With Movably Or Flexibly Mounted Spray Or Jet Applying Conduits Or Nozzles Patents (Class 134/167R)
  • Patent number: 6132509
    Abstract: A self-contained, trailer-mounted, portable wash and paint facility particularly useful to retrieve a grease disposal container having a removable lid, wash dirt and grease from the container, repaint the container, and return it to service. The facility contains an extendable boom and winch to handle the container and bring it into the facility. A vat agitated with compressed air is provided containing a heated caustic solution wherein lids are soaked as part of the cleaning process. A trolley mounted winch is provided which assists in removing the container lid and moving it to and from the soaking vat. A circulating high pressure wash system is provided for high pressure spraying of heated soapy cleaning solution. The cleaning system has a high-pressure washer and tank with a delivery hose and nozzle for the operator to employ when washing the grease container. The floor of the facility contains a grate where used cleaning solution is collected in a catch tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Gene L. Kuschnereit
  • Patent number: 6125864
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning an interior of a container. The apparatus 10 includes a container base 20 for supporting a container 12 to be cleaned, a cleaning nozzle 36 composed of an elongated rigid pipe 38 and a nozzle head 40 with numerous injection holes 48 and fixed to one end of the pipe 38, a moving means 74 for moving the cleaning nozzle 36 linearly and reciprocally along the longitudinal axis of said cleaning nozzle 36, and a rotating means 58 for rotating the cleaning nozzle 36 about the longitudinal axis in clockwise and counterclockwise directions alternately. Further, the cleaning nozzle 36 is positioned so that the nozzle head 40 can be inserted into the container 12 through the opening 16 when said cleaning nozzle 36 is moved by said moving means. In this apparatus 10, the alternative rotation and reciprocally linear motion of the nozzle head 40 can be carried out simultaneously while the cleaning liquid is injected from the nozzle head 40 of the cleaning nozzle 36.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited
    Inventors: Masao Morikawa, Yoshio Iino
  • Patent number: 6119707
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaning device powered by pressurized water running into the pool from an outlet jet port connected to the pool pump. The device has two hose sections, the first being approximately one foot is screwed into the outlet jet port. Attached to an opposite end is a swivel connector which is connected to a second hose that is approximately as long as the pool itself. The second hose has floats positioned along the exterior and wear rings for protecting the hose from wear and tear effects from using the apparatus. Attached to the second hose is a cleaning head having angled through-hole exit ports, which when water is flowing through the hoses causes the head and second hose to rotate relative to the first hose. Second and third versions include using brush sleeves over hose or rings and the cleaning head. A cage having a chlorine table can be located in the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: Ginger Jordan
  • Patent number: 6116858
    Abstract: A jet finishing machine comprises: a water nozzle (1) for spouting a water jet flow of water in a liquid phase; a steam nozzle (3) for increasing the speed of a steam flow (4) in a gas phase to an ultrasonic speed to produce a steam jet flow (11) and for spouting the steam jet flow in excess of a thermal equilibrium with the water jet flow; and a mixing nozzle (2) for mixing the steam jet flow with the water jet flow so as to allow the steam jet flow to accelerate the water jet flow to form a two-phase jet flow (12) of the water jet flow and the steam jet flow and for directly spouting the two-phase jet flow onto a work piece (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Tadashi Narabayashi
  • Patent number: 6105590
    Abstract: In order to remove deposits in feed nozzles (20), which serve to recycle exhaust gas into the furnace of a firing installation, a lance (27) can be inserted into the feed nozzles (20) and is held in such a way as to be displaceable in its longitudinal direction. The lance (27) has a nozzle head (28) at its front end for the spraying of water and is connected at its rear end to a valve device (29), which can be adjusted via a control device (32) with regard to the water quantity, the water pressure and the opening and closing times. By means of the lance (27), water is sprayed in a finely distributed manner onto deposits (34) in the interior of the feed nozzle (20), as a result of which the water penetrates into these deposits and causes these deposits to be blasted off due to the development of vapour.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Martin GmbH fur Umwelt-und Energietechnik
