With Illuminator Or Burner Patents (Class 222/113)
  • Patent number: 6592007
    Abstract: A dispenser includes a container having a squeeze device connected on a top thereof and a performance unit is connected to the container. A performance member is located in the performance unit and activated by an activation member which is received in a box connected to the performance unit. A base has a switch member and is movably engaged with the performance unit. A gap is defined between the switch member and the activation member so that when pushing the squeeze device, the performance unit is lowered relative to the base, and the switch member is touched by the lowered activation member so as to activate the performance member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventors: Stanley Ho, Hsiao-Liang Ho
  • Patent number: 6474507
    Abstract: The present invention provides a toy water gun including a pump for pressurizing the gun for shooting out a stream of water, a trigger for controlling the flow of the water, and a source of electricity and at least one light source for illuminating the stream, wherein the device is adapted to provide a lighted coherent stream of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Trendmasters, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Hornsby, Ryan A. Wolfinbarger, Joseph L. McGowan, Chad P. Stuemke, Marcellus R. Benson, David B. Midgett, Kurt V. Ulmer
  • Publication number: 20020121529
    Abstract: This invention aims at allowing a consistent increase in the output of selective dispensing of micro-droplets, at making a spatial, targeted selectivity by distributing a predetermined reagent on the predetermined site, and at creating a multifunctional system, easy to adjust.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventor: Moussa Hoummady
  • Patent number: 6439432
    Abstract: An apparatus disguised as a flashlight to be used as a self protection device. This apparatus includes a housing ergonomically designed to fit a user's hand. Included in the housing are a battery, a low battery indicator device, a lighting device, a chemical spray canister, a shocking primary electrode and an additional shocking electrode, each component having a trigger assembly. The primary electrodes are triggered by a trigger switch. The additional electrode is triggered by applying force on the electrodes. The apparatus is used to either shoot the chemical spray at an assailant at a distance, or use the shocking primary electrode at a close distance, if the assailant is in front of a victim. When the assailant is at the back of the victim, the bottom additional electrode is activated for use while at the same time deactivating the shocking primary electrode. The personal safety device has a safety device that can disable the personal safety device when it is pulled from a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: John S. Park
  • Publication number: 20020108966
    Abstract: An apparatus disguised as a flashlight to be used as a self protection device. This apparatus includes a housing ergonomically designed to fit a user's hand. Included in the housing are a battery, a low battery indicator device, a lighting device, a chemical spray canister, a shocking primary electrode and an additional shocking electrode, each component having a trigger assembly. The primary electrodes are triggered by a trigger switch. The additional electrode is triggered by applying force on the electrodes. The apparatus is used to either shoot the chemical spray at an assailant at a distance, or use the shocking primary electrode at a close distance, if the assailant is in front of a victim. When the assailant is at the back of the victim, the bottom additional electrode is activated for use while at the same time deactivating the shocking primary electrode. The personal safety device has a safety device that can disable the personal safety device when it is pulled from a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: John S. Park
  • Patent number: 6390333
    Abstract: A pistol-type device for a plunger actuated aerosol can. The device has a hand-gripping portion with a hollow battery storage area and a pair of dual mounted holes. To power the device a power supply is mounted in the storage area. A plunger actuating lever extends through the hand gripping portion to contact the plunger of the aerosol can and actuate the plunger for spraying an area. The barrel of the pistol-type device extends from the hand-gripping portion and is in electrical communication with the power supply. The barrel holds the illuminating parts such as a light bulb and a lens for producing a light beam to illuminate the area. A can-engaging clip has a locking mechanism for locking the clip around the aerosol can and positioning the plunger actuating lever in direct contact with the plunger of the can. An extension member securely connects the barrel to the clip for solidifying the aerosol can and the pistol-type device as a single unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Daniel Bozzo
  • Publication number: 20020047024
