid equalization conduits connect the storage tanks to each other so that fluid levels in the storage tanks equalize as fluid is added to or withdrawn from any one of the tanks. Two or more fluid dispensing hoses are provided, each one being associated with and controlled by one of the vending control units. Each hose is connected to the fluid storage system and dispenses fluid by force of gravity in response to selective activation of the corresponding vending control unit by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Clean Shield Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Willeke, Jeffrey M. Eliason, Dale A. Severson
  • Patent number: 6173865
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser with telescoping frame having a upper column portion operatively affixed to a lower column portion for movement of the upper column portion relative to the lower column portion. In one embodiment, a valance is attached to the upper column portion. In this embodiment, the upper column portion and valance are adapted for movement toward and away from the lower column portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Tokheim Corporation
    Inventor: Wayne Loynes
  • Patent number: 6095374
    Abstract: An improved supporting closure for a container adapted to hold a viscous liquid and having an externally threaded neck comprising a pivotably connected dispensing cap and a container support. The dispensing cap has an internally threaded, dual diameter, section arranged to fit two sizes of threaded necks, and a projecting end piece defining a dispensing outlet. The container support comprises a substantially dish-shaped member with a peripheral skirt adapted to rest on a flat supporting surface and a central recessed section to receive the projecting end piece of the dispensing cap and a plug to block the dispensing outlet when the container is supported in an inverted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Good Idea!, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Ricard, David Kroll, Robert Engman
  • Patent number: 6056166
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable dispenser of potable liquid, and includes an insulated container for storing the liquid, and a secondary container connected to the insulated container. A pump is positioned in either the insulated container or the secondary container, and has a suction conduit that communicates with or extends to the bottom of the insulated container. The pump also has a discharge conduit that is connected to a manifold in the secondary container. A plurality of liquid dispensing conduits are connected to the manifold for communication with the discharge conduit. Each of the liquid dispensing conduits extends from the manifold through a dispenser opening in the secondary container. Means for also provided for activating the pump whereby the liquid stored in the insulated container is delivered to the dispensing conduits via the discharge conduit and the manifold for consumption by a plurality of users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventors: Jon E. Schmitz, Jeffrey B. Howlett
  • Patent number: 6041972
    Abstract: A warming tray is provided for holding and preheating removable heating cartridges of hot glue guns. The heating cartridges include electrically powered heating elements and releasable interfaces for releasably connecting the heating elements to a power supply. The warming tray includes a platform having a drip pan, and plurality of heating cartridge stations which are spaced apart and extend adjacent to the drip pan. Each of the heating cartridge stations has a power interface member for releasably connecting to a releasable interface of one of the heating cartridges to provide electric power to the heating element. The heating cartridge stations have lineally extending, upwardly protruding portions which define alignment members for engaging within an alignment channel formed into the heating cartridges. A mounting rail extends across the platform, parallel to and spaced apart from the drip pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventors: George Maayeh, Elias S. Maayeh, Les Bokros
  • Patent number: 6041974
    Abstract: A support apparatus for a fluid dispenser having a container with a body portion, a neck portion defining an opening and a flange; and a fluid pump mechanism for withdrawing fluid from the container. Included in the apparatus is a housing for mounting on an upright planar surface; the housing defining a guide, and a support surface for receiving the flange to removably support the container; a latch; and a retainer shaped and arranged for reciprocating movement on the guide between open and closed positions and in a first direction relative to the housing and for reciprocating movement in a second direction different than the first direction and between the closed position and a latched position. The retainer, in its open position, allows removal of the container from the housing, in its closed position, prevents removal, and, in its latched position, is prevented from movement in the first direction by the latch. The retainer discourages unauthorized removal of the container from the support apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Highland Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Poitras, Dennis A. Nickerson, Edwin W. Wlodyka
  • Patent number: 6006956
    Abstract: A bracket assembly is provided for supporting and stabilizing valves or other accessories that are attached to chemical canisters. Such valves and related connectors are subject to damage and resulting leakage due to forces applied to them during shipment, handling, installation and use. In order to reduce such damage, a rigid baseplate is provided that can be attached to the port tube of a standard canister. Rigid angle brackets may be connected to the baseplate and to the valves to provide a strong, rigid support to hold the valves position relative to the canister. Such a bracket assembly removes stresses from conduits and sealed couplings between the valves and the canister, thus preventing damage to the couplings due to the application of external forces to the valves. The invention is also applicable to support other sorts of accessories mounted on canisters of various types and sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Advanced Delivery & Chemical Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark I. Jorgensen, John N. Gregg
