This class provides for the transfer of fluent material, gaseous,
liquid or flowable granular solids, through a flow confining system,
the source and terminal or receiver parts of which are normally
separable, i.e., one or both parts are portable or are otherwise
capable of or intended to have a utility in their separated condition. Such
utility ordinarily lies in portability of a separated part, either
for use of the contents material in another place, or for use of
one of the system parts with another complementary part. Each part
therefore must comprise an entity capable of use independent of
the other, and together the parts provide a flow path from a source
or dispenser to a terminal part or receiver, thereby comprising
a filling system.
This class takes a mere dispenser-receiver combination where
separability is claimed or is inherent, and also takes means to
deliver material to a receiver when there is claimed some system
characteristic which peculiarly relates the receiver to the dispenser
to define a coaction of one with the other to complete the dispenser-receiver relationship;
as for example, guiding or confining means for the receiver, related
conveying means for either the receiver or dispenser or both, or
a receiver support which is not merely a support for the dispenser
but is some member or modification beyond the structural requirements
therefor.
The scope of this class does not include method and apparatus
for handling fluent material except in a manner characteristic of
fluid flow. For the most part the material supply processes and
apparatus involve discharge assistants and fluid flow guiding means
of the class of Dispensing (see References to Other Classes, below).
This class takes systems as above defined including receivers
which close (i.e., self-closing) upon separation or uncoupling from
the supply.
This class also includes processes of varying gaseous conditions
in a vessel or container, i.e., evacuating or maintaining a vacuum
in a container, by sorption or gettering means incased in such container
where the claims are silent respecting any sealing off, or do not
include steps of closing and additionally where the sorption or gettering
is not of the kind provided for elsewhere.
This class also includes certain combinations and subcombinations
which appear to fall short of the receiver coacting means requirement
set out above, as in the last four "first line" subclass
groups of this class. Though they require no more than what might
be considered to be Class 222 subject matter, the concept of a normally detached,
readily connectable, dispenser-receiver relation (see I (2) above)
is satisfied.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
COMBINATIONS OF FILLING APPARATUS WITH TREATING OR MANUFACTURING
APPARATUS
As between this class (141) and Class 53, Package Making,
Class 53 takes methods of and apparatus for packaging where some
manufacturing operation as to either the package or its contents
material is included anywhere along the line.
Class 53 includes among other packaging inventions the following:
Chemical packaging:
The selection of materials for cover and/or lining
compatible with chemical or reactive contents material for package
making is considered a type of manufacture, and is included in Class
53.
Article packaging:
Methods of packaging articles and apparatus for packaging
articles not however those which rely upon fluid-flow handling methods
or apparatus.
Contents treating and packaging:
Methods of and apparatus for packaging with or without closing
if the contents material is treated or prepared by processes or
apparatus involving an irreversible operation more commonly known
as manufacture.
Filling with fluent material:
Filling with fluent materials where an arrangement not obtainable
by fluent material flow results. Mere compacting is not included,
but the packaging of a compacted charge which is subsequently handled
as an article is, and also compacting to produce a package of a definite
predetermined shape.
Receiver or cover making and filling:
Methods of and apparatus for forming a cover or receiver and
filling with fluent material or articles with or without closing
including opening the receiver, e.g., a collapsed bag, or any covered
receiver. Opening self-closing type receivers and filling with fluents
is excepted. See I above.
Receiver filling and closing:
Methods of and apparatus for filling receivers with articles
and/or fluent materials and closing such receivers.
Receiver filling:
Filling apparatus including additional means claimed in combination
therewith having utility only in a closing or closure applying or
associating function is included in Class 53, for example, relative
to "jetting", such structure for supporting closure
means and moving same through a jetting stream or the like with
an associated filled receiver even though the step of or means for depositing
the closure on the receiver is omitted, or receiver spacing or holding
means after filling for cover application or a closing operation
without applying the closure or closing.
TREATMENT CLASSES
As to the treatment classes, the line is whether or not there
is present some handling operation other than supplying material
to or removing it from the treatment area or chamber. Those patents
which claim more than the handling incidental to treatment are placed
in the appropriate material handling class, including this one,
as they are also in many instances where the treatment device is
claimed by name only, with incidental handling means and no other.
Textiles: Manufacturing,
subclasses 118+ and 121+ for processes of or apparatus
for compacting loose fibers in a tampon or wad and inserting the
same into a sheath or applicator device.
Plant Husbandry,
subclass 58.1 for miscellaneous processes of packaging or potting
plants and the like and subclass 1.01 for miscellaneous apparatus
therefor.
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 742.1+ for a process of filling a preformed cavity in
an in situ erected type structure with a flowable material.
Package Making, appropriate subclasses for methods or and apparatus
for encompassing or encasing goods or materials and see Lines With Other
Classes of this class, above.
Presses, for methods and apparatus for compacting material
in filler receivers where feeding of fluent material into the receiver
is not involved and see section V of that class (100).
Fluid Handling, for methods of and apparatus for handling fluid
materials, appropriate subclasses, where "normally detached,
connectable supply and receiver" does not predominate,
and particularly 154+ for diverse fluid containing pressure
systems; 223+ for inflatable article filling chuck and/or
stem; 263 and 571+ for fluent material handling systems comprising
plural tanks connected for serial flow; 317+ for means
for tapping systems under pressure; and 386+ for liquid
level responsive or maintaining systems.
Weighing Scales,
subclasses 52+ for a weigher correlating the movement of a series
of receivers with respect to the weigh station, subclass 59 for
a weigher correlated with a receiver, subclasses 60+ for
weigher responsive material control without handling or treatment
in addition to supplying, filling, weighing, removing material from
the weigher or removing a receiver from filling-weighing position,
and subclasses 253+ for load holders, particularly subclasses
262+ for scale pans.
Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways, appropriate subclasses particularly 2+ for
loading and unloading chutes for conveying material by gravity flow.
Special Receptacle or Package, appropriate subclasses for a container particularly
configured to hold a specific article or material including an article(s)
or material(s) put up as a mercantile unit.
Article Dispensing,
subclass 96 for receptacle dispensers combined with a fluent
material dispenser where the relationship is nominal and does not
qualify under Section I e.g., the receiver is not supplied to, guided
into, or supported at the fluent material dispenser for filling
by the receptacle dispensing means.
Dispensing, appropriate subclasses for dispensers, and
subclass 130 for plural compartments, one defining a dispensing
means, the other storage means for cups or receptacles and not qualifying
as an article dispenser for Class 221.
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, for comminutors claimed in combination with means to discharge
the material therefrom into a portable receptacle. See particularly
subclass 100 and the class definition of that class (241).
Supports,
subclasses 94 and 95+ for strainer or funnel type and
bag supports respectively wherein the strainer, funnel spout etc.,
are claimed by name only and wherein the means supporting the bag
is not modified to hold and fill the bag and where flow control
is not claimed.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 428+ for ray energy generators there classified including means
to admit vapor or gas into, or to withdraw gas or vapor from the
interior of the envelope of the X-ray generator.
Chemistry of Carbon Compounds, or the appropriate composition class, for processes
of storing chemicals when a chemical combination is involved from
which the chemicals may be subsequently released, even though the
storing takes place in a container or the initial reaction and/or
the decomposition reaction is claimed.
Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, appropriate subclasses, for processes within the class
definition, in which plastic material may be shaped or molded in
a receptacle and subsequently removable therefrom, said receptacle
acting as a mold. For treatment of a mold to facilitate removal thereof
from the contained molded material, see
subclasses 39 , 213, 221, 224, 264, 300, 313+, 338, and
353.5.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, particularly
subclasses 7 , 545, 546, 547+ and 552 for evacuating
pumps and gas or vapor generating or pressure regulating means.
Coating Implements With Material Supply,
subclasses 118+ for a container for a supply of coating material
in combination with a separable applicator (which may be a part
of the closure for the container) which transports the material
from the container and applies it to a work surface by rubbing contact
therewith; provided that force-applying means to move material from
the container to the applicator is either entirely absent from the
combination or is present in the applicator only.
Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 404+ for a device for emptying the contents of a portable
receptacle into a portable receiving means, and wherein the transfer
is accomplished by mutually inverting both the receiver and the
same.
Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing,
Preserving, or Sterilizing, for process and apparatus appropriate to that class and
see this class (141) particularly
subclasses 11 , 70 and 85.
Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing,
Preserving, or Sterilizing,
subclasses 40+ for process involving protective layers. (From
Index and Miscellaneous Clas Notes.)
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 447+ for the combination of means providing a shaping
surface (e.g., a mold, etc.) and means feeding fluent stock thereto;
see the search notes thereunder.
Electric Lamp or Space Discharge Component or
Device Manufacturing, for methods of manufacture and apparatus for electric lamp devices,
particularly
subclasses 38+ , 53+, 70 and 73 for combined operations.
Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds, especially
subclasses 2+ , 15 and 899 for processes which may involve the
storage of hydrocarbons.
SECTION IV - GLOSSARY
CUT-OFF
The term as used in this class means some mechanically operative
element or device (not gas pressure) which arrests flow of material.
CYCLICAL OPERATION
This term describes a filling system in which no operator
intervention is required from the time a receiver is placed in filling
position at least until the receiver is filled and ready to be removed.
The flow of contents material may be cut off by a movement of the
receiver which occurs in the sequence of events in the machine.
DISPENSER
A mechanism which affirmatively effects or permits separation
of a portion of the contents material supply thereof and discharge
in a definite direction or path.
FILLING HEAD
The portion of a dispenser or source part of the system which
comprises the flow outlet or flow confining terminus and other flow
confining structure which may be in advance (up-stream) of it back
to the supply.
FUNNEL
A fluid handling device of increasingly restricted capacity
in the direction of flow and having its free end arranged to enter
into the inlet of a receiver, being ordinarily designed to collect
an unconfined flow and channel it into a narrower flow path or one
which is out of line with the previous path or flow direction. The
material may be retained in the funnel body by valve means, and
the funnel may comprise the only claimed supply means of the filling
system or an intermediate or final receiver, and may be supported
by either the preceding or succeeding flow confining means, or by
a means external to the flow system.
MANUFACTURE
In order to draw a line with the manufacturing classes which
may include filling, the term is used here as meaning an operation
on material, or apparatus for operating on material, to effect a
permanent or irreversible change in the physical character of the
material, e.g. cutting, crushing, shaping and boring, or to arrange
the parts of an article of manufacture into their desired relation,
i.e., assembling.
MATERIAL GUIDE
Means other than funnels to direct material from supply to
receiver without forming a flow-confining connection between them.
Examples of material guides in this class are: (1) A nonflow support
for contents material associated with a receiver support over which
the material can be pushed or moved manually into the receiver;
(2) A flow directing detachable extension of a receiver inlet which
may be either tubular or channel-shaped in cross-section. If tubular
and tapering, it must either engage the receiver externally or be
located entirely within the receiver. Cf funnel, above; or (3) An
extension of a supply container which is hand held, the extension
being designed to engage the receiver and direct the flow thereto.
RECEIVER
A device which accepts the material from the dispenser and
is capable of confining fluids within
a predetermined or predescribed volumetric configuration, and does
not therefore rely upon surface tension or molecular cohesive forces
to preclude escape of material therefrom.
SUPPLY MEANS
The contents material confining means of the dispenser.
SYSTEM
The combination of dispenser and receiver in flow exchange
relation with any or all appurtenances thereof.
TREATMENT
With respect to the treatment classes, treatment as here construed
is concerned with reversible changes in the physical characteristics
of contents material such as exemplified by agitating, heating,
cooling, sorting and the like.
(1)
Note. All patents containing method claims drawn to the method
of operation of any of the systems or parts thereof involved in
the class are included in this and the indented subclasses, but
methods of making parts of the systems are not included. They will
be found in the subclass providing for the system or part.
Package Making,
subclasses 396+ for methods pertaining to the subject matter of
that class, but including methods of this class with the additional step
of closing or otherwise manipulating for the purposes of Class 53.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 1+ for processes analogous to the processes of this
class but not involving the feature of separability of the system
components.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Processes in which a dispenser type receiver is filled by
steps involving manipulation of the dispenser as an incident to
or aid to refilling or filling the supply chamber.
for apparatus for filling or refilling dispensers
and involving the use of dispenser parts in connection with or as
an aid to the operation of the apparatus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Processes in which the dispenser receiver is of the aerosol
type, i.e., the material to be dispensed, powder or liquid, is dissolved
in or carried by a vaporizing propellant which forms the charge
of the dispenser.
Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
subclasses 8+ for processes of mixing a material with a fluid
and then spraying; subclasses 337+ for apparatus spraying
a plurality of materials and comprising a holder for one material
to be entrained or dissolved in a gas; subclass 372 for aerosol
type spray holders with a specifically claimed nozzle; subclasses
398+ for mixing and discharging a plurality of fluids;
and subclass 573 for a discharge nozzle having a valve providing
an expansion chamber of the aerosol type.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 1+ for continuous gas or vapor phase colloid system (e.g.,
smoke, fog, aerosol, cloud, mist) or agents for such systems or
making or stabilizing such systems or agents, when generically claimed
or when there is no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC
for the specifically claimed art, especially subclasses 6+ for
a colloid system which contains a propellant which contains an intended component
with a boiling point below 68 oF/20 oC at one atmosphere,
i.e., exists as gas or vapor at STP, such as propellants containing
compressed air, or adsorbed or chemically bound CO 2.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Processes which include steps relating to the presence,
absence or manipulation of gas in connection with the receiver.
(1)
Note. Processes of treating the contents of the receiver while
in the receiver, and also processes of pretreating the receiver with
gaseous fluid are included.
for apparatus pertaining to the filling of receivers
under conditions involving gas and contents material other than
gas in a confined system, and see the search notes to subclass 37
for other apparatus in this and other classes for filling apparatus
involving gaseous modification or application.
Package Making,
subclass 403 for processes for filling a receiver with gas with
subsequent closing, and subclasses 432+ for processes in
which vacuum treatment or gas treatment is applied for contents
treatment.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 154+ for fluid handling pressure systems containing
diverse fluids, subclasses 1+ for fluid handling processes
involving gases, especially subclass 12.5 for processes for handling
carbonated beverages.
This subclass is indented under subclass 4. Processes in which fluent material other than gaseous material
is handled in connection with the filling operation.
(1)
Note. The materials other than gaseous may be either liquid
or fluent solids.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes in which gaseous material is introduced into the
receiver ahead of nongaseous material in order to equalize pressure
between receiver and supply prior to filling with the main contents
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Processes in which gaseous material is withdrawn from the
container before, during or after filling of the container with
nongaseous material.
Package Making, for processes for contents treating with vacuum
or gas in processes of that class, which may be the processes of
Class 141 with additional steps pertaining to the manufacture of
either the contents or the receiver.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 7 and 174+ for evacuating pumps and with
getter gas or vapor generating means or pressure regulating means
there classified.
Electric Lamp or Space Discharge Component or
Device Manufacturing,
subclasses 38+ , 53+, 70, and 73 for methods of manufacture
and apparatus for electric lamp devices including evacuation and
degasification combined with other operations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Processes in which the receiver is a bag, i.e., a receptacle
of nonself-sustaining material, the manipulation of which is not
characteristic of the handling of preformed rigid receivers.
for apparatus for filling flexible or collapsible
receivers in which there is manipulation of the receivers to change
its shape or dimensions, and see the search notes to subclass 114 for
additional search fields.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Processes involving alteration of a physical characteristic
of the contents material before, during, or after filling.
Package Making,
subclass 428 for processes which in addition to the material
of Class 141 include additional steps pertaining to the manufacture
of either the contents or the receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Processes in which the treatment involved increases the
density of the charge within the receiver.