    Abstract: A dispenser includes a container having a squeeze device connected on a top thereof and a performance unit is connected to the container. A performance member is located in the performance unit and activated by an activation member which is received in a box connected to the performance unit. A base has a switch member and is movably engaged with the performance unit. A gap is defined between the switch member and the activation member so that when pushing the squeeze device, the performance unit is lowered relative to the base, and the switch member is touched by the lowered activation member so as to activate the performance member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventors: Stanley Ho, Hsiao-Liang Ho
  • Publication number: 20020020712
    Abstract: The present invention provides a toy water gun including a pump for pressurizing the gun for shooting out a stream of water, a trigger for controlling the flow of the water, and a source of electricity and at least one light source for illuminating the stream, wherein the device is adapted to provide a lighted coherent stream of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventors: James R. Hornsby, Ryan A. Wolfinbarger, Joseph L. McGowan, Chad P. Stuemke, Marcellus R. Benson, David B. Midgett, Kurt V. Ulmer
  • Publication number: 20010050289
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a top for a container such as bottles or cans for pouring out liquids. To create an advertising medium, which can be produced economically and triggers a higher awareness effect than known advertising media of this type, it comprises a voltage source (10), at least one switching element (12), a signal generating device (14) connected thereto and a device for emitting a signal (16, 18) as a reaction to the actuation of the switching element (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: CLAUS CORDES
  • Patent number: 6321945
    Abstract: A compact motor driven dispenser for dispensing caulking and glue material includes a housing having a barrel portion and a handle portion. The barrel portion includes a top wall, a bottom wall, a back wall, a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. The front wall has an opening therein. The top wall has an inner surface having a track mounted thereon. A collapsible push rod is positioned in the housing and has a first end and a second end. The second has a head thereon. The push rod is extendably positioned between the track and the top wall such that the push rod abuts the back wall and the second end of the rod extends toward the front wall of the housing in a generally U-shaped configuration. A motor is positioned in the housing and in communication with the teeth of the push rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventors: Gaston Girouard, Elinor Girouard
  • Patent number: 6293685
    Abstract: A light emitting grip comprising, a manually operable rotatable knob mounted on a fastening shank projecting from a first side thereof and having a selectively switchable light source carried by the knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Innovative Scuba Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon C. Polkow
  • Patent number: 6286719
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that combines the functions of a battery powered light and a water or beverage dispenser into one item. A large liquid container is located on the top and has a removable lid for cleaning and filling. A handle, suitable for hanging, is provided at the top of the container as well. A pouring spout is located on the circumference of the container toward the lower edge and functions in the customary manner. A base is provided for the container which houses a fluorescent or incandescent lamp, batteries, a switch and associated electrical components to allow the lamp to illuminate. The lamp is located such that it provides light directly into the liquid container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Troy Lee Haines
  • Patent number: 6223947
    Abstract: An eye dropper bottle for application of opthalmic solutions to the eye includes a bottom wall which is a convex lens which collects light and is configured to focus the ambient light at about the tip of the eye dropper. Thus when an individual utilizes this device, the bottom wall of the eye dropper is focused at a light source such as an incandescent light and as the individual applies the solution to his eyes. The light from the light source will pass through the lens, collect at the tip illuminating the tip relative to the surrounding dropper bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Byron W. Bernard
  • Patent number: 6189557
    Abstract: A fuel gas supply for providing fuel gas to a gas burner, including a fuel gas cylinder having a top guard, a connector assembly installed in the fuel gas cylinder and surrounded by the top guard, the connector assembly having a gas inlet for guiding air into the fuel gas cylinder to mix with fuel oil in producing fuel gas, a gas outlet connected to the gas burner for guiding fuel gas out of the fuel gas cylinder to the gas burner, a first control valve for closing/opening the gas inlet, and a second control valve for closing/opening the gas outlet, and a pump mounted on the top guard and connected to the gas inlet through a transparent tube and controlled to pump air into the fuel gas cylinder, a plurality of check valves installed in the transparent tube to prevent reverse flow of fuel gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Hong-Line Chern
