CONTAINERIZED LIQUID DISPENSING SYSTEM
United States Patent 3762606
A container and unique valving system therefor, adapted for mounting with a dispensing system. The structure of the container and the valving system permit safe, convenient, and uncontaminated handling of fluids.
US Patent References:
Combination opener and spout for a paper carton
Burnett - December 1964 - 3160322
BULK CONTAINERS FOR LIQUIDS
Malpas - October 1969 - 3474933
Dispensing device
Scholle - March 1966 - 3239104
Container and spout therefor
Baldwin - April 1961 - 2981443
Refillable dispenser with flexible outer casing
Nadler - November 1964 - 3157314
Combination opener and spout for a paper carton
Burnett - December 1964 - 3160322
BULK CONTAINERS FOR LIQUIDS
Malpas - October 1969 - 3474933
Dispensing device
Scholle - March 1966 - 3239104
Container and spout therefor
Baldwin - April 1961 - 2981443
Refillable dispenser with flexible outer casing
Nadler - November 1964 - 3157314
Application Number:
05/170757
Publication Date:
10/02/1973
Filing Date:
08/11/1971
View Patent Images:
Export Citation:
Primary Class:
Other Classes:
222/541.200
International Classes:
B67B7/48; B67B7/28
Field of Search:
222/88,86,541,83,83.5,89,90 220/85SP 229/14BE
Primary Examiner:
Reeves, Robert B.
Assistant Examiner:
Shannon, John P.
Claims:
What I claim is
1. A polygonal container adapted for insertion into a receiving port having valve means therein to control fluid flow, said valve means including piercing means having a constricted neck in close proximity to an inner wall of said receiving port; pierceable means mounted on said container and comprising: a first truncated substantially conical element secured through the wall of said container and having the end with the smallest cross-section positioned within said container and the end of the largest cross-section sealed to said container wall, the inner surface of said first element having circumferential indentations therein; and a sealing element having an outer surface adapted to seal with the inner surface of said first element and cooperate with said surface indentations to prevent movement along the axis of said substantially conical element; the inner surface of said sealing element having a circumferential radially extending projection adapted to project into the areas of the constricted neck of said piercing means.
2. A container as defined in claim 1, wherein said container includes a rigid outer wall with said pierceable means supported therein and projecting therethrough, and a flexible fluid impervious inner wall sealed to said pierceable means.
3. A container as defined in claim 2, wherein said rigid outer wall is pervious.
4. A fluid handling system comprising a polygonal container adapted for non-rotating insertion into a receiving port, said container having an outer surface configuration substantially complementary to the inner surface configuration of said receiving port on at least four contiguous sides, said receiving port having at least one end and said surface being configured to permit translation of said container through said open end along a predetermined path only; a rigidly mounted piercing member having a constricted neck positioned in said receiving port; and pierceable valve means on a fifth side of said container which is contiguous contiguous said four sides; said pierceable valve means being aligned with said piercing member along said predetermined path, and comprising a first truncated substantially conical element secured through the wall of said container and having the end with the smallest cross-section positioned within said container and the end of the largest cross-section sealed to said container wall, the inner surface of said first element having circumferential indentations therein; and a sealing element having an outer surface adapted to seal with the inner surface of said first element and cooperate with said surface indentations to prevent movement along the axis of said substantially conical element; the inner surface of said sealing element having a circumferential radially extending projection adapted to project into the areas of the constricted neck of said piercing means.
5. A system as defined in claim 4, wherein said piercing means has perforations in the vicinity of said point.
6. A container as defined in claim 4, wherein said system includes a rigid outer wall with said pierceable valve means supported therein and projecting therethrough, and a flexible fluid impervious inner wall sealed to said pierceable means.