(1)
Note. The steps which result in compacting must be other than
or in addition to the compacting effect of certain discharge assistants,
the operation of which may or may not compact the material according
to the nature of the material.
for apparatus for compacting material in the receiver,
and subclass 81 for discharge assistants of the trap type which
compact the charge after it has been separated from the main supply.
Package Making,
subclass 436 for processes of packaging with compacting which
involve in addition to the steps of Class 141 additional steps relating
either to the manufacture of the contents or the manufacture or closing
of the receiver.
MODIFICATION OF FILLING CYCLE IN STARTING AND STOPPING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which a method of operation, characteristic
of the filling of a single receiver or several receivers, is modified
during the opening or closing period of operation of the mechanism
for the purpose of allowing coordination of operations some of which
may be delayed proportionally to others at such periods of beginning
and ending operation of the mechanism.
(1)
Note. Such factors as those essential to the operation of
the machine as a supply of contents material or of receivers are not
considered to be modifying factors.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising means for filling or refilling bottles
of the pressure fluid discharge type.
(1)
Note. For classification in this subclass more than a mere
reference to apparatus for use for a siphon bottle filling is required,
e.g., a claimed support or guide means for the siphon bottle, combined siphon
bottle valve operator and bottle holding arrangement, interacting
fill valve and dispenser operators, or siphon bottle dispensing
nozzle and means to press the said nozzle to a filling pipe.
for other apparatus for filling or refilling dispensers,
especially subclass 20 for apparatus for filling aerosol dispensers,
which are distinguished by the fact that the propellant is supplied in
liquid form, the device usually not being refillable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Devices in which the bottle is provided with a filling opening
which is distinct from its dispensing opening.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Apparatus having plural filling means either at the same
or different locations or wherein there is provided means whereby
different charges or substances may be delivered to the bottle.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus defining a source of supply and filling means
claimed in combination with a receiver having some characteristic
recognized as a dispenser, or claimed as having features of utility
only in connection with receivers of the dispensing type.
(1)
Note. For classification in this subclass there must be claimed
a receiver with some dispensing part which cooperates with the filling
means or there must be dispenser structure (other than force-producing
means confined to a fountain applicator) claimed, the reverse operation
of which assists in the filling thereof.
(2)
Note. This subclass and those indented thereunder may define
the characteristics of the receiver-dispenser and not necessarily
the supply means.
Coating Implements With Material Supply,
subclass 119 for the combination of (a) a source of supply and
filling means with (b) an applicator with material supply (e.g.,
fountain pen), in which combination means to produce force to move
coating material from the source of supply to the applicator is
either entirely absent or is present in the applicator only.
Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
subclasses 271 and 309 for piercing means combined with a nozzle
apparatus for discharging fluids, and other appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 337+ and 398+ for apparatus which sprays
one fluid by the pressure differential caused by the flow of another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 18. Apparatus in which the dispenser is of the aerosol type,
i.e., the material to be dispensed is dissolved and/or
carried by a vaporizing propellant which forms the charge of the
dispensing container.
Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate subclasses, especially
subclasses 337+ and 398+ for apparatus which sprays one
fluid by the pressure differential caused by the flow of another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 18. Apparatus in which the receiver dispenser is a manually
manipulated device (e.g., fountain pen) used for applying or spreading
a coating material on a work surface by contact therewith, and in
which the source of supply includes means, other than or in addition
to that inducing gravity or capillary flow, for producing a force
to move the material from the source to the dispenser.
Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning,
subclass 257.072 for the subcombination of a source of supply, which
source includes resilient means, adapted to be actuated by a coating
implement, for producing a force on the coating material to move the
material from a supply zone to a coating-implement-receiving-and-loading
zone; and see (1) Note thereto for the distinction between the subject matter
of that subclass and that of Class 222, Dispensing.
Dispensing,
subclasses 576+ for a dispensing inkwell; i.e., one which includes
a trap chamber from which ink is removed by contact with the pen
point of a pen.
Coating Implements With Material Supply,
subclasses 118+ for the combination of a supply source and a coacting
receiver which is an independent applicator, in which combination material-moving
force-producing means is either entirely absent or is present in
the receiver only.
This subclass is indented under subclass 18. Apparatus which cooperates in some way with the dispenser
being filled, some part or parts of the dispenser, ordinarily relied
upon for separating a portion of the material from the supply, being
operated or manipulated to accomplish the filling operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Devices in which the dispenser is characterized as a closing
or capping means removably associated with the supply container
of which it is a part.
for combined supply closures and traps which are
manually coupled to the supply container and thereafter filled by
inverting the resulting organization.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Devices in which the dispenser is characterized by a means
capable of establishing a volumetric change effective to control
dispensing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Devices having one or more walls or portions thereof which
may be distorted or deflected by application of a force and which
return to their original position when the force is removed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Devices in which the means causing or controlling dispensing
comprises a volumetric change affecting means or comprises some
nonsolid means for exerting a force upon the materials to be dispensed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Devices in which the volumetric change effecting means comprises
a follower, i.e., some solid means for exerting a force directly
upon all the contents material to move it toward and through the
dispensing opening.
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Devices in which the fluid pressure applying or controlling
means is a jet pump which is attached to the dispenser.
This subclass is indented under subclass 18. Dispensers comprising means defining a cover or cap for
the supply source container and having a nondispensing outlet open
to atmosphere, which is controlled by hand.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the receiver has an inlet or an interior
dimension of capillary size, i.e., so small that ordinary methods
of filling as by gravity flow or forced feed will not suffice to
introduce material thereinto.
Chemistry: Electrical Current Producing Apparatus,
Product, and Process,
subclasses 209+ for electrodes having grid structure, especially
subclasses 233+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Apparatus in which the material applied to the opposite
sides of the grid is derived from separate sources or separate conduits
from the same source.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the filling operation involves the centrifugal
distribution of materials either in the dispensing means whereby
the material is distributed into receivers, or in the receiver itself
whereby material in the receiver is distributed.
(1)
Note. The speed of the rotary movement must be sufficient
to impel or distribute the material by a positive motion as by throwing
or accelerating gravity flow.
(2)
Note. There must be an action on the contents material for
at least a part of the filling or separating operations. The essence
here is the resulting distribution of material in the receiver.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which plural receivers are supplied with contents
material at least a portion of which first enters one receiver and
then is caused to flow to another receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Apparatus in which a receiver adjacent the main filling
station receives overflow from material which has passed through
the first receiver, and is subsequently advanced to the main filling
position for completion of its contents charge.
DIVERSE FLUID CONTAINING PRESSURE FILLING SYSTEMS INVOLVING RECEIVER
GAS CONTENT MODIFICATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising filling systems dealing with a plurality
of contents materials, at least one of which is a gas, and which
deal with the receiver gas content under conditions which must necessarily
be other than atmospheric.
(1)
Note. The provision of plural diverse paths for gaseous fluid
between the receiver and either or both the supply or the atmosphere
is considered without more to characterize a system of this type.
The diverse paths may be either branched or noncommunicating.
(2)
Note. The filling of an inverted receiver is included when
the liquid content is displaced by gas and no confined flow path
for the liquid is provided.
(3)
Note. Included are:
(a)
gas pumps, including siphon starting pumps for receiver air,
liquid displacement by gas and evacuation means claimed broadly
where liquid flow will not otherwise occur.
(b)
gas storage, comprising either a supply separate from the
other material supply, which gas supply is either connected directly
to the receiver or is connected to a supply which is vented to the
receiver, or storage of gas displaced from the receiver, including
temporary confinement of such gas in a material-handling trap.
(c)
plural or variable cycles in handling receiver gas content.
(d)
plural diverse gas passages.
(e)
use of the gaseous contents material as servo fluid or seal.
(f)
automatic control of liquid flow by gas condition in receiver,
but not including mere equilibrium states where a vent is closed.
