With Cleaning Means, Drip Collecting, Waste Disposal Or Soil Preventing Guards Or Shields Patents (Class 239/104)
  • Patent number: 7303145
    Abstract: An air flush system for a spraying system includes an air compressor unit and an inverter. The air compressor unit integrally comprises a compressor including an electric motor configured to operate upon receipt of alternating current voltage, a tank provided in fluid communication with the compressor and configured to store air compressed by the compressor; and an outlet provided in fluid communication with the tank and configured to selectively dispense compressed air from the tank to a portion of a spraying system to facilitate purging of material from the spraying system. The inverter is configured to selectively convert direct current voltage from a vehicular electrical system into alternating current voltage suitable to operate the compressor. A method for cleaning a spraying apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Finn Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas E. Wysong
  • Patent number: 7252247
    Abstract: A self-cleaning spray nozzle, and in particular a self-cleaning spray nozzle for use in an apparatus for the preparation of a particulate material by a controlled agglomeration method, for example a method for controlled growth of particle size. The apparatus is especially suitable for use in the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions containing a therapeutically and/or prophylactically active substance which has a relatively low aqueous solubility and/or which is subject to chemical decomposition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: LifeCycle Pharma A/S
    Inventors: Per Holm, Elo Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20070164128
    Abstract: An anti-dry start device is provided for preventing the operation of a powered pressure washer in the absence of sufficient inlet fluid pressure, the device comprising a pressure switch removably mounted into a fitting installed in the inlet line to the pressure washer, the device further comprising an electrical interconnection between the pressure switch and an ignition system of the pressure washer, whereby the pressure switch is adapted to disrupt power to the pressure washer ignition switch when the inlet pressure is below a preset threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Inventor: John F. Kresge
  • Patent number: 7225997
    Abstract: A nozzle distributor base for distributing a gas which is laden with fine solids particles, preferably for use in a fluidized-bed unit, in particular for the reduction of metal oxide-containing solids particles. At least one movable cleaning device on the distributor base reduces the formation of deposits on the distributor base or the nozzles thereof or at least partially removes deposits which have already formed. Elements in the distributor base, like chains, ropes or movable rods, clean the distributor base by direct mechanical striking action on the distributor base and/or the nozzles of the nozzle distributor base. A method for reducing the formation of deposits and/or for at least partially removing deposits on a distributor base uses the striking action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignees: Voest-Alpine Industrieanlagenbau GmbH & Co., Pohang Iron & Steel Co., Ltd., Research Institute of Industrial Science & Technology, Incorporated Foundation
    Inventor: Franz Hauzenberger
  • Patent number: 7225998
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for vaporizing liquid fuel. The apparatus includes at least one capillary flow passage, the at least one capillary flow passage having an inlet end and an outlet end; a fluid control valve for placing the inlet end of the at least one capillary flow passage in fluid communication with the liquid fuel source and introducing the liquid fuel in a substantially liquid state; a heat source arranged along the at least one capillary flow passage, the heat source operable to heat the liquid fuel in the at least one capillary flow passage to a level sufficient to change at least a portion thereof from the liquid state to a vapor state and deliver a stream of substantially vaporized fuel from the outlet end of the at least one capillary flow passage; and means for cleaning deposits formed during operation of the apparatus. The flow passage can be a capillary tube heated by a resistance heater or a section of a tube heated by passing electrical energy therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventor: Roberto O. Pellizzari
  • Patent number: 7216816
    Abstract: An airless application system. The system includes a primary product container, a secondary product container, and a sprayer in fluid communication with the primary product container and the secondary product container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Hammarth, Stephen J. Lacivita, Kevin J. May, Christopher Molina, John S. Piwnica, Jr., Paul A. Raymond, Johnathan C. Waters, Timothy Oberg, John Ekpenyong
  • Patent number: 7185834
    Abstract: A mobile pressure washer wand support with a dolly-like wheeled base with a cut out slot for securely holding the pressure washer wand in place. This allows the user to have the weight of the pressure washer hose alleviated to reduce fatigue and backache. The user can place the pressure washer wand in the adjustable wand slot, tighten clamps to hold the wand in place, and simply point it in the direction that is desired to be sprayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Harold D. Davidson
  • Patent number: 7172138