  • Patent number: 6074078
    Abstract: A lamp assembly having fluid dispensing capabilities comprising a housing, a lens having a fluid nozzle retaining sleeve and a fluid nozzle assembly. The lamp assembly is subassembled by snap-fitting these components together, installing a lamp unit to the housing and a seal to the lens. Installation of the lamp assembly into the vehicle is accomplished by connecting the lamp unit to a wire harness, coupling the fluid nozzle assembly to a fluid supply line and securing the lamp assembly in an aperture in the vehicle with a pair of fasteners. The lamp assembly is particularly useful when incorporated into a rearward facing surface of a vehicle as the lamp serves as a center high mount stop lamp and the nozzle assembly is used to dispense a cleaning fluid onto a rear windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Robert B. Georgeff, Earl R. Sobeck, Albert J. Sherrington, Waine T. Brock, Todd H. Wludyka
  • Patent number: 6059145
    Abstract: A post-mix beverage dispenser of the type that dispenses beverage components in predetermined proportions on demand from a dispensing outlet is provided to dispense the actual beverage, and a visible display simulating a transparent display container having the beverage therein and comprising materials resistant to organic growth is arranged with respect to the dispensing outlet to effect the appearance that the display is the source of the dispensed beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Juicy Whip, Inc.
    Inventors: Gus J. Stratton, Peter K. Stratton
  • Patent number: 6052051
    Abstract: A multilocation defense device which simultaneously protects self and property. The hand-held device includes a remote-control mechanism for remotely activating an alarm system in a home, building, and/or motor vehicle, and a source of high-intensity sound emanating from the defense device, which can be electronically programmed to send an "S.O.S." signal in Morse code. Further defense of self is provided by bright lights and a spray of a chemical repellent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: Patrick J. Whalen
  • Patent number: 6019480
    Abstract: A light emitting grip comprising, a manually operable rotatable knob mounted on a fastening shank projecting from a first side thereof and having a selectively switchable light source carried by the knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Innovative Scuba Cocepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon C. Polkow
  • Patent number: 6010033
    Abstract: A new refrigerated beverage dispenser for dispensing a cool beverage. The inventive device includes an insulated housing having a generally rectangular configuration. The housing has a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, and opposed side walls. The front wall has an upper opening therein. The front wall has a lower opening therein. The lower opening is in communication with the upper opening. The lower opening is dimensioned for receiving a drinking glass therein. A refrigeration unit is disposed within the insulated housing. A reservoir is slidably received within the upper opening of the housing. The reservoir has an open upper end and a closed lower end. The closed lower end has a spout extending downwardly therefrom for positioning within the lower opening of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Roger J. Dean
  • Patent number: 5975362
    Abstract: Apparatus operable for dispensing toothpaste from an outlet opening at one end of a collapsible toothpaste containing tube is disclosed. The present apparatus includes a base member having a nozzle mounted adjacent a first end. The nozzle is adapted for cooperatively receiving and holding the one end of the collapsible toothpaste tube and has a passage therethrough for dispensing toothpaste from the tube. A pinch roller assembly is mounted to the base member for movement therealong between a location spaced from the nozzle and a location adjacent the nozzle, the pinch roller assembly including a pair of pinch rollers defining a space therebetween adapted for receiving the toothpaste tube in a generally collapsed condition. The outer surface of at least a first of the pinch rollers is adapted for engaging the tube so as to be capable of moving along the tube when rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Bruce D. West
  • Patent number: 5967371