(g)
sequential operation of diverse valves only in apparatus having
filling during lateral travel of registering head and receiver.
for processes relating to the filling of receivers
under conditions or with steps which involve provision of a nonatmospheric
or variations in the gaseous state in the receiver.
for material treatment with fluid contact, i.e.,
those devices where gas is introduced into an open container which
is already filled, or in connection with the filling thereof.
for treatment by fluid of the receiver or of the
filling or dispensing apparatus, especially subclass 92 for gaseous pretreatment
of the receiver, connection between which and the nongaseous supply
apparatus is broken between the cleaning operation and the filling
operation.
Package Making,
subclasses 403+ for package making processes involving gas filling
and/or evacuating and closing; subclass 432 for package
making processes with contents material treating by vacuum or gas;
subclasses 79+ for package making apparatus for gas filling
and/or evacuating receptacle and closing; and subclass
510 for package making apparatus with contents material treating
by vacuum or inert atmosphere.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus for filling tires.
(1)
Note. Included with patents claiming filling with both liquids
and gas are those subcombinations relating to filling with one or
the other but including such limitations as to restrict the utility
of the subcombination to devices in which filling with the other
of the two materials is a necessary accompaniment.
(2)
Note. Tire inflation with gas alone is not specifically provided
for in this schedule but the patents relating to the combination
with the source of supply of the inflating fluids have been distributed
in appropriate subclasses according to the means for causing the
connection to be made, the means for supporting one or the other
of the supply and receiver elements in relation to the other and
similar relationship provided for in this class.
(3)
Note. Tire or tube deflation accomplished by evacuation apparatus
where other necessary characteristics of this class are present,
are included in subclass 65.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 223+ for apparatus comprising valved inflation stems
of the type attached to pneumatic tires and analogous inflatable articles,
including filling and/or release extensions of such stems, valved
filling chucks of the type attached to pressure fluid supplying conduits
and employed to inflate such articles by means of the inflation stems,
and combinations of such inflation stems and filling chucks, including
the source of supply also when claimed by name only. See also the
search notes under subclass 223.
Dispensing,
subclasses 92+ for devices for deflating tubes by collapsing the
walls thereof by applying force exertive means to the exterior portions
of the tube.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 44+ for reshaping, resizing or vulcanizing apparatus
for a tire tube including means to apply fluid pressure directly
thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which the filling means for the nongaseous
content material is controlled by or operates as the result of the
establishment of a desired gas condition in the receiver.
(1)
Note. This includes equilibrium conditions as well as those
in which there is a condition responsive means controlling the operation
of the filling means provided that positive flow control means is included,
such as valves or servo operated discharge assistants. Flow by barometric
or vacuum influences is not sufficient to cause classification in
this subclass, and equilibrium conditions in which the vent is closed
by float or pressure are not included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Apparatus in which the establishment of a desired gas condition
in the receiver is controlled by the level of contents material
other than the gas in the receiver.
(1)
Note. The apparatus here included does not necessarily predicate
an air tight connection with the receiver, but rather requires a
change in the gas condition in the receiver by some outside interference.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Apparatus in which air is supplied to the receiver by an
air pressure producing means external to the flow line which is
supplying the other fluid material to the receiver.
(1)
Note. The air pressure producing means need not be claimed
if the device will not operate without it.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Apparatus in which the system is additionally provided with
a negative pressure line and a buoyant means which at some predetermined level
of material in the receiver, effectively disconnects the said negative
pressure line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Apparatus in which the negative pressure supply means is
effectively removed by opening the negative pressure to the ambient
air.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which gas and other material are flowing together,
usually as a result of overflow from a filled receiver, and a passage
or chamber is provided in which the gas is separated from the other
material.
(1)
Note. A mere enlargement of a vent passage, whether for overfill
material or not, is not included. Other features characteristic
of diverse fluid systems must be present, as filters, gas separating
baffles, pressure equalizing means or pumps, separate outlets for
gas and liquid, etc.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 171+ for fluid separating traps or vents in fluid handling
systems of general utility, and see the search notes to subclass 171.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which the same gas or source of gas which comprises
one of the diverse fluids is used in the apparatus to seal joints
or to operate valves or other moving parts of the system.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 171+ for separate outlets for one of plural diverse
fluids controlled by the presence of the other in fluid handling
systems of general utility.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which plural gas flows to or from the receiver
occur other than or in addition to the displacement of gas from
the receiver by the nongas material, or the control of a single gas
flow to or from the receiver is operated during the cycle of filling
the receiver in some way other than by merely turning it on and/or off.
The special operation may involve repeating any gas control operation,
changing pressure or quantity, shifting the gas supply to another
use, or changing sources during the filling operation.
(1)
Note. Manual operation of the gas control apparatus is not
included even though the sole disclosure is that repeated operations
for the same receiver occur.
(2)
Note. Apparatus which during the cycle changes the gas condition
to change the equilibrium requirements of the system is included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Apparatus in which the gas cycle which is characteristic
of this group is used to pretreat either the receiver or the contents
material.
(1)
Note. This cycle is distinguished from mere counter pressure
or vacuum application to establish a condition in the receiver by
the fact that some step intervenes which either changes the gas
condition or replaces one gas with another prior to the filling
operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Apparatus in which a source of pressure, either positive
or negative, is shifted from one use such as pressurizing or evacuating
a receiver to another flow line which is a vent or fill pipe, usually
for the purpose of emptying such pipe.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which a pressure tight housing is provided
for the receiver and means is provided to control the gas condition
within said housing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which the (1) Note. The stored gas may be disposed
of at the end of each filling cycle, as to atmosphere, to the supply
or to the next receiver. It may also be stored in the succeeding
receiver during the filling cycle.system includes a chamber for
storing the gas displaced from the receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus in which the pressure in the receiver is relieved
to a material handling trap for the contents material.
Dispensing,
subclass 332 for discharge assistant type dispensers with vent
passage for movable trap chamber and subclass 442 for dispensers having
a stationary trap with a vent passage.
for filling means or heads having multiple passages,
one of which usually comprises a vent which provides for the passage
of gaseous material to or from a receiver being filled under atmospheric
pressure conditions or conditions indistinguishable from such. Sequential
operation of the valves for gas and nongas materials is not considered
significant except in lateral travel filling assemblies.
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus in which one of the passages comprises a vent
allowing the filled pipe to be drained of material at the termination
of the filling operation.
(1)
Note. A pressure other than atmospheric may be connected to
the vent provided no change is made in another line carrying such
pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus in which the receiver is vented to atmosphere
before it is separated from the filling head.
(1)
Note. This is to assist in removing the receiver from a vacuum
head or to prevent surge of material under pressure in the receiver
when the connection with the head is broken.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Apparatus in which the vent to atmosphere remains open continuously
during the operation of the apparatus.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which means for removing the gaseous contents
of the receiver is combined with or comprises means for filling
the receiver with a nongaseous material.
(1)
Note. Apparatus claiming evacuation means broadly is included
if a cyclically operating machine having no other means for transferring
the nongaseous material is claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 59. Apparatus in which the means for joining the receiver to
the said apparatus includes a movable displacement means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 59. Apparatus in which the means for evacuating the receiver
ceases to operate to increase the vacuum before the filling material
is admitted to the receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which registering head and receiver means have
a lateral motion during the filling of the receiver.
(1)
Note. Filling systems having only one gas passage per filling
head are included if they are of the successive receiver, lateral
travel type, since different vents are in different stages of operation
at any one time.
for filling systems having conveying means to supply
successive receivers and having lateral motion of registering heads
and receivers, and see the search notes to subclass 135.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus in which the gaseous component in the receiver
is supplied as a treatment for the receiver or the contents thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Apparatus in which the receiver has been filled with a nongaseous
material prior to the gas treatment.
(1)
Note. The apparatus has features which lack utility except
when the receiver is filled with nongaseous material, such as means
for holding or compacting such material, or for mixing the gas with
it, as by agitating or by injecting the gas below the surface of
the contents.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which gaseous content is removed from receivers,
with or without subsequent refilling with another gaseous material.
