WO2000055052A2

WO2000055052A2 - Portable liquid container and pump

Info

Publication number: WO2000055052A2
Application number: PCT/US2000/007092
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kent P. Fields; Thomas F. Mcallister
Original assignee: Fields Kent P; Mcallister Thomas F
Priority date: 1999-03-17
Filing date: 2000-03-17
Publication date: 2000-09-21
Also published as: WO2000055052A3; AU3756600A; WO2000055052A9

Abstract

An improved portable liquid container and pump (11) is provided. The portable liquid container includes a hand or foot operated pump (14) which can be used to draw or siphon liquids into a container (12) or for the controlled dispensing of liquids out of the container. The portable liquid container (12) may include not only a pump but also a switch or valve (16) for controlling the flow of liquids into or out of the container. The portable liquid container may have a recessed handle (22), recessed spout (26), recessed vent (23), recessed pump (14) and recessed switch (16) which prevent damage to the container components and provide for the stacking of one container on top of another.

Description

PORTABLE LIQUID CONTAINER AND PUMP

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to containers or receptacles for receiving, holding, transporting, dispensing, mixing, or the like liquid such as water, gasoline, oil, solvents, and/or the like. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a portable liquid

container or receptacle having a manually or electrically operated pump for selectively drawing liquid into the container and/or pumping liquid out of the container in a controlled manner. Also, the present invention is directed to such a portable container having a switch for selecting the liquid receiving or dispensing mode and container accessories such as pour spouts, caps, hoses, vents, and the like.

Conventional portable liquid containers or receptacles such as a portable gasoline container or gas can as shown schematically in Figure 1 is designated by the reference numeral 1 and is typically constructed of metal or plastic and has a large base 2 which supports a reservoir 3 , a handle 4 for carrying, moving, tipping, or the like, a relatively large opening 5 and a cap or cover 6. The opening 5 serves as not only the fill port for putting

gasoline or other fuel into the container from, for example, a fuel pump at a gasoline station, but also serves as the dispensing port for dispensing fuel from the container. Modern

gasoline containers may also include a small vent opening which is selectively opened when the user is trying to dispense fuel from the container. A pour spout may be attached to the large opening in the conventional container 1 for facilitating the pouring of fuel into, for example, the fuel tank of an automobile, lawnmower, riding mower, boat, or the like. Due to the reduced cost of manufacture using plastic as compared to metal, over half of the portable gasoline containers or gas cans on sale on the market today are plastic rather than metal. Further, there is a safety hazard of utilizing metal gas cans when transporting them in a vehicle such as a pickup truck having a plastic bed liner. Sliding or movement of the metal gas can back and forth in the plastic bed liner can create static electricity which can build a charge up on the exterior of the portable gasoline container which can create a spark and cause disastrous ignition of the vapors or fuel when the user opens the container or

attempts to add fuel to the metal container with the container in the bed of the pickup truck from a gasoline pump at the gas station. Modern truck bed liners contain a cautionary

sticker which states that metal gas cans should never be filled while sitting in the plastic bed

liner. In certain circumstances, there develops a need for a person or individual to siphon,

or for the siphoning or drawing off, or conveying of a liquid from one container to another. In connection with the siphoning of gasoline, for example, from the fuel tank of a vehicle to a portable fuel container or fuel tank of a lawnmower engine, several different methods and apparatus and devices have been employed. One of the oldest methods is to use a length of hose such as garden hose, placing one end down into the fuel in the fuel tank of the vehicle and placing the other end below the level of the first end and adjacent a portable fuel container or lawnmower fuel tank. The individual doing the siphoning places the second

end of the hose in his or her mouth and draws a vacuum in the end of the hose sufficient to cause gasoline to travel up into the hose and down toward the second end of the hose. If the individual is lucky, he or she will not get a mouth full of gasoline before placing the second end of the hose into the spout of the gasoline container or the fill spout of the fuel tank on the lawnmower. This method of using a hose for siphoning gasoline is dangerous on several counts. First, the user may swallow gasoline or have gasoline in their mouth which not only tastes bad, but also gasoline may be a carcinogen.

Hand operated siphoning devices such as shown in Figure 2 and generally designated 7 sprang up in the early 70's during the gasoline shortage and include a first length of

elongate hose 8 which is adapted to be placed down into the fuel in a fuel tank in a vehicle attached to one end of a hand operated bellows, ball, bladder, or the like 9 and having a

shorter length of hose 10 extending from the hand operated bellows 9 and adapted to be placed into the fill spout of a portable fuel gasoline container or fill opening of another fuel tank. The user squeezes the sides of the hand operated bellows 9 and creates a vacuum in the long length of hose 8 sufficient to draw gasoline out of the vehicle fuel tank through the hose 8, bellows 9, hose 10 and into the receiving container or fuel tank. Although such

manually operated siphoning hoses or devices are somewhat useful, they require that the user carry or store for use a portable gasoline container and a separate manual siphoning device or hose. Also, such manually operated siphoning devices or hoses do not provide for

a controlled siphoning or dispensing of fuel which usually leads to the overfilling of the gasoline container or lawnmower engine fuel tank, or the like and results in the spilling of gasoline. Such spilling of gasoline is not only wasteful, but also hazardous in that gasoline and its fumes are extremely flammable, and gasoline and its vapors may be hazardous to humans and other animals.

There are times when it is desirable to be able to dispense a small portion of a liquid from a large liquid holding container, such as a 208 liters (55-gallon) drum. Usually, this requires an individual to get assistance and tip the large container or drum sufficiently to cause liquid to exit or be dispensed from an opening in the top of the container and, hopefully, pour into a funnel which will direct this liquid into a smaller portable liquid container. For example, when transferring oil from a 208 liter (55-gallon) drum to a gallon jug or other smaller portable liquid container for holding, transporting, and dispensing the oil. When tipping a large container such as a 208 liter (55-gallon) drum, if the drum is substantially full, just a slight tipping of the drum causes liquid to pour out onto the top of the drum, spread across a large area of the side of the drum, and spill all over the place as it tends to miss the funnel used to direct the liquid into the receiving container.

When dispensing hazardous, corrosive, or concentrated liquids such as gasoline, oil, other fuels, solvents, cleaners, diluents, or the like from large containers, spilling of the liquid can not only be hazardous as the liquid may be flammable, but it may also be a carcinogen, may cause burning of the skin, or tend to eat away the floor of the building

where it is spilled.

Although large industrial complexes may have automated systems for the emptying of large liquid storage containers, such as 208 liter (55-gallon) drums, most small businesses and households do not have compressed air or electrically driven motors or pumps for selectively dispensing liquids from large containers into smaller containers. Individuals are usually forced to use a hose in an attempt to siphon the liquid from the large container or merely attempt to tip the large container and pour the liquid into the smaller container using a funnel, or the like. Typically, the funnel must be held in position by a second individual or it tends to fall or be knocked out of the fill spout of the small container. Consequently, the movement of liquid from a large container to a small container in most households or

small businesses is a frustrating and possibly dangerous situation.

Hence, there exists a need for an improved portable liquid container or receptacle for receiving, transporting, holding, dispensing, and/or storing liquids or other portable or flowable materials such as gasoline, water, fuels, cleaners, solvents or the like. Further, there is a need for an improved portable liquid container having a pump for selectively drawing or siphoning liquid into the container or pumping liquid out of the container in a controlled manner, which substantially eliminates spills, drips, or leaks, having a switch or valve for controlling the siphoning or dispensing mode of the container, which is stackable, easy to use, safe to operate, and/or the like.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, an improved portable liquid container and pump is provided which addresses the drawbacks of the prior art, which provides for the

selective siphoning or drawing in, or collection of liquids or other portable or flowable materials, and the controlled dispensing of liquids or other pourable or flowable materials from the portable liquid container. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the portable liquid container includes a hand or foot operated pump which can be used to draw or siphon liquids into the container or for the controlled dispensing of liquids out of the container. In accordance with another embodiment, the portable liquid container includes not only a pump but also a switch or valve for controlling the flow of

liquids into or out of the container.