    Abstract: Beverage dispensing apparatus particularly for dispensing beer into glasses has a light source (21, 34) positioned below a support (20) for the glass (19). The light source is incorporated into spillage collection means (24) which surrounds the support for the glass. The support for the glass is preferably located at the level of a counter (11) on which the apparatus is located so as to be readily visible by customers positioned at the counter. The light source may be switched on and off according to whether a glass is located on the support and the light is transmitted up through the base of the glass to illuminate the contents during dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Charles Wells Limited
    Inventor: Hogdson T. Stephen
  • Patent number: 5960996
    Abstract: A gas-burned glue gun includes a gun body holding a heating unit and a melting unit, and a handle holding a fuel gas tank and a gas valve, the heating unit having a nozzle tube connected to the gas valve, an electronic igniter, a flame nozzle connected the nozzle tube, an ignition button, a wire electrode connected between the electronic igniter and the flame nozzle, a gas tube connected between the nozzle tube and the flame nozzle, a piston ring moved to close/open an air port on the gas tube, the melting unit having a heat conductive glue stick tube adapted to hold a glue stick, the heat conductive glue stick tube having a heat accumulating portion protected by a guard and disposed adjacent to the flame nozzle, and a catalyzer mounted in the heat accumulating portion, wherein when the ignition button is pressed on, the electronic igniter is triggered to produce sparks in igniting discharged fuel gas from the flame nozzle, and a flame is produced to heat the catalyzer, causing the catalyzer to produce a heat
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Ching-Mei Hsu
  • Patent number: 5941629
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a manually operated self-defense device with a battery operated flashlight instrument and a spray device for a self-defense spray. The device comprises two connected housing parts (2, 13). The first housing part (2) contains the lighting instrument. The second housing part (13) contains a compartment into which a spray can (14) is inserted; this spray can compartment has a spray opening (19) and an actuating opening (20). With this arrangement the lighting instrument and the spray device complement and support each other to provide an effective defense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Adolf Tuscher
  • Patent number: 5927553
    Abstract: A powdered beverage mixing and dispensing apparatus which combines a powdered beverage substance and water to produce a desired beverage, for example cappuccino, hot chocolate, as well as other beverages which may be provided in powdered form. The apparatus includes at least one hopper having a powdered beverage stirring and dispensing mechanism which stirs the powder to further prevent caking and to controllably dispense a desired quantity of powder from the hopper. A water dispensing system is coupled to the apparatus to controllably dispense a quantity of water for mixing with a quantity of powder dispensed from the hopper. A mixing assembly communicates with the hopper and with the water dispensing system to combine powder. A weir is positioned in a dispensing tube to minimize the face surface of the angle of repose of the powder in the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Bunn-o-matic Coporation
    Inventor: David F. Ford
  • Patent number: 5918768
    Abstract: A powdered beverage mixing and dispensing apparatus which combines a powdered beverage substance and water to produce a desired beverage, for example cappuccino, hot chocolate, as well as other beverages which may be provided in powdered form. The apparatus includes at least one hopper having a powdered beverage stirring and dispensing mechanism which stirs the powder to further prevent caking and to controllably dispense a desired quantity of powder from the hopper. A water dispensing system is provided with the apparatus to controllably dispense a quantity of water for mixing with a quantity of powder dispensed from the hopper. A mixing assembly communicates with the hopper and with the water dispensing system to combine powder and water. The mixing assembly includes a frothing mechanism extending into a whipping chamber which communicates with a mixing chamber to mechanically agitate the powder and water combined in the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic Corporation
    Inventor: David F. Ford
  • Patent number: 5913454
    Abstract: A controlled self-service drink dispensing machine including a refrigerated piping network for transporting beverages, such as wine and beer, from a central location to a plurality of remote dispensing consoles. A centrally located bartender terminal is electronically coupled to each of the remote dispensing consoles which are activated by magnetic credit/debit cards received in the remote consoles. A beverage transparent plastic delivery tube in each remote console is bracketed by a light emitting diode transmitter and receiver system that is electronically coupled to the bartender terminal to alert the bartender of a low keg by sensing the amount of air and/or bubbles flowing through the delivery tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Jay T. McHale
  • Patent number: 5901881