FLUENT CHARGE IMPELLED OR FLUID CURRENT CONVEYED INTO RECEIVER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which a fluent material is introduced into
the receiver by means of an impeller or a fluid current conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 67. Apparatus in which the receiver is a valve bag, i.e., a
bag having an inlet in the folded corner thereof, the corner usually
providing a self-closing valve when the bag is detached from the
filling spout.
for valve bag clamps or chairs comprising a filling
means system with receiver or receiver coacting means, and see the
search notes to subclass 315 for other subclasses of an art character
involving valve bags.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the material contents is subjected to
a special operation not merely the incidental result of handling,
usually for purposes of preserving or preparing it for handling
or storage, but not amounting to operations for effecting permanent
or irreversible changes in physical character such as are commonly
called manufacturing.
(1)
Note. See the main class definition for lines.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Apparatus in which a receiver having a material content
is supplied with a fluid which comes into contact with the material
in the receiver.
(1)
Note. If the first material in the receiver is a gas, the
treating material must be something other than air.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Apparatus in which the density of the fluent charge in the
receiver is increased (1) by compacting or agitating within the
receiver or (2) by increasing the density of the contents charge after
it has been separated from the supply, the material being confined
until it enters the receiver.
(1)
Note. Deaerating of fluent materials is considered a compacting
operation.
(2)
Note. The many discharge assistants and agitating type dispensers
which inevitably produce a compaction of loose material as an incident
to handling have not been made a basis for classification in this
class but have been cross referenced to appropriate subclasses in
Class 222, Dispensing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus in which compacting is accomplished by agitation,
jarring or vibration of the receiver and parts of the supply apparatus
associated therewith.
Dispensing, appropriate subclasses, especially 226+ for dispensers
having agitating means combined with discharge assistants and
subclasses 251+ for other agitating means of a dispensing type
and material handling devices such as conveyors, pumps, ejectors,
and movable trap chambers, etc.
and 251+, for filling systems having relatively
receding discharge assistant and receiver engaging means, the said
relative movement taking place during the filling operation, which
is sometimes referred to as "uniform density" filling.
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Apparatus in which the density is increased by jarring or
vibrating or otherwise agitating the material in the receiver.
for filling means having bag or liner securing means,
and see the search notes to subclasses 314 and 315 for miscellaneous
bag supports and valve bag supports respectively.
This subclass is indented under subclass 75. Apparatus in which the bag is supported on a chair as well
as on a bag supporting nozzle, the agitation being supplied through
the chair.
for valve bag clamps or chairs associated with filling
means and see the search notes to subclass 315 for other subclasses
of an art nature pertaining to valve bag filling.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Apparatus in which the agitation is provided by, or involves,
distortion of or blows or jarring imparted to the receiver side
walls.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Apparatus in which the means for jarring or vibrating the
receiver and its contents is carried by or coacts with the conveying
means for the receiver.
Presses, appropriate subclasses for means compacting contents
material in a filled receiver not combined with filling means for
the receiver or means coacting therewith.
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus in which the material is supplied to the receiver
in charge form, the charge having been compacted in a dispensing
type trap after separation from the source and handled subsequently
under continuously confined conditions.
(1)
Note. Charge forming requires that the charges thus formed
travel as a body without relative flow (except by friction) among
the particles after the charge has been formed.
Package Making,
subclasses 523+ for package making involving a compacted charge
which is handled as an article subsequent to compaction, i.e., without
being continuously confined.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Apparatus in which the contents material is subjected to
a treatment which either raises or lowers its temperature.
Dispensing,
subclasses 146+ for dispensers having heating or cooling means,
and see the search notes to subclass 146 for other search classes on
heating and cooling subject matter.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus having means for testing contents material, for
determining the amount of the contents material in the receiver
by weighing or means for determining whether or not the proper amount
of material has been placed in the receiver.
Weighing Scales,
subclasses 52+ for receivers successively handled relative to
a weigher, subclass 59 for a weigher correlated with a receiver, and
subclasses 60+ for weigher responsive material control
comprising supplying, filling, removing material from the weigher
or removing a receiver from filling-weighing position.
Dispensing,
subclass 77 for dispensers involving weighing features and see
the search notes to that subclass for miscellaneous material handling type
involving weighing.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus which can by an adjustment, addition, removal
or reassembly of one of more of its parts be caused to serve as
one of two or more distinctly different filling devices having a
different mode of operation or adapted to handle different contents
or different receivers requiring changes in the modes of handling
or operation.
(1)
Note. Mere adjustability or rearrangement of the apparatus
to accommodate receivers of different size even though involving
a rearrangement of the apparatus is not here if the mode of operation
of the apparatus remains unchanged.
WITH SOIL REMOVING, COATING, LUBRICATING, STERILIZING AND/OR DRYING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising fluent material filling systems having
means not directed to filling receivers for applying or removing
fluent material to or from parts of the system. The material may
be contents material which has escaped from the system or it may
be an added material for coating, lubricating, sterilizing or drying
the system parts. If the material is contents material, it may be
removed from the system where it constitutes a soiling or contaminating
agent or it may be prevented from reaching parts of the system to
soil or contaminate them after it has escaped from its normal confined
path or failed to enter the intended receiver.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 237+ for fluid handling systems having installed cleaning
means and see the search notes to that group of subclasses for related
art in other classes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus in which means is provided to catch or otherwise
dispose of or direct material dripping, leaking or being discharged
as waste material.
Dispensing,
subclasses 108+ for fluent material dispensers having drip collectors
and see the search notes to that subclass for additional fields
of search.
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Apparatus in which the means for receiving the drip is movable
from a position beneath the supply outlet where it will receive
the prospective discharge or drip to a position where it will not
interfere with the presentation of a receiver or to a position where
it is disabled.
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Apparatus in which the drip collector is supported by or
located in a definite relation adjacent the receiver support.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus in which a wiper or applicator comes into contact
with parts of the system or a fluid blast impinges on the system
for the purpose of removing foreign material or applying a noncontents
material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Apparatus in which the system treating means comprises means
operating on the outlet of the supply means in the area where it
comes in to close relation with the receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Apparatus in which the treatment is effected by the application
of a blast or stream of fluid either gaseous or liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus in which dust, soil, fumes or escaped contents
are removed from the filling area by means of passages or enclosures
subjected to negative pressure.
WITH SIGNAL, INDICATOR, RECORDER, INSPECTION MEANS OR EXHIBITOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus having signals, indicators, registers, recorders,
gauges or display devices for indicating a condition or performing
a measuring function, such devices consisting of relatively movable,
changeable or audible information giving parts, or having means
permitting inspection of the contents of the system.
Dispensing,
subclasses 23+ for dispensers with recorder, register, indicator,
signal or exhibitor, subclasses 54+ for dispensers having
inspection means. See the search notes to subclass 23 and 154 of
that class.
This subclass is indented under subclass 94. Apparatus in which the information conveyed is in connection
with the level or pressure of the receiver contents.
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Apparatus in which the level or pressure indicating means
is mounted on the outlet portion of the supply means, as on a hose
nozzle or faucet.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus provided with means surrounding or adjacent to
the operating area of the machine for protecting a person standing nearby
from splashing or injury from escaping material or broken parts.
(1)
Note. An enclosure for the receiver in the nature of a housing
is not regarded as a guard or screen for the operator even though
composed of mesh material.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus having means associated therewith for performing
some function in addition to or in perfecting the basic operation of
transferring material from a supply to a receiver and not provided
for in the preceding subclasses.
(1)
Note. Filling systems comprise the containers, flow lines
and receivers in which the contents material is confined at any time
during the operation, means supporting either or both the supply
container and the receiver before, during or after the filling operation,
and the flow controlling means for the contents material including
valves and flow restrictors, screens being included as flow restrictors.
(2)
Note. Included are, for example, filling systems combined
with illumination, display means for signs or merchandise, labeling
or printing; static electricity or heat conducting means; holders
for tools, nonsystem devices or adjuncts or removed system parts
other than the normally separable components; tools or punches not
a part of the flow system; system parts usable as tools; ventilating; lubricating;
agitating for purposes other than compacting material in the receiver; sorting;
installed systems.