  • Patent number: 5996850
    Abstract: A package for dispensing a flowable substance is provided which includes a container, a closure and a cap. The container on a closed end is sufficiently rounded to render that end incapable of standing upright. A second end of the container has a round opening for dispensing the flowable substance. The closure is positioned across the second end and includes an oval top wall with opposite exterior and interior surfaces, a skirt surrounding the top wall and at least two separate apertures for fluidly communicating with the opening of the container. The cap is seatable over the closure and includes a roof with an inner surface and a flat outer surface, an apron surrounding the roof and a set of plugs projecting downwardly from the inner surface of the roof. The plugs are equivalent in number and shape to the apertures and seatable therewithin to prevent egress of flowable substance from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Chesebrough-Pond's USA Co
    Inventors: Mauricio Morali, Antonio Leon de la Barra
  • Patent number: 5988236
    Abstract: A multiple probe liquid handler includes a syringe pump assembly with multiple syringe pumps communicating with the probes. A carriage movable with respect to a fixed support base carries syringe pump pistons moving within syringe pump cylinders secured to the base. A drive system including a single drive motor has a single drive point connection to the carriage for moving the carriage and operating the syringe pumps in order to draw fluid into or discharge fluid from the multiple probes. A linear motion support assembly includes spaced rails attached to the support base and slides attached to the carriage and riding along the rails. The assembly includes two parallel rails and three slides, one riding along one rail and two riding along the other rail, providing an inexpensive yet imbalance tolerant three point support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Gilson, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin R. Fawcett
  • Patent number: 5975371
    Abstract: A modular, portable, environmentally friendly aboveground fueling assembly includes at least one pad member that is supported on the ground, and that is fabricated from a material that is heat resistant and that is resistant to exposure to petroleum products. A portable aboveground fuel tank is supported on the pad member, and at least one pumping station is included for dispensing fuel from the tank to a customer. A freestanding structure is secured to the fuel tank and the pad, and the structure is designed to give an aesthetic effect of a more substantial, permanent facility than would be given by the aboveground fuel tank standing alone. The components of the assembly are generally designed so as to be conveniently portable and so as to be simple to assemble and disassemble in the field. The assembly serves a need for inexpensive and environmentally friendly service stations, particularly in rural areas and underdeveloped countries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 5971209
    Abstract: An operating apparatus for safely and effortlessly operating beverage dispensers of the character which embody a manually operated air pump for expelling the beverage from the dispenser. The operating apparatus of the invention, which can simultaneously support and operate a plurality of air pump dispensers in a side-by-side relationship, safely constrains the dispensers within an upright supporting structure of novel design to which a number of lever-like, air-pump operating arms can be pivotally connected. The operating arms, each of which includes a pump engaging member, is separately movable from a first at rest position to a second, downward operating position. Because of the mechanical advantage offered by the lever-like operating arms of the device, the plunger component of the air pump can be effortlessly depressed while the dispenser is being securely held in position within the superstructure of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Lee Bayless
  • Patent number: 5921445
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable dispenser of potable liquid, and includes an insulated container for storing the liquid, and a secondary container connected to the insulated container. A pump is positioned in either the insulated container or the secondary container, and has a suction conduit that extends to the bottom of the insulated container. The pump also has a discharge conduit that is connected to a manifold in the secondary container. A plurality of liquid dispensing conduits are connected to the manifold for communication with the discharge conduit. Each of the liquid dispensing conduits extends from the manifold through a dispenser opening in the secondary container. Means for also provided for activating the pump whereby the liquid stored in the insulated container is delivered to the dispensing conduits via the discharge conduit and the manifold for consumption by a plurality of users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventors: Jon E. Schmitz, Jeffrey B. Howlett
  • Patent number: 5918539
    Abstract: A device for making patterns or images having predetermined shape uses powder substances introduced into a container disposed inside a cylindrical body. The container has an open bottom and features at top a recess with a related hole. A bottom mask, with a perforated pattern or image, closes the bottom of the container and is kept by retention means engaging with the cylindrical body. A driving device, set into the recess, has a shaft passing through the hole and fastened to a scraper member disposed inside the container for facilitating passage of the powder substance through holes of the perforated pattern or image of the bottom mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: SO.GE. CA. S.N.C.