    Inventors: Johannes Martin, Peter Spichal
  • Patent number: 6105593
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning and maintaining Biologically Accelerated Treatment ("BAT") support media disposed within a fixed wastewater treatment tank is disclosed. The cleaning apparatus includes a hollow shaft and a perpendicularly placed diffuser having a plurality of orifices, which may also include nozzles. An air blower or a water pump is attached to the hollow shaft. The cleaning apparatus is inserted into a wastewater treatment tank, and either air or water is forced through the orifices or nozzles of the diffuser, respectively. The air or water generates a force that is directed toward the BAT support media to effect cleaning. In one embodiment, a hinge is provided between the shaft and diffuser to enable the diffuser to pivot downward, to a position close to parallel with the hollow shaft, so that the cleaning apparatus can be inserted through multiple risers that provide access to an underground wastewater treatment tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Jet, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. MacLaren, Daniel Smartt, Don Murauskas
  • Patent number: 6099658
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning the bottom and vertical side walls of a swimming pool, pond or tank employs a robotic, self-propelled cleaner having a protective housing of conventional design, the cleaner being operated at a primary cleaning speed as it traverses the surfaces to be cleaned and until the cleaner housing emerges from the water along a sidewall of the pool; thereafter the cleaner operates at a secondary drive speed that is relatively slower than the primary speed and the cleaner thereafter reverses direction and descends for a pre-determined period of time at the slower secondary speed in order to permit the air entrained under the housing to escape without destabilizing the cleaner during descent. After the predetermined period of time, the cleaner resumes operation at the more rapid primary speed until the cleaner housing once again emerges from the water's surface, after which the cycle is repeated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Aqua Products Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Porat
  • Patent number: 6090219
    Abstract: A method and apparatus responsive to a positive pressure water source (10) for cleaning the interior surface of a pool containment wall (3) and the upper surface (7) of a water pool (1) contained therein. The apparatus includes an essentially unitary cleaner body (6) and a level control subsystem (124, 138) for selectively moving the body (6) to a position either proximate to the surface (7) of the water pool for water surface cleaning or proximate to the interior surface (8) of the containment wall for wall surface cleaning. The cleaner body can have a weight/buoyancy characteristic to cause it to normally rest either (1) proximate to the pool bottom adjacent to the wall surface (i.e., heavier-than-water) or (2) proximate to the water surface (i.e. lighter-than-water).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventors: Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
  • Patent number: 6080907
    Abstract: Methods of cutting structural shapes by impinging a high pressure jet of anhydrous liquid ammonia or anhydrous ammonia-abrasive mixture at high impact velocity at a target substrate for faster, more efficient cutting/penetration rates i.e., up to 25 percent improvement over high pressure jet cutting methods with water as the cutting fluid, provide greater safety and flexibility, particularly in demilitarizing munitions comprising energetic materials and/or chemical warfare agents. The energy from the cutting jet comprising anhydrous ammonia may also be utilized in a continuous, uninterrupted sequence of processing steps after penetrating a closed casing for dispersing/dissolving and washing out the contents from the penetrated containment for further processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Teledyne Commodore, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Paul L. Miller
  • Patent number: 6068005
    Abstract: A washing system for cans in which interior washing nozzles move in synchronization with the cans and are axially centered with the cans and in which a washing jet impinges directly on the interior bottom of a can and exits by flowing along the interior side wall surface of the can parallel to the centerline of the can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Dispensing Containers Corp.
