With Flow Controller Or Closure Patents (Class 222/529)
  • Publication number: 20040084486
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing system and methods including color-coded visual indicia to assist an operator in the proper selection of the components and in the configuration of those components in the system during setup, maintenance and diagnostics. Color-coded indicia is also provided to assist an operator in the proper selection of a solenoid for use in a particular application. Various components of the liquid dispensing system, such as the melter unit, controller, hoses, electrical cordsets and solenoid, include visually identifiable color-coded indicia on the surfaces of the components, such as color-coded rings, bands and characters, to assist the operator in the component selection and configuration processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Applicant: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Raterman, Harold T. Patterson, Gregory J. Gabryszewski
  • Patent number: 6722533
    Abstract: A hydration pouch with a releasable coupling is disclosed. The hydration pouch is a flexible bag or pouch with a separate inlet and outlet. A hose or tube is provided for a user to draw refreshment from the pouch. A valve is provided at one end of the tube. Closer to the pouch, or at the pouch itself, a coupling is provided for attaching and detaching at least a portion of the hose. The coupling includes a shutoff or check valve in order to maintain the patency of the pouch when the hose is disconnected. Upon engaging the portions of the coupling, fluid within the pouch is able to feed into the tube. In use, the pouch is generally housed in a backpack. By actuating the coupling, the pouch alone may be removed for refill, chilling or cleaning—leaving the hose behind so it does not also have to be refit in the pack the next time around.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jeff Skillern
  • Publication number: 20040069817
    Abstract: A hand-operated, portable sprayer to selectively produce a foamy effluent spray, rather than only the purely liquid spray provided by conventional sprayers. The sprayer includes segregated air and liquid delivery systems that separately supply air and liquid from the pressurized tank reservoir to a mixing chamber. Foaming may be facilitated by incorporating a mixing medium in or downstream from the mixing chamber. A flow controller is provided to control the flow of output from the sprayer. The flow controller and the mixing chamber may be incorporated into a single component. A valve may be included in the air delivery line to allow the users to attenuate the air flow rate to the mixing chamber, thereby permitting the user to select the consistency of the effluent foam according to the particular application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel R. Jacques
  • Publication number: 20040069816
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for swivel attachment of supply vessels to applicator devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an applicator device, a supply vessel having an interior volume, and a swivel assembly coupled between the supply vessel and the applicator device. The swivel assembly includes a first engagement member having a protruding portion and a first passageway disposed therethrough, and a second engagement member having a concavity and a second passageway disposed therethrough, the protruding portion being moveably engaged within the concavity such that the interior volume of the supply vessel fluidly communicates with the applicator device through the first and second passageways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Skye Lechner Wollenberg, Neil Garrett Stockman
  • Patent number: 6712246
    Abstract: A phial (10) for distributing products, in particular medicinal products, lubricants, glues and creams, comprising a truncated-conical annular wall (18), positioned between the walls of the mouthpiece (14) and those of the collar (15) of the above phial (10), in order to allow a stable positioning of a distributing element, which extends from the mouthpiece (14), also in inclined positions with respect to the vertical axis (19) of the phial (10); this allows a simplified application of the product, also in points which are extremely difficult to reach and in sensitive and delicate areas of the human body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Inge S.p.A.
