Gas Or Vapor Dispensing Patents (Class 222/3)
  • Patent number: 6982061
    Abstract: A closed system odorant chamber or wick-style odorizer and method for transferring odorant to an odorant chamber is described. Two cylinders are connected to the odorant chamber, which in turn may be connected to a gas line. The pressure differential between the two cylinders causes odorant to flow into the odorant chamber until an appropriate odorant level is reached. After filling up the odorant chamber, the two cylinders are disconnected from the odorant chamber. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure; and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims under 37 C.F.R. § 1.72.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Natural Gas Odorizing, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Brashear
  • Patent number: 6983103
    Abstract: The invention is a combined scent dispenser and audible lure for hunters and outdoorsmen. The scent-dispensing section of the invention is provided with an electrical heating element. Pre-recorded sounds stored within a memory in the invention may be played on command and transmitter by a speaker. Both the electrical heating element and the audible lure are provided with, in one embodiment, a radio receiver circuit and control circuit to selectively operate the heating elements and audible lure. A remote transmitter is provided to permit the remote operation of either or both of the heating element and audible lure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Randy B. Parcher
  • Patent number: 6966346
    Abstract: This gas supply apparatus supplies a gas by vaporizing a liquefied gas filled in a gas container. This apparatus includes an installation stand having an upper surface on which the gas container is placed; at least one nozzle which discharges a heating medium towards a bottom surface of the gas container and is provided in a hole formed in the installation stand; and a heating medium discharge path which discharges the heating medium from a space between the bottom surface of the gas container and the upper surface of the installation stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Nippon Sanso Corporation
    Inventors: Junichi Tanaka, Takashi Orita, Makoto Echigojima
  • Patent number: 6962268
    Abstract: An apparatus for storing and mixing two pressurized gases. The apparatus has an outer container for storing the first gas and an inner container, situated inside the outer container, for storing the second gas. The gases exit their containers through outlet passages, are mixed together resulting in a mixture which leaves the apparatus through and output channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Société Anonyme à Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude
    Inventors: Josyane Bruat, Clarisse L'Heveder
  • Patent number: 6957749
    Abstract: In a first aspect, a liquid delivery system is provided that includes a first liquid delivery module adapted to store and dispense a first chemical and a second liquid delivery module adapted to store and dispense a second chemical. The liquid delivery system further includes at least one connecting mechanism coupled to the first and second delivery modules and adapted to couple the first and second delivery modules to a substrate processing device. Each delivery module includes a vessel including a first chamber and a second chamber. The vessel is configured to receive a liquid from a bulk supply and to receive a pressurized flow of gas from a gas source. Each liquid delivery module also includes a valve assembly operable to selectively permit fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber during a non-refill state and to prevent fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber during a refill state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Younes Achkire, Jonathan S Frankel, Brian J Brown
  • Patent number: 6948698
    Abstract: A valve for a pressurized canister includes a housing having a central aperture extending therethrough, a first set of external threads, and a second set of external threads. A sealing member is positioned in an axially outward end of the central aperture and is axially moveable. A first spring biases the pin axially outwardly. An axially slidable member is received and axially movable in the central aperture. A second spring biases the axially slidable member outwardly. A threaded member in an aperture in the housing engages the axially slidable member. Each of a plurality of radially moveable members is positioned in an aperture in the housing and is radially moveable between a lip on the aperture and the second spring. An exterior surface of an inner end of the axially slidable member engages and forces each radially moveable member into contact with the lip when the threaded member is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: Eric Scott, Nancy A. Scott
  • Patent number: 6910602
    Abstract: A container valve, attached to a gas container, wherein the container valve has a pressure reducing function, and is inside a valve block in the gas container. In the valve block, the container valve comprises a gas filling passage in which a filling valve is installed, a gas lead-out passage in which a lead-out valve is installed, and a pressure regulator arranged at an upstream side of the lead-out valve in the gas lead-out passage. The container valve can safely supply gas under a reduced pressure for use by opening the container valve of a container whose pressure is high and gas can be filled easily into the container. The container valve can be miniaturized and the purging operation for supplying high purity gas can be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignees: Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation, Hamai Industries Limited
    Inventors: Satoshi Hasaka, Yutaka Horiuchi, Masao Koizumi
  • Publication number: 20040222236