    Inventor: Romano Mischiatti
  • Patent number: 5853154
    Abstract: A device to tip a container containing a liquid to enable substantially complete emptying of the liquid from the container by a siphon comprising a bottom surface to support the device; an inclined top surface disposed at a predetermined angle with respect to the bottom surface upon which the container is supported in a substantially upright, but tipped condition; and an arrangement disposed adjacent a low point of the inclined surface to prevent the container from sliding off the inclined surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Inventor: Richard E. Ashley
  • Patent number: 5692647
    Abstract: This invention relates to solar power systems for self-contained fueling stations. More particularly, this invention concerns the attachment to and above such a fueling station of a post-mounted solar power system, including a solar array providing shade for a shielded box holding a battery and a power control system with a wireless-remote-controlled safety power cutoff system. Such post and solar power system may be folded down adjacent the fueling station, thus enabling easier transport of the fueling station. The safety power cutoff system includes a series of relay switches for disabling key-switch control of a fuel pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Richard G. Brodie
  • Patent number: 5678733
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for dispensing liquid cleaning substances and is particularly useful for dispensing dishwashing detergents. The device is formed with a base and a means for supporting a liquid detergent container above the base. This support may take the form of an encircling wall that defines an enclosure for a pump style detergent container having a laterally projecting spout mounted in its mouth, or an upright stanchion that holds a detergent container at an elevated level above the base. In either event the device is provided with a concave, upwardly facing liquid detergent receptacle located atop the base and directly beneath the dispensing orifice of the liquid detergent container. A sponge support is formed atop the liquid detergent receptacle. The sponge support may include a mesh screen and is hinged relative to the base to rotate about a horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Inventor: Bon S. Ong
  • Patent number: 5667107
    Abstract: The squeeze container is made of a flexible material and is configured to store and dispense viscous fluid. The squeeze container is fitted with an automatic dispensing nozzle which allows flow when the container is squeezed and cuts off flow when the squeezing forces are removed. A stand is associated with the squeeze container, designed to hold the container in the nozzle down position. The stand may serve as a cover to protect the material before dispensing. The container may have a refill aperture and cap as well as a suspension device incorporated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Inventor: William J. Lindsey
  • Patent number: 5538554
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing ink onto a semiconductor chip in a semiconductor device tester, the apparatus comprising a ring shaped support for attachment to the inside wall of a test head of the semiconductor tester; a pedestal slidably supported on the ring shaped support; vertical, lateral, and angular adjustment mechanisms on the ring shaped support for adjusting the position of the pedestal; locking screws to secure the vertical, lateral and angular adjustments: and a mounting bracket for mounting an ink dispenser on the end of pedestal away from the ring shaped support whereby the ink dispenser can be aligned using the adjusting mechanism to place ink on a semiconductor chip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Chin-Ting Wang, Chia-Pin Liu
  • Patent number: 5513775
    Abstract: A dispenser controller is connected to an existing conventional fountain dispenser to form a unitary currency/card operated dispenser system. The dispenser system includes a support element which supports the dispenser controller and separably attaches the same to the fountain dispenser. The support element includes a platform having a first side and a second side. The first side is disposed beneath and connected to the dispenser with the second side extending outwardly therefrom forming a support shelf. The support element further includes one or more apertures formed in the first side for receiving one or more legs of the fountain dispenser. The support element may further include one or more support legs provided at the second side. A dispenser controller cabinet is mounted on protruding shelf formed by the support element's second side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventor: Sean S. Sizemore