    Abstract: A glue gun which includes a housing, a barrel slidably mounted in the front side of the housing, the barrel defining a heating chamber and a fusion chamber above the heating chamber, one-way clamp provided inside the housing to hold a glue stick, permitting the glue stick to be fed into the fusion chamber, a igniter and gas burner unit mounted in the housing and controlled by an ignition control switch to burn fuel gas in the heating chamber, the igniter and gas burner unit having a metal screw tube for holding a soldering tip in front of a flame nozzle thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Chen Chu Li Su
    Inventor: Chin-Fu Wang
  • Patent number: 5895159
    Abstract: A heat-melting glue gun including a body shell in which a heating member containing a heat-melting glue stick, a glue stick feeding means, a gas cylinder, and a current producer are mounted. A conduit pipe extends from the gas cylinder to end with a nozzle located below the heating member which is wrapped with a layer of thermal conductive net with good heat transfer ability. Wire lines having first ends connected to positive and negative electrodes of the current producer extend their second ends to points properly above the nozzle. When a flint in the current producer is struck, an instantaneous current is generated to cause a short-circuit spark to occur between the two second ends of the wire lines. Gas supplied from the gas cylinder and jetting from the nozzle is ignited by the spark to burn below the heating member, causing the glue stick in the heating member to be heat melted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Ferng-Jong Liou
  • Patent number: 5893483
    Abstract: The personal protection device described herein has a deterrent spray feature, a flashlight, a siren, and a key holder. The personal hand-held protection device comprises a roughly L-shaped main body portion including a hand grip with individually recessed finger rests. A knuckle guard portion attached at two points to the main body portion protects a user's knuckles as the user's fingers grasp the hand grip. A light and spray nozzle are disposed at a first end of said main body portion and aim generally in the same direction so the user can illuminate the area where he is directing deterrent spray or colored dye. Mounted in the main body potion is a siren for emitting a loud noise. Also contained in the main body portion are a battery compartment for storing batteries to energize the light and siren, and a reservoir for storing the deterrent spray or colored dye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: Julian Keith Duran
  • Patent number: 5842601
    Abstract: A combination night stick and irritant dispenser is presented in which an irritant dispenser is contained in one end of the night stick and a key lock is positioned in the other end. A slidable actuator encircles the night stick and by sliding the actuator forward a pepper spray or other irritant can be dispensed for protection against assailants or others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: James W. Pierpoint
  • Patent number: 5839461
    Abstract: A protective apparatus for walkers, hikers, and others incorporating a section containing a switchable combination alarm and incapacitating defensive fluid and incorporating a socket for attachment of a camera or lanyard, a storage section, a battery and electrical alarm section incorporating a socket for attachment of an optional walking stick and in a second variation a handle for use as part of a walking cane and in a third variation, an electrical prodding device in place of the storage section and contact points for the electrical prodding device extending from the battery and alarm section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Harvey F. Lambeth, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5730330
    Abstract: Liquid dispensing apparatus includes a source of supply of carbonated water, a source of supply of one or more beverages in syrup form and a mixer for admixture of the water and syrup. Prior to admixing of the carbonated water and syrup the apparatus displays a flowing sample of the syrup. The apparatus may include a plurality of different syrups, each with its own display. The display preferably takes the form of a display dispense line comprising an illuminated translucent or transparent tube bent in a tortuous path. The displayed syrup sample may be either mixed and dispensed after display, returned to a main reservoir or be retained as a sample for display only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: Graeme John Reading
  • Patent number: 5697526
    Abstract: This includes a condiment, such as mustard, catsup, etc. dispensing unit. The condiment is in a container such as a bottle with a neck portion which is attached to a novel plastic dispenser cap. When the device is hanging upside down, the condiment in the container flows into the dispensing tip which has a valve mechanism such that no fluid flows out the end of the tip until pressure is applied by squeezing the plastic tip. A push rod with two spaced apart arms has a roller at the end of each arm. The rollers are a lesser distance apart than the diameter of the dispensing nipple. When the rod pushes the arm, the rollers roll against the dispensing nipple, squeezing and compressing it, and forcing its condiments out the lower end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Gary K. Lee