    Abstract: A subject for the invention is to stably supply an ambient gas having a given composition to a production apparatus or storage apparatus for a compound necessitating strict ambient gas regulation during the production, storage, or handling thereof, such as (meth)acrylic acid or an ester thereof which are easily polymerizable and form an explosive composition at ordinary temperature, in a manner not influenced by fluctuations in the amount of the gas used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI CHEMICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shuhei Yada, Masayasu Goriki
  • Patent number: 6786973
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to a device for carrying out the method for depositing, in particular, crystalline layers on substrates that are also, in particular, crystalline. According to the invention, at least two process gases are introduced separate from one another into a process chamber of a reactor, whereby the first process gas flows through a central line having a central outlet opening, and the second process gas flows through a line, which is peripheral thereto and which has a peripheral outlet opening. The second process gas flows through one or more supply lines and into a mixing chamber and flows through additional means, which influence the gas stream and which are provided for homogenizing the radial flow profile of the process gas exiting the peripheral outlet opening. The aim of the invention is to obtain a homogeneous radial flow profile by using simple means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Aixtron AG
    Inventors: Gerd Strauch, Markus Reinhold
  • Publication number: 20040164089
    Abstract: PURPOSE: To improve the evaporation efficiency of a raw material by mounting an element of a porous sintered metal having the pore size smaller than the size of the solid raw material to a port for introducing a carrier gas into a bubbler vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicants: Epichem Limited, IQE plc
    Inventors: Megan Ravetz, Graham Williams, Andrew Nelson, Roy Trevor Blunt, Howard Williams, Rajesh Odedra
  • Publication number: 20040155055
    Abstract: System for supply of compressed gas including one or more pressure tanks (6), a compressor (2) which can be controlled via first control member (7) and is arranged to supply the pressure tank or pressure tanks (6) with compressed gas, where the first control member (7) is arranged to adopt an active position when the compressor (2) is controlled to operate. Compressed gas is delivered to the pressure tanks, and a passive position when the compressor (2) is controlled not to operate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Soren Bystedt, Mats Sabelstrom
  • Patent number: 6764661
    Abstract: A device for producing an aqueous chlorine dioxide solution when placed in water. The device includes a membrane shell that defines a compartment which includes one or more dry chemicals (e.g., a metal chlorite and an acid) capable of producing chlorine dioxide gas when exposed to water. Wick means extend into the compartment for absorbing water and transporting water into the compartment such that the chemical(s) in the compartment dissolve in the water and produce chlorine dioxide. In one embodiment, the membrane is formed of a material that allows the passage of gas (e.g., chlorine dioxide) but is impervious to liquid (e.g., water). In another embodiment, the wick means is a wick member which divides the compartment into first and second compartment sections. One chemical (metal chlorite, for example) is contained within the first compartment section and another chemical (acid, for example) is contained within or can easily be placed in the second compartment section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Avantec Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Blair Girard
  • Publication number: 20040124208
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of dosing pre-set quantities of gas, wherein the addition of known quantities of gas is required. The apparatus is designed to dosify gases in variable quantities, with temperature correction. The apparatus and the method of the present invention is mainly applied on the gasification of containers used to transport foodstuffs, which must be kept at a controlled environment in order to better preserve them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Applicant: YT INGENIERIA LTDA.
    Inventors: Tomas I. Yakasovic S., Gonzalo L. Tomasello R.
  • Publication number: 20040118286
    Abstract: A fluid storage and dispensing apparatus including a fluid storage and dispensing vessel having a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and an integrated gas cabinet assembly including such fluid storage and dispensing apparatus and/or a point-of-use ventilation gas scrubber in the vented gas cabinet. By the use of physical adsorbent and chemical sorbent media, the gas cabinet can be enhanced in safety of operation, e.g., where the process gas supplied from the gas cabinet is of a toxic or otherwise hazardous character.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Dennis Brestovansky, Michael J. Wodjenski, Jose I. Arno, J. Donald Carruthers
  • Patent number: 6749086
    Abstract: A pressurized delivery module having two chambers enables refill of the module while liquid material continues to be supplied to a semiconductor processing tool. Initially, the chambers are in fluid communication with each other through a valve assembly, with positive pressure applied to the module from an inert gas supply. When material in the module becomes depleted, the chambers are isolated from one another to permit refilling. In the refill module state, one chamber remains pressurized, with material remaining therein continued to be dispensed to the semiconductor fabrication tool. The second chamber is vented and placed into fluid communication with the bulk material supply. Once the level of material in the second chamber has been replenished and processing of the remaining wafer has been completed, during transfer of the next incoming wafer to the tool, the second chamber is sealed off from the material supply, repressurized, and placed back into fluid communication with the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Applied Materials Inc.