  • Patent number: 5507414
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for dispensing liquid cleaning substances and is particularly useful for dispensing dishwashing detergents. The device is formed with a base and a means for supporting a liquid detergent container above the base. This support may take the form of an encircling wall that defines an enclosure for a pump style detergent container having a laterally projecting spout mounted in its mouth, or an upright stanchion that holds a detergent container at an elevated level above the base. In either event the device is provided with a concave, upwardly facing liquid detergent receptacle located atop the base and directly beneath the dispensing orifice of the liquid detergent container. A sponge support is formed atop the liquid detergent receptacle. The sponge support may include a mesh screen and is hinged relative to the base to rotate about a horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Inventor: Bon S. Ong
  • Patent number: 5460298
    Abstract: A stand for container inversion is provided to allow for prompt, efficient, and full dispensing of viscous material from their containers. A cup-shaped stand is interposed between a bottle and its cap, the stand defining a support surface to allow the container to be maintained in an inverted posture. The stand may be an integral portion of the bottle or of the cap, or it may be a separate entity altogether. Additionally, the stand may be configured such as to nestingly receive the bottom of the container or bottle when implementation of the stand is not desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventors: Anthony E. DiBiase, Robert M. Wise
  • Patent number: 5419771
    Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing large volumes of fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended periods of time. The apparatus includes one or more dispensers of a low profile, laminate or layered construction each having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane or an elastomeric cellular mass, which in cooperation with a base, defines a fluid chamber having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes a support for supporting the dispensers in a coupled relationship with a manifold system which has an outlet to which an administration set can be connected. In one form of the invention, the apparatus also includes a filling vial assembly that can be coupled with the dispensers to fill the fluid chambers thereof with the fluids to be infused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Science Incorporated
    Inventor: Marshall S. Kriesel
  • Patent number: 5400924
    Abstract: In an above ground fuel storage system, a containment vessel is selected to resist impact shock, as well as deformation from fire's heat and internal hydraulic pressures in the presence of such heat. The fuel delivery input port, the fuel tank, all fuel lines and dispensing equipment are mounted fully enclosed within the confines of the containment vessel. The containment vessel may be transportable or be permanently emplaced on use site. Solar energy is utilized to allow operation in undeveloped areas. A remote control device permits system shut down to be initiated from a distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Inventor: Richard G. Brodie
  • Patent number: 5395013
    Abstract: Beverage delivery structure including a counter top with support structure and also an ice chest conveniently supplied proximate the counter top; the ice chest is provided with an insert structure containing a beverage delivery pumping unit and, thereabove, a well for receiving a series of beverage bottles; a primary source of a beverage constituent as well as beverage delivery structure are coupled to the intake and output ports of the pumping unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Chris L. Billings
  • Patent number: 5391293
    Abstract: Filtered water dispensing apparatus comprising an elongated hollow cylindrical seamless casing cut from an extruded PVC pipe having preselected inner and outer diameters, the casing being further characterized by having a longitudinal axis, an upper portion and a lower portion. An upper partition having a vertical central section and integral oppositely disposed top and bottom horizontally extending sections with the edges thereof being shaped to fit with the preselected inner diameter is removably mounted within and is connected to the upper portion of the casing and supports a water spigot and also provides a horizontal surface for supporting a container to receive filtered water from the spigot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Water Horse Inc.