    Inventor: Alessio Nobbio
  • Patent number: 6708849
    Abstract: An actuator and tube overcap assembly has an actuator having an inlet and an outlet. A tube has a fluid passageway therethrough and an inlet end connected to the outlet of the actuator and an extension portion extending therefrom. An overcap is removably affixed to the actuator and has a top and a side extending therefrom. The top and side of the overcap have an inner surface. The overcap has internal tube retaining portions having a tube retaining surface. The tube retaining surface extends away from the inner surface of the top and is spaced from the inner surface of the side with the tube extension positioned therebetween. A valve is provided by substantially closing the fluid passageway of the tube. A method for making the assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Precision Thermoplastic Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall E. Carter, Leslie F. Kohli, Brian D. Schumacher
  • Publication number: 20040026463
    Abstract: A dispensing device especially for dispensing colour paste comprises a container (1) for storing the colour paste, a pump (3) connected to the container (1), a nozzle pipe (9), and a valve which connects the pump (3) to the container (1) and to the nozzle pipe (9). The valve comprises a valve enclosure (5), a valve element (4) arranged to move in a reciprocating manner in it, and a seat connected to the nozzle pipe (9). An elastic sealing (7) is attached to the valve element (4) for providing a return movement of the valve element after the nozzle pipe (9) has been closed by a percussion-like movement of the valve element (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Pentti Airaksinen
  • Patent number: 6666354
    Abstract: A child-resistant fluid delivery device, comprising a container for storing fluid to be dispensed by the fluid delivery device and a wand assembly connected to the container. The wand assembly having a nozzle at a distal end through which fluid may be dispensed and a child-resistant connector at a proximal end. A ratchet mechanism is formed on the exterior of the child-resistant connector to permit attachment of the connector to the container and thereafter prevent removal of the connector from the container. The nozzle is sealed by a removable, child-resistant cover that includes at least one member that engages the nozzle to resist removal therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: H. D. Hudson Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: William A. Hudson, Raymond Cracauer
  • Patent number: 6644518
    Abstract: A tear-off opening device for drink cans by means of a tab (1) with grip device (2) for tearing, comprising, underneath the tab (1), a shaped lamina (4), secured underneath the lid (6) for a segment (41) which partially surrounds the edge of the opening (3), whilst at least a remaining segment (42) stays free, the lamina (4) having a conformation that is able to vary from a first stable configuration in which, with the can closed, it is drawn up underneath the tab (1), to successive and transitory configurations that take place during the extraction of the lamina (4) through the opening (3) and to a final stable configuration in which, with the extraction completed, the lamina (4) constitutes a stable spout (8) with related opening (9) whose free edges belong to the free segment (42) of the lamina (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Vincenzo Cavallo
  • Patent number: 6641007
    Abstract: A container including a pail and a lid with a retractable spout disposed in an opening defined in the lid. The spout is displaceable between a retracted position with said spout projecting inwardly into the pail and an extended position with the spout projecting outwardly from the lid away from the pail. The spout has a free end and an opposite end permanently secured at all times to the lid proximate the opening irrespective of the positioning of the spout. In a preferred embodiment, the lid is secured to the pail so as to form an airtight seal therebetween. The spout and lid also preferably form an airtight seal therebetween. The container is used to store any product, for example, a salt product used to melt ice on outdoor surfaces in cold weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Preferred Market Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Su Hui Chung, Antonio De Gregorio