    Inventors: George B. Diamond, Ralph Helmrich
  • Patent number: 6050277
    Abstract: An apparatus for a decoking system, for raising and lowering a cutting tool into a coking drum, has at least one rigid vertical member extending above the coking drum with a toothed rack extending substantially the full height of the member. A rigid frame with provisions for mounting a cutting tool is movably mounted to the rigid vertical member. A motor is mounted to the rigid frame and powers a pinion gear which is drivably engaged on the toothed rack such that rotation of the pinion gear raises or lowers the rigid frame on the vertical member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Dresser Pump Company
    Inventors: Robert M. Purton, Richard Tran
  • Patent number: 6050278
    Abstract: A dialyzer precleaning system for coupling a source of fluid to a used dialyzer. The precleaning system includes a precleaner header that includes a housing with a needle receiving channel and a connected waste discharge channel, a needle with a plurality of fluid discharge perforations is received within the needle assembly receiving channel, and a coupling arm for attaching the precleaner header to a dialyzer header cap. The needle protrudes into the dialyzer header so that fluid may be discharged through the inside of the needle out the fluid discharge perforations into the dialyzer header. Waste fluid from the dialyzer header is discharged back into the needle assembly receiving channel along the outside the needle into a fluidly connected waste discharge channel and out a waste discharge outlet. The needle may also rotate and retract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Minntech Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin R. Arnal, Robert G. Andrus, David A. Luhring, Jeffrey C. Toy
  • Patent number: 6044855
    Abstract: The invention is concerned with a device and a method for cleaning and disinfecting medical instruments, in particular instruments of minimal invasive surgery (MIS). Instead of the rigid connection of cleaning tubings to instrument connections and exits which has been used up to now and which have the disadvantage that certain contaminated regions remain inaccessible for a secure cleaning, there is suggested a docking of injector nozzles in defined chronological intervals, the injector nozzles being fixed in a centric position to the openings of the instrument connections. At the same time various types of injector nozzles are applied for adaptation to various instrument connections and openings. By measuring the rinsing fluid quantity flowing to the instrument connections and the total discharging rinsing fluid quantity, the quality of preparation may be evaluated and documented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Richard Wolf GmbH
    Inventor: Harry Monch
  • Patent number: 6039060
    Abstract: A system using a secondary cleansing fluid achieves a fully functional irrigation and cleansing system for a medical container and associated tubing and adapter. A connection to a standard interior faucet, using pressurized water in conjunction with a negative pressure device, creates siphoning of a secondary fluid into fluid contact with the water for mixing. In addition, the system provides for an efficient connection for the associated tubing of less than half an inch in diameter for filling, cleansing, and flushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Gary Rower
  • Patent number: 6039056
    Abstract: The invention relates to machines for cleaning the inner surfaces of all kinds of tanks. The cleaning is processed by means of a nozzle (14) spraying a jet of cleaning fluid against the surface to be cleaned. Each nozzle (14) is rotatable around two axes, that enclose an angle. In order to be able to customize the working procedures of the machine to the geometry and size of the tank and to the kind of pollution, the machine comprises an electronic control and two independently operating drives (4) by means of which the rotational movement of the nozzle (14) around the two axes can be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Diederik Geert Verbeek
  • Patent number: 6039886
    Abstract: A method and apparatus configured to be driven by a source of negative pressure for cleaning the interior surface of a containment wall and the upper surface of a water pool contained therein. The apparatus includes a unitary body suited for immersion in the water pool, a negative pressure source for producing a water flow in the body; a level control subsystem carried by the body responsive to the water flow for producing a vertical force to selectively place the body either (1) in a first mode proximate to the water surface or (2) in a second mode proximate to the wall surface below the water surface; at least one pool water inlet in the body; and a propulsion control subsystem responsive to the water flow for selectively moving the body either (1) along a path adjacent to the water surface for collecting pool water therefrom through said inlet or (2) along a path adjacent to the wall surface for collecting pool water therefrom through said inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventors: Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
  • Patent number: 6035872
    Abstract: The invention concerns a rotating apparatus (1) for the handling of objects, in particular containers (20), for example for the filling of the containers. The rotating apparatus comprises a stationary assembly (10) and a rotating assembly (14) which is rotatable with respect to the stationary assembly (10) and is driven by a rotary drive. According to the invention there is provided on the rotating assembly (14) at least one discharge opening (46) for the discharge of a cleaning fluid for cleaning a shielding wall (22) being stationary during the rotational operation of the rotating assembly and optionally for cleaning other stationary components (30). The at least one discharge opening (46) is connected to a stationary cleaning fluid supply via a revolving joint (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Hans Werner Hees