In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the portable liquid container has a recessed handle, recessed spout, recessed vent, recessed pump, and

recessed switch which prevent damage to the container components and provide for the stacking of one container on top of another, resulting in a relatively stable stack of containers. It is contemplated that the portable liquid containers of this embodiment of the present invention may be stacked three or four high without a problem.

In accordance with one particular embodiment, the present invention is directed to a portable gas container having a pump for selectively siphoning gas from a fuel storage container or tank or from the fuel tank of a vehicle, car, truck, boat, or the like into the portable container and for selectively pumping the fuel from the portable container into a fuel tank of a personal water craft, motorcycle, all terrain vehicle, car, boat, lawnmower, riding mower, or the like. Hence, the portable container and pump serve as a transfer and storage device for transferring fuel from a first fuel container or tank, storing it in the portable container, and then dispensing or pouring it into a second fuel tank or another

container.

In accordance with the particular embodiment, the portable fuel container is formed

of plastic, and utilizes a foot pump which fits into a recess in one end of the container and which has the necessary check valves and hoses to selectively provide for a suction of fuel

from a fuel supply into the container or for the pumping of fuel from the container to a remote fuel tank or container. Also, a manually-operated flow control valve or switch may be added to the portable container or the base of the pump to provide for the selective siphoning of fuel into the container and pumping of fuel out of the container without having to use the pour spout on the container.

Although gasoline cans or gas cans or containers 1 (Figure 1) and hand-operated siphon hoses 7 (Figure 2) are known, the present portable liquid container and pump is a

unique and improved fuel storage and transfer device or system which can be used, for example, on boats for supplying fuel to personal water craft, can be used on tow trucks for

supplying fuel to cars which have run out of gas, and the like for transferring fuel, oil, or any other liquid or pourable or flowable materials such as water, cleaners, solvents, mixtures,

solutions, and the like.

Although it is preferred to use a foot pump in association with the container, it is contemplated that one may use a hand pump or an electric pump for siphoning fuel from a fuel tank and pumping the fuel into and/or out of the present container. Another embodiment of the present invention incorporates an electric fuel pump which can be powered by a vehicle cigarette lighter or 12-volt adapter and used to siphon fuel from a fuel tank or drum and pump the fuel into the container. One can simply use a valve or switch to reverse the direction of flow, reverse the direction of the electric pump, or reverse the hoses on the pump and use the electric pump to pump fuel from the portable container into a fuel

tank or other container. It is preferred that the present portable liquid container be shaped to be stackable and small enough to be portable. The portable container may be dimensioned to hold liquids from about a 0.946 liter (quart) up to 37.8 liters (ten gallons), preferably one to 19 liters (five gallons). In accordance with one example, a one gallon portable liquid container or smaller may be incorporated in a new vehicle for use by the vehicle owner should they inadvertently run out of gas. The handle, threaded flange or port for receiving the pour spout and the like may be recessed to accommodate the vertical stacking of the portable containers.

A principle object of the present invention is the provision of a portable liquid

container and pump.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a plastic or metal portable container for commercial or public use that can efficiently siphon, dispense, and/or store liquids or other pourable or flammable materials for either short term transfer or long term

storage.

A yet further object is to provide a portable container that provides the option of either pouring liquids out of a spout, pumping out the container contents, or siphoning liquids out of the container, and thereby, minimize lifting of the container.

Another object is the provision of a siphoning container made in a substantially cubic configuration with the handle, spout, pump and siphoning hose indented or recessed into the configuration for easy storage and stacking of containers, and with the indentation of external appendages and the pump reducing wear and tear on the siphoning container.

It is a yet further object of the invention to provide a relatively efficient and economic production of the portable container for public or commercial use, for example, through the process of injection molding, blow molding, rotational molding, or other molding processes.

Other objectives and advantages of the invention shall become apparent from the following description of the invention.

00/55052

10 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a conventional gas can.

Figure 2 is a schematic side view of a conventional siphon hose.

Figure 3 is a perspective view illustration of a portable liquid container and pump in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a perspective view illustration of the container of Figure 3 without the pump, switch, or the like.

Figure 5 is a side view partial cross-section illustration of the pump of the liquid container and pump of Figure 3. Figure 6 is an end view partial cross-section representation of the pump of Figure 3.

Figure 7 is a cross section view illustration of the base or valve assembly of the foot pump of the container of Figure 3 taken along line 7-7 in Figure 6.

Figure 8 is a side view illustration of an electric pump in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 is an end view representation of the electric pump of Figure 8.

Figure 10 is a side view representation of the switch or valve of the liquid container and pump of Figure 3 and a pair of short hoses.

Figure 11 is a front view illustration of the switch of Figure 10 and a pair of long hoses.

Figure 12 is front view representation of an alternative switch arrangement.

Figure 13 is a schematic section view of the container of Figure 3 without the pump.

Figure 14 is a schematic flow diagram showing the siphoning of liquid into the container. Figure 15 is a schematic flow diagram showing the dispensing of liquid from the container.

Figure 16 is a side elevational view representation of a flexible pour spout adapted to be attached to the spout or port on the container of Figure 3. Figure 17 is a side elevational view representation of a flexible pour or draw hose in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 18 is a perspective view illustration of a portable liquid container in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 19 is a side elevational view illustration of a flow through foot pump in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a schematic section view illustration of a foot pump, valve, and

associated hoses in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention and with the valve in the siphon position.

Figure 21 is a section view representation of the pump, valve, and hoses of Figure 20 with the valve in the dispense position.

Figure 22 is a section view representation of the pump, valve, and hoses of Figure 21 with the valve in the off position.

Figure 23 is a perspective view illustration of a portable liquid container and pump in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 24 is a perspective view representation of the portable liquid container and pump of Figure 23 with the foot or hand pump pulled away from the container.

Figure 25 is a top view illustration of the portable liquid container and pump of Figure 23. Figure 26 is an end elevational view representation of the portable liquid container and pump of Figure 23.

Figure 27 is a side elevational view illustration of the portable liquid container and

pump of Figure 23.

Figure 28 is a cross-sectional representation of the portable liquid container of Figure

23 taken along line 28-28 in Figure 25.

Figure 29 is a schematic sectional view illustration of the valve of Figure 23.

Figure 30 is a schematic perspective view of a heavy duty liquid container and pump embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a plastic or metal portable container or receptacle and pump (type and size of container and pump determined by either commercial, industrial or public use) for siphoning, or transferring via an extraction hose attached to the container or pump a desired quantity of a liquid or other pourable or flowable material, such as water,

gasoline, oil, solvent, mixture, or the like from a source such as a vehicle fuel tank or a large liquid container to be either transferred to another destination or to be held or stored in the portable container for future use. The portable container of the present invention can be used as a temporary or long term storage unit for liquid or pourable materials. The preferred

container is constructed in a substantially cubic or rectangular configuration with indented appendages (handle, spout) for easy storage and/or stacking of containers. The container may have a hand, foot, or electrical pump for moving liquids to or from the container.

Conventional siphoning devices (Figure 2) and hoses are used frequently to provide an immediate transfer of a liquid from one container to another (Figure 1). These devices

are used primarily when an engine has run out of fuel or if a liquid needs to be transferred, for example, from a large container to another smaller container.