    Inventors: Younes Achkire, Johnathan Frankel, Brian Brown
  • Patent number: 6742554
    Abstract: A pressure container (70) for storing hydrogen gas (26) under pressure for a fuel cell engine. The container (70) includes an outer support layer (12) and a thermoplastic liner (14). An adapter (18) is provided in the outer layer (12) and the liner (14) to allow fill gas (20) to fill the container (70) under pressure. A fill vessel (72) is provided within the liner (14) and is sealed and thermally coupled to the adapter (18). The fill gas (20) is confined within a gap (78) between an outer surface of the fill vessel (72) and the liner (14) so that the temperature of the liner (14) is not significantly increased during the fill process. An opening (82) is provided in the fill vessel (72) so that the fill gas (20) forces the contained gas (26) within the container (70) into the fill vessel (72) through the opening (82).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Rainer Immel
  • Publication number: 20040093874
    Abstract: This invention provides for an apparatus and a method for operation of a cryogenic hydrogen storage system that contains a porous medium configured to adsorb hydrogen. The hydrogen storage and supply system includes a hydrogen source apparatus and a cryosorptive storage apparatus. Methods and devices that allow for an energy efficient filling of the cryosorptive apparatus from the hydrogen source apparatus are described. The cryosorptive hydrogen storage apparatus is filled with cold, pressurized hydrogen. During the course of filling, heat is generated in the cryosorptive storage device by the process of hydrogen adsorption on to the host medium. Methods and devices are provided for the removal the generated heat and the warm hydrogen. Further provided are devices and methods for the capture and recycle of escaped hydrogen within the hydrogen source apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Applicant: Nanomix, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Bradley, Jeff Wyatt, Seung-Hoon Jhi, Young-Kyun Kwon, Jean Christophe Gabriel, George Gruner
  • Patent number: 6726059
    Abstract: An externally-mounted, quick-acting trigger assembly for firing blast aerators, air cannons, or the like. The trigger assembly is ideal for high temperature applications involving environmental factors such as excessive heat, humidity, and mechanical shock. The trigger comprises a symmetrical, ventilated housing that internally mounts a hollow piston. A plurality of vent orifices are radially disposed about the housing periphery, and normally covered by a resilient band forming a check valve. The trigger piston comprises a generally cylindrical base and an integral, generally conical bottom that is displaced into and out of contact with a mechanical valve seat. An air passageway through the piston is controlled by a deflectable spherical valve element that is captivated within the piston, for selectively blocking air passage through the piston by contacting an internal valve seat. This construction with internal air passageways facilitates trigger function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Global Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Rodney D. Treat
  • Patent number: 6726771
    Abstract: The present invention is a treatment solution supply method for supplying a treatment solution on a substrate by a pump through a supply path, which connects a treatment solution supply source and a discharge nozzle, wherein a storage portion for storing the treatment solution temporarily is disposed in the supply path between the treatment solution supply source and the pump. In the present invention another pump is further disposed in the supply path between the storage portion and the treatment solution supply source for supplying the treatment solution to the storage portion. The present invention comprises the step of maintaining the level height of the treatment solution in the storage portion at a predetermined height by supplying the treatment solution to the storage portion by the said another pump. According to the present invention, the pressure of a primary side of the pump is constantly maintained the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Issei Ueda
  • Publication number: 20040069797
    Abstract: A gas extraction apparatus is used within a pressure vessel for extracting gas from the vessel while leaving liquid. A neck fitting is adapted for threaded engagement within a neck of a pressure bottle. An expansion chamber is threaded into the neck fitting. The expansion chamber extends distally and axially into the pressure bottle. The expansion chamber is threaded into the adapter fitting and a suction tube terminates with a circular flange engaged for rotation within the adapter fitting. A compression spring is fitted between the obverse side of the circular flange of the suction tube and a terminal distal surface of the expansion chamber. A seal is positioned between the reverse side of the circular flange and an internal annular surface of the adapter fitting. A further seal is positioned between the proximal end of the tube body and an annular seal retaining groove within the adapter fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew Tien, Jarvis D. Tien
  • Publication number: 20040065676