    Inventors: Hans Werner Hees, Michael Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6032870
    Abstract: The invention concerns a process for fitting a gas-injecting nozzle in the wall of an installation. The process is characterized in that an external supporting surface (11) whose shape matches the so-called internal supporting surface (12) of the passage (6) provided in the bedding brick is associated with the nozzle (2); the nozzle is placed opposite the passage (6) in the bedding brick: the nozzle (2) is moved in axial translation so as to adjust the position thereof along the longitudinal axis of the passage and move the front face of the nozzle into a desired initial position; the nozzle is locked in this desired initial position; and, at least periodically, the nozzle is inserted further forwards into the passage in the bedding brick in order to compensate the wear in the front face of the nozzle. The invention can be used to prevent clogging, such as in a cement producing plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Herve Simoens
  • Patent number: 6021543
    Abstract: A retrieval system including a single tank for placement in communication with an underground storage tank in which waste or sludge is stored, the tank having equipment for lowering a remote controlled sludge removal apparatus into the underground storage tank to dislodge and remove sludge or waste from the underground storage tank and convey the sludge or waste to a storage area remote from the underground storage tank. The system can also be utilized to lower other tools into an underground storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Henry W. Allen
  • Patent number: 6021793
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and rinsing the interior surfaces of a railway tank car with a single, high-pressure fluid spray. The apparatus is inserted into a tank car through its manway and secured using a lockdown assembly. The swivel assembly includes a swivel shaft which is disposed longitudinally through a swivel housing and is interconnected with a rotor motor and with a hollow spindle assembly. A fluid channel communicates the fluid to the spindle assembly where the fluid is sprayed through a single nozzle onto the interior surfaces of a tank car. Control of fluid spray orbit is accomplished by two perpendicular axes for causing rotation and actuation of the nozzle affixed to the spindle assembly, through the cooperation of an idler gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ernest Moulder
  • Patent number: 5985156
    Abstract: A pool cleaning method and apparatus for selectively positioning a unitary body either close to the water surface or close to the bottom wall surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the body rests at the bottom and the subsystem lifts the device to the water surface for operation in a water surface cleaning mode to collect floating debris. A propulsion subsystem is preferably incorporated to move the body along the wall surface and/or water surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventors: Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
  • Patent number: 5979471
    Abstract: Apparatus for removing a liquid (2) containing suspendible solid matter from a tank (1) comprises a plurality of nozzles (47) located at the lower region of the tank. A pump (10) removes the liquid and ejects it through the nozzles (47) to cause resuspension of settled solid matter. When sufficient resuspension has occurred, the tank (1) is emptied by opening a valve to remove a portion of the liquid being transferred to the nozzles (47). The nozzles (47) are arranged as oppositely facing pairs ofjet nozzles at the lower end of a rotatable vertical pipe (46). The pump (10) is suspended by a cable (13) connected to a drum (19) which can be rotated to raise or lower the pump. A pump outlet (12) is connected to a flexible hose (27) which is wound around the drum (19) or around a separate drum (110). A movable containment flask (14) houses the drum (19) and accommodates the pump (10) when withdrawn from the tank (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: British Nuclear Fuels plc
    Inventors: David K Wilby, Charles R B Lee, Mark A Knight
  • Patent number: 5975096
    Abstract: A liquid waste disposal and canister flushing system includes a cabinet with a sink for receiving the canister and a subsink for receiving a lower portion thereof. The subsink is connected to a drain line. A plunger subassembly includes a stopper which functions as a drain valve for the canister. An injection jet is connected to water and cleaning solution sources and discharges diluted cleaning solution into the canister for flushing same. The injection jet engages the plunger subassembly for ejecting the stopper from a canister drain opening. A control system includes a programmable microprocessor which can be programmed to provide drain and flush cycles of predetermined duration. A method of liquid waste disposal and canister flushing utilizes the microprocessor for delaying the flush cycle until completion of the drain cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Dornoch Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Dunn, Timothy A. Carty
  • Patent number: 5944035
    Abstract: An improved detergent recycling apparatus for parts washing machines includes a detergent recycling apparatus additionally provided with a control box, a manifold, a first control valve, an extension tube, a spray gun, a second control valve, a third air duct and a secondary serpentine hose. The control box is mounted on one side of the detergent recycling apparatus, and the manifold, first control valve, silencer, extension tube and second control valve are assembled thereto. The manifold is internally provided with an air vent and has a high pressure air inlet at one end thereof. The manifold includes front, intermediate and rear threaded holes. The first control valve is screwably secured to the rear threaded hole and communicates with an extraction pump via a first air duct. The extension tube is screwably locked to the front threaded hole at one end and connected to the spray gun at the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: I-Lung Chen