    Abstract: A gun mount for a spray gun includes a rigid bracket that is installed on a rigid vertical support such as a gun mover. The bracket securely mounts the guns so as to reduce vibration and swaying during a spraying operation, even when the guns are being vertically moved by an oscillator. A position label or other suitable indicia is provided on the bracket so that the gun mount position can be recorded and thereby accurately repeated during subsequent installations. The bracket in one embodiment includes a series of vertical and horizontal mounting holes that permit a gun body to be installed at a desired vertical and horizontal orientation. A gun blow off arrangement is also provided for mounting associated pairs of air nozzles in position to blow powder from gun exterior surfaces. The associated pairs of air nozzles are mounted on a common bracket that can be selectively and slideably positioned on a channel support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Brian D. Mather, Edward L. Jones, Jeffrey R. Shutic
  • Patent number: 7168634
    Abstract: A sprinkler head having a deformable member forming a collar is disclosed. The deformable member allows the sprinkler head to resist entry of foreign grit or matter within the sprinkler head, and allows the sprinkler head to eject or force out foreign matter from within the sprinkler head. The sprinkler head may be a spinning sprinkler head including a vane deflector, and the spinning sprinkler head may include a portion that shifts in response to being struck by water such that a braking mechanism is engaged in response to the force of the water. When water flow ceases, the spinning head may shift towards the deformable member so that a portion of the spinning head is received within the deformable member to restrict foreign matter from entering the sprinkler head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventor: Travis L. Onofrio
  • Patent number: 7097116
    Abstract: An underground sprinkler with a pop-up head and a corresponding underground casing has two differentiated cylindrical parts, closed by a corresponding cover fixed to the pop-up sprinkler head, which, being a part coupled to the piston, pops-up due to the effect of the water pressure pushing the piston in a portion calculated for this purpose and which is so maintained for as long as the pressure lasts, to be recovered by the action of a permanent draw-spring when the pressure stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: VYR-Valvuleria y Riegos Por Aspersion, S.A.
    Inventor: Pablo Rodriguez Fernandez
  • Patent number: 7097877
    Abstract: A method of lubricating the interior of a tire comprising the steps of: inserting an applicator tube including apertures and a protector sleeve between the rim and tire bead, and thereby into the interior of the tire; applying lubricant to the interior of the tire; covering the apertures with the protector sleeve; and withdrawing the applicator from the interior of the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
    Inventor: Michael Brown
  • Patent number: 7097114
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a self-cleaning injector nozzle or other fluid conduit that maintains deposits at a low level by sonic tuning the shock wave generated during fluid flow through that nozzle or conduit. Methods of producing an injector nozzle and a method of cleansing deposits from liquid or gaseous fluids are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Afton Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Allen A. Aradi
  • Patent number: 7066407
    Abstract: A shower head assembly includes an outer housing, an inner housing, a catch cap, and an impeller. Thus, the catch cap catches the water flow and introduces the water flow through the water inlet hole into the air chamber so as to reduce the water flow rate, thereby achieving the purpose of saving water. In addition, the water flow is ejected outward in a radiating manner by rotation of the impeller, thereby providing a massaging effect to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Tung Hsien Lu
  • Patent number: 7066406
    Abstract: A paint sprayer for spraying a fluid comprises a housing that houses a motor, a pump, and a fluid passage. A handle is coupled to the housing and a paint cup is coupled to the handle for storage of a fluid. The handle is positioned between the housing and the paint cup. The paint sprayer has a center of gravity region. A longitudinal axis of the handle and a longitudinal axis of the paint cup are aligned with the center of gravity region of the paint sprayer. A gripping zone of the paint sprayer is also aligned with the center of gravity region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Mary Lynn Williams, Robert Kyle Whitaker, Kinshun Yan
  • Patent number: 7063275
    Abstract: A sprayer has a spray shield and a spray shield retainer. The spray shield is removably attached to the spray shield retainer for efficient storage when not in use. The spray shield can be contoured to the body of the sprayer. The spray shield is configured for attachment to a spray wand proximate to a nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Chapin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: David Byron
  • Patent number: 7051950
    Abstract: The atomizer (Z) of an electrostatic coating unit contains a dosing pump (DP) connected between the atomization device (4) and a scrapeable coiled pipe (10) which serves as a space-saving paint supply vessel and which is also situated in the atomizer. The scraper (12) is activated by compressed air on one side in order to force the paint material fed to its other side to the dosing pump (DP), which conveys it to the atomization device (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Dürr Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Stefano Giuliano
  • Patent number: 7032834
    Abstract: A filtering system for filtering particles from a flow of fluid is disclosed, and includes a filter device for removably positioning in a lumen of a pipe carrying the flow of fluid. The filter device has an upstream side for positioning in an upstream direction of fluid flow and a downstream side for positioning in a downstream direction of fluid flow. The filter device comprises a perimeter rim extending along the perimeter edge of the filter device and defining an opening, and a plurality of filter bars extending across the opening to form a plurality of slots therebetween. Each of the filter bars of the plurality of filter bars has a transverse cross sectional shape. The transverse cross sectional shape has a transverse width toward the upstream side of the filter device that is relatively wider than the transverse width toward the downstream side of the filter device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventors: Dale D. Anderson, Bret Anderson