7. A system as defined in claim 6, wherein said rigid outer wall is fluid pervious.
1. A polygonal container adapted for insertion into a receiving port having valve means therein to control fluid flow, said valve means including piercing means having a constricted neck in close proximity to an inner wall of said receiving port; pierceable means mounted on said container and comprising: a first truncated substantially conical element secured through the wall of said container and having the end with the smallest cross-section positioned within said container and the end of the largest cross-section sealed to said container wall, the inner surface of said first element having circumferential indentations therein; and a sealing element having an outer surface adapted to seal with the inner surface of said first element and cooperate with said surface indentations to prevent movement along the axis of said substantially conical element; the inner surface of said sealing element having a circumferential radially extending projection adapted to project into the areas of the constricted neck of said piercing means.
2. A container as defined in claim 1, wherein said container includes a rigid outer wall with said pierceable means supported therein and projecting therethrough, and a flexible fluid impervious inner wall sealed to said pierceable means.
3. A container as defined in claim 2, wherein said rigid outer wall is pervious.
4. A fluid handling system comprising a polygonal container adapted for non-rotating insertion into a receiving port, said container having an outer surface configuration substantially complementary to the inner surface configuration of said receiving port on at least four contiguous sides, said receiving port having at least one end and said surface being configured to permit translation of said container through said open end along a predetermined path only; a rigidly mounted piercing member having a constricted neck positioned in said receiving port; and pierceable valve means on a fifth side of said container which is contiguous contiguous said four sides; said pierceable valve means being aligned with said piercing member along said predetermined path, and comprising a first truncated substantially conical element secured through the wall of said container and having the end with the smallest cross-section positioned within said container and the end of the largest cross-section sealed to said container wall, the inner surface of said first element having circumferential indentations therein; and a sealing element having an outer surface adapted to seal with the inner surface of said first element and cooperate with said surface indentations to prevent movement along the axis of said substantially conical element; the inner surface of said sealing element having a circumferential radially extending projection adapted to project into the areas of the constricted neck of said piercing means.
5. A system as defined in claim 4, wherein said piercing means has perforations in the vicinity of said point.
6. A container as defined in claim 4, wherein said system includes a rigid outer wall with said pierceable valve means supported therein and projecting therethrough, and a flexible fluid impervious inner wall sealed to said pierceable means.
7. A system as defined in claim 6, wherein said rigid outer wall is fluid pervious.
Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to fluid dispensing systems, more particularly, it relates to the design of a sealing container adapted for insertion into a receiving port and the valving system related thereto.
2. Description of the Prior Art
There are numerous instances wherein it is important to transfer liquid from a first to a second storage location. Perhaps the most common occurrence of this situation occurs when an automobile is supplied with volatile gasoline at one of the multitude of gas stations located throughout every community. It is well known that other far more volatile and dangerous fluids are also transported from one location to another, often in tank trucks which are loaded at a first location and unloaded at a receiving location. In addition, less dangerous gases and liquids, ranging from oxygen to milk are frequently transported.
At the present time, fluids are transported in bulk; however, it is also known to provide small containers within which fluids can be packaged. These containers take a variety of forms and in some instances include discharge means or valves for their evacuation. When such containers are employed they are provided with a general surface configuration which facilitates convenient stacking. The most common discharge means are simply appertures with screw caps or the like, but controlled vents are also used in certain select instances.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It has been found that there is a great need for a more efficient, safe, and convenient method for the transporting of fluids. The present invention is embodied in a system that is of particular convenience in conjunction with the refueling of automobiles and similar vehicles. It is of interest to note that in addition to the air pollution created by the combustion of gasoline, a major source of pollution results from the evaporation of unburned hydrocarbons. This takes place at gasoline refineries, storage depots, delivery trucks, gasoline retail outlet storage tanks, and during filling of automobile tanks at gas stations. The present invention makes possible the virtual evaporation free use of gasoline as a fuel.
An object of the present invention is to provide an improved fluid transportation system.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved containerized fluid transportation and dispensing system.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a substantially safe non-contaminating fluid dispensing system which produces neither spillage nor fumes.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a containerized fluid dispensing system which can be conveniently marketed, which may employ reusable containers, and which facilitate close control of the products transported and dispensed therein.