  • Patent number: 5944036
    Abstract: A high pressure liquid sludge cutter for pulverizing sludge in a sludge storage area to enable the sludge to be removed by pumps on a remote controlled sludge removal apparatus. The invention includes a plurality of nozzles located on a rotating and oscillating header. The nozzles are aligned to spray high pressure water onto the sludge, and the rotation and oscillation of the header enables rapid and thorough removal of the sludge located at the bottom of a sludge storage area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Henry W. Allen
  • Patent number: 5932026
    Abstract: A method for cleaning an inner wall of a mold part includes forming a chamber between displaced mold parts by introducing a casing between the mold parts. The casing enclosures a blasting device for introducing a blasting nozzle which directs a cleaning jet at the inner wall. The chamber encapsulates noise and particles which are produced during the cleaning process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide
    Inventor: Berthold Trampusch
  • Patent number: 5925193
    Abstract: A method for determining positioning of a controllable blower lance for cleaning a pre-determinable surface of a heatable internal chamber, preferably a combustion chamber, in which deposits form, wherein at least one site of impact of a cleaning medium of the blower lance on a surface to be cleaned of the internal chamber and at least one position of at least a part of the blower lance, by means of which the direction of flow of the cleaning medium out of the blower lance can be determined, are established and recorded and a correlation is established between at least the site of impact and the position, taking into account at least one parameter concerning the internal chamber, wherein by means of the correlation, the positioning of the blower lance can be determined for cleaning the pre-determinable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Clyde Bergemann GmbH
    Inventors: Friedrich Bude, Karl Albers, Stephan Simon
  • Patent number: 5913320
    Abstract: An improved remotely-operated high-pressure water-jet sludge lancing system for removing sludge from the secondary side of steam generators, the system including an end effector and a deployment system. The end effector includes two diametrically opposed articulated nozzle heads having water jet nozzles attached thereto. The nozzle heads are pivotally mounted to respective pneumatic extension arm actuators that are accommodated in respective arms. The arms are attached in a collinear relation to opposing sides of a centrally located drive means, which allows for the rotational positioning of the nozzle heads. The deployment system for delivering and supporting the end effector includes a self-erecting load-bearing chain and a segmented support rail having a straight section and a curved section. The chain is suspended from the support rail by hangers and cylinder rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Varrin, Jr., Michael J. Marohnic, Marc A. Kreider, Arthur P. L. Turner, Said Lounis
  • Patent number: 5903944
    Abstract: A baby bottle cleaner is provided including a base and a plurality of bottle cleaning assemblies situated on the base and adapted to emit water therefrom. Such assemblies are adapted to accept the baby bottle thereon for cleaning purposes. Further provided is a nipple cleaning cover adapted to be removably coupled to the base such that the nipple cleaning cover encompasses the bottle cleaning assemblies. The nipple cleaning cover further includes a mesh basket positioned in the cover for supporting a plurality of nipples therein such that the nipples are cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Frank Burrell
  • Patent number: 5901906
    Abstract: A hollow cylindrical cleaning tip installed in the free end of a whip hose assembly dislodges algae and particulate matter adhered pool surfaces and causes the hose to move along the bottom surface of a water filled pool in a sinuous whipping action to agitate the water and keep suspended particulate matter in suspension. The cleaning tip has a cylindrical side wall defining a central chamber, a tubular water inlet extending from a bottom end secured in the hose free end, a central orifice extending through a top end, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced orifices extending through the side wall. The central orifice discharges a pressurized jet stream of water axially from the cleaning tip in the direction of water flowing through the hose to create a reactant force causing the hose to move along the bottom surface of the pool in a sinuous whipping action to agitate the water and keep suspended particulate matter in suspension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: David W. Bouldin
  • Patent number: 5896871
    Abstract: A method for washing the interior surfaces of tanks with a washing head is provided with a nozzle (28) which ejects a liquid beam and which is rotatable about a first (11) and a second (34) axis whereby the nozzle is allowed to cover a two-dimensional solid angle. The washing head is controlled in such a manner that for an entire revolution about the first axis, the nozzle performs a small rotation about the second axis, and that over a number of revolutions about the first axis the nozzle follows a path which covers the entire a solid angle. The drive mechanism for rotating the washing head is arranged externally of the conduits carrying washing liquid in order to avoid loss of washing pressure and wear of the drive mechanism. According to the invention the movement of the nozzle along the defined path is monitored and the result of the monitoring is utilised to control the energy density of the beam in order that it is reduced when the beam is directed at the zones which do not require the maximum energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Toftejorg Technology A/S