    Abstract: A compressor for natural gas is made in a format suitable for mounting on a wall or upright support at a residential location to permit refilling of the gas reservoir of a gaseous-fueled motor vehicle parked at the residence. The wall-mounted appliance has vibration isolation supports, to minimize transmission of noise into the residence. It has a ventilation and air circulation system that allows it to test for the presence of flammable gas both leaking from the appliance and present in the adjacent ambient environment, e.g. a garage. A motor speed control system permits operation of the appliance at speeds which are reduced when approaching the final pressure for the motor vehicle reservoir and at speeds which avoid the natural resonant frequencies of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony Chan, Filip Atanassov, Ralph Rackham, Tome Mojsov, Brian Chapnik, Tracey Demaline
  • Publication number: 20040056044
    Abstract: An organometallic compound vaporizing and feeding system includes a carrier gas feed passageway connecting a carrier gas source to a container containing an organometallic compound MO and having a carrier gas mass flow controller, an MO gas passageway connecting the container to an in-line monitor for transporting the MO gas, a sample gas passageway connecting the in-line monitor to a sample inlet of an ICP spectrometer, a standard gas passageway connecting a gas cylinder filled with a calibration standard gas to the sample gas passageway and having a standard gas mass flow controller, and a diluent gas passageway connected to the standard gas passageway for passing a diluent gas for adjusting the concentration of the standard gas and having a diluent gas mass flow controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Hirahara, Takanobu Tsudera, Daisuke Iwai
  • Patent number: 6708844
    Abstract: A gas storage and delivery system for replacing gas lost from a pressurized container or a carbonated beverage, or for introducing a gas such as oxygen into a beverage such as bottled water or a sports drink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventors: Walter K. Lim, Arthur A. Krause
  • Publication number: 20040035879
    Abstract: A method for dispersing a bird repellant includes providing a tank defining an interior space, and placing a quantity of bird repellant in liquid form within the interior space of the tank. The method also includes providing a nozzle assembly including at least one nozzle in fluid communication with the interior space of the tank, wherein the at least one nozzle includes a discharge aperture. The method further includes providing an air pressurizing source, and atomizing a portion of the bird repellant by moving air over the discharge aperture of the at least one nozzle via the air pressuring source, thereby providing an atomized bird repellant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Bruce Vergote
  • Patent number: 6691729
    Abstract: A housing (16) comprises a first housing (17) and a second housing (18). The first housing (17) is fixed to a gas cylinder (1) and is provided with a cylinder main valve (3) which is manually opened and closed. The second housing (18) is provided with a main stop valve (4) of an electromagnetically opening and closing valve. The second housing (18) is removably fixed to the first housing (17) by a tightening bolt (39). In this state where the second housing (18) is fixed to the first housing (17), the cylinder main valve (3) has a first valve chamber (44) communicated with a second valve chamber (63) of the main stop valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Neriki, Nichiden Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Takeda, Mitsunori Sakai, Junichi Ono, Yorikazu Satoh, Ken Nagasawa
  • Publication number: 20040023087
    Abstract: Cassette based systems and methods of hydrogen storage, distribution, and recovery are disclosed. A cassette or other container may contain a hydrogen storage or storing material. Information may be stored in the material and subsequently read or accessed. A probe may be used to interrogate the material. The hydrogen content or other characteristics of the material may be determined based on the interrogation. A hydrogen dispensing unit may contain a depleted cassette acceptor to accept depleted cassettes and a charged cassette dispenser to dispense charged cassettes. The dispensing unit may be implemented in a hydrogen retail store or as a standalone unit. The retail store or the unit may connect to a hydrogen network and implement various business methods, as disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Scott D. Redmond
  • Publication number: 20040016768
    Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products for dispensing hyperpolarized gas include or operate a plurality of spaced apart individually operable valves positioned in fluid communication with and located along a gas flow path. The gas flow path that is intermediate the spaced apart valves defines at least one meted holding space with an associated volume that can be selectively isolated from the remainder of the gas flow path. The system and methods include a pressure sensor operably associated with the gas flow path and a control module operably associated with the plurality of spaced apart valves and the pressure sensor, the control module being configured to direct the operational sequence of the opening and closing of the valves, wherein, in operation, the control module directs a plurality of capture and release cycles, the cycles being successively carried out so to temporally isolate a predetermined portion of the gas flow path to capture and then release discrete amounts of gas therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Brian Teixeira