Conventional siphoning devices and hoses used for siphoning (via suction created from a users mouth and lungs) are usually only capable of immediate transfer. They do not have the capability of long term liquid storage. They must have an immediate destination for transfer or another container to hold the siphoned liquid. Siphoning with only a hose, which is a common occurrence, can lead to hazardous exposure of the liquid or other flowable material to the mouth of the person extracting the liquid and can cause needless spillage. Also, this conventional form of transfer only allows for limited volume liquid transfer. The conventional devices currently used in the smaller amounts of liquid transfer O 00/55052

14 make an additional storage container a necessity.

The multi-purpose portable liquid siphoning container of the present invention addresses the drawbacks of the prior art. The present siphoning or liquid container provides an inexpensive, easy stacking/storageable, and portable device that provides people an avenue to store liquids and/or transfer them in time of need. This is important in instances such as, a boat running out of fuel on a lake, an automobile running out of fuel on a highway or a lawnmower running out of fuel when the yard has only been partially mowed.

The present siphoning or liquid container also allows the user the opportunity to

extract liquids and pourable chemicals from larger containers, eg. kerosene, oil, cleaners, or the like from a 208 liter (55-gallon) drum, and take the liquid to another location in a smaller amount, eg. 19 liters (5 gallons) or less. It also proves helpful in preventing spills of liquids during transfer and can even clean up liquid spills of liquids that need to be stored, eg. liquid cleaning material spills, by siphoning up the spilled liquid and storing it. The present device enables the user the security of storing fewer hazardous chemicals in or around the house or shop. For example, rather than storing gasoline in a garage creating a possibly smelly and hazardous condition, the user can siphon gasoline from a car, vehicle or automobile fuel tank when the need for fuel arises.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as shown in at least Figures 3-7 of the drawings, a portable liquid container and pump is generally designated by the reference numeral 11 and shown to include a liquid container 12, a pump 14, and a switch or valve 16. The liquid container 12 is formed of plastic or metal, such as injection-molded, blow-molded, rotational-molded plastic or resin materials from which conventional gasoline containers or gas cans are made and is adapted to hold one or more liquids such as water, gasoline, oil, other petroleum products, solvents, liquid or liquified 00/55052

15 chemicals, pourable materials, flowable materials, industrial or household cleaners, and/or the like. Container 12 is preferably portable and of a size to accommodate from about 0.946 liter (one quart) to 37.8 liters (ten gallons) of liquid therein, preferably one to 19 liters (five gallons). In accordance with a particular example of the present invention, the container 12 is roughly about 30.48 cm (12 inches) wide by 30.48 cm (12 inches) tall by 30.48 cm (12

inches) deep and holds about 7.56 liters (2 gallons) of liquid. In accordance with another particular example of the present invention, the container 12 is about 35.56 cm (14 inches) wide, 30.48 cm (12 inches) tall, and 35.56 cm (14 inches) deep and is adapted to hold about

19 liters (5 gallons) of liquid.

Container 12 includes a large vertical recess or opening 18 for accommodating pump

14 and switch 16, fittings, pipes, tubes, or conduits, and accompanying hoses, a T-shaped

recess 20 in the base of recess 18 for accommodating a T-shaped base 45 on pump 14, a handle 22 surrounded by an opening 24 which provides for grasping of the handle by fingers of the user, a recessed covered vent 23, and a fluid port or pour spout 26 in a recess 28. The cylindrical fill opening, port or pour spout 26 is covered by a cap 30 having internal threads which match the external threads 25 on spout 26. Recess 28 provides access to the spout 26 for attachment of cap 30 (Figure 13) or a pour spout or a hose such as shown in Figures 16 and 17.

Foot pump 14 is adapted to be operated manually either by a foot or hand of the user and includes a circular top 32, convoluted side or bellows 34, a circular base 36, and a T- shaped base 45 attached to the lower surface of circular base 36. The pump 14 may include inner and outer reinforcing rings 37 and 38 and a return spring 39.

T-shaped base 45 includes an inlet 40 and an outlet 42 extending from one end of the base in fluid communication with a fluid port 44 which is an opening through circular base 36 of foot pump 14. Opening 44 provides fluid communication with a passage 46 which provides fluid communication to each of two parallel fluid passages 48 and 50. Fluid passage 48 includes a first check valve 52 while fluid passage 50 includes a second check valve 54. Check valve 52 includes a biasing spring or biasing means 56, a ball 58, and a ball

seat 60. Check valve 54 similarly includes a biasing spring or biasing means 62, ball 64, and ball seat 66. Check valve 52 allows fluid to flow in through inlet 40 to passage 46 up through opening 44 and into the interior of bellows 34. Check valve 54 allows fluid to flow out of outlet 42 from passage 46 from opening 44 and from the interior of the bellows 34. Consequently, when one pushes down on top 32 of pump 14 with the sole of a shoe or foot,

air is forced out of the interior of the bellows 34 through opening 44 through passage 46 through passage 50, through check valve 54 and out through outlet 42. When pressure is released on top 32 of pump 14, bellows 34 expand or extend upwardly to the position shown in Figures 5 and 6 which draws in fluid through inlet 40, through check-valve 52, through passage 48, through passage 46, up through opening 44 and into the interior of bellows 34. With reference to Figure 4 of the drawings, recess 18 may include a rectangular,

planer sliding door or cover 70 which is received in opposing vertical slots or recesses 72 and 74 for covering the pump and hoses and for providing for temporary storage and protection of the pump, coiled hoses, and the like. Door or panel 70 may include a recess or opening 76 for facilitating raising of the door 70 from the recess 18. Foot pump 14 may be replaced by another more simple foot pump, a hand pump, or an electric pump, for example, a 12-volt air pump shown in Figures 8 and 9 of the drawings and generally designated by the referenced numeral 80. Electric fluid pump 80 includes a rectangular base 82, a cover 84, and a plurality of screws or assorted fasteners 86 for securing the cover to the base 82. The base 82 and cover 84 may be rectangular or circular and adapted to fit within the recess 18 in liquid container 12 in the same manner as foot pump 14 fits within the recess 18 of liquid container 12. A fluid pump or mover 88 is attached to the upper surface of base 82 and supports thereon a 12-volt DC motor 90. Motor 90 receives electrical power through a cable 92 having a cigarette lighter or 12-volt power access adapter 94 on the free end thereof. Electric cable or cord 92 passes through an opening in cover 84 which is sealed with a rubber or plastic gasket or grommet 95. Pump or mover 88 is of conventional construction and includes, for example, a rotary impeller or

propeller or a reciprocating bladder or diaphragm driven by the drive-shaft extending from motor 90. Pump 88 is in fluid communication with two passages or openings 96 and 98 which connect with passages in a T-shaped base 100 having extending therefrom an inlet 102 and an outlet 104. T-shaped base 100 is similar to T-shaped base 38 of Figures 5 and 6 and is adapted to be received in the T-shaped slot 20 in the base of recess 18 of the liquid container 12.

Fluid pump 80 includes an on/off switch or button 93 (Figures 8 and 9) for controlling starting and stopping of the motor and pump when the power connector 94 is inserted in a cigarette lighter or power outlet, for example, of a motor vehicle, boat, or the like. Although, on/off switch 93 is shown in the upper surface of cover 84 of pump 80, it is contemplated that the on/off switch may be located in the power cable or cord 92 close to cover 84 to be reachable by an individual standing or squatting adjacent liquid container 12.