  • Publication number: 20030197039
    Abstract: A container for carrying loose products, the body of which, without inner protective liner, is made of stainless steel. For unloading loose products there is provided at least one elongated dorsal opening, which is equipped with an openable door and to which there is applied a conveyor consisting of a flexible element generally shaped like a funnel, which can be configured in a condition packed inside the opening in the position of closing of the door, and in a distended condition outside the body of the container in the position of opening of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Applicant: COBRA CONTAINERS S.p.A
    Inventors: Cesare Marino, Giuseppe Revello
  • Patent number: 6619518
    Abstract: A spout assembly for a liquid container comprises a body 100 coupled with a neck of a container 400 including an opening portion N which is protruded from a top side of the body 100, a spout 200 movably inserted into the opening portion N for drinking of liquid contained in the container or dispensing the liquid into another container, and a cap 300 coupled around the opening portion N to open and close the spout 200, wherein the opening portion N of the body 100 has a bendable thin plate portion and the spout 200 has a bendable portion, thereby the opening portion N of the body can be bent in a direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Jung Min Lee
  • Publication number: 20030150887
    Abstract: A closed loop dispensing system for use on a liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dispensing the liquid contents from the bottle. The outlet opening of the bottle is closed by a throat plug having a valve positioned therein which is open when the container cap is mounted on the container, but which automatically closes when the cap is removed from the container. An inlet opening is provided in the container insert so that liquid may be drawn therethrough. A closure cap is mounted on the bottle and has a dispensing tube extending therefrom for dispensing liquid from the container to a mixing machine or the like. A check valve is associated with the cap for preventing backflow from the dispensing tube to the container and for permitting liquid flow from the container to the dispensing tube in response to suction being applied to the dispensing tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Patent number: 6595392
    Abstract: A spray pump apparatus typically employed in gardening and commercial applications wherein a charged liquid is sprayed in a garden environment or on a floor surface for removing spills, grease or stains. In its most fundamental embodiments the spray pump apparatus for use in spraying: fluids includes an outer housing and a pump assembly in mechanical communication with the outer housing for developing a pressure therein. An integral bladder assembly is mounted within the outer housing and comprises an integrally formed combination of a flexible bladder, a hose and a nozzle. The flexible bladder is subjected to the pressure developed by the pump assembly for expelling a fluid contained within the flexible bladder, wherein the integral bladder assembly is installed in and removed from the outer housing as the integrally formed combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: B & B Company
    Inventor: Burton Barnett
  • Publication number: 20030102318
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spout assembly having a plurality of fluid passages so as to enable easy and convenient drinking of liquid beverages contained in the container through an associated straw and easily dispense the liquid beverages into another container. The spout assembly includes a main body coupled on a top of a container, a fluid spout assembly having a first fluid passage through which the liquid beverage can flow out of the container in a state where the container is inclined and a second fluid passage through which the liquid beverage can be socked in a state where the container vertically stands; and a cap coupled to the fluid spouting assembly. The fluid spout assembly can be folded on a folding portion or be elected so that the user can drink or dispense the liquid beverages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Jung Min Lee
  • Patent number: 6571995
