Robert G McKinney

Title: Robert G. McKinney: Inventor of Fuel Vapor Recovery Systems

Introduction

Robert G. McKinney is an inventor associated with Houston, Texas. His patent work focuses on recovering and managing fuel vapors in gasoline dispensing and fuel storage systems. He holds 2 patents.

Latest Patents

McKinney’s patents address vapor recovery in two settings: gasoline dispensing systems and fuel storage tanks.

“Vapor recovery apparatus and method for gasoline dispensing systems” describes an apparatus that uses a turbine to draw vapor from a vehicle’s fuel tank during gasoline dispensing. The turbine’s blades separate air from gasoline vapor, returning the vapor to the liquid stream while discharging air to the atmosphere. The design avoids the need for vapor-return piping to underground tanks.

“Vapor recovery system for fuel storage tank” describes a system with two VOC adsorbent canisters that alternate between capturing vapors from the tank’s ullage and being regenerated. A vacuum pump draws VOC vapors from the canisters and returns them to the tank. When tank pressure rises, an auxiliary adsorbent canister operates alongside the primary pair to handle the increased vapor volume.

Career Highlights

McKinney’s listed company affiliations include Dresser, Inc. His patented work reflects an emphasis on practical systems for controlling fuel vapors during dispensing and storage.

Collaborations

McKinney’s listed coworkers include Ken W. Taylor and Herbert E. Reinhold III.

Conclusion

Robert G. McKinney’s two patents describe approaches to recovering fuel vapors in both gasoline dispensing systems and storage tanks, with designs intended to manage emissions while adapting to operating conditions.