With reference again to Figures 8 and 9 of the drawings, electric pump 80 may be self-contained and include a rechargeable battery or a backup battery 106 for at least limited use of the electric pump-80 when connection to a 12V vehicle battery is not possible. There is space within housing 84 to contain a battery. With reference to Figures 3, 10, and 11 of the drawings, embodiment 108 of switch or valve 16 includes a rectangular valve body 110 supporting a rotatable valve member 112

having a knob or handle 114 extending therefrom. Extending from valve body 110 are two lower ports 116 and 118 and two upper ports 120 and 122. Fluid ports 116, 118, 120, and 122 are of substantially identical construction to fluid ports 40 and 42 of pump 14 and 102 and 104 of pump 80 and are adapted to receive plastic hoses over the ends thereof and have

enlarged nubs or flanges 117 near the ends for facilitating the retaining of hoses thereover.

In accordance with a particular example of the present invention, switch or valve 16 has a valve body 110 having outer dimensions of about 5.08 cm (two inches) wide, 5.08 cm (two inches) tall, and 2.54 cm (one inch) deep. In accordance with a particular example of the present invention, fluid ports 116, 118, 120, 122, 40, 42, 102 and 104 are lengths of 0.635 cm (1/4 inch) outer diameter plastic or metal tubing such as 0.635 cm (1/4 inch) outer diameter stainless steel or copper tubing.

Fluid port 120 is a fluid inlet or siphoning inlet wherein air and liquid is drawn into the valve 16 when the valve handle or knob 114 is placed in the siphon position adjacent inlet or fluid port 120. Fluid port 122 is an outlet for dispensing liquids from the interior of container 12 and out through valve 16 when the valve handle or knob 114 is placed in the dispensing position adjacent fluid port or outlet 122.

Elongate flexible hoses 124 and 126 (Figure 11), for example, 0.793 cm (5/16ths) outer diameter flexible plastic, transparent hoses having respective first ends 128 and 130

adapted to be received over the ends of fluid ports 120 and 122 and having respective second ends 132 and 134. End 132 of hose 124 is adapted to be placed into a vehicle fuel tank, large storage tank, large storage container, 208 liter (55 gallon) drum, 19 liter (5 gallon) bucket, or the like for siphoning a liquid or pourable or flowable material from the remote container or tank and into the interior of portable liquid container 12.

End 134 of hose 126 is adapted to be placed into, for example, a fuel tank of a lawnmower, a boat, a personal water craft, an all-terrain vehicle, another vehicle, motorcycle or automobile, or a smaller container for dispensing liquids, pourable materials or flowable materials from the interior of liquid container 12 to the other container, tank, cup, bowl, or

the like.

In accordance with an alternative valve embodiment 108 A of the present invention, as shown in Figure 12 of the drawings, one of the hoses 124 and 126 may be eliminated and fluid ports 120 A and 122 A may be combined into a single fluid port 121 adapted to receive a single hose, either hose 124 or 126 for selectively siphoning or dispensing liquids, pourable materials, flowable materials, or the like.

Relatively short hoses 136 and 138 (Figure 10) are of the same material as long hoses

124 and 126, for example, transparent 0.794 cm (5/16ths) outer diameter flexible plastic hoses about 20.32 cm (8 inches) in length, and are used to operatively connect the fluid ports 116 and 118 of switch 16 with inlets and outlets 40 and 42 of base 38 of pump 14 or inlets and outlets 102 and 104 of base 100 of pump 80. For example, first end 140 of hose 136 is operatively attached to inlet 40 of pump 14 or inlet 102 of pump 80. A second end 142 of

hose 136 is operatively attached to fluid port 116 of switch or valve 16. Similarly, first end

144 of hose 138 is operatively attached to outlet 42 of pump 14 or outlet 104 of pump 80 and a second end 146 of hose 138 is operatively attached to fluid port 118 of valve or switch 16.

Extending from the back of valve 16 are three pipes, tubes, or conduits 150, 152 and

154 which extend through a wall 156 of liquid container 12. With reference to Figures 10 and 13 of the drawings, pipe 150 extends a short distance into container 12, is located near the top of the container, and adapted to dispense liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials or the like into in the interior of fluid container 12. Pipe 152 extends farther into

the interior of container 12 with an upturned end 160 having an opening 162. Pipe 152 is adapted to draw in air from the upper region of the container and, as such, create a vacuum or reduced pressure within container 12 and thereby tend to draw fluids and liquids into the container 12 through pipe 150. Pipe 154 extends into container 12 a short distance, has a portion 164 extending downwardly toward the bottom of the interior of container 12, and has an opening 166 for receiving liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials or the like

from the interior of liquid container 12 and providing for dispensing liquids or other materials through pipe 154, through valve 16, and through fluid port 122 and hose 126. In the siphoning mode wherein liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like are siphoned or drawn into the interior of fluid container 12 (Figures 10-14), the handle or knob 114 of valve 16 is placed in the siphon position adjacent the base of fluid port 120, the free end 132 of the siphon hose 124 is placed in the fluid, liquid, pourable material, flowable material, remote container, tank, drum, barrel, or the like, and the pump 14 or 80 is operated to create a suction in pipe 152 in the interior of container 12 and to draw liquids

up through hose 124 through port 120 through valve 16 through pipe 150 and into the interior of tank 12. Air expelled from the interior of bellows 34 of pump 14 passes through outlet 42 up through hose 138 into port 118 and is vented out a vent 123. When a sufficient quantity of liquid has been drawn into the interior of container 12, the end 132 of siphon hose 124 is removed from the liquid in the remote container, tank, barrel, drum, or the like, and air is allowed to be drawn in through end 132, hose 124, fluid port 120, and pipe 150 into the interior of liquid container 12. This will tend to clear liquids from the hose 124 and valve 16 and thereby keep it cleared and cleaned of the siphoned liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like. In the dispensing mode, or in order to dispense liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like from the interior of container 12 (Figures 10-13 and 15), one merely

places the knob 114 of valve 16 in the dispensing position adjacent the lower end of port 122, places the end 134 of dispensing hose 126 into the inlet, opening or fluid receiving port of the remote container, cup, bowl, can, bottle, fuel tank, or the like, to receive liquids

through dispensing hose 126, and activates pump 14 or pump 80. With the knob or handle 1 14 in the dispensing position, valve 16 connects pipe 154 with outlet fluid port 122 and operatively connects vent 123 with fluid port 1 16 and fluid port 118 with pipe 152. Activation of the pump 14 or pump 80 causes air to be expelled out through outlet 42, through hose 138, through fluid port 1 18, through valve 16 and out through pipe 152 and into the interior of fluid container 12. The increased pressure within the liquid container 12 causes liquid, pourable materials, flowable materials, or the like, within the container to enter the open end 166 of pipe 154, pass through valve 16 and out through outlet fluid port 122, through dispensing hose 126, and out through the end 134 of hose 126 and into the remote container, tank, receptacle, or the like for receiving the dispensed liquid.

When the knob or handle 114 of valve or switch 1 16 is placed in the siphoning position adjacent fluid port 120 or in the off position adjacent vent 123 (in a position other than the dispensing position) the fluid communication between pipe 154 and dispensing outlet fluid port 122 is blocked. Likewise, when knob or handle 114 of valve or switch 16 is placed in the dispensing position adjacent port 122 or in the offposition adjacent vent 123, fluid communication is blocked between pipe 150 and port 120 and between pipe 152 and port 116.

With reference to Figure 16 of the drawings, a flexible pour spout in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is generally designated by the reference numeral 170 and shown to include an upper cylindrical portion 172 terminating in a free open end 174 and extending from a bellow section 176 extending from a second cylindrical section 178 attached to a head 180. The interior of sections 172, 176, and 178 form a fluid passage way which is in fluid communication with a recess 182 defined by the interior of an open

end 184 of head 180. Recess 182 has interior threads 186 which are adapted to mate with the exterior threads 25 on the liquid port 26 of liquid container 12. Similarly, an upper end 188 of head 180 includes an annular recess 190 having internal threads 192 adapted to mate with the external threads 25 on liquid port 26 of liquid container 12.