  • Publication number: 20040016769
    Abstract: Cassette based systems and methods of hydrogen storage, distribution, and recovery are disclosed. A cassette contains a hydrogen storing material from which hydrogen may be recovered in a hydrogen recovery system. Several different types of materials are disclosed, including those that may be removed from the cassette for hydrogen recovery, and those that may be heated within the cassette for hydrogen recovery. The hydrogen recovery system recovers hydrogen from the cassette and may provide the hydrogen to a fuel cell, a hydrogen powered vehicle, or another hydrogen utilization system. The cassette may be distributed through a common carrier as a non-hazardous material. A hydrogen network may be used to obtain information associated with hydrogen storage, recovery, and utilization from various components of the network, and may be used to implement various business methods, such as distribution of cassettes based on network information, and distribution of cassettes through common carriers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Scott D. Redmond
  • Patent number: 6655155
    Abstract: The methods and apparatus for transporting compressed gas includes a gas storage system having a plurality of pipes connected by a manifold whereby the gas storage system is designed to operate in the pressure range of the minimum compressibility factor for a given composition of gas. A displacement fluid may be used to load or offload the gas from the gas storage system. A vessel including a preferred gas storage system may also include pumping equipment for handling the displacement fluid and provide storage for some or all of the fluid needed to load or unload the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Enersea Transport, LLC
    Inventor: William M. Bishop
  • Patent number: 6651701
    Abstract: In order to achieve optimal weight and volume of a hydrogen storage apparatus, there is provided a method of charging hydrogen to a hydrogen storage apparatus. The hydrogen storage apparatus 1 includes a hydrogen storage means accommodating a hydrogen occlusive alloy (MH tank assembly) 3, and a hydrogen tank (high-pressure hydrogen tank) 2 that is provided separately from the hydrogen storage means 3 and stores hydrogen in gaseous form. Hydrogen is filled so that a pressure in the hydrogen tank is higher than that in the hydrogen storage means. A decompressing means (charger regulator) 6 is provided for reducing a pressure of hydrogen fed to the hydrogen storage apparatus 1 to maintain the pressure in a predetermined pressure range. The hydrogen storage apparatus 1 may include more than one of the hydrogen occlusive alloy tank (MH tank) 31.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takahiro Kuriiwa, Toshiaki Shimada, Yoshio Nuiya
  • Publication number: 20030140607
    Abstract: A low pressure tank and filler mechanism for holding clean air for dispensing in the vicinity of a user. The tank can contain a plurality of balloon-like structures, each holding a certain quantity of low pressure air. The balloons are coupled to a central hollow column or manifold whereby pure air is either loaded or discharged from the balloons. The tank mates by an external valve into a filler machanism that conveniently fills the tank with air that has been purified by passing it through a series of different types of filters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: George Benda
  • Patent number: 6598337
    Abstract: A lure for bees which is utilized during a rescue attempt. The lure is activated by the rescuer and tossed a short distance away from the attack site to draw the attacking bees, together with newly arriving bees, away from the victim and the rescuer. The lure is equipped with a variety of devices designed to attract the bees, including, but not limited to: noise attraction, chemical attraction, and motion attraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Mark E. Ogram
  • Publication number: 20030109058
    Abstract: Hyperpolarizers for producing polarized noble gases can include: (a) a control module configured to direct the operation of a hyperpolarizer to produce polarized noble gas via spin-exchange interactions between a noble gas and an alkali metal; (b) at least one optical pumping module including an optical pumping cell operably associated with the control module; (c) a dispensing system operably associated with the control module and the optical pumping module to dispense meted volumes of polarized gas from the hyperpolarizer; and (d) a fluid distribution system operably associated with the control module, the optical pumping module, and the dispensing system, such that, in response to commands transmitted from the control module, the fluid distribution system operates to automatically direct purge gas into and out of a gas travel path that extends from the control module to the optical pumping cell prior to commencing the spin-exchange interactions in the optical pumping cell, then to receive unpolarized gas an
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth Bolam
  • Publication number: 20030085238