  • Patent number: 5683168
    Abstract: An improved spray canister light comprising a lens cap threadably secured to a light head cap, the light head cap threadably secured to a battery body containing batteries therein. The spray canister light further comprising a canister body threadably secured to the battery body and environmentally sealed therefrom, the canister body including a replaceable canister and a depressible spray nozzle therein. An on/off push action switch contained within the body may be depressed so as to activate the light whereas the depressible spray nozzle within the canister portion may be depressed so as to discharge from the spray canister light the contents of the canister. In the preferred embodiment, the on/off switch and the depressible spray nozzle are recessed with respect to an outer surface of the device thereby ensuring the switch and the nozzle may not inadvertently be activated or broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventors: Willard H. Teig, Randy S. Teig
  • Patent number: 5673819
    Abstract: A holder for an aerosol chemical defense spray. The holder may take different forms and has the appearance of or is part of another device such as a pager, flashlight, baton or handgun. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol canister is housed in a holder which is attached to a conventional electronic beeper. The holder is readily accessible and does not alert bystanders that the wearer is carrying a defense spray. The various embodiments of the invention include a safety mechanism to prevent the inadvertent or accidental discharge of the chemical spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventor: James A. Brunswig
  • Patent number: 5638991
    Abstract: A bottled water dispenser is similar in size to those available on the market today. An upright five gallon bottle slides onto a dolly and is held fast to the dolly by a stretch cord. The dolly with bottle is wheeled into the bottom of the dispenser. Alternately, the dispensing system may be assembled upon the dolly itself. A tube with a rubber stopper at one end and a check valve at the other end is inserted into the bottle. Pushing a button on the face plate of the dispenser cabinet activates an internal electric pump. The pump draws water from the bottle through the check valve and forces it out of the spigot under pressure. Internal solenoid valves force the water through a heating unit, cooling unit or filtration system before exiting through the spigot. Each temperature is achieved by pushing a different colored button on the face plate. The dispenser operates on 240 V AC, 120 V AC or 12 V DC. It has a built in auxiliary battery back up in the event of power outages or for portable use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventors: Terry J. Todden, Richard A. Thornberry
  • Patent number: 5597093
    Abstract: This is a dispensing unit for condiments such as mustard, catsup, etc. or industrial liquids such as soap, chemicals. The condiment is contained in a container such as a bottle with a neck portion which is attached to a dispensing nipple. When the device is hanging upside down, the condiment in the container flows into the dispensing tip, which has a valve such that no fluid flows out the end of the tip until pressure is applied by squeezing the plastic bottle. A dispenser nipple passes through a hole in a plate or tray in a housing. A back resilient pad is on one side of the hole, and on the front side of the hole is a front pad. The dispensing nipple extends through this hole between the two pads. A push rod connects to a push plate on the front side of the front pad, and the application of force on the push rod forces the two pads towards each other. When the nipple is between them, it causes the nipple to be squeezed, thus dispensing condiment out the tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Gary K. Lee
  • Patent number: 5586691
    Abstract: Customer information display apparatus is attached to a beverage dispense tap. In one embodiment the dispense tap handle 18 is formed of or includes light transparent and/or light reflective material, a light generating means 22, 30 is attached to the tap body, or a counter fitting therefor, remote from the tap handle, and means 36, 20 are provided to direct light from the light generating means to the tap handle, whereby, in use, the tap handle can illuminate to display customer information. In another embodiment, a shield 58 is provided on the tap body 10 and/or the tap handle 40 to present an information display surface to face customers and to mask from customer view the pivotal interface 12 between the tap handle and the tap body, at least when the tap handle is in its closed position. The apparatus may be designed for attachment to existing taps with minimal or no modification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Alumasc Limited