Recess 190 is not in fluid communication with the central passageway through sections 178. 176, and 172. Lower end 184 of head 180 of spout 170 has external threads 194 adapted to mate with the internal threads of a cap or top 196. In use, when it is not desired to dispense liquids from the interior of liquid container 12 out through liquid port 26 and not just use cap 30 to close off spout 26, one removes cap 30, inverts the spout 170 (rotates it through 180 °) as compared to the position shown in Figure 16, inserts the sections 172, 176, and 178 down through the opening 27 of liquid port 26 and threads head 180 and, in particular internal threads 192 of recess 190. onto the external threads 25 of liquid port 26. Cap or top 196 on head 180 serves to close off the fluid passage through the spout and

seal the liquid container 12.

When it is desired to dispense liquids from the liquid container 12 using spout 170, one removes the spout 170 from the container, places the spout 170 in the position shown

in Figure 12, removes cap or top 196 from head 180, and threads the head 180 onto the fluid port 26 by threading the internal threads 186 of recess 182 onto the external threads 25 on fluid port 26. By tipping the container 12 using finger grooves or slot 197 in the bottom of container 12, one is able to pour liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like out of liquid container 12 through liquid port 26, through spout 170, and into the receiving container, receptacle, tank, or the like. Cap or top 196 of spout 170 may be attached to head 180 by a flexible tether 198.

With reference to Figure 17 of the drawings and in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a pour or draw hose is generally designated by reference numeral 300 and shown to include an elongate upper hose section 302 having an open end 304, a bellows section 306, a base cylindrical section 308, and a head 310 having internal threads 312 which match the external threads 25 on fluid port 26 of liquid container 12. Upper hose section 302 of pour hose 300 is longer than a conventional pour spout and

may be, for example, 0.914 meters or more long (three or more feet), preferably 1.22 meter to 1.83 meters (four to six feet). With reference to Figure 18 and in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a pourable material or liquid container is generally designated by the reference numeral 200. Like portable liquid container 12 of Figure 3, container 200 has a pour spout 202 covered with a cap 204, a handle 206 surrounded by a recess 208, a vent 210 covered by a cap 212 and includes a large vertical compartment, cavity, or recess 214 adapted to receive a pump 250 or 350, fittings 216 and 218, hoses 220 and 222, and the like. The recess or pump compartment 214 may have the forward end closed off by a removable plate or panel 224 which is received in vertical slots or recesses 226 and 228. Further, the container 200 includes an inverted T-shaped pump retaining slot or recess 230 adapted to receive a T-shaped base on the pump 250 or 350. Further, the liquid container 200 is adapted to work with the pump 14 of Figure 3 or the pump 80 of Figure 8. Hose clamps 232 and 234 are attached to the rear wall 236 of pump compartment 214 and are adapted to selectively releasably hold hoses 220 and 222. A plurality of such hose clamps may be used to attach the hoses to the pump compartment 214. In accordance with one particular example of the present invention, the fluid container 200 has overall outer dimensions of about 30.48 cm (12 inches) x 30.48 cm (12 inches) x 30.48 cm (12 inches), with a pump compartment or recess with dimensions of about 10.16 cm (4 inches) x 10.80cm (4 1/4 inches) x 25.4cm (10 inches), and with a handle recess of about 10.80 cm (4 1/2 inches) x 10.80 cm (4 1/2 inches) x 5.08 cm (2 inches).

Upper fitting 216 is preferably a 0.64 cm (1/4 inch) stainless steel or copper pipe or tube in the shape of an elbow and having one end which extends into the interior of liquid

container 200 and the other end extending downwardly in pump compartment 214 and adapted to receive one end of flexible hose 220. Likewise, lower fitting 218 is a 0.64 cm (1/4 inch) outer diameter stainless steel or copper pipe or tube having one end in the interior

of liquid container 200 and the other end pointing upwardly in pump compartment 214. The upper and lower fittings 216 and 218 may include check valves with the check valve in fitting 216 allowing flow into the container and the check valve in fitting 218 allowing flow

out of the container. Fitting 218 may contain a flow control valve 238 having a control handle or knob

240 which in one position, for example, a vertical position allows flow through fitting 218 and into hose 222 and in a second position, for example a horizontal position cuts off the flow through fitting 218. When hose 222 is to be removed from fitting 218, handle 240 of control valve 238 is moved to the offposition which prevents flow through fitting 218 and out the end thereof. Hence, upper fitting 216 (and hose 220) is used to fill the container 200 or to siphon liquids into the container 200 while fitting 218 (and hose 222) is used to empty the liquid container 200 or to dispense liquids from the interior of liquid container 200. Hoses 220 and 222 are adapted to have one end attached to one of the upper or lower fittings 216 and 218 and to have the other end adapted to be attached to a fitting on a pump 250, 350, 14, or 80, or to be attached to a switch or valve, or to be inserted into a fuel tank or other liquid container.

With reference to Figure 19 and in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, an alternative foot pump is generally designated by reference numeral 250 and shown to include a top 252, a bellows 254, a base 256, a T-member 258, an inlet 260,

an outlet 262, an inlet check valve 264. and an outlet check valve 266. Pump 250 further includes reinforcing rings 268 or coil which add stability and structure to the bellows 254 and a return spring 270 which facilitates the opening of the bellows 254 and the raising or separation of the top 252 and base 256. When siphoning liquids from another container, fuel tank, spill, or the like into the liquid container 200 using pump 250, the user attaches one end of hose 220 to upper fitting 216 and the other end of hose 220 to pump outlet 262. Thereafter, the user attaches one end of hose 222 to pump inlet 260 and uses the free end of hose 222 to place in the remote, fuel tank, container, liquid, spill, or the like. Next, the user shuts off control valve 238 and may cap off lower fitting 218 to keep dirt and debris from entering the open end of the fitting even though the fitting includes a check valve and control valve which will prevent liquids from leaving liquid container 200. Thereafter, the user activates pump 250 by depressing the top 252 with a foot or shoe, or a hand which forces any fluid or liquid in the interior of pump 250 to be expelled through a passage 272 through base 256, through a passage 274 in T-member 258, through check valve 266, through outlet 262, through hose 220, and through fitting 216 into the interior of liquid container 200. Upon release of the top 252 of pump 250, the bellows 254 and return spring 270 force the top 252 away from base 256 and create a negative pressure or vacuum which tends to draw fluid and liquid in through hose 222, through inlet 260, through check valve 264, through passage 274, and through passage 272 into the interior of the bellows 254 of foot pump 250. Next, depression of top 252 of pump 250 forces the fluid or liquid in the interior of pump bellows 254 out through pump outlet 262, through hose 220, through fitting 216, and into liquid container 200. Successive pressing down on and release of top 252 of foot pump 250 causes fluid and liquid to be drawn in through hose 222 attached to inlet 260 and fluid and liquids to be forced out of outlet 262 and through hose 220 into container 200.