    Abstract: An apparatus that includes a liquid dosing unit for introducing a liquefied gas into a volume of a multipane glass unit, which glass unit is defined by one or more dimensional parameters. An apparatus further including one or more measuring devices that measure the dimensional parameters of the multipane glass unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Bradley A. Segro
  • Patent number: 6557902
    Abstract: The present invention includes an airbag arrangement which includes an airbag, a gas tube connected to the airbag, a gas generator having at least one gas outlet, and a jointed connection designed as a ball and socket joint for connecting the gas outlet with the gas tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Takata (Europe) Vehicle Safety Technology GmbH
    Inventors: Heinrich Einsiedel, Oliver Glöckler, Maximilian Waimer
  • Patent number: 6543236
    Abstract: Methods of extracting and removing hyperpolarized gas from a container include introducing an extraction fluid into the container to force the hyperpolarized gas out of an exit port. The hyperpolarized gas is forced out of the container separate and apart from the extraction fluid. Alternatively, if the fluid is a gas, a portion of the gas is mixed with the hyperpolarized gas to form a sterile mixed fluid product suitable for introduction to a patient. An additional method includes engaging a gas transfer source such as a syringe to a transport container and pulling a quantity of the hyperpolarized gas out of the container in a controlled manner. Another method includes introducing a quantity of liquid into a container and covering at least one predetermined internal surface or component with the liquid to mask the surfaces and keep the hyperpolarized gas away from the predetermined internal surface, thereby inhibiting any depolarizing affect from same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Medi-Physics, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Zollinger, Kenton C. Hasson
  • Patent number: 6543806
    Abstract: A pressurized container includes a vessel defining a chamber therein. A housing that is connected to the vessel defines an outlet that is fluidly separated from the chamber by a closure member. A moveable member may be seated within and form a seal with the housing and abut the closure member. Activation of an initiator propels the moveable member through the closure member, thereby fluidly connecting the chamber and the outlet. The pressurized container might include an obstruction partially blocking an outlet path and another initiator that breaks the obstruction when activated, thereby further opening the outlet path. The pressurized container might include a main path fluidly connected to the outlet, a first secondary path that connects the main path to the chamber, and a second secondary path that also connects the main path to the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: NxGen Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Michael F. Fink
  • Patent number: 6527075
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a storage pack for storing gas under pressure for providing an onboard supply of the pressurized gas. The pressurized gas may be used as a medicinal gas, e.g. oxygen, on emergency medical vehicles, or the gas may be used as a fuel source for a motorized vehicle having a motor that runs on combustible gas. The gas storage pack includes a pressure vessel formed from a plurality of hollow chambers, which have either an ellipsoidal or spherical shape, interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The pressure vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The gas storage pack further includes a gas transfer control system attached to the pressure vessel for controlling gas flow into and out of the pressure vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Mallinckrodt Inc.
    Inventors: John I. Izuchukwu, Stan A. Sanders
  • Patent number: 6509425
    Abstract: Process for the introduction of liquid into a continuous process for the gas-phase polymerization of a olefin monomer and one or more other alpha-olefins in a fluidized-bed reactor, the liquid being introduced by at least one nozzle having a feed pipe and a sleeve sliding inside and at the end of the pipe, the position of the said sleeve along the feed pipe being determined by the pressure of the feed liquid and the return force of a preloaded spring, the spring having one end fixed to the sleeve and the other end to the feed pipe, the sleeve being provided with one or more recesses along its surface for sliding with the feed pipe, the recesses emerging in a groove around the circumference of the sleeve and below a circular stop integral with the same sleeve, the stop resting, when the nozzle is not in use, on a rim of the end of the feed pipe, the rim and the circular stop of the sleeve each being provided with a bearing surface, the contact area of which is minimized to allow good sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: BP Chemicals Limited
    Inventors: Joseph Barraco, Jean-Louis Chamayou, Jean-Claude Chinh, Guillaume Demoustier, Pierre Dugua, Jean-Noel Large, Eric Madrid, Henry Morel, Ronald Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20020178783