    Abstract: A spout assembly for a liquid container includes a tube-shaped main body formed on a container cap and projected upward by a predetermined length, an operating tube inserted into the tube-shaped main body and extending into a container by a predetermined length, and a spout seal cap fitted on an upper portion of the tube-shaped main body. So as to enable the tube-shaped main body and the operating tube moves between a first position where the main body and the operating tube can be vertically erected on a surface of the container cap and a second position where the main body and the operating tube can be secured parallel to the surface of the container cap, a first pleated expansible and flexible part is provided on the main body and a second pleated expansible and flexible part is provided on the operating tube to correspond to the first pleated expansible and flexible part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Jung Min Lee
  • Patent number: 6564973
    Abstract: A carton for a foam dispensing system which includes supply containers, a dispenser and hoses for connecting each container to the dispenser. The carton includes first and second face panels which are interconnected by respective first and second side panels. Bottom panels extend from the first and second face panels to define a bottom of the carton. The cover panel extends from the first face panel to define a cover of the carton. A first flap which is defined in the cover panel, which, in an open position, is disposed at an angle to the cover panel. A handle is connected to the containers for carrying the carton and projects through the first access opening. A second flap is defined in the second face panel and the first reinforcing element. A third flap is defined in the second flap. The hoses extend from the containers, through hose paths associated with the second flap to the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Flexible Products Company
    Inventors: Daniel P. Brown, Michael C. Dean, Ross Wilson, Gary Grunauer, Gurp Ahluwalia
  • Patent number: 6494344
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing container for conveniently storing and dispensing various types of fluids. The liquid dispensing container includes a container capable of storing a volume of fluid, a strap attached to an upper surface of the container, a fill cap removably attached to a threaded nipple, a transparent or semi-transparent viewing portion within at least one side of the container, a dispensing hose fluidly connected to a lower portion of the container, a dispensing nozzle attached to the end of the dispensing hose, and a clasp attached to the container for catchably receiving the dispensing hose. A plurality of marker lines and relevant indicia are preferably positioned adjacent the viewing portion which has an elongate vertical structure thereto for allowing an individual to determine the amount of fluid within or dispensed from the container. The dispensing hose and the nozzle are preferably comprised of a relatively smaller structure for allowing the individual to fit the nozzle into compact areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph A. Kressel, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20020158069
    Abstract: A straw adapter 2 is removably disposed in the opening of a beverage container 1, and a straw 22 is attached to the straw adapter 2. A straw cap 12 is mounted on the straw adapter 2, for covering the straw attached to the straw adapter 2. Operations of the straw cap 12 opens and closes an air hole opening/closing valve 6.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Sumiyo Yoneoka, Kazunao Ogura, Momoe Kigushi
  • Patent number: 6454126
    Abstract: An anti-fraud closure device for providing evidence of the initial opening of a container for liquids having a pouring body, a connecting element, a mixing element for connecting the pouring body to the neck of the container, a removable cap and an outer cap disposed over and housing a cap. The device further includes a sleeve, a tubular element inserted in the sleeve and connected thereto for partial angular movement and for axial movement between a first and a second position and an element for indicating that the initial opening of the container has taken place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Guala Closures S.p.A.