Conversely, dispensing liquids from container 200 using pump 250 involves the user attaching one end of hose 222 to lower fitting 218 and attaching the other end of hose 222 to pump inlet 260. Thereafter, one end of hose 220 is attached to outlet 262 and the other end of hose 220 is placed into the remote container, fuel tank, receptacle, or the like to receive the liquid dispensed from liquid container 200. The open end of upper fitting 216 may be capped off to prevent dirt and debris from entering the fitting and the vent cap 212 may be opened to allow venting through vent 210 and/or cap 204 may be removed from spout 202 to allow venting as liquid is dispensed from container 200. If container 200 does not include a vent and the user does not want to open spout 202 by removing cap 204, one

would not cap off fitting 216 and allow fitting 216 to serve as the vent for the container 200 allowing air to enter the container as liquid is dispensed from fitting 218. With hose 222 attached to fitting 218 and pump inlet 260 and hose 220 attached to pump outlet 262, the user opens flow control valve 238 and then the top 252 of pump 250 is successively depressed and released to provide a pumping action which draws liquid from container 200 through fitting 218, through hose 222, through inlet 260, through check valve 264, through passage 274, through passage 272, and into the interior of pump bellows 254, then out passage 272, through passage 274, through check valve 266, through outlet 262, through hose 220 and into the remote container, receptacle, fuel tank, or the like receiving the liquid from container 200.

Should fitting 218 or valve 238 cease to function or become clogged, one can dispense liquids from the interior of container 200 by placing hose 222 through spout 202 and down into the liquid into the container. With reference to Figures 20-22 of the drawings, and in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a foot or manual pump is generally designated 350 and shown to include a top 352, bellows 354, a bottom 356, a base 358, and a T-shaped member

360. Further, bellows 354 may be further supported by support rings 362 and 363 or a

coiled support member and may include a return spring 364 adapted to facilitate the separation of top and bottom 352 and 356 and the full opening of the pump bellows 354.

The return spring 364 and support rings 362 and 363 may be formed of plastic or metal, for example stainless steel or other materials which are not likely to produce sparks or a static charge during activation of the pump 350. Since flammable liquids, fluids, or vapors may pass through pump 350, it is important that none of the materials in the pump produce sparks or produce an electric charge sufficient to cause fire or explosion.

Like pump 250 of Figure 19, pump 350 of Figures 20-22 includes a fluid inlet 366,

a check valve 368, horizontal passage 370, and a vertical passage 372 in base 358. Vertical passage 372 connects with a vertical passage 374 through bottom 356. Likewise, pump 350 has an outlet 376, horizontal passage 378, and a check valve 380. Pump 350 may be used in place of pump 250 with liquid container 200 or may be used in place of pump 14 or 80

with liquid container 12.

Pump 350 is shown together with a switch or valve 382 which can be positioned as shown above pump 350 in pump compartment 214 of liquid container 200. Switch or valve 382 like switch or valve 16 includes four fluid ports, inlets or outlets with ports 384 and 386 shown as fluid inlets in Figure 20 and ports 388 and 390 shown as fluid outlets in Figure 20. Further, valve 382 includes respective internal passages 392, 394, 396 and 398 which work together with fluid passages 400 and 402 in a movable or rotary valve body 404 having a knob or handle 406 shown in the siphon or siphoning position in Figure 20. In this position,

fluid passage 400 provides fluid communication between passages 392 and 396 and thereby connects inlet 384 with outlet 388. Similarly, fluid passage 402 operatively connects passages 394 and 398, thereby providing fluid communication between inlet 386 and outlet

390. With reference to Figure 20, pump 350 is operatively connected to switch or valve

382 by hoses, pipes, conduits, or the like 408 and 410, inlet 384 is operatively attached to a flexible hose, pipe, conduit, or the like 412 having one end attached to inlet 384 and having the other end placed in a container, fuel tank, storage tank, drum, barrel, bucket, or the like for siphoning a liquid, fuel, solvent, mixture, flowable material, solution, or the like therefrom and into a portable liquid container such as container 200 of Figure 18 or container 12 of Figure 3 by passing through hose 412. through inlet 384, through passage 392, through passage 400, through passage 396, through outlet 388, through hose 408, through inlet 366, through check valve 368, through passage 370, through passage 372, through passage 374, into the interior of bellows 354, then out through passage 374, through passage 372, through check valve 380, through passage 378, through outlet 376, through

hose 410, through inlet 386, through passage 394, through passage 402, through passage 398, through outlet 390, and through a hose, pipe, conduit, or the like 416 and into the liquid container. For example, through hose 416, through fitting 216 and into liquid container 200. Alternatively, hose 416 may pass right in through the wall into liquid container 200 with the end 418 of hose 416 located inside the container, for example, near the bottom or on the

bottom thereof.

With reference to Figure 21 of the drawings, handle or knob 406 is placed in the dispense or dispensing position with passage 400 in valve body 404 operatively connecting

passages 396 and 398 and with passage 402 of valve body 404 operatively connecting passages 392 and 394. Hence, ports 384 and 386 are operatively connected to one another while ports 388 and 390 are operatively connected to one another. In this arrangement, hose, pipe, conduit, or the like 412 is used to dispense liquids or fluids from a portable liquid container such as container 200 of Figure 18 or container 12 of Figure 3 and hose 416 has end 418 attached, for example, to fitting 218 of container 200 of Figure 18 or is placed inside the liquid container 200 in order to draw liquids or other materials from the container

through hose 416, through valve 382, through hose 408, through pump 350, through hose 410, through valve 382, and out through hose 412 and into the fuel tank of a lawnmower, motorcycle, boat, personal water craft, chain saw, edger, trimmer, go cart, mini bike, riding mower, tractor, generator, fuel tank, cup, bowl, spray bottle, bucket, reservoir, receptacle,

or the like.

Pump 350 and valve 382, and hoses 408, 410, 412, and 416 may be used with a portable liquid container such as container 200 of Figure 18, container 12 of Figure 3, a container 450 of Figure 23, a container 550 of Figure 30, or another similar portable liquid container, gas can, fuel container, or may be used to transfer fuel from the fuel tank of one vehicle to the fuel tank of another by placing the end 413 of hose 412 in one fuel tank and the end 418 of hose 416 in the other fuel tank or may be used to transfer liquids or other flowable materials from one container to another, to clean up liquid spills, and the like.

With reference to Figure 22 of the drawings, with handle or knob 406 in the off position, each of fluid ports 384, 386, 388, and 390 are separated from one another and blocked off, therefore no fluid flows through hoses 408, 410, 412, or 416 and should hose 416 be connected to fitting 216 or 218 of liquid container 200 of Figure 18, the entire system is closed off to fluid flow and the liquid container 200 can be used to store or transport the

liquid within the container for temporary or long-term storage. With the handle 406 in the offposition. the hoses 416 and 412 can be moved from a siphoning to a dispensing position, from one container to another, or the like. With reference to Figures 23-28 of the drawings, and in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a pourable liquid container and pump is generally designated by the reference numeral 450 and shown to include a hollow plastic or metal liquid container 452 having a recessed pour spout 454 covered with a cap 456, a handle 458, a relatively large horizontal recess 460 about a handle 458, a recessed vent 462 covered with a vent cap 464, a large substantially rectangular vertical pump compartment recess or cavity 466, and an inverted T-shaped recess 468 at the lower end of pump compartment 466 with openings 466 and 468 being joined by an elongate slot 470.

Pump compartment 466 accommodates a foot or manual pump 472 having a top 474, a bellows section 476, a bottom 478, an inverted T-member 480, and fluid inlet and outlets

482 and 484.