Dispensing,
subclass 192 for combined features connected with dispensers,
and see (1) Note for a definition of supply container structure
and features considered to be characteristic of dispensing and accordingly
of the supply means of Class 141.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which two or more concurrent series of filling
operations involving successive receivers are carried out, the operation in
the separate series being diverse as to some characteristic.
(1)
Note. Features establishing dissimilarity of the series or
lines may comprise alternate filling operations in different lines, use
of one line as a control or test line for the others, lines of different
lengths or container spacing as successive concentric circle on
a turret, or any other deviation from mere duplication of filling operations
as to material supply and receiver handling.
Package Making,
subclass 168 for packaging machinery having selective or alternate
supply of plural covers and/or plural contents, subclass
202 for plural lines packaging.
PLURAL MATERIALS, MATERIAL SUPPLIES OR CHARGES IN A RECEIVER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the contents material is derived from
plural sources or is comprised of two or more diverse materials,
or is placed in the receiver in multiple charges from different
charging heads or is placed in the receiver in multiple charges
from the same head, not however resulting merely from the inherent intermittent
flow caused by the nature of the discharge assistant or flow controller.
(1)
Note. For inclusion in this subclass plural material supplies
must be entirely distinct when stored as bulk. Material derived
from these supplies may be used concurrently, successively or alternately.
(2)
Note. Compartmented receivers for which separate charges are
provided are included if the receiver is claimed or special features
are present.
Package Making,
subclass 202 for plural line packaging; 237+ for plural filling
stations or contents sources for a single package; subclass 246
for successive deposits in a compartmented receptacle; subclass
263 for packaging machines which arrange material in receivers by
means of dividers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Apparatus in which the unit comprising a filling means outlet
and a receiver move together during flow relation in a direction
transverse to the direction in which the filling means and receiver
move into filling relation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Apparatus in which a single receiver is supplied with multiple
charges of the same material from the same source.
(1)
Note. Filling systems having a discharge assistant type dispenser
which normally operate to deposit plural increments of material
as a single charge, as expansible chamber pumps or rotors with plural traps
have been classified in later subclasses on the basis of the filling
relation and cross-referenced into Class 222 if appropriate to the
dispenser disclosed or claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Apparatus in which a single receiver is supplied with plural
material charges at separate points of deposit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Apparatus in which multiple material supplies are provided,
with means whereby a desired one of the sources may be used for
filling a given receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Apparatus having means for holding supply containers in
inverted position, the containers being of the type which has no
discharge assistant and in which emptying is completed by one outflow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Apparatus in which at least one of the materials which forms
the charge is delivered to a measuring trap and the second material
is either added to the first in the trap or follows it through the
trap.
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 888+ and 896+ for fluid distribution systems having
multiple inlets and a single outlet with means for positively mingling
the materials in the course of their flow.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the filling means is a material handler
or confining means designed to be filled by being thrust into a
supply of fluent material and to be manipulated to discharge the
material so picked up into a receiver which is attached to and carried
by or otherwise associated with the filler.
for dispensers comprising material supply and handling
means or receptacles which are associated in nonuse relation, so
that the means or receptacle, which may comprise a scoop or cup,
must be separated from the supply before it can be filled.
Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements,
subclasses 27+ and other appropriate subclasses for receptacle holders
having handles thereon, and subclass 55 for scoops, per se.
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclasses 276+ for a scoop type shaping means arranged to be filled
by being thrust into a bulk source (e.g., ice cream disher, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Apparatus in which the receiver is associated with the scoop
by being placed therein so that the material picked up by the scoop
is at the same time deposited within the receiver.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which (1) the material transfer from the supply
to the receiver is effected by a wick or other absorbent material which
is located either in the receiver or in the supply at the point
of transfer of the material from one to the other, or (2) the receiver
has its inlet partly submerged below the surface of the supply at
some period in the operation of filling so that all or part of the
charge flows into the receiver by gravity.
Coating Implements With Material Supply,
subclasses 118+ for a container for a supply of coating material in
combination with a separable applicator which transports the material from
the container and applies it to a work surface by contact therewith; and
see section IV, "Search Class", in the definition
of this class (141) for the line with Class 401.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Apparatus having means for moving the receiver into, during
or out of filling relations. The receiver supply may or may not
be of the successive receiver type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Apparatus in which the receiver is secured to a closure
for a supply chamber and is stored in immersed (i.e., filling) position
between operations.
Coating Implements With Material Supply,
subclasses 126+ for containers for a supply of coating material
in combination with a separable applicator-and-closure unit which
transports the material to and applies it on a work surface; and
see the "Search Class" note in section IV of the
definition of this class (141) for the line with Class 401.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the flow of contents material into the
receiver is in an upward direction and in which the system includes
support means for the receiver in filling relation. The receiver
may be filled through an aperture at its bottom or it may be inverted
for filling.
for successive receiver type filling systems in
which the conveyor rotates on a horizontal axis so that the receiver
may be inverted at some time during the filling cycle though not necessarily
so.
WITH MANIPULATION OF FLEXIBLE OR COLLAPSIBLE RECEIVER OR
SUPPLY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which some portion of the mechanism is useful
only and thereby requires in its normal operation that the walls
of the dispenser or receiver be distortable or capable of being
pushed out of one position into another except as a mere incident
to affixing the receiver to the filling head. Pre-shaping of the receiver
prior to placing same on the filling head is here included.
(1)
Note. Examples of such essential flexibility or yielding character
are automatic control of a filling operation by expansion of the
receiver being filled and excess material removal by contraction of
the receiver, and delivery of contents material by collapsing walls
of the supply container.
(2)
Note. Motion of a foldable flap about its hinge line being
analogous to the motion of other closure elements, is not included in
this subclass.
Package Making,
subclasses 570+ for a packaging machine for forming and filling
a bag, subclasses 373.3+ for closing a package or filled
receptacle by means adapted to engage a closure flap, and subclasses
381.1+ for package making including means to open or erect
a receptacle.
DRIP PREVENTION BY FLOW REVERSING AND/OR OVERFILL
REMOVAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus having means (1) to obviate spillage or escape
of material from the system after the separation or disconnection
of the receiver from the filling means or (2) for the removal of
contents material from the receiver. The means to obviate spillage
or escape of material from the system may act either through the
filling head means, i.e., by reversal of operation, or by pouring
off or extracting contents material already in the receiver, the means
acting in either event beyond the last point of stoppage of flow
by the filling head means.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not include apparatus for simultaneously
filling and overflowing the receiver unless a flow line is provided,
(i.e., spilling out) nor for overflowing and collecting spilled contents
material.
for filling heads having plural flow passages, one
of which may provide for outflow of overfill material. In these
subclasses no means for positive action to withdraw contents material is
provided.
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Apparatus in which the contents material beyond the last
point of stop-page is removed from the receiver or dispenser outlet
means by returning such contents material to the supply through
the filling means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Apparatus in which the means reversing direction of flow
includes a volume increasing means for such purpose carried by the
filling means and operative upon disconnection from the receiver.
(1)
Note. The referred to head is of telescoping or equivalent-type
chamber and becomes compressed when engaged with the receiver. Disengaging
the head and receiver permits the head to expand and act as a vacuum
pump.
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Apparatus in which the contents material is caused to flow
in a reverse direction by means effective to tilt or tip the receiver
and connected filling means.
Material or Article Handling,
subclasses 403+ for receptacle emptying devices, particularly subclasses
404+ and 425 for dumping and upending devices respectively.
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Apparatus in which flow reversal is caused by a negative
pressure means which is controlled by a means simultaneously operative
with the contents material supply control means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Apparatus in which the filling means is provided with a
flow line which is operative as a siphon after filling to return
contents material from the receiver or from the shorter leg of such
siphon to the supply source.
for combined overflowers and packers or toppers
which compact material in a filled receiver and are structurally similar
to displacement means for removing overfill from receivers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Apparatus having means to continue the filling operation
at the same or different station following contents material overfill
removal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Apparatus in which the removal means comprises a device
which forces contents material out of the receiver by its weight
or by change in volume, combined with means for establishing subatmospheric
pressure on such contents material in said device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Apparatus in which the removal station comprises means to
invert or tip the receiver to spill excess material therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Apparatus including means such as a rolling contact wiper
or brush, a spatula or skimmer, or a scraper for movement across
or into the mouth of a receiver for removal of excess material therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Apparatus having means for adding and extracting contents
material to and from the receiver at the same station at the same
time.