    Inventor: Piero Battegazzore
  • Patent number: 6454137
    Abstract: A closure for a container having an opening, comprising a baffle having at one end a surface for blocking communication with the opening, an orifice at a top end of the baffle for communicating with the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Ron Sturk
  • Patent number: 6435384
    Abstract: A method is provided for forming a recyclable plastic container component with an integral preform. A preform is placed within a mold recess. The mold is closed to capture the preform, thereby forming a flow passage with a shape corresponding to contours of the container component. Plastic is injected into the flow passage under pressure. The injected plastic bonds to an edge portion of the preform. The molded component is then cooled and removed from the mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: North America Packaging Corporation
    Inventors: Darrell Davis, Alan Zellers
  • Patent number: 6422421
    Abstract: A pizza sauce dispensing apparatus that includes a base, a motor mounted within the base, a pump mounted to the base, a container of sauce mounted on the base, a removable conduit connecting the container and the pump, a valve removably mounted to the container, a nozzle, another removable conduit between the pump and the nozzle, a nozzle switch, a bracket for storing the nozzle when not in use, an electrical control circuit for programming the apparatus to dispense sauce as a function of pizza size, a sauce addition switch and a sauce subtraction switch, and an electrical path including two metal posts and wire from the base to the nozzle switch. The parts having the sauce path are removable and washable even though some of the parts include an electrical path which typically cannot be immersed in water. The result is an efficient, relatively inexpensive apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Quantum Technical Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Freudinger, David J. White
  • Patent number: 6422433
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing a fluid product, the apparatus including a dispenser cap including a substantially cylindrical base portion including a flexible post protruding therefrom, and a substantially cylindrical cover portion which is shaped to fit overtop of the substantially cylindrical base portion, said substantially cylindrical cover portion including a frustoconical portion extend therefrom which receives the flexible post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Sussex Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher T. Evans, Christopher Gieda
  • Publication number: 20020092873
    Abstract: A beverage tapper having at least two supply lines includes a beverage tapper and at least two supply fittings. The beverage tapper is normally used to pump a quantity of beverage out of a beverage container. The at two supply fittings are preferably formed radially outward from the supply cavity of the beverage tapper similar to any existing beverage tapper. Existing beverage tappers may be modified to form the beverage tapper having at least two supply lines by attaching at least one attachable supply fitting adjacent the existing supply fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Grant W. Garson
  • Patent number: 6415960
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing apparatus for removably coupling to an arm of a user. The liquid dispensing apparatus includes a container for holding a liquid. The container includes a first wall, a second wall and a peripheral wall extending between the first and second walls to define an interior for receiving the liquid. A port having a hole extending through it is provided for expelling the liquid. A conduit is provided for transporting the liquid from the container to the port. A first end of the conduit is fluidly connected to a second wall of the container. A second end of the conduit is fluidly connected to the port. A valve assembly is provided for controlling the flow of liquid through the conduit and is operationally coupled to a portion of the conduit. A plurality of fastening members is provided for fastening the apparatus to the arm of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventors: Karen E. Fink, Diana L. Kubajak
  • Patent number: 6412707
    Abstract: A portable backpack sprayer for spraying liquid chemicals such as pesticides, fungicides, and fertilizers having a large storage tank in which is mounted a pressure vessel. A manually actuated pumping assembly is connected with the bottom portion of the pressure vessel and also with the bottom portion of the tank. The pumping assembly comprises a reciprocating piston to draw liquid from the storage tank and pressurize it within the pressure vessel. The operator may discharge the pressurized liquid using a hose and a control valve affixed to the pressure vessel. The pumping assembly further comprises a double-walled piston and a leak barrier to collect any liquid that may leak from the piston. The reciprocating action of the piston is utilized to return the leaked liquid to the storage tank via a return siphon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Pedro Wirz
  • Publication number: 20020053579
    Abstract: An adjustable dispensing nozzle for an aerosol container in which pivotally interconnected elbows have a positionable extension tube extending from one elbow and a stem on the other elbow inserted into and pivotal in a socket on a valve actuating lever of a cap mounted on the container. Means for dispensing a spray may be incorporated within the stem of the dispensing nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventors: Richard J. Baumgart, Zhiqiang Zhang, Steve B. Ruble
  • Publication number: 20020023933
    Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid dispenser which is adapted to connect to a container, the container including a membrane seal, wherein the dispenser is movable between two configurations being an unopened configuration to an open configuration which opens a liquid channel from the liquid dispenser to the container cap, and which pierces the membrane seal to open a liquid channel from the container through to the dispenser. A method of manufacturing such a dispenser is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Applicant: ITW New Zealand Limited