Further, pump compartment 466 houses a valve or switch 500 having a rectangular valve housing 502, a cylindrical valve body or member 504 with a handle 506, and four fluid ports 508, 510, 512, and 514. Valve or switch 500 is similar or identical to valve 382 of Figures 20-22, or valve 16 of Figures 3 and 10-15. For example, valve 500 is similar to valve 382 except that the fluid ports are arranged vertically with two on top and two on bottom rather than horizontally with two on each side of the valve. As shown in Figure 29 of the drawings, and in accordance with one embodiment of valve 500, valve body 504 includes arcuate fluid passages 516 and 518 which like passages 400 and 402 of valve 382 operatively connect passages 520 and 522 associated with ports 508 and 512 and 524 and 526 associated with ports 510 and 514, respectively with knob 506 in the siphon or S position. In the offposition of the handle 506, all the ports are blocked. In the dispense or

D position of handle 506, ports 508 and 510 are operatively connected, and ports 512 and 514 are operatively connected.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, the self- contained, portable, liquid container and pump of the present invention can be used without access to 110V ac power and, as such, can be used in association with off-road vehicles, camping, boating, outdoor sports, farmer's fields, and the like. For example, the Y2K problem in late 1999 and early 2000 is supposed to cause interruptions in the provision of electricity by the utility companies and, as such, one could use the self-contained, portable, liquid container and pump of the present invention to, for example, dispense fuel from an in-ground fuel tank at a service station without 110V ac power. Whether the pump on the portable liquid fuel container of the present invention is a foot pump, a hand pump, or a 12V electric pump, the pump can be utilized to siphon or dispense liquids, fuels, fluids, or the like without access to 110V ac power.

In accordance with an outdoors, 4X4, rugged embodiment of the portable liquid container and pump of the present invention, the liquid container is formed of a sturdy plastic, resin, or composite material, or of a sturdy metal and the pump and associated hoses and fittings are shielded by a sturdy cover. An example of a heavy duty embodiment is shown in Figure 30 and is labelled 550. The portable liquid container and pump 550 includes a liquid container 552 with a fill spout and cap 554, a handle 556, and a vent and cap 558. The portable container 550 also includes a pump 560, and valve 562 in a recess 564. The recess 564 can be covered with a door or cover 566 with a catch 568. Such an

outdoors embodiment of the portable liquid container and pump of the present invention can be attached to the exterior of a 4X4 vehicle such as a 4-wheel drive Jeep, sport utility vehicle, pickup truck, dune buggy, all-terrain vehicle, or the like in place of a large metal gas can or jerry can. Also, the pump in this embodiment is constructed of sturdy materials and designed to withstand numerous uses and the dynamic forces, jostling, vibration, and the like

associated with all-terrain or off-road travel.

In accordance with the present invention and in one of its simplest embodiments, the fluid flow pattern of siphoning or dispensing is selected by hose placement or reversing of the hoses on the fluid pump. In a more sophisticated embodiment including a switch or valve, the fluid flow pattern of siphoning or dispensing is reversed by adjusting the valve or switch and/or hose placement or attachment. In accordance with selected embodiments of the present invention, the liquids being siphoned and dispensed pass into and through the fluid pump. In accordance with other sophisticated embodiments of the invention, the liquid bypasses the fluid pump and is caused to be siphoned or dispensed by fluid pressure such as air pressure or a reduction in fluid pressure or vacuum.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, the portable fluid and/or liquid container and pump is self-contained, easy to use, stackable, can be used JJ with any liquid, can be sized or dimensioned to hold anywhere from less than a quart to ten gallons or more of liquid, preferably one to 19 liters (five gallons) of liquid, provides that the associated hoses can be coiled up and placed adjacent the pump in the pump compartment and out of the way so that the containers can be stacked without damaging any of the components of the container and providing for a stable, neat stack of containers.

In accordance with a heavy duty embodiment of the present invention, the fluid

and/or liquid container is formed of a sturdy metal, plastic, resin, or composite material and is built sturdy and strong enough to be able to be attached or strapped to the exterior of a vehicle and having a heavy duty pump and switch or valve and hoses which can withstand harsh environments, hundreds or thousands of siphoning or dispensing operations, and the like. Such a heavy duty portable fluid and/or liquid container and pump embodiment is designed for rugged outdoor, commercial, and industrial applications.

In accordance with a relatively lightweight, household use embodiment of the present invention, the portable fluid and/or liquid container and pump is sized or dimensioned for a 3.78 liter (one gallon) liquid containment and includes a pump which is easily manipulated by the foot or hand of the user and is formed of lightweight plastic or resin materials and utilizes transparent or translucent materials which allow easy viewing of the location and amount of liquid contents in the pump, hoses, and container.

With reference to, for example, Figures 22 and 24 of the drawings, the inverted T- shaped member attached to the base or bottom of the pump may be relatively narrow in

width or may have a width substantially equal to the width of the base or bottom of the pump. Further, the inverted T-shaped member may have other shapes such as an L, an I, circular, or the like which matches with a correspondingly shaped recess in the container. In one embodiment, the present siphon container has four major components - tank, spout, dispense/siphon valve, and pump. The pump can be either a standardized commercially available belles pump or a standardized commercially available electric pump. The spout can be a standardized commercially available spout with the capability to be inverted for internal containment. The diverter valve or siphon dispense valve can be a standardized commercially available diverter valve.

The siphoning container will vary in size and capacity depending on its intended use.

A cubic like configuration makes the container easy to stack. All external appendages are preferably recessed into the cubic-like container, for example recessed spout connection and recessed handle, making it easier to stack and to reduce wear.

The siphoning container may have an optional sliding door. The sliding door may be used for easy storage of the flexible siphoning hose and/or the electrical cord used by an electric pump. The sliding door also serves as a protective barrier for the pump. The spout can be eliminated if the container is used solely to pump liquid in and out of the container. This alleviates the need for a spout.

The standardized, commercially available belles pump fitted for use in this

application can be either operated by the foot or the hand.

Support or stiffener rings are added at flex points of the bellows to avoid irregular collapsing and/or damage to the pump while in use. A suction return spring can be added

inside the belles pump.

The pump has an in and out hose fitting, as well as two check valves located in the mounting adaptor (the mounting adaptor is at the base of the pump and will match with the mounting slots/grooves of the container-mounting slots below the pump). The electric pump can have a 3.05 meter (10 ft.) electrical extension cord with a cigarette lighter adaptor for power. The electrical pump (same as hand and foot belles pumps) can have a similar mounting adaptor. The pump can contain a 12-volt DC motor. The pump may vary in appearance and size.

The siphon dispense valve can determine the flow of liquid (whether liquid is dispensed from container or siphoned into container).

The spout is designed to connect to the recessed spout connection for pouring out liquid contents and can have the capacity to invert the spout in the container for storage and easy stacking. When siphoning, the siphoning container withdraws liquids from a source tank or liquid area by a self-contained pump and siphoning hose which propels flow of the liquid into a portable holding container. The container is intended for either temporary or long term use. A belles pump, which is attached to the container, is used as the device to extract

the liquid. Emptying contents from the siphoning container provides two alternatives. The first option is to pour the liquid through the external spout. The second option is to reverse the flow of the extraction/siphon hose and pump the liquid contents out of the container. This option allows the user the opportunity to leave the device on the ground or a flat surface and pump the liquid contents out of the container without having to lift the container, which is an advantage for the elderly or physically impaired.

The siphoning container would be considered a long-term and/or temporary storage/holding unit and is fully contained. This unit will have the capability to store liquids for long periods of time rather than just a liquid transfer unit. The siphoning container's structure will resemble that of a cubic configuration for easy stacking and storage. External attachments such as, the spout hole and container handle will be indented into the container, creating and keeping a flush surface. The extraction hose and pump will be submerged into an indented storage area to protect these devices from any undue damage. This feature will also preserve the appealing cubic configuration. The spout feature of the container will screw in externally for pouring use or will screw in internally

to provide a flat surface during non-use times.

The siphoning process using this device can be initiated in three common ways - by a foot-driven pump, by a hand-driven pump, and by an electric pump. The siphoning container can be constructed with industrial grade plastic or with metal. The container style/make-up is determined by use - domestic, commercial, or

industrial.