    Inventors: Henry E. Gotch, Roger J. Hyde
  • Patent number: 5584823
    Abstract: There is provided a new and useful device to facilitate the dispensing of eye drops from a conventional translucent or transparent eye dropper bottle which has a drop-dispensing tip at one end, a bottom at the other end and resilient, squeezable sides between those ends to dispel the bottle contents. The device combines a light source and a holder to hold the eye dropper bottle in place relative to the light source so that light from the source will pass through the bottom of the bottle, when in use, to illuminate a droplet of the contents of the bottle being dispensed from the tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Ontario Incorporated
    Inventor: John D. Valberg
  • Patent number: 5558653
    Abstract: Targeted eye drop dispenser having concentric target rings of highly colored material aligned over and about the dispensing orifice. Highly visible material target rings aid in alignment of the dispensing orifice over the center of the human eye for self-dispensing of eye drops by the user of the targeted eye drop dispenser. An alternative embodiment includes a lighted target area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Richard L. Lindstrom
  • Patent number: 5549220
    Abstract: A non-lethal, graded method for deterring an assailant by using a hand-held self-defense device which includes an electrical storage battery which acts as a power source, a lamp which emits a directed beam of high-intensity white light, a lamp which emits high-intensity diffuse blue light, a siren, and a source of pressurized chemical repellent. First, an intense beam of white light is directed at the eyes of the assailant; then intermittent high-intensity diffuse blue light and high-intensity sound are simultaneously emitted. If these operations prove inadequate to deter the attack, a spray of chemical repellent is discharged at the eyes of the assailant, using the beam of white light as a guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: Patrick J. Whalen
  • Patent number: 5539624
    Abstract: An enhanced hose for use in fuel transfer and the like. Embedded within the hose's body are fiber-optic fibers in which light is transmitted. At predefined locations on the hose, selected portions of said fiber-optic fibers are exposed and structured to permit light to escape. Structuring of the fiber-optic fibers to permit light to escape is done by: terminating the fiber at that point, removing the cladding on the fiber at that point, or by creating a radical bend in the fiber. The intensity of the light escaping from the fiber-optic fibers is easily controllable by adjustment of the light source's intensity which feeds the light into the fiber-optic fibers. Additionally, compensation is made so that elongation of the hose does not break the fibers. Since no electrical current is being used, the enhanced hose is particularly useful for illuminating the exterior of a hose which is conveying explosive materials such as fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Durodyne, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Dougherty
  • Patent number: 5529215
    Abstract: A personal defense baton is disclosed which which may be utilized to direct a spray of a personal defense gas toward an assailant. The personal defense baton of this invention comprises an elongate tube member which includes at one end a compartment for receiving a defense spray container. The defense spray container has a valve for dispersal therethrough of a personal defense gas and a discharge nozzle which communicates with the valve so as to direct a spray of the personal defense gas from the container in a generally axial direction from the end of tube member in which the container is located when the valve is actuated. The baton also includes apparatus for manually actuating the valve without bringing the actuating hand near the discharge nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventors: Rondal T. Banks, James W. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5491617
    Abstract: An illumination device illuminates a tap handle and an area proximate to a tap outlet. The device illuminates a stream of fluid flowing from the tap outlet and the receptacle into which the fluid flows when the tap handle opens the tap to release the fluid. The tap handle actuates a tilt switch adjacent to the tap handle. The device illuminates the tap handle when there is no fluid flow. Light from lamps contained within the device is communicated to the tap outlet and tap handle by separate fiber optic lines. Light from the lamps is colored by a continuously rotating color wheel for aesthetic effects. The device includes a capacitor for generating a time delay to prevent false control signals from being relayed to the lamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph E. Currie
  • Patent number: 5479914
    Abstract: An internal combustion glue gun including a glue stick propelling mechanism, a gas release control mechanism, an igniter unit, and a melting unit, and a housing consisting of two symmetrical halves connected together to hold the glue stick propelling mechanism, the gas release control mechanism, the igniter unit, and the melting unit, wherein the housing has a bottom chamber having two pivot pins aligned at a bottom side, a working temperature indicator hole, which receives a temperature detecting chip, which detects the temperature of the melting unit, a gas pressure regulator mounting hole, which receives a gas pressure regulator, a substantially L-shaped switch hole, a switch retainer plate mounted on the switch hole, a collapsible support turned about the pivot pins on the bottom chamber to hold a disposable gas lighter, permitting the disposable gas lighter to be controlled by the switch retainer plate to release gas, and a back opening through which the gas lighter holder can be moved in and out of the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Chin-Lin Tsai
  • Patent number: 5420766
    Abstract: A personal protective device comprising a combination flashlight, alarm and incapacitating spray mounted in a two section housing. A safety switch built into the unit prevents activation of the spray unless the flashlight is turned on. The unit has a strap to fasten to the user's wrist, such strap being designed to break away should an assailant grab the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Inventor: Bob J. Hollis
  • Patent number: 5390834
    Abstract: A trolley is described, which is designed for conveying products, in partlar foods and drinks for sale, and which has plural containers which can be placed one above the other in a frame. The frame is provided with wheels and has a fixed water supply container with insulation and heating means and a battery-supplied pump for conveying the water heated in the supply container to one or more tap points. The plural containers are selected from: (i) an insulated, heat-conserving container with heating means; (ii) an insulated cooling container which may optionally have cooling means; (iii) an additional insulated hot container which may be coupled to the fixed water supply container and which may optionally be provided with heating means; and (iv) a supply container which can optionally be insulated. The heating means, cooling means and/or containers can be exchangeable for each other. A lifting device with scissor mechanism and belt drive for raising the trolley to a desired height is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits et du Tourisme, S.A.
    Inventors: Jacobus M. Bitter, Camille W. van den Brande, Reinardus L. M. Hazelebach, Niklaas E. van Hylckama Vlieg, Andries Rijfers, Johannes J. Smits, Theodorus J. H. v. Steenbergen, Jacco M. Van Stenis
  • Patent number: 5346132
    Abstract: A device for generating a spray of mist or fine droplets includes a spinning rotor within a mist chamber. The rotor has inner walls which taper conically outwardly from the open bottom of the rotor to a hole near the top of the rotor. Liquid is pumped by a finger actuated pump from a cartridge module into a bowl surrounding the bottom end of the rotor. A spray is created as the liquid is formed into droplets as it passes through the hole in the rotor under centrifugal force. A directional light source is used for aiming the spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Gary S. Hahn
    Inventors: Gary S. Hahn, David R. Williams
  • Patent number: 5325994
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for dispensing flowable material which comprises a holding vessel for holding a supply of flowable material, a dispensing device for releasing an amount of flowable material from the holding vessel, a first heating element for heating the flowable material in the holding vessel, a second heating element, in operative association with the first heating element for heating the dispensing device such that the latter can be activated by the former, a unified control system for sensing the condition of the second heating element and of the flowable material in the holding vessel, and coordinating the operation of the first and second heating elements such that the second heating element intermittently activates the first heating element in response to a preselected sensed condition of the flowable composition, and such that the first and second heating element are disabled in response to a preselected sensed condition of the second heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Inventors: Peter Mizialko, Anthony Dispoto
  • Patent number: 5307249
    Abstract: An elongate tubular body includes a lens operative through batteries and an on/off switch to effect selective illumination therethrough, and further includes an elongate conduit having a forward end projecting to an exit port at and beyond the lens of the associated lens housing. A tubular extension housing mounts therewithin a pressurized cylinder containing a repelling fluid therewithin selectively directed through a valve assembly operative with the conduit to effect selective repelling of an assailant or animal in use of the flashlight structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Dennis S. Vanwynsberghe