    Inventor: Andrew Nicholson Wrigley
  • Patent number: 6347729
    Abstract: A hose coupling apparatus for removably coupling a hose to a discharge opening of a spray unit includes an elongate hose retainer having a plug end and a stem end. The hose retainer defines a longitudinal fluid passageway extending therethrough from the plug end to the stem end. The plug end is configured for being received within the discharge opening of the spray unit. The stem end is configured for being coupled to the hose. At least one locking tab is disposed intermediate the plug end and the stem end. Each of the at least one locking tab is configured for being disposed within a corresponding slot defined by a neck which surrounds the discharge opening of the spray unit, thereby precluding rotation of the hose retainer relative to the neck. A hose nut defines a hose bore therethrough. The hose bore is configured for receiving the hose such that the hose nut is slidable over the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Chapin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Clark F. Spriegel
  • Publication number: 20020014498
    Abstract: A hydration system with an improved fluid reservoir. A drinking tube extends from an outlet port of the reservoir and includes a distal end upon which a mouthpiece may be mounted. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a relatively large-diameter fill port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a closure member with a handle for selectively sealing the input port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a wrench assembly that enables the user to more easily open and close the input port and/or to position the reservoir for filling. In some embodiments, the hydration system includes a pack into which the reservoir is received, and in some embodiments, the pack includes a hanger assembly adapted to support the reservoir within the pack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventors: Barley A. Forsman, Robert Miros, Robert Choi
  • Patent number: 6318604
    Abstract: A spout (10) for mounting on a liquid container (12) to provide controlled dispensing of liquid therefrom includes a manual control for stopping the flow of liquid through a pouring tube (22) and an automatic control to prevent spills due to overfilling. Manual control over the amount of liquid flowing through the pouring opening of the spout (10) is provided by a preferably tubular rod (26) having a stop (28) mounted at one end and a push button actuator (34) at the other end of the rod (26). The spout (10) includes a body (24) with the pouring tube (22) extending from one side and the push button (34) for opening the stop (28) to dispense liquid on the other side of the body. The automatic control is provided through a vent tube (30) which extends through a port in the pouring tube (22) and is connected to the tubular rod (26) which is provided with at least one hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: No-Spill Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Marvin Messner
  • Patent number: 6299035
    Abstract: A remote activation dispensing apparatus for dispensing fluids. An actuating device positioned on a dispensing tube is operably connected to a flexible elongated member, which is operably connected to a valve in a dispensing unit. Upon manipulation of the actuating device, the valve is actuated for passing or cutting off fluids from the dispensing unit to the dispensing tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Hydro Systems Company
    Inventor: Mark D. Dalhart
  • Patent number: 6293436
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing container of the squeeze bottle type has a low center of gravity liquid bottle with a hemispherical base portion and a frusto-conical neck portion. A spout assembly is coupled to an upper end of the neck portion for dispensing liquid when a deformable bottom wall of the base portion of the bottle is flexed. The spout assembly includes a bottle cap with a through bore in which a flexible dispensing tube is slidably extensible and retractable to dispense liquid, such as lubricating oil, into locations that would otherwise be inaccessible. A wiper element in the bottle cap associated with the through bore provides a liquid impervious seal between the bottle cap and the tube and ensures that excess liquid on the outer surface of the tube is scraped off as the tube is extended. A nozzle is connected to a distal end of the tube and a pop-up sealing cap is slidable back and forth over the nozzle to selectively open and close a dispensing hole in the pop-up cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: WD-40 Company
    Inventors: David J. Faughnder, Lanny A. Gorton
  • Patent number: 6260739
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a self-contained hose and valve assembly for installation on a pressurized canister. In one embodiment of the invention, a flexible hose is wrapped around a valve and is removably attached to a base supporting the valve. The hose and valve are housed within a cover that is removably secured to the base to form a self-contained unit. In an additional embodiment of the invention, the self-contained hose and valve assembly does not contain a cover and the hose is instead attached to the valve or the base by an adhesive or a mechanical fastener, such as a shrink sleeve to form the self-contained unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Chung J. Hsiao
  • Patent number: 6247619