(1)
Note. The simultaneous filling of and removing from the receptacle
does not necessarily commence at the very beginning of the filling
cycle, i.e., a certain level of contents material will first have been
reached in the receiver before the removal means becomes effective.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus in which simultaneous filling and removing is
accomplished by plural fluid flow causing devices or by a fluid
flow device which when acting in one direction causes filling and when
acting in the opposite direction causes removal of contents material.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus in which the flow of contents material is diminished
at the end of a cycle, usually for the purpose of more easily controlling
the exact level in the receiver.
WITH CONVEYING MEANS TO SUPPLY SUCCESSIVE RECEIVERS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus comprising filling systems of one or more filling
stations or heads and conveying means for receivers by which the
filled receivers are replaced by empty ones progressively, i.e.,
the filled receiver does not move through the same path as the empty
one and succession is insured by some means or mode of operation
of the machine.
(1)
Note. The conveying means may comprise any device within the
class definition of Classes 193, 198, 214, and related classes.
If the conveyor is a mere guide it must be possible to move the
filled receiver by pushing on the succeeding empty one.
(2)
Note. Multiple-headed machines of the progressive type, i.e.,
having plural receivers in different stages of filling during rotation
or translation of the group, are included even though the receivers
are places and removed by hand at the beginning and end of the course.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which a series of receivers is presented to
a continuous flow in such a way that small amounts, usually separated
at intervals for sampling purposes, are removed from the flow stream
and filled in successive receivers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the flow from the contents supply is
not cut off between the filling of successive receivers by any means
carried by the contents-supplying part of the system, but is diverted
from one receiver to another or checked between receiver filling
points or operations by some characteristic of the receiver or by
the receiver carrier.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Apparatus in which the successive receivers do not form
a continuous surface opposed to or receiving the flowing material
when they are in normal side by side relationship and means is provided
to adjust the receivers vertically or laterally into closer or overlapping
relation, or shields are applied to the receivers to fill the spaces
normally occurring between them.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Apparatus in which the means for supplying the successive
receivers constitutes a means for occupying space between receivers
and opposes the flow of material to points other than receiver"s
inlet.
(1)
Note. The receiver carrier or conveyor must have a translating
motion with respect to the contents outlet during material flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Apparatus in which spaced outlets are provided and the continuous
contents flow as to any one outlet is shifted in the direction of
the line of receivers so that the flow alternately follows a given
receiver and shifts backward to another outlet above a succeeding
receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the unit comprising a filling means outlet
and a receiver move together during flow relation in a direction
transverse to the direction in which the filling means and receiver
move into filling relation.
for filling systems providing plural materials,
plural material supplies or plural charges in a receiver and having
lateral travel of registering head and receiver.
Package Making,
subclasses 276+ for machines for filling preformed receptacles
and closing in which diverse heads are rotatively indexing and progressively
acting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Apparatus in which the filling means comprises siphon type
heads which are progressively entered into and removed from the receivers
by a swinging or lifting action.
for filling systems with siphon flow control by
level in the receiver, and see the search notes to that subclass for
other siphon type fillers or dispensers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Apparatus in which a head or filling device after traveling
with an associated receiver until filling is accomplished returns
along that path to meet the succeeding receiver and again reverses
its direction to accompany that receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Apparatus in which the repeated operation of the cycle of
filling receivers is discontinued or interrupted because of some
undesired condition in the machine or because of the failure to supply
contents material or a receiver.
(1)
Note. The change may include stopping the machine or merely
skipping one operation connected with the missing charge or receiver,
but if it is caused by lack of a receiver that lack must be at a filling
station or corresponding conveyor position, and not merely failure
to supply the machine with receivers at the beginning of the conveyor
line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Apparatus in which the control of the cycle is effected
by the contents material, means being provided to sense the lack
of, or some irregularity in the feed of, the contents material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Apparatus having a series of progressively acting heads
and characterized by the fact that failure to provide a receiver
at any given head inactivates that head for the particular cycle
in which no receiver is supplied.
(1)
Note. The charge intended for the receiver may either be retained
in the supply system or diverted to another point, or other means
may operate to prevent the formation of the charge.
(2)
Note. In this subclass are those patents where the valve or
trap is operated by contact with the receiver, there being obviously
no operation of the valve or trap if there is no receiver present
at the station.
(3)
Note. Machines having this character of operation are known
in the art as no-can-no-fill type.
Package Making,
subclasses 67+ for packaging machines in which the operation is
responsive to the presence or absence of the preformed receptacle;
351+ for supply means with receiver actuated discharge means,
and see the search notes thereto for other coupling operated flow
controllers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Apparatus in which a trip, linkage, latch or servo motor
is activated by the presence or absence of the receiver either to
cause the charge to be filled into the receiver or to prevent the
charge being supplied as the case may be.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Apparatus in which the control means comprises a cam or
other track of a contour calculated to cause or control a cycle
of operation for a particular head and the means responsive to the
presence or absence of a receiver for this head causes a follower
or control element to take different paths with respect to the track
in accordance with the presence or absence of a receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Apparatus in which the control means comprises a trigger
moving about a vertical axis under the influence of the receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Apparatus in which the rotary set of heads and the conveyor
for the rotating set of receptacles have a common vertical axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Apparatus in which each filling head has a vertically reciprocating
member connected therewith and causing or controlling the filling operations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Apparatus in which each of the heads is provided with a
valve, guide or other means related to the filling operation which
means is operated by contact with a stationary part of the filling
apparatus comprising a shaped track or projection so disposed as
to operate the part at the desired point.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Apparatus in which means is provided for elevating the receiver
into position associated with the head from which it is to receive
its charge.
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Apparatus in which the lift is provided with means for bringing
the receiver into filling relation in such a way that discrepancies
in size are accommodated by a lost motion or other cushioning effect.
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Apparatus in which the lifting or lowering of the receiver
is controlled by a projection or cam follower traveling on a shaped
track.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Apparatus in which the machine comprises parts adjustable
for the accommodation of receivers of different sizes.
(1)
Note. The adjustment must be to the physical size of the receiver
such as in the receiver support, in the position of the head or
in some other capacity than mere quantity of the charge as determined
by the supply means independently of its contact with a receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the filling of the successive receivers
or any one of them is responsive in some way to the presence, absence
or some varying condition of the contents material.
for automatic control of filling systems having
lateral motion of the registering head and receiver in response to
a condition of the contents material.
Package Making,
subclasses 52+ for automatic or triggered controlled of package
making systems and especially subclasses 56+, 73, 74, and
493 for triggering or control by presence of contents.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the filling system is combined with or
possesses features having special utility in connection with receivers
which have an inlet alined with the flow path of the entering material,
which inlet is not symmetrically placed with reference to the dimension
of the receiver, transverse to the inlet axis or which have an inlet
closed by a flap attached to the margin of the inlet.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which (1) two or more portions of the apparatus
having distinct functions each have the regulating elements therefor
so arranged as to require one element to assume a desired position
simultaneously or in proper sequence with the positioning of another
element, whereby the operation of one part is directly dependent
upon the correct positioning of the regulated element of another
part, this arrangement being something other than or in addition
to the normal operating mechanism of the parts, or (2) some nonautomatic
mechanism is so arranged as to prevent operation of parts or all
of the machine when such operation would (a) endanger the person
of an operator or (b) injure some part of the machine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which means is provided for sensing a normal
or desired condition or position of the receptacle, an abnormal
or undesired condition or position of the receptacle, or the absence
of the receptacle, and as a result of this sensing and without external
intervention, bringing about an alteration in the operation or control
of the filling system.