    Abstract: A system for regulating and monitoring the delivery of a flow of a gas from a gas source to an output flow of a gas delivery device, wherein the gas is comprised of at least one specialty gas and preferably greater than one specialty gas. The system comprises a delivery unit and a sampling unit. The delivery unit is connectable with the gas source and the output flow of the gas delivery device for delivering the flow of the gas from the gas source to the output flow at an injection site defined thereby, wherein the delivery unit is comprised of an adjustable device for regulating the flow of the gas therethrough. The sampling unit is connectable with the output flow of the gas delivery device at a location downstream of the injection site for removing a gas sample from the output flow, wherein the sampling unit is comprised of a sample monitoring device for providing feedback on the composition of the gas sample. Preferably, the feedback is provided on a continuous basis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Chris Miller, Steven Fairbanks, John W.H. Miller
  • Patent number: 6483437
    Abstract: A compressed gas visual notification device for signaling distress is provided. The compressed gas visual notification device includes a device housing having outer walls and a bottom wall for forming an interior firing chamber with the outer walls having first and second openings. The compressed gas visual notification device also includes a firing mechanism disposed in the first opening in the outer walls; a safety switch disposed in said second opening in the outer walls; and an air actuator shell disposed in the interior firing chamber. The interior firing chamber includes the firing mechanism and an actuator mechanism for firing the air actuator shell. The air actuator shell includes outer walls and a bottom wall for forming an interior shell compartment and shell opening. The shell opening has a non-porous shell membrane thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph Gelchion, Aaron Gindi
  • Patent number: 6474076
    Abstract: A fluid storage and dispensing system including a fluid storage and dispensing vessel enclosing an interior volume for holding a fluid. The vessel includes a fluid discharge port for discharging fluid from the vessel. A pressure regulating element in the interior volume of the fluid storage and dispensing vessel is arranged to flow fluid therethrough to the fluid discharge port at a set pressure for dispensing thereof. A controller external of the fluid storage and dispensing vessel is arranged to transmit a control input into the vessel to cause the pressure regulating element to change the set pressure of the fluid flowed from the pressure regulating element to the fluid discharge port. By such arrangement, the respective storage and dispensing operations can have differing regulator set point pressures, as for example a subatmospheric pressure set point for storage and a superatmospheric pressure set point for dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Luping Wang, Glenn M. Tom, James A. Dietz, Steven M. Lurcott, Steven J. Hultquist
  • Publication number: 20020159921
    Abstract: A method and apparatus therefor for depositing a flattened droplet on a partially absorbent surface comprising the steps of providing a narrow bore transfer tube having a proximal end and a distal end and containing a microvolume of liquid, the proximal end connected to a pneumatic system adapted for issuing an outgoing flow of displacement gas into the tube and drawing an incoming flow of displacement gas therefrom; and issuing an outgoing flow of displacement gas for slowly discharging substantially the entire microvolume of liquid as a droplet on the surface and controllably blowing one or more bubbles into the droplet towards the end of its discharge for flattening the droplet on the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Applicant: A.R.T. Medical Instruments Ltd.
    Inventors: Abraham Berger, Ben Zion Haim, Baruch Meirovich, Avri Hazan
  • Patent number: 6471750
    Abstract: A gas containment assembly including a containment enclosure defining an enclosed interior volume, with an exhaust inlet and an exhaust outlet for flow of exhaust gas into the enclosed interior volume through the exhaust inlet and flow from the containment enclosure through the exhaust outlet. A gas supply vessel and/or gas flow circuitry is provided in the interior volume of the containment enclosure. A back-migration scrubber unit overlies and is sealed to the exhaust inlet so that back-flow migration of gas from the gas supply vessel and/or gas flow circuitry in the interior volume of the containment enclosure is sorptively taken up by sorbent material in the scrubber unit and prevented from passing into an ambient environment in which said gas containment assembly is deployed. This arrangement permits significant reduction in the flow rate of exhaust gas through the gas containment enclosure without compromising the safety of the gas containment assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Karl Olander
  • Publication number: 20020152756