    Inventor: Leif Steen Larsen
  • Patent number: 5884643
    Abstract: There is provided a cleaning apparatus for a surface of a sheet steel capable of satisfactorily removing scale from a surface of a sheet steel before, for example, hot rolling. Waters (42a, 46a) are ejected from nozzles (42, 46), with an ejection pressure of 100 kg/cm.sup.2, a flow rate of 60 liters/minute and an ejection angle of 20.degree. with respect to normal of the surface (32a) of the sheet steel, toward a downward-stream end with respect to a carrying direction. On the other hand, waters (44a, 48a) are ejected also from nozzles (44, 48), with the same ejection pressure, flow rate and ejection angle as those of the nozzles (42, 46), but different in the ejecting direction. That is, waters (44a, 48a) are ejected toward an upward-stream end with respect to the carrying direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Kawasaki Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Masuto Shimizu, Akio Adachi, Hiroyuki Ogawa, Hiroshi Kuwako, Norio Kanamoto, Masaji Shiraishi, Naotoshi Aoyama, Takeo Sekine
  • Patent number: 5884842
    Abstract: A tubular tank cleaning tool for use in an R.V. waste storage tank or the like is provided with a rotating nozzle affixed to a tubular body for connection at its opposite end to a conventional garden hose. The improvement includes a flexible section of the tubular body having a coil spring within to allow the tool to be easily bent around corners and tight angles. The coil spring prevents the flexible section from kinking while a nozzle guard at the distal end of the tubular body prevents the nozzle from catching as the tool is inserted or withdrawn from a waste storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: CAMCO Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald R. Caine, Norman P. Geible, Anthony D. Moore
  • Patent number: 5871023
    Abstract: A fluid driven tank cleaning device is provided. The device includes an inlet that connects to a source of cleaning solution under pressure and a stem coupled to the inlet having a fluid receiving chamber. A hermetically sealed gear box is also provided which is coupled to the stem and has a secondary chamber separated from the receiving chamber by a common wall. A primary drive shaft rotatably mounted within the fluid receiving chamber is driven by an impeller which rotates in response to fluid entering the fluid receiving chamber. The primary drive shaft is magnetically coupled to a secondary drive shaft rotatably mounted within the secondary chamber. A gear train reduces the speed of the secondary shaft. A first output shaft rotatably mounted within the secondary chamber is connected to the secondary drive shaft via the gear train. The output shaft is magnetically coupled to a second output shaft which rotates a main housing relative to the stem about a first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Butterworth Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: George L. Sherman, Jr., Daniel G. Elko
  • Patent number: 5858942
    Abstract: An engine cleaner composition and method for removing carbonaceous deposits from engine fuel-system components such as mechanical and electronic fuel injectors, intake valve seats, valves, combustion cylinders, spark plugs, and oxygen sensors may be used on both gasoline and diesel engines. Preferred compositions comprise a synergistic solution of a heterocyclic ring compound in an azeotrope of acetonitrile and water, together with selected surfactants and aromatics. Preferred compositions of the invention may be placed in an aerosol pressurized unit utilizing a compressed gas, such as nitrogen or nitrous oxide, or compressed liquid gas, such as a hydrocarbon or fluorohydrocarbon. Preferred engine cleaning compositions of the invention are substantially non-ozone depleting, are low in global warming, and have a low order of human toxicity. Preferred compositions have a moderate pH and are essentially compatible with metals and elastomers conventionally used in engine fuel-system components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Adams, Paul D. Hughett
  • Patent number: 5855219
    Abstract: A bottle washing apparatus for effectively washing the inside of bottles that are coated with solid particulate residue. The apparatus includes a fixed portion that connects to a conventional faucet and an elongated closed ended hollow shaft that is provided with a plurality of small orifices. A second closed ended hollow shaft concentrically overlies the first shaft and is rotationally affixed thereto. The second shaft is provided with a plurality of smaller orifices that are tangential with the circumference of the shaft so that when water pressure is applied to the fixed portion, water passes through the orifices in the first shaft and then through the tangential orifices of the second shaft causing the second shaft to rotate at a high rate of speed while discharging the water in needle-like streams under high pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: Michael P. Spencer
  • Patent number: 5853597
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of and an apparatus for efficiently and economically discharging solid particles, which have sedimented on the bottom of a tank, out from the tank. A liquid is ejected from an ejector installed in the tank to move the sedimented solid particles to a predetermined place from which the sedimented solid particles are discharged out from the tank. Further, a solution which contains sedimentary solid particles is cooled and the solid particles are efficiently separated by a solid-liquid separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: Kawasaki Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Yoshioka, Masahiko Ito, Mitsuru Sakuta, Makoto Suzuki, Masaharu Ikeda
  • Patent number: 5829461
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning the interior of tanks or the like. The apparatus has high pressure rotary fluid distribution nozzles on rotating arms carried on a movable platform. The apparatus is self-centering within the enclosure with high pressure fluid swivels and quick disconnect air and fluid supply fittings associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Donald Ramsey
  • Patent number: 5820427
    Abstract: An adaptor assembly designed to effectively flush outboard motors by directing the flushing water directly into plurality of water inlets normally formed in the lower gear case housing portion of the outboard motor. The adaptor assembly includes a base removably attached at an inlet end thereof to a source of water such as a water hose and including an outlet end having a conduit assembly connected in water receiving relation thereto and extending outwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Oscar Valdes
  • Patent number: 5810473
    Abstract: A method for treating liquid stored in a tank includes the steps of installing a liquid jetting device having a nozzle in a tank, providing the device with separate power sources for swinging the nozzle in the vertical and horizontal directions, jetting liquid from the nozzle at high pressure, monitoring the jetting of liquid from outside the tank, and controlling the power sources from outside the tank. The liquid jetting device used in the method includes a frame mounted on the tank, a casing provided to be swingable inside the frame, a first shaft extending laterally inside the casing, a jet nozzle for jetting liquid provided to be swingable by the first shaft in a direction perpendicular to the swinging direction of the casing, a first power source for swinging the casing, a second power source for swinging the jet nozzle in the direction perpendicular to the swinging direction of the casing, and means enabling the driving of the first and second power sources to be controlled from outside the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Taiho Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Manabe, Takahiro Goto
  • Patent number: 5782255
    Abstract: At least two pivoting jets (55a, 55b, 55c) of cleaning liquid, each directed between two successive lines of tubes substantially perpendicular to the rows of tubes, are sent, in succession, from locations situated inside the bundle of the steam generator, into a space between two successive rows of tubes so as to sweep the tube plate between a central part vertically in line with the space between the two rows of tubes and two outer parts situated at the periphery of the bundle and along the length of the space between the rows of tubes. The flow rate of cleaning liquid is at least equal to 20 l/min, per jet. The invention applies in particular to the cleaning of the tube plate of a steam generator of a pressurized-water nuclear reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventors: Bernard Magnin, Alain Vouzelland, Martin Bourdelet, Catherine Weber-Guevara
  • Patent number: 5765580
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a suitable device for completing toilet bowls cleansing, after that water discharged from water hopper has drained, by launching a jet of pressurized water, which device displays the special feature of consisting of a support means carrying a container to be filled/refilled with water, the necessary apparatus form pressurizing said water, and a water launching nozzle body.The support means carrying the above said elements can be suitably statically positioned (fastened), whereas, although it remains functionally connected with said support means, the water launching nozzle body can be moved away from it and, while being hand-carried by the user, can be freely oriented by her/him nearby said support means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Imetec S.p.A.
    Inventor: Francesco Dassi
  • Patent number: 5749384
    Abstract: An apparatus preventive maintenance having a driving mechanism capable of driving a jet nozzle 24 to cause it to travel upward-and-downward, to rotate and to swing is settled on the top of a housing in the bottom portion of a reactor pressure vessel and on a hole for a fuel support piece, water pumped by a high pressure pump is spouted from a jet nozzle, and cavitation bubbles generated during the spouting are supplied to the positions to be treated for preventive maintenance, such as housings in the bottom portion of the reactor pressure vessel. Therewith, the residual tensile stress in the position to be treated is improved in a releasing direction by the energy generated by the collapsing of the cavitation bubbles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Babcock-Hitachi Kabushiki Kaisha, Hitachi Nuclear Engineering Co., Ltd., Hitachi Kiso Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eisaku Hayashi, Koichi Kurosawa, Fujio Yoshikubo, Hideyasu Furukawa, Ren Morinaka, Kunio Enomoto, Masahiro Otaka, Noboru Chiba, Kazunori Sato
  • Patent number: 5746629
    Abstract: An improved device for flushing and conditioning the cooling system of a marine outboard motor which has a reservoir, containing anti-corrosive fluid, and which communicates with a delivery system. The delivery system is a T-shaped member, having a lower pipe member communicating with an upper member that is threadedly connected to the reservoir. The lower pipe member is connected at either end to two lengths of garden hose, one of which is connected to a source of fresh water, and the other of which is attached to the flushing intake of an outboard motor. A valve disposed on the upper pipe member provides a means to selectively control the inflow of anti-corrosive material from the reservoir into the delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Stanley K. Smith
  • Patent number: 5740821
    Abstract: A cleaning system capable of passing through a manway entry point into a storage tank to be cleaned is disclosed. A remotely controllable robotic cannon for spraying diluent or water is provided which has a light source and CCTV camera axially mounted on the cannon nozzle assembly. Mounting systems permit sidewall or overhead deployment of the system as desired. Operators situated remotely can view and control the cleaning system via TV monitors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Landry Service Co. Inc.