(1)
Note. The control operates through the starting or stopping
of the drive of the system or some component part thereof so as
to correct, avoid damage from or mitigate the effects of such condition,
or to cause the normal operation or cessation of operation of the
system or some parts thereof.
Package Making,
subclasses 52+ for package making machine having automatic or
triggered control, especially subclasses 63 and 67+ for
control by the receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Apparatus in which the control over a single filling operation
is exerted by the receiver which is intended to receive that particular charge.
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Apparatus in which receivers are supplied with successive
premeasured charges and in which a unit designed to form the charge
for the missing receiver is either prevented from operating to receive
a charge or is operated to dispose of its charge in some way other
than the normal path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Apparatus in which the control on the system is exerted
by some linkage, latch, clutch, trip or servo system which is either
operated by the presence of the receiver or prevented from operating
by its absence.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Apparatus in which the responsive member comprises or operates
an auxiliary valve or switch which in turn controls the operation
of a motor or transducer connected to the related filling unit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Apparatus in which the responsive means operates to engage
or disengage a clutch comprised in the operating means for the filling
unit related to the receiver position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Apparatus in which power is transmitted from the conveyor
to the supply units by the lateral motion of the receiver which
is imparted to it by the conveyor and transmitted by it either directly
to the supply unit or to a latch, mechanical movement, etc., which
operates the supply unit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the conveyor, either endless or rotary,
has a horizontally placed arbor or axis adjacent the filling position
so that the receiver changes its orientation in connection with
the filling operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the receiver is supported on its side
on the conveyor and is filled while occupying a horizontal or substantially
horizontal position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which a conveyor is provided with movable means
to center or guide the receiver into position for accurate alignment with
the supply outlet, or movable means is provided either on the filling
head or on the conveyor to engage the receiver by friction or compression,
(e.g. spring clip) and support it against gravity or against shifting
from proper position.
for filling means with receiver or receiver coacting
means especially adapted for flexible or collapsible receivers,
and see the search notes to this group of subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the speed of travel of the receiver is
varied during its course through the machine while on a single conveyor.
(1)
Note. Travel through successive circular paths of different
radii is included.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the receiver handling means comprises
plural conveyors operating sequentially to transport each receiver,
or a conveyor and (1) additional means for raising the receiver
above the conveyor or lowering it from that position to the conveyor,
or (2) means for otherwise manipulating the receiver as by supplying
it to or removing it from the conveyor.
(1)
Note. Manipulating means includes means to lift, lower, dispense
or discharge a receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Apparatus in which the successive receivers are rearranged
to or from a single line from or to plural lines.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Apparatus in which the receiver is shifted transversely
from one conveyor to another which is in a generally parallel relation
to the first, the filling operation taking place in connection with
the shift.
Conveyors: Power-Driven,
subclasses 367+ , 370.07 through 370.09, 370.1, 370.11 through 370.13,
426+, 463.1+, 597+, 599, 637, and others
for means for moving a load off a conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Apparatus in which a receiver is stored, dispensed or entered
into the conveyor system with its major axis in a different position
from which it occupies in receiving its charge, or in which a change
in position occurs after filling and prior to or during the removal
of the receiver from the conveyor system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Apparatus in which at least one power driven or other type
of conveyor is combined with means for elevating the receiver above
the conveyor line, usually for the purpose of bringing it in contact
with the filling head.
for filling systems in which the receiver is raised
or lowered with reference to the filling means in connection with
the filling operation, and see the search notes to subclass 275.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Apparatus in which a receiver supply is provided from which
receivers are transferred to the filling system proper either at
the filling station or to the conveyor at some point prior thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173. Apparatus having means especially adapted to feed cups to
a filling station one at a time from a nested or stacked arrangement.
Article Dispensing, particularly
subclass 96 for dispensers of cup type receivers in combination
with fluent material dispensers wherein the organization includes
a mere support for the cup in filling position at most, i.e. no
means for guiding or bringing the dispersed cup into filling relation
with the fluent material dispenser.
Dispensing,
subclasses 129+ for plural compartment dispensers there provided
in which a second compartment may be included for supporting a stack
of cups, the relation not being appropriate to the article dispensing nor
the filling with fluent material classes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173. Apparatus in which successive receivers are advanced by
being pushed a distance equal to the transverse dimension of the
receiver in the direction of its advance, a pause usually for filling
intervening between successive strokes.
for similar apparatus in which the initial push
imparted to a receiver is a dispensing operation for that receiver, and
subsequent strokes dispense another receiver while advancing the preceding
receiver.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Apparatus in which means is provided to separate the filled
receiver from that part of the system in which it receives its charge
either by removing it from the conveying system entirely or by transferring
it to another conveyor, said means being relatively movable with
respect to the filling conveyor.
for filling systems with means for manipulating
a filled receiver for separation from its support or filling head,
and see the search notes to subclass 281.
Conveyors: Power-Driven,
subclasses 367+ , 370.07 through 370.09, 370.1, 370.11 through 370.13,
426+, 463.1+, 597+, 599, 637, and others
for means for moving a load off a conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the filling means outlet and the conveyor
support for the receiver are relatively adjustable to provide for
receivers of different sizes or heights and/or either the
filling head or the receiver seat on the conveyor is adjustable
for receivers of different sizes.
for filling systems having supply means or receiver
supports which are relatively movable during or in connection with
flow relation and having an adjustable, movable component.
Dispensing,
subclasses 282+ for dispensers of the discharge assistant type with
discharge volume varying means, subclasses 434+ for trap
type dispensers with discharge volume varying means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which multiple receivers are handled as an
individual unit in other than side by side (duplicate) filling arrangement
or in single sequential arrangement.
(1)
Note. Handling plural receivers in crates or trays for filling
is here classified only if the tray or crate is handled as a single unit
and does not merely become part of the conveyor system to feed a
side by side (duplicate) line of receivers to duplicate heads.
for filling systems in which multiple receivers
are filled at one cycle but in which the plurality of receivers
is handled individually being separated into appropriate groups
from a compacted line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Apparatus in which multiple filling heads operate on corresponding
multiple receivers, said receivers being supplied in a single line
which advances in multiple spaces corresponding to the number of
filling heads, and the receivers being counted off or grouped as
needed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which a moving conveyor slides beneath a receiver
in filling position, the receiver being detained by appropriate
means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the supply manifold or one or more filling
heads are shifted vertically to bring them into coacting relation
with receivers supplied by the conveyor.
for supply systems having a movable head or supply
and provided with a movable support therefor and a hose type connection
to some preceding source or supply.
This subclass is indented under subclass 181. Apparatus in which the movable means for bridging the gap
between a stationary supply manifold, measuring chamber, etc., and
the receiver supplied by the conveyor comprises a noncontrolling
type of sleeve or funnel which is movable or removable with respect
to the preceding section of the supply means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in which the supply of the contents and the supply
of the successive receivers are interconnected or sequentially related
in the cyclical operation of the machine.
(1)
Note. See the class definition for the meaning of cyclical
operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Apparatus in which a filling system designed to perform
at least two cycles, that is, to fill at least two successive receivers,
is arranged to cease operation after a predetermined number of cycles
or after filling a predetermined number of receivers.
for filling systems which cease to operate under
emergency conditions, i.e., those relating to failure which cannot
be foreseen. Thus the exhausting of a limited supply of contents material
or the completion of filling of a definite number of receivers is
not an unforeseen condition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Apparatus in which receivers are filled as a group a row
at a time, the filling of a row comprising a cycle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Apparatus in which two or more units are provided each of
which comprises a head and means for supplying successive receivers
and is capable of operating as a filling system if separated from
the other units.
(1)
Note. The lines are substantial duplicates although they may
be set up as entirely separate structures or as mere multiple heads
on the same source of supply or multiple lines of receivers on the
same conveyor.
Package Making,
subclasses 168+ for selective or alternate supply of plural covers
and/or plural contents in package making machinery subclass
202 for plural line packaging.
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CLASS 141,![[List of Patents for class 141 subclass 1]](../ps.gif)
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