    Inventor: George M. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5361940
    Abstract: A ram assembly is designed for evacuating "bag-in-a-box" square bulk containers of viscous materials. The ram cylinder is centered over the bulk container and mounted so as to float relative to the frame allowing accomodation of various containers. An inflatable wiper seal is used in conjunction with elastomeric corner seals to tightly seal the corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Assignee: Graco Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley M. Miller, Martin P. McCormick
  • Patent number: 5323833
    Abstract: A portable potable water system comprises a tank assembly and system component housing, both mounted on a base structure for ease of transportability. The potable water system includes a circulation system to maintain potability of the water and prevent freezing. A delivery system is provided which supplies the potable water to a user or site. The potable water system components are enclosed in the housing to protect the system from adverse climatic conditions and provide a more secure environment. The system is constructed of components which maintain the potability of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Emergency Water Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Kirkmyer
  • Patent number: 5305924
    Abstract: A postmix beverage dispenser having the appearance of a stainless steel brewed tea urn. A postmix dispensing valve is mounted inside the tea urn and is operated by a handle located on the front of the tea urn. A nozzle extender is inside the handle body and connects to the nozzle of the dispensing valve. The handle body and nozzle extender are easily manually removed without tools from outside the tea urn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Phillip B. Groover, Kirk W. Charles, Lionel D. Gillespie, Samuel Durham, Lisa C. Wandrick
  • Patent number: 5287996
    Abstract: A liquid soap dispenser suitable for installation on a mounting surface comprises a socket including an upper part having an upper edge, a tubular piece, the socket and the tubular piece being mountable on the mounting surface. A tubular pump including an actuating rod is housed in the tubular piece, the tubular pump and actuating rod defining a conduit for the liquid soap and being axially reciprocable through a pumping stroke between a highest and a lowest position. The actuating rod extends through an annular gap and a soap dispensing nozzle having a cap fits over the upper socket part and has a lower edge facing the upper socket part, the nozzle cap and the upper socket part defining in all stroke positions an annular gap concentrically surrounding the annular gap through which the actuating rod extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: CWF Chemie Frankfurt GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Uhlig
  • Patent number: 5238146
    Abstract: A support device for insertion beneath a portion of one end of a drum, configured for stable engagement with a chime or a groove so that the drum may be reliably and securely supported in a tilted position for an extended period of time to facilitate emptying of residue therefrom. The device preferably has a generally wedge-shaped configuration with an upper surface which slopes downward from back to front The device may have a curved channel to receive a drum chime, and/or one or more ears for insertion in a peripheral end-wall groove. The device may be employed to facilitate either pumping of residue with the drum in an upright position, or draining of the residue through an opening in the lid by inverting the drum. In the latter case, to facilitate proper placement of drums of the type having a pair of spouts at diametrically opposed locations on the lid, an opening is provided in the upper wall of the device to accommodate one of the spouts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Assignee: Van Leer Containers, Inc.
    Inventor: John F. Thorne, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5156297
    Abstract: A beverage quantity indicator is provided for use with beverage containers of a type which do not include a visual or other type of indication of the quantity of beverage remaining in the container. The indicator is incorporated into a beverage stand and includes a weight scale for weighing beverage containers on the stand, thus providing an indication of the quantity of beverage within the container. A preferred form of beverage stand is also disclosed. The weight scale on the stand includes a hinge-mounted plate on which a beverage container rests. The hinge-mounted plate is movable generally vertically along an arcuate path. A spring on the beverage stand urges the hinge-mounted plate generally upwardly and the amount of flexure of the spring indicates the quantity of beverage in the container on the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Boyd Coffee Company
    Inventor: Christopher J. Engler
  • Patent number: 5152406
    Abstract: A podium for a lubricating dispenser, the podium including an upright support structure, a housing attached to the support structure, a shelf attached to the support structure and extending over the housing, the shelf having mounting means thereon for receiving and retaining the lubricating dispenser, the shelf having a trough therein, the housing having a hole in an upper surface thereof, the hole being adapted for a hose to pass therethrough from the housing to the dispenser, the mounting means being adapted to receive the dispenser such that a grip portion of the dispenser extends outwardly from the support structure and the nozzle portion of the dispenser extends inwardly toward the support structure and over the trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Assignee: Stewart Warner Alemite Corporation
    Inventors: Gary W. Kling, Jerry D. Shew, Theodore W. Beise
  • Patent number: 5148948
    Abstract: A liquid soap dispenser and a mounting base for connection to a counter top on a sink in a public washroom to prevent the unauthorized removal of the dispenser. The dispenser includes a bottle having a spherical bottom wall which prevents the bottle from being self-supporting if removed from the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Celeste Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Richard C. Granville, James C. Mourlas, Michael K. Patrick
  • Patent number: 5114046