While exhibiting substantial utility in general automobile use, the present invention is also ideally suited for the immediate provision or replacement of fluid storage supplies of various types. Racing cars can be refueled in minimum time by mere replacement of a gasoline container. Similar results are available for airplanes and other vehicles.
In addition, the invention is applicable to the provision of fresh water supply for campers, airplanes, Civil Defense use, and the like. Still further, it is adaptable to beverage supplies for vending machines, beer on tap, etc.
In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a polygonal container adapted for insertion into a receiving port which includes valving means for controlling fluid flow. The outer surface configuration of the container may be substantially complementary to the inner surface configuration of the receiving port on at least four contiguous sides. A fifth side of the container, which is contiguous to each of the aforementioned sides includes cooperative valving means which control the flow of fluid between the container and receiving port.
In accordance with another feature of the invention, there is provided a pierceable valve structure sealably mounted within an aperture for controlling a fluid flow through an impervious surface containing said aperture. In a particular embodiment, the valve structure includes a substantially conical portion having the end with the larger cross-section open and the end with the small cross-section closed. A radially inward projection is disposed about the inner circumference of said conical portion for cooperation with a piercing member that is associated with a stationary valve in the receiving port.
The above-mentioned objects and features of the present invention, as well as others, will be more clearly understood and appreciated from the following detailed description which is made in conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of a container in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective illustration of a receiving port suitable for cooperation with the container of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the container valve means positioned within the unit of FIG. 1;
FIGS. 4 and 5 are cross-sectional views illustrating the mounting of the container valve means in several types of containers embodying the features of the invention.
FIGS. 6 and 7 are enlarged views of another embodiment of the valve means, illustrating a saling plug that may be employed in conjunction therewith;
FIG. 8 is a view, partially in cross-section, showing the mounting of the piercing valve at the rear of typical receiving port;
FIG. 9 is a view, partially in cross-section, illustrating the cooperative coupling of the piercing valve and container receiving valve when a container is seated within a receiving port;
FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the invention showing the cooperative coupling of the piercing valve and container valve therein; and
FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate accessory elements employing the basic piercing valve means of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A container 10 embodying basic features of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. The container 10 has substantially parallel walls and is generally in the form of a cube. Of course, other polygonal forms will be immediately apparent and various designs are within the expected competance of a system designer.
The container 10 is adapted to fit within a receiving port 20 which may have an internal surface configuration substantially complementary to the external surface configuration of the container. Such a receiving port is illustrated in FIG. 2. The receiving port has one open end 21 adapted to be covered by a lid portion 22. To the rear of the receiving port a piercing valve means 30 is securely positioned. This piercing valve means is adapted to cooperate with a container valve means 40 of the type to be described hereinafter.
It will be noted that the container 10 has a keyway 17 disposed within its upper side 11 and directed parallel to side walls 12 and 14. Container 10 also has a projecting key 18 similarly disposed along the bottom wall 13. One end of container 10 (what may be called the rear end, or wall 15) has the container valve mounted therein. In FIG. 1 the container valve is protectively covered by a removable tab 19 that is secured by pasting or the like.
FIG. 3 illustrates the external appearance of a typical container valve 40. In this figure, the removable tab 19 and the surface configuration of the container 10 are illustrated in dotted outline in order to avoid confusion.
To discharge the fluid within container 10, and thereby utilize its contents, it is slid into receiving port 20. Keyway 17 of the container cooperates with key 23 of the receiving port and key 18 of the container cooperates with keyway 24 of the receiving port. The container may be inserted by grasping indented handle elements such as 29, appearing on wall 14. It will be appreciated that as the container is pressed back into the receiving port, piercing valve member 30 will project into container valving means 40, effecting a rupture and thereby providing an outlet for the fluid. Piercing valve member 30 will be connected with suitable conduits or the like for utilization of the fluid. In order to effect a complete package, cover 22 may be hinged to its adjoining surface and held closed by clamping means 25, 26, or the like.
It is contemplated that a plurality of receiving ports may be aligned adjacent to one another and conventional piping and valving arrangements may be employed to selectively utilize the output from each container. Of course, the receiving ports may also be located where ever it is convenient and interconnected by suitable tubing.