    Abstract: A flexible container for storing and dispensing liquids including an inner bag and at least one outer bag, and liquid dispensing means, wherein the inner bag is a collapsible impervious bag for dispensing liquid located within the outer bag, wherein the outer bag's longitudinal dimensions are smaller than the inner bag's dimensions such that at any given imaginary cross section, the inner bag's circumference at the imaginary cross section is greater than the outer bag's circumference at the same imaginary cross section, and wherein the outer bag is made of a substantially non-stretching flexible material, thus imparting the outer bag's high pressure and external impact durability properties to the inner bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Source Vagabond Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Yoram Gill, Asaf Ezer
  • Publication number: 20010003342
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing container of the squeeze bottle type has a low center of gravity liquid bottle with a hemispherical base portion and a frusto-conical neck portion. A spout assembly is coupled to an upper end of the neck portion for dispensing liquid when a deformable bottom wall of the base portion of the bottle is flexed. The spout assembly includes a bottle cap with a through bore in which a flexible dispensing tube is slidably extensible and retractable to dispense liquid, such as lubricating oil, into locations that would otherwise be inaccessible. A wiper element in the bottle cap associated with the through bore provides a liquid impervious seal between the bottle cap and the tube and ensures that excess liquid on the outer surface of the tube is scraped off as the tube is extended. A nozzle is connected to a distal end of the tube and a pop-up sealing cap is slidable back and forth over the nozzle to selectively open and close a dispensing hole in the pop-up cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Publication date: June 14, 2001
    Inventors: DAVID J. FAUGHNDER, LANNY A. GORTON
  • Patent number: 6237818
    Abstract: A flexible pouring spout for material containers incorporating a tamper evident ring having a nested flexible spout capable of being selectively moved between a nested position and an extended position, a cap threadedly attached to the spout, a tamper-evident ring attached to the cap by a plurality of frangible elements, and a metal ring for attaching the closure to the container. The metal ring is secured over the peripheral flange of the spout and over the tamper-evident ring, preventing the closure from being removed or the spout from being extended without detection. A flexible bail handle is attached to the cap member to facilitate extending the spout member and removing the cap. For additional tamper evidence, an internal diaphragm is used to seal off the spout until the closure is opened and the diaphragm removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Rieke Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas A. Kline
  • Patent number: 6216914
    Abstract: Disclosed is a new and improved dispensing system for dispensing fluid through an ornate system. The system has a housing with an upper end, a lower end, a front wall, a rear wall and opposed side walls. Further, the housing has a hollow interior, the lower end having an outwardly extending stand secured thereto. A fluid container is secured within the hollow interior with a cover removably coupled and with an open upper end thereof. An outlet hose extends outwardly of the container with an interior end in fluid communication with the fluid in the container. The outlet hose has an exterior end extending outwardly of one of the opposed side walls of the housing. An outlet pump is coupled with the exterior end of the outlet hose with a dispensing spout contiguous therewith, the outlet pump including a generally U-shaped handle extending downwardly therefrom. The outlet pump also includes a one-way valve pivotally disposed therein for precluding the flow of fluid therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Frank J. Martucci
  • Patent number: 6216921
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus is provided for dispensing funnel cake batter or other batter more productively and more sanitarily in a labor-saving and timesaving manner. This apparatus is an assembly made-up of three subassemblies, namely subassembly A, subassembly B, and subassembly C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Paul Rayford Spruill
  • Patent number: 6206249
    Abstract: A fluent material containing and dispensing apparatus including a hopper having four sidewalls. A tube mounts to one of the sidewalls, and an auger extends from one end of the tube to the opposite end of the hopper, driving material in the hopper through the tube when the auger is rotated. A flexible hose is mounted to the underside of the tube and material in the tube pours into the hose, which can be kinked to slow or stop flow of material. A gap is formed between the outer surfaces of the auger and the tube wall. A radially inwardly extending flange can be mounted to the tube wall to slow the flow of material through the gap. Alternatively, a compressible sleeve can be mounted in the gap between the outer surfaces of the auger and the tube wall extending a substantial length of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Damian L. Lang, Michael D. West
  • Patent number: 6173866
    Abstract: A removable wrist strap having a compartment containing a potable liquid held to the user's wrist by a VELCRO fastener. The wrist strap includes a tube or spout for the user to access the liquid during physical activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventors: Lucian Taylor, Jr., Lachele M. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6158631
    Abstract: A gun for dispensing fluids having a positionable spout comprises a handle provide with a trigger which is posteriorly coupled, by means of a rotatable connection, to a flexible fluid feed pipe and which anteriorly bears a spout destined to be introduced into an access of a container to be filled with fluid. The spout is sealedly connected to the handle by means of a connection which is rotatable about an axis of rotation which is not parallel to an axis of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: PIUSI S.p.A.