    Abstract: An above ground fuel storage and dispensing apparatus that is self contained and includes a support frame on which a fuel storage tank is mounted and surrounded by a fuel containment vessel formed by side walls and a bottom of the support frame for containing any fuel that may leak from the tank or fittings and pipe extending from the tank. One corner of the support frame has the vertical side walls recessed to form a recessed compartment for the fuel dispensing pump and electrical equipment which are thereby protected by the frame and side walls from being damaged by vehicles or the like operated in the vicinity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Billy O. Bryant
    Inventor: Billy O. Bryant
  • Patent number: 5100058
    Abstract: A self-contained cleaning system particularly suited for use with motor vehicles comprising a storage tank filled with cleaning fluid and containing a pump and a D.C. electric motor, a hose, and an external power cord, and a pistol shaped sprayer head. Depressing a trigger shaped control piece on the sprayer head opens a valve disposed therein and closes an electrical switch that activates the D.C. electric motor which drives the pump, sending cleaning fluid through the hose to the sprayer head. Cleaning fluid is emitted from one of several nozzles on a rotatable nozzle selector on the front of the sprayer head. A locking mechanism, which can hold the control piece in one of several pre-determined positions, along with a magnet in the base of the handle of the sprayer head enables hands free operation of the unit, with the sprayer head secured by the handle to a steel surface such as a car body. The 12 volt D.C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Inventor: Toby Wei
  • Patent number: 5096095
    Abstract: A door dispenser for pressurized liquids utilizes a container having a single resealable passageway for filling, pressurizing and emptying the container. A tube extends from the container to a fitting that with check valves passes through the door nozzle on the outside of the door. Thus, a chilled carbonated or non-carbonated liquid may be dispensed from a container on the inside of the refrigerator door without opening the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: John E. Burton
  • Patent number: 5082034
    Abstract: An above-ground secondary containment dispensing system for a primary tank holding liquids. The system includes a 10,000 gallon primary tank and a secondary containment unit which includes a dike surrounding the tank. In the preferred embodiment, the dike is a right parallepiped having an open top and a floor. Preferably, the dike is provided with internal support means to support the tank above the floor of the dike and an external support means to support the dike above the ground to enable the entire unit to be moved easily. A loading platform is mounted adjacent to the tank and includes both glycol and water loading arms. In the preferred embodiment, a single pump is used for both tank off-loading and to issue product to the de-icing units. Preferably, a level detector mounted in the tank is operatively associated with the pump to disable the pump when the tank is full and/or to provide an indication to a user when the tank is full.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Four Seasons Industrial Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald E. Soper
  • Patent number: 5040703
    Abstract: An assembly is disclosed for maintaining the carbonation level in a carbonated soft-drink beverage and for dispensing the beverage from its container while minimizing carbonation loss from the container. The assembly utilizes a closure cap assembly that has inlet pressurization means, outlet dispensing means, and a siphon tube internally locatable in a beverage bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventors: Brian M. Roark, James B. Roark
  • Patent number: 5005736
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided with has a support frame in which a pair of pressurized containers is mounted. A common pressure plate is fitted over the push button valve of the containers and a single key is used for actuating the push button valves. Each valve is directed on an axis towards a common point so as to create a fog or cloud containing insecticide and/or fungicide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Inventor: Abelardo A. Portas
  • Patent number: 4988020
    Abstract: An improved portable fueling facility for aircraft or ground vehicles includes at least one storage tank, an outer tank for providing secondary containment about the storage tanks, a number of saddle members for supporting the outer tank on a flat horizontal surface and at least one pump for dispensing fuel. A deck compartment is provided beneath the pumps for providing secondary containment about the supply pipes which are used to supply the pumps and the refueling tubes which are used to refuel the storage tanks. The entire facility is portable, so that it may be redepolyed at different locations or airports as needed. According to one novel aspect of the facility, a control system is provided which permits self-service use of the facility in a manner which requires only the use of a commercial credit card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1991
    Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 4986446
    Abstract: Service station for dispensing fuel to vehicles from fuel dispensers connected by fluid conduits to one or more fuel storage tanks characterized in that the fuel storage tanks are self-contained, flexible and collapsible bladder type tanks supported in an elevated position above the fuel dispensers and the vehicles to which fuel is to be dispensed. An open top containment vessel may also be supported at an elevated position and into which the bladder type tanks may be preferably lowered for non-attached disposition therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1991
    Assignee: Southwest Canopy Company
    Inventors: Jerry A. Montgomery, Larry S. Parkhurst
  • Patent number: 4978025
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bag made of sheets of heat weldable plastics assembled by welding lines along their edges, and comprising a base also made of a sheet of heat weldable plastics allowing the bag to be placed in an upright position. The bag further comprises an armature extending substantially from its base to its opposite upper edge, which armature comprises a vertical rod of length approximately equal to the height of the bag and two crosspieces, an upper crosspiece along the upper edge of the bag, and a lower crosspiece along the base of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Alizol S.A.