The structure and features of the container outlet or valve means may be appreciated by study of FIGS. 4 through 7. The container itself is preferably fabricated of a substantially rigid outer wall material in order to support the valve means 40 and permit it to be pierced by piercing means 30 in the receiving port. FIG. 4 is an enlarged transverse cross-section through the key 18 of a container of the type shown in FIG. 1. Valve means 40 will be seen to be seated against a shoulder 42 in order to project into an aperture 41 in the wall 15 of the container. The valve opening is of a substantially conical configuration which changes the angle of closure as the closed tip is approached. Thus, the open and closed ends 43 and 46, respectively, of the element 40 have a somewhat shallower pitch than the central portion 45. An inward acute-angled radial projection 44 surrounds the circumference of element 40 at the intersection between portions 43 and 45. The function of this inward projection is to engage and hold piercing element 30 in a sealable manner, as discussed hereinafter.
FIG. 5 illustrates the utilization of a container valve means 40 when a flexible inner liner 47 is provided. The use of such an inner liner is advantageous because it permits the use of fluid-impervious, physically weak flexible materials as the liner, while employing a fluid pervious yet structurally rigid protective outer material. When such a flexible inner liner is used, it is piercably bonded to the tip of element 40 as illustrated in region 48. When the fluid is stored under atmospheric pressure and a flexible liner is used, the outer container is provided with bleed holes which may be unobtrusively located inside the handle cavities or in the corners of the outer container. Of course, the outer container may also be fabricated of a porous material.
It has been found that there are advantages in having the inner flexible liner 47 bonded to the container aperture prior to filling. A particularly desirable way of accomplishing this is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 wherein a first insert 50 is employed, and a second sealing insert 60 is adapted for nesting therein. Insert 50 has open end 54, the outer edges of which are sealed, as at 55, to the flexible inner liner 47. The internal surface of insert 50 has at least two angular portions 51 and 52 effecting a convergence toward end 54. In addition, a series of notches 53 are provided on the innermost portion of insert 50 in order to hold element 60 in a securely sealed relationship.
The sealing element 60 is the male counterpart of insert 50 and has complementary projections 63 to the insert depressions 53. In normal operation, following filling of the container, sealing member 60 is pressed into position. When shoulder 68 of male member 60 is in butting contact with shoulder 58 of the insert, a complete seal has been effected and further axial movement is prohibited. It will be noted that the internal surfaces of sealing member 60 are substantially identical to the internal surfaces discussed hereinabove in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5.
The structure of the piercing valve member 30 and the manner in which it cooperates with the sealed aperture in the container, can be seen in FIGS. 8 through 10.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged transverse cross-sectional view through a piercing valve disposed in a receiving port 20. The portion of this valve which projects into the receiving port itself, is the piercing point 30 with its plurality of apertures 31. The valve is supported on the rear wall of the receiving port in a conventional manner using lock nuts 32, 33. Although specific details of the valve itself are not germane to the invention, it will be noted that a suitable structure includes a valve seat 34, ball valve member 35, and spring 36. This structure permits fluid to pass from right to left as viewed in FIG. 8. A channel is provided through the valve from apertures 31 to conduit 29 which may be connected in any manner with fluid utilization equipment. A number of threaded couplings 37, 38, and 39 are provided for assembly of the equipment and to permit suitable orientation for coupling with other units. It is important to use a rigid material for the support of the piercing valve member, inasmuch as some force is necessary in order to puncture the seal in each container.
FIG. 9 illustrates, in partial cross-section, the seating of a container 10 in a receiving port 20. A fluid-tight seal is effected under these conditions between the walls of piercing element 30 and the inner surface of seal 40. It will be understood that seal 40 may be in fact a composite structure made up of the elements 50 and 60 illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 and discussed above.
FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a container and receiving port assembly showing the flow of fluid into the perforated valve member 30. When the valving means are provided at the bottom of the container, it is not necessary to pressurize the fluid. When a flexible inner lining is used and a fluid-pervious protective cover surrounds this inner lining, atmospheric pressure is sufficient to permit discharge of a liquid into the valves. On the other hand, if either a liquid or gas is stored under pressure, suitable modifications must be made in the valve to accomodate the pressure situation.