The plastic container can be created/produced by injection molding. Briefly, a plastic container constructed in accordance with this invention consists of a somewhat cubic plastic body having straight sides, a top with indentations for the handle, cap, spout and at least one access hole on top for filling and emptying the container. One side (front or back) will be indented for pump, hose and storage area.

Thus it will be appreciated that, as a result of the present invention, a highly effective, improved portable liquid container and pump is provide by which the principal objective, among others, is completely fulfilled. It is contemplated, and will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the preceding description and accompanying drawings, that modifications and/or changes may be made in the illustrated embodiments without departure from the present invention. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are illustrative of preferred embodiments only, not limiting, and that the true spirit and scope of the present invention be determined by reference to the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIM OR CLAIMS

What is claimed is: 1. A portable liquid container and pump for receiving, storing, transporting, dispensing, and the like, fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, and the like, comprising : a liquid container having a substantially cubic or elongated rectangular configuration including a recessed liquid port, a recessed handle, a recessed fluid valve or switch, and a recessed pump; the pump providing fluid to said valve or switch and said valve or switch providing for selective siphoning of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like, into the liquid container, the dispensing of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like, from the interior of the liquid container, or sealing off the interior of the liquid container in combination with a cap or top placed over the liquid port of the liquid container.

2. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 1 wherein said pump is a foot pump having a top, a convoluted bellows portion, a base, and a valve structure for

drawing fluid into the interior of the bellows and expelling fluid out of the interior of the

bellows.

3. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 2 wherein said valve

structure of said pump includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and wherein respective hoses, pipes, conduits, or the like provide fluid communication between said pump inlet and outlet and respective fluid ports of said fluid switch or valve.

4. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 1, wherein said fluid valve or switch includes a knob or handle adapted to be selectively moved between a siphoning position, a dispensing position, and an offposition, and wherein said fluid switch or valve includes a plurality of fluid ports with a first port adapted to receive pressurized fluid from said pump, a second fluid port adapted to receive a reduced fluid pressure from said pump, a third fluid port adapted to receive fluids, liquids, flowable materials, or pourable materials from an external container, receptacle, tank, drum, barrel, fuel tank, spill, or the like, and a fourth fluid port adapted to provide fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like from the interior of said liquid container to an external container, receptacle, fuel tank, or the like.

5. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 1 wherein said pump is an electric pump having a twelve volt electric motor, a fluid pump, a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and fluid passages connecting said fluid pump to said inlet and said outlet, an electric cord or cable having one end connected to the motor and the other end having a power connector adapted to be received in a cigarette lighter socket or 12-volt power socket in a vehicle, boat, car, or the like, and an on/off switch or button for controlling activation of the

motor.

6. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 5, wherein said inlet and said outlet of said pump are operatively connected to elongate hoses with one hose being adapted for siphoning or drawing out fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like from an external container and the other hose being adapted to dispense fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like into a container.

7. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 5, wherein said pump

further includes a rechargeable or backup battery.

8. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 4, wherein said fluid valve or switch is operatively connected to three pipes which pass through a side wall of the liquid container and into the interior of the liquid container, the first pipe extending a short distance into the container and having an open end near the top of the container, the second pipe extending a farther distance into the container and having a turned up end with an opening near the top of the container, the third pipe having a depending portion which extends down close to the bottom of the liquid container.

9. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 4, wherein said fluid

valve or switch includes a cylindrical valve member or body having two arcuate passages adapted to selectively connect differing respective pairs of said four ports in the siphoning and dispensing positions of said valve handle and to block all four fluid ports in the off position of said valve handle.

10. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 1, wherein said liquid container holds between 1/4 gallon and 10 gallons of liquid therein.

11. A portable liquid container and pump for receiving, storing, transporting, dispensing, and the like, fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, and the like, comprising : a hollow liquid container including a recessed liquid port with a cap or spout, a recessed handle, a recessed vent, and a recessed pump; the pump providing fluid to at least first and second flexible hoses for

selective siphoning of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the

like, into the liquid container, and the dispensing of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like, from the interior of the liquid container.

12. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 11 wherein said pump is a foot pump having a top, a convoluted bellows portion, a base, and a valve structure for drawing fluid into the interior of the bellows and expelling fluid out of the interior of the

bellows.

13. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 12 wherein said valve structure of said pump includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and wherein said first and

second hoses, pipes, conduits, or the like provide fluid communication between said pump inlet and outlet and the liquid container or other containers, fuel tanks, drums, barrels, buckets, bottles, receptacles, spills, or the like.

14. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 11, further including a fluid valve or switch including a knob or handle adapted to be selectively moved between a siphoning position, a dispensing position, and an off position, and wherein said fluid switch or valve includes a plurality of fluid ports adapted to receive hoses and with a first port adapted to receive pressurized fluid from said pump, a second fluid port adapted to receive a reduced fluid pressure from said pump, a third fluid port adapted to receive fluids, liquids, flowable materials, or pourable materials from an external container, receptacle, tank, drum, barrel, fuel tank, spill, or the like, and a fourth fluid port adapted to provide fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like from the interior of said

liquid container to an external container, receptacle, fuel tank, or the like.

15. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 14, wherein said fluid valve or switch is operatively connected to three pipes which pass through a side wall of the liquid container and into the interior of the liquid container, the first pipe extending a short distance into the container and having an open end near the top of the container, the second pipe extending a farther distance into the container and having a turned up end with an opening near the top of the container, the third pipe having a depending portion which extends down close to the bottom of the liquid container.

16. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 14, wherein said fluid valve or switch includes a cylindrical valve member or body having two arcuate passages adapted to selectively connect differing respective pairs of said four ports in the siphoning and dispensing positions of said valve handle and to block all four fluid ports in the off position of said valve handle.

17. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 11 , wherein said pump is an electric pump having a twelve volt electric motor, a fluid pump, a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and fluid passages connecting said fluid pump to said inlet and said outlet, an electric cord or cable having one end connected to the motor and the other end having a power connector adapted to be received in a cigarette lighter socket or 12-volt power socket in a

vehicle, boat, car, or the like, and an on/off switch or button for controlling activation of the

motor.

18. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 15 , wherein said inlet and said outlet of said pump are operatively connected to elongate hoses with one hose being adapted for siphoning or drawing out fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like from an external container and the other hose being adapted to dispense fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like into a container.

19. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 17, wherein said pump

further includes a rechargeable or backup battery.

20. The portable liquid container and pump as recited in claim 11, wherein said pump is an electric pump having an electric motor, a fluid pump, a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and fluid passages connecting said fluid pump to said inlet and said outlet, an electric cord or cable having one end connected to the motor and the other end attached to a battery, and an on/off switch or button for controlling activation of the motor.

21. A portable liquid container for receiving, storing, transporting, dispensing, and the like, fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, and the like, comprising: a liquid container having a substantially cubic or elongated rectangular configuration including a recessed liquid port, a recessed handle, a recessed fluid valve or switch, and a recess for a pump for providing fluid to said valve or switch and said valve or switch providing for selective siphoning of fluids, liquids, flowable

materials, pourable materials, or the like, into the liquid container, the dispensing of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like, from the interior of the liquid container, or sealing off the interior of the liquid container in combination with a cap or top placed over the liquid port of the liquid container.

22. A pump for a portable liquid container for receiving, storing, transporting, dispensing, and the like, fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, and the like,

comprising: a top, a convoluted bellows portion, a base, and a valve structure for drawing fluid into the interior of the bellows and expelling fluid out of the interior of the

bellows; the pump providing fluid to a valve or switch and said valve or switch providing for selective siphoning of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like, into a liquid container, the dispensing of fluids, liquids, flowable materials, pourable materials, or the like, from the interior of the liquid container, or sealing off the interior of the liquid container.