    Inventor: Otto Varini
  • Patent number: 6120233
    Abstract: A bulk seed bag carrier and dispenser of the present invention is adapted to transport and dispense the contents of a plurality of bulk seed bags. The bag carrier and dispenser includes a plurality of hoppers having V-shaped bottoms which help to empty the contents of the bag as well as stabilize the bag within the hopper. A horizontal auger is disposed below the hoppers and empties into a discharge auger having a movable and telescoping spout. The hoppers of the bulk seed carrier are offset to one side to allow a fork lift to move closer to the hoppers. The bulk seed carrier is preferably controlled by a wireless remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: Gerald E. Adam
  • Patent number: 6112955
    Abstract: A grout hopper and dispenser which may be raised on a fork lift so that grout may be placed in a concrete block wall. The grout hopper and dispenser includes an auger in the bottom thereof which forces the grout out through a tube which is connected to a flexible tube which is used by the workman in directing the grout to the appropriate location. The auger may be remotely controlled by the operator of the forklift truck which has lifted the grout hopper and dispenser into position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Damian Lang
  • Patent number: 6095372
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser, usable in dispensing milk, has a large refrigerated cabinet for housing large beverage containers. The beverage dispenser has a handle/valve with a first closed position, a second open position, and a third position for insertion and removal of a flexible milk tube. The handle includes two arms, and the user holds a cup between the two arms to receive the dispensed milk. The valve includes a cooling plate which refrigerates the milk in the flexible milk tube extending through the valve. The valve has a pinch plate which closes the flexible tube with a rocking motion, initially pinching the flexible tube at its lowest point and subsequently reopening the tube slightly to suck any beverage drops on the end of the tube back up into the tube. A hinged shelf is provided for ease of loading and unloading milk cases in and out of the refrigerated cabinet. The milk case has angled hand hold openings to allow lifting without repositioning of the wrists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Stevens-Lee Company
    Inventors: Steven T. Dorsey, Jerome D. Powlas, Karl D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6082590
    Abstract: A beverage dispenser, usable in dispensing milk, has a large refrigerated cabinet for housing large beverage containers. The beverage dispenser has a handle/valve with a first closed position, a second open position, and a third position for insertion and removal of a flexible milk tube. The handle includes two arms, and the user holds a cup between the two arms to receive the dispensed milk. The valve includes a cooling plate which refrigerates the milk in the flexible milk tube extending through the valve. The valve has a pinch plate which closes the flexible tube with a rocking motion, initially pinching the flexible tube at its lowest point and subsequently reopening the tube slightly to suck any beverage drops on the end of the tube back up into the tube. A hinged shelf is provided for ease of loading and unloading milk cases in and out of the refrigerated cabinet. The milk case has angled hand hold openings to allow lifting without repositioning of the wrists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Stevens-Lee Company
    Inventors: Steven T. Dorsey, Jerome D. Powlas, Karl D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6070769
    Abstract: A filler assembly includes a flexible hose having a predetermined length and a helical wire reinforcement within the hose to prevent collapse. A first coupling at one end of the hose attaches the filler assembly to a portable fuel jug. The coupling includes a threaded end and a cup-shaped end for receiving a barb attached to the flexible hose. A second coupling at the other end of the tubing adapts the filler assembly to the fuel tank of a vehicle. The second coupling includes a cup-shaped portion for receiving a second barb that fits within the hose. The second coupling also includes threaded, cylindrical portion that is sealed by a threaded cap. The cylindrical portion of the second coupling can be long or short, bent or straight, threaded or unthreaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Gary Eugene Hornsby
  • Patent number: 6070767
    Abstract: A personal hydration system with an improved mouthpiece for use in providing fluid for delivery to a user. The mouthpiece includes a neck that is adapted to be mounted on a supply tube to a hydration system and which is joined to a resilient head. The head includes a dispensing face with a pair of lips that define a normally closed slit, through which fluid is dispensed from the mouthpiece, a perimeter and a minimum dimension between opposed points on the perimeter. The bite region extends from the perimeter to a lip-receiving shoulder, which extends from the bite region to the neck, and the bite region has a length measured from the perimeter to the lip-receiving shoulder which is less than the minimum dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: CamelBak Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary D. Gardner, Cynthia A. Peters, Robert Choi
  • Patent number: RE37911
    Abstract: A fluent material containing and dispensing apparatus including a hopper having four sidewalls. A tube mounts to one of the sidewalls, and an auger extends from one end of the tube to the opposite end of the hopper, driving material in the hopper through the tube when the auger is rotated. A flexible hose is mounted to the underside of the tube and material in the tube pours into the hose, which can be kinked to slow or stop flow of material. A gap is formed between the outer surfaces of the auger and the tube wall. A radially inwardly extending flange can be mounted to the tube wall to slow the flow of material through the gap. Alternatively, a compressible sleeve can be mounted in the gap between the outer surfaces of the auger and the tube wall extending a substantial length of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Damian L. Lang