    Abstract: Methods of extracting and removing hyperpolarized gas from a container include introducing an extraction fluid into the container to force the hyperpolarized gas out of an exit port. The hyperpolarized gas is forced out of the container separate and apart from the extraction fluid. Alternatively, if the fluid is a gas, a portion of the gas is mixed with the hyperpolarized gas to form a sterile mixed fluid product suitable for introduction to a patient. An additional method includes engaging a gas transfer source such as a syringe to a transport container and pulling a quantity of the hyperpolarized gas out of the container in a controlled manner. Another method includes introducing a quantity of liquid into a container and covering at least one predetermined internal surface or component with the liquid to mask the surfaces and keep the hyperpolarized gas away from the predetermined internal surface, thereby inhibiting any depolarizing affect from same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventors: David L. Zollinger, Kenton C. Hasson
  • Publication number: 20020148851
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for extending the useful operating life of a low-pressure gas bottle for use in a semiconductor device manufacturing process. As the gas bottle is detected to be approaching an empty condition, the gas in the bottle is safely heated in a manner that causes gas molecules to be released from an absorbent material used in the bottle. In a preferred embodiment, a thermo-pressurizer, including a heating blanket that surrounds the gas bottle and a temperature controller coupled to the heating blanket, causes the pressure in the gas bottle to be elevated, thereby releasing gas molecules from the absorbent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventors: Stephen Toy, Baldwin B. Chiu
  • Publication number: 20020134791
    Abstract: A rigid, one piece nozzle for blast aerators is configured to be mounted in a variety of operating orientations within and upon applications of widely varying shapes and geometry. The generally triangular nozzle comprises a flat base and a spaced-apart, arcuate top, secured to the base by a pair of opposed side walls. An inlet orifice in the flat body portion is internally configured like a truncated cone, and communicates with the nozzle discharge orifice thorough the hollow interior of the nozzle. The inlet is conical to permit the feed pipe to be mated and welded to it once the parts are properly oriented by the installer. An airtight seal results during welding, as the void between the pipe periphery and the circumference the inlet seat the weldment. Because the feed pipe may be fitted to the nozzle at so many angles and orientations, it is suitable for a wide variety of job applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Applicant: Global Mfg. Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney D. Treat, Stanislav Kligman
  • Publication number: 20020134794
    Abstract: A fluid containment system including a vessel for containing a fluid that is discharged from the vessel in use or operation of the system. A pressure monitoring assembly including a strain-responsive sensor is disposed on an exterior wall surface of the vessel, to sense dynamic strain on the wall surface of such vessel that is incident to discharge of fluid from the vessel, and to responsively output a pressure-indicative response. Such arrangement is particularly useful in application to fluid storage and dispensing vessels containing interiorly disposed pressure regulator assemblies and holding liquefied gases or compressed gases, e.g., for use in semiconductor manufacturing operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Applicant: Advanced Technology Materials Inc.
    Inventors: James V. McManus, Michael J. Wodjenski, Edward E. Jones
  • Patent number: 6453920
    Abstract: A walking assistance device, for example, a walking cane, a walking crutch, or walker includes a gas storage vessel for providing an ambulatory supply of medicinal gas for a user of the device. The gas storage vessel is formed from a plurality of polymeric hollow chamber having either an ellipsoidal or spherical shape and interconnected by a plurality of relatively narrow conduit sections disposed between consecutive ones of the chambers. The gas storage vessel includes a reinforcing filament wrapped around the interconnected chambers and interconnecting conduit sections to limit radial expansion of the chambers and conduit sections when filled with a fluid under pressure. The container system further includes a fluid transfer control system attached to the gas storage vessel for controlling fluid flow into and out of the gas storage vessel and a gas delivery mechanism for delivering gas from the gas storage vessel to a user in a breathable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Mallinckrodt Inc.
    Inventors: John I. Izuchukwu, Stan A. Sanders
  • Patent number: RE37843
    Abstract: An apparatus for inflating a vehicle occupant restraint includes containing means for receiving gases to provide a combustible mixture of the gases. An igniter is activated to effect ignition of the mixture of gases in response to sudden vehicle deceleration. A directing means directs a flow of gas from containing means into the inflatable occupant restraint. In the preferred embodiment the gases are an inert gas, a fuel gas, and an oxidizer gas. Also, a lean mixture of a fuel gas and oxidizer gas could be used. An improved igniter transmits energy through an imperforate portion of a wall of the containing means to ignite a charge in the containing means. The igniter may include an elongate core disposed in a frangible sheath which is shattered as the core is burned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Jack L. Blumenthal, Nahum Gat, Ernst M. Faigle, John H. Semchena, Richard J. Thompson