    Inventor: Michel Fougeres
  • Patent number: 4940169
    Abstract: An apparatus for storing and dispensing a quantity of aerated liquid for maintaining the carbonation of a beverage in a container. The apparatus includes a vessel containing a source of gas, a valve closing the vessel and a pressure regulator that couples the valve to the vessel. The pressure regulator is capable of delivering the gas to the container at a substantially constant pressure substantially lower than the pressure under which the gas is kept in the vessel. A tap permits delivery of the gas to, and dispensing of the liquid from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1990
    Assignee: Metal Box Public Limited Company
    Inventor: Martin F. Ball
  • Patent number: 4880144
    Abstract: A console unit for holding and housing a plurality of lubricant dispensers, lubricator hoses attached to the dispensers, and one or more vacuum units on rollers. The console unit includes a podium-like structure having a front wall, two side walls, a top wall and an open bottom. The console has a lubricator hose housing attached to the front wall of the podium-like structure which has a front wall spaced forward from the front wall of the podium-like structure, a top wall having apertures therein, and side walls. The console unit includes a bracket for releasably holding the dispensers mounted on the front wall of the podium-like structure above the top wall of the hose housing with the lubricator hoses extending down from the dispensers through the apertures in the top wall of the hose housing. The console unit further includes a lower compartment in the podium-like structure for housing one or more vacuum units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1989
    Assignee: McNeil (Ohio) Corporation
    Inventor: Robert F. Shea
  • Patent number: 4875652
    Abstract: An oil squirt (10) mountable to a wall holder in a predetermined supporting position exhibits an elastically bendable nose (24,28). A closure cap (64) is firmly fixed or releasably clamped to the wall holder (16) at the point (at 38) where the nose tip (24) is located in the supporting position of the oil squirt. In the supporting position, the closure cap (64) seals the opening in the nose tip (24) of the oil squirt (10). Upon removal of the oil squirt (10) from the wall holder (16), the closure cap can remain thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1989
    Inventors: Gerhard R. Bosse, Michael Lienow, Bernt Spiegel, Bernd O. Kruse
  • Patent number: 4872594
    Abstract: A hair coloring applicator bottle including, in an axially aligned relation, and applicator spout including a base portion and an applicator tip portion, an elongated liquid receptacle, a timer mechanism, and a base. Time period indicia and timer pointer indicia are alternately provided on the liquid receptacle and base for setting the timer mechanism. The liquid receptacle includes a collapsible plastic container and a container holder. The plastic container defines an open mouth which is removably closed by the applicator spout. The timer mechanism is secured to the container holder and includes a timer shaft which rotates relative to the timer mechanism, and is connected to the base. By such construction, the base is secured to the container housing in a manner preventing separation of the liquid receptacle from the timer mechanism. An annular reservoir surrounds the base of the applicator tip portion for capturing excess hair coloring mixture which inadvertently escapes from the applicator tip portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Inventor: Robert Bloom