In order to enhance the utility of containers embodying the features of this invention, numerous accessory items may be provided. Typical items are illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. Such items permit use of the containers with conventional existing equipment such as automotive fuel tanks, and/or as direct dispensing units. FIG. 11 illustrates a spout 70 having a piercing valve 71 attached to a hose member 72. This spout is convient for dispensing fuel into a standard gasoline tank filler neck and creates a very handy emergency container. The spigot 75 in FIG. 12 includes piercing valve 76 and a manually operated gate valve 77. Such an attachment is useful for dispensing beverages at picnics, parties, etc.
Several particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described. It is appreciated that those skilled in the art will immediately recognize modifications which may be made in order to adapt the invention to a variety of circumstances and uses. It is intended to include all such modifications coming within the skill of those in the art, within the scope of the appended claims.
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to fluid dispensing systems, more particularly, it relates to the design of a sealing container adapted for insertion into a receiving port and the valving system related thereto.
2. Description of the Prior Art
There are numerous instances wherein it is important to transfer liquid from a first to a second storage location. Perhaps the most common occurrence of this situation occurs when an automobile is supplied with volatile gasoline at one of the multitude of gas stations located throughout every community. It is well known that other far more volatile and dangerous fluids are also transported from one location to another, often in tank trucks which are loaded at a first location and unloaded at a receiving location. In addition, less dangerous gases and liquids, ranging from oxygen to milk are frequently transported.
At the present time, fluids are transported in bulk; however, it is also known to provide small containers within which fluids can be packaged. These containers take a variety of forms and in some instances include discharge means or valves for their evacuation. When such containers are employed they are provided with a general surface configuration which facilitates convenient stacking. The most common discharge means are simply appertures with screw caps or the like, but controlled vents are also used in certain select instances.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It has been found that there is a great need for a more efficient, safe, and convenient method for the transporting of fluids. The present invention is embodied in a system that is of particular convenience in conjunction with the refueling of automobiles and similar vehicles. It is of interest to note that in addition to the air pollution created by the combustion of gasoline, a major source of pollution results from the evaporation of unburned hydrocarbons. This takes place at gasoline refineries, storage depots, delivery trucks, gasoline retail outlet storage tanks, and during filling of automobile tanks at gas stations. The present invention makes possible the virtual evaporation free use of gasoline as a fuel.
An object of the present invention is to provide an improved fluid transportation system.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved containerized fluid transportation and dispensing system.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a substantially safe non-contaminating fluid dispensing system which produces neither spillage nor fumes.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a containerized fluid dispensing system which can be conveniently marketed, which may employ reusable containers, and which facilitate close control of the products transported and dispensed therein.
While exhibiting substantial utility in general automobile use, the present invention is also ideally suited for the immediate provision or replacement of fluid storage supplies of various types. Racing cars can be refueled in minimum time by mere replacement of a gasoline container. Similar results are available for airplanes and other vehicles.
In addition, the invention is applicable to the provision of fresh water supply for campers, airplanes, Civil Defense use, and the like. Still further, it is adaptable to beverage supplies for vending machines, beer on tap, etc.
In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a polygonal container adapted for insertion into a receiving port which includes valving means for controlling fluid flow. The outer surface configuration of the container may be substantially complementary to the inner surface configuration of the receiving port on at least four contiguous sides. A fifth side of the container, which is contiguous to each of the aforementioned sides includes cooperative valving means which control the flow of fluid between the container and receiving port.
In accordance with another feature of the invention, there is provided a pierceable valve structure sealably mounted within an aperture for controlling a fluid flow through an impervious surface containing said aperture. In a particular embodiment, the valve structure includes a substantially conical portion having the end with the larger cross-section open and the end with the small cross-section closed. A radially inward projection is disposed about the inner circumference of said conical portion for cooperation with a piercing member that is associated with a stationary valve in the receiving port.