  • Patent number: 7021564
    Abstract: A fuel injector (1) for direct injection of fuel into the combustion chamber of internal combustion engines having an actuator (10), a valve needle (3) operable by the actuator (10) for actuation of a valve closure member (4) which, together with a valve seat face (6) on a valve seat member (5), forms a sealing seat, and at least one spray discharge orifice (7), which is formed downstream from the valve seat (6). A flame protection cone (34) is provided on a downstream end (35) of the fuel injector (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Juergen Raimann
  • Patent number: 6997393
    Abstract: The pop-up irrigation sprinkler includes a pressure reducing valve, a spring-biased, pop-up riser, and a valve seal of unitary construction adjacent to the lower end of the riser having a valve body, a valve plug at the lower end of the valve body sealing the inlet port while the riser is in the retracted position, and a channel within the valve plug that is in fluid communication with the upper end of the valve body. The pressure reducing valve has a flow tube mounted for limited movement within the riser and lower port of the flow tube. The lower port of the flow tube is normally open when the riser is in the extended, operative position a pressure. The normally open lower port is urged against the upper surface of the valve plug when by a surge of pressurized water. A washer is provided in the lower end of the valve plug for sealing the inlet port from inflow and outflow of water from the sprinkler while the riser is in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Russdon D. Angold, Steve S. H. Han, David E. Robertson
  • Patent number: 6981656
    Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing thermoplastic material and configured for easy cleaning and maintenance procedures to address residual thermoplastic material in the apparatus. The apparatus includes a distribution body having an interior space for receiving a removable insert. The removable insert includes a flow passage for providing the thermoplastic material, for example, to a dispensing element. Alternatively, or in addition, the distribution body may be formed of separable portions to allow easy access to the passage and/or insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Duane J. Fisher, Wesley C. Fort, John M. Raterman
  • Patent number: 6974090
    Abstract: An adjustable dispenser tip including a nozzle forming a passage along a length of the nozzle. A plurality of independently movable, flexible fingers define an orifice at a dispensing end portion of the nozzle. A coupler is positioned about at least a portion of the nozzle and movable with respect to the nozzle to contact and urge the fingers to adjust an area of the orifice. An elastomeric web is positioned with respect to the nozzle and connects adjacent fingers. The elastomeric web can be positioned on an outer surface of the nozzle, an inside surface of the nozzle, or between adjacent fingers, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Harold J. Brax
  • Patent number: 6959879
    Abstract: A nozzle arrangement which is suitable for use in the generation of a spray or aerosol and which is adapted for connection to a fluid supply, the nozzle arrangement including a fluid inlet through which fluid enters the arrangement from the fluid supply and fluid outlet through which the fluid is ejected from the nozzle arrangement, fluid inlet and fluid outlet being connected to a fluid flow passage through which, in use, fluid flows from the inlet to the outlet, wherein the nozzle arrangement includes control means provided in the passage which, in use, acts to modify the flow characteristics of the fluid in the fluid flow passage to effectively control fluid droplet size produced in the spray or aerosol by the nozzle arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Incro Limited
    Inventors: Keith Laidler, Andrew Yule
  • Patent number: 6953159
    Abstract: An improved spray through cap assembly (10) comprises separable base (11) and cover parts (13). The base part includes a hollow actuator (17) which is adapted to cooperate with an outlet of an aerosol or the like. The actuator is linked to a fluid flow channel (19) formed by correspond recesses in the base and cover parts, respectively, and a nozzle outlet (20). Depressing the cover part causes the actuator to actuate the outlet and causes the contents of the aerosol to be discharged through the nozzle outlet via the fluid flow channel. In order prevent accidental discharge, in one embodiment, the base part includes a projecting lip (22) and the cover part includes a nose (21), the lip and nose cooperating in an inoperative position to prevent the actuator actuating the outlet. In a further embodiment, the cover part is formed from two separable parts and the fluid flow channel and nozzle outlet are formed by corresponding recesses in the parts of the cover parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Incro Limited
    Inventor: Keith Laidler
  • Patent number: 6945483
    Abstract: A waterborne paint bell applicator is movable to and from a docking position and includes a paint receptacle connected to a paint canister. A paint filling station has a plurality of paint injectors each connected to a different color paint supply and being movable to the docking position for engagement with the paint receptacle for filling the paint canister with paint. A servomotor drives a piston in the canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Fanuc Robotics North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott J. Clifford, Stan H. McClosky, James S. Hager