    Inventor: Kermit R. Arnold
  • Patent number: 5735301
    Abstract: A system using a secondary cleansing fluid achieves a fully functional irrigation and cleansing system for a urostomy patient night drainage container and associated tubing and adapter. A connection to a standard interior faucet using pressurized water in conjunction with a negative pressure device creates siphoning of a secondary fluid into fluid contact with the water for mixing. In addition, the system provides for an efficient connection for the night container tubing of less than half an inch in diameter for filling, cleansing, and flushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventor: Gary Rower
  • Patent number: 5727580
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning overhead gutters. The apparatus includes two inverted J-shaped members connected by a hinge at the apex. Each J-shaped member has a scoop depending downwardly from the apex and a handle arm depending downwardly from the apex, the handle arm being longer than the scoop. The J-shaped members are hinged such that rotating the handle arms toward each other causes the scoops to rotate toward each other thereby grasping debris therebetween. The scoops are pliable and ellipsoidal shaped and can have teeth or bristles. The hinge provides fulcrum type leverage for grasping and dislodging debris. The J-shaped members can be snapped into and out of the hinge. The gutter cleaner includes a coupling for connecting the cleaner to a garden hose through a valve. Water is channeled to a scoop where a baffle directs the water into the scoop and under debris to dislodge and consolidate debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: John W. Patterson
  • Patent number: 5720310
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and rinsing the interior surfaces of a railway tank car with a single, high-pressure fluid spray. The apparatus is inserted into a tank car through its manway and secured using a lockdown assembly. A swivel assembly includes a swivel shaft which is disposed longitudinally through a swivel housing and is interconnected with a rotor motor and with a hollow spindle assembly. A fluid channel communicates the fluid to the spindle assembly where the fluid is sprayed through a single nozzle onto the interior surfaces of a tank car. Control of fluid spray orbit is accomplished by two perpendicular axes for causing rotation and actuation of the nozzle affixed to the spindle assembly, through the cooperation of an idler gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ernest Moulder
  • Patent number: 5715852
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning the inside surfaces of a tank with a jet of fluid from a nozzle lowered into the interior of the tank. The nozzle is capable of being rotated around a first axis and also capable of being swivelled upward and downward in an oscillating movement around a second axis at right angles to the first axis in a predetermined manner. A drive mechanism for the nozzle includes a turbine driven by a stream of fluid with a drive connected to the turbine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Toftejorg A/S
    Inventor: Erik Lund Jepsen
  • Patent number: RE36465
    Abstract: A furnace cleaning apparatus for cleaning a cyclone furnace with a fluid from a fluid source. The furnace cleaning apparatus comprises a beam assembly capable of being pivotably mounted to the cyclone furnace. A rotary actuator is connected to the beam assembly for turning the beam assembly. A trolley is movably mounted to the beam assembly. A chain drive assembly and a drive source for moving the trolley relative to the beam assembly are mounted to the beam assembly. An articulated arm assembly is pivotally connected to the trolley. A rotary actuator is mounted to the articulated arm assembly for pivoting the articulated arm assembly relative to the trolley. A nozzle is connected to a second end of the articulated arm assembly. A fluid conduit connects the nozzle to a fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: C.H. Heist Corp.
    Inventor: Thomas B. Boisture