The above-mentioned objects and features of the present invention, as well as others, will be more clearly understood and appreciated from the following detailed description which is made in conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of a container in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective illustration of a receiving port suitable for cooperation with the container of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the container valve means positioned within the unit of FIG. 1;
FIGS. 4 and 5 are cross-sectional views illustrating the mounting of the container valve means in several types of containers embodying the features of the invention.
FIGS. 6 and 7 are enlarged views of another embodiment of the valve means, illustrating a saling plug that may be employed in conjunction therewith;
FIG. 8 is a view, partially in cross-section, showing the mounting of the piercing valve at the rear of typical receiving port;
FIG. 9 is a view, partially in cross-section, illustrating the cooperative coupling of the piercing valve and container receiving valve when a container is seated within a receiving port;
FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the invention showing the cooperative coupling of the piercing valve and container valve therein; and
FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate accessory elements employing the basic piercing valve means of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A container 10 embodying basic features of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. The container 10 has substantially parallel walls and is generally in the form of a cube. Of course, other polygonal forms will be immediately apparent and various designs are within the expected competance of a system designer.
The container 10 is adapted to fit within a receiving port 20 which may have an internal surface configuration substantially complementary to the external surface configuration of the container. Such a receiving port is illustrated in FIG. 2. The receiving port has one open end 21 adapted to be covered by a lid portion 22. To the rear of the receiving port a piercing valve means 30 is securely positioned. This piercing valve means is adapted to cooperate with a container valve means 40 of the type to be described hereinafter.
It will be noted that the container 10 has a keyway 17 disposed within its upper side 11 and directed parallel to side walls 12 and 14. Container 10 also has a projecting key 18 similarly disposed along the bottom wall 13. One end of container 10 (what may be called the rear end, or wall 15) has the container valve mounted therein. In FIG. 1 the container valve is protectively covered by a removable tab 19 that is secured by pasting or the like.
FIG. 3 illustrates the external appearance of a typical container valve 40. In this figure, the removable tab 19 and the surface configuration of the container 10 are illustrated in dotted outline in order to avoid confusion.
To discharge the fluid within container 10, and thereby utilize its contents, it is slid into receiving port 20. Keyway 17 of the container cooperates with key 23 of the receiving port and key 18 of the container cooperates with keyway 24 of the receiving port. The container may be inserted by grasping indented handle elements such as 29, appearing on wall 14. It will be appreciated that as the container is pressed back into the receiving port, piercing valve member 30 will project into container valving means 40, effecting a rupture and thereby providing an outlet for the fluid. Piercing valve member 30 will be connected with suitable conduits or the like for utilization of the fluid. In order to effect a complete package, cover 22 may be hinged to its adjoining surface and held closed by clamping means 25, 26, or the like.
It is contemplated that a plurality of receiving ports may be aligned adjacent to one another and conventional piping and valving arrangements may be employed to selectively utilize the output from each container. Of course, the receiving ports may also be located where ever it is convenient and interconnected by suitable tubing.
The structure and features of the container outlet or valve means may be appreciated by study of FIGS. 4 through 7. The container itself is preferably fabricated of a substantially rigid outer wall material in order to support the valve means 40 and permit it to be pierced by piercing means 30 in the receiving port. FIG. 4 is an enlarged transverse cross-section through the key 18 of a container of the type shown in FIG. 1. Valve means 40 will be seen to be seated against a shoulder 42 in order to project into an aperture 41 in the wall 15 of the container. The valve opening is of a substantially conical configuration which changes the angle of closure as the closed tip is approached. Thus, the open and closed ends 43 and 46, respectively, of the element 40 have a somewhat shallower pitch than the central portion 45. An inward acute-angled radial projection 44 surrounds the circumference of element 40 at the intersection between portions 43 and 45. The function of this inward projection is to engage and hold piercing element 30 in a sealable manner, as discussed hereinafter.
FIG. 5 illustrates the utilization of a container valve means 40 when a flexible inner liner 47 is provided. The use of such an inner liner is advantageous because it permits the use of fluid-impervious, physically weak flexible materials as the liner, while employing a fluid pervious yet structurally rigid protective outer material. When such a flexible inner liner is used, it is piercably bonded to the tip of element 40 as illustrated in region 48. When the fluid is stored under atmospheric pressure and a flexible liner is used, the outer container is provided with bleed holes which may be unobtrusively located inside the handle cavities or in the corners of the outer container. Of course, the outer container may also be fabricated of a porous material.
It has been found that there are advantages in having the inner flexible liner 47 bonded to the container aperture prior to filling. A particularly desirable way of accomplishing this is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 wherein a first insert 50 is employed, and a second sealing insert 60 is adapted for nesting therein. Insert 50 has open end 54, the outer edges of which are sealed, as at 55, to the flexible inner liner 47. The internal surface of insert 50 has at least two angular portions 51 and 52 effecting a convergence toward end 54. In addition, a series of notches 53 are provided on the innermost portion of insert 50 in order to hold element 60 in a securely sealed relationship.
The sealing element 60 is the male counterpart of insert 50 and has complementary projections 63 to the insert depressions 53. In normal operation, following filling of the container, sealing member 60 is pressed into position. When shoulder 68 of male member 60 is in butting contact with shoulder 58 of the insert, a complete seal has been effected and further axial movement is prohibited. It will be noted that the internal surfaces of sealing member 60 are substantially identical to the internal surfaces discussed hereinabove in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5.
The structure of the piercing valve member 30 and the manner in which it cooperates with the sealed aperture in the container, can be seen in FIGS. 8 through 10.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged transverse cross-sectional view through a piercing valve disposed in a receiving port 20. The portion of this valve which projects into the receiving port itself, is the piercing point 30 with its plurality of apertures 31. The valve is supported on the rear wall of the receiving port in a conventional manner using lock nuts 32, 33. Although specific details of the valve itself are not germane to the invention, it will be noted that a suitable structure includes a valve seat 34, ball valve member 35, and spring 36. This structure permits fluid to pass from right to left as viewed in FIG. 8. A channel is provided through the valve from apertures 31 to conduit 29 which may be connected in any manner with fluid utilization equipment. A number of threaded couplings 37, 38, and 39 are provided for assembly of the equipment and to permit suitable orientation for coupling with other units. It is important to use a rigid material for the support of the piercing valve member, inasmuch as some force is necessary in order to puncture the seal in each container.
FIG. 9 illustrates, in partial cross-section, the seating of a container 10 in a receiving port 20. A fluid-tight seal is effected under these conditions between the walls of piercing element 30 and the inner surface of seal 40. It will be understood that seal 40 may be in fact a composite structure made up of the elements 50 and 60 illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 and discussed above.
FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a container and receiving port assembly showing the flow of fluid into the perforated valve member 30. When the valving means are provided at the bottom of the container, it is not necessary to pressurize the fluid. When a flexible inner lining is used and a fluid-pervious protective cover surrounds this inner lining, atmospheric pressure is sufficient to permit discharge of a liquid into the valves. On the other hand, if either a liquid or gas is stored under pressure, suitable modifications must be made in the valve to accomodate the pressure situation.
In order to enhance the utility of containers embodying the features of this invention, numerous accessory items may be provided. Typical items are illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. Such items permit use of the containers with conventional existing equipment such as automotive fuel tanks, and/or as direct dispensing units. FIG. 11 illustrates a spout 70 having a piercing valve 71 attached to a hose member 72. This spout is convient for dispensing fuel into a standard gasoline tank filler neck and creates a very handy emergency container. The spigot 75 in FIG. 12 includes piercing valve 76 and a manually operated gate valve 77. Such an attachment is useful for dispensing beverages at picnics, parties, etc.
Several particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described. It is appreciated that those skilled in the art will immediately recognize modifications which may be made in order to adapt the invention to a variety of circumstances and uses. It is intended to include all such modifications coming within the skill of those in the art, within the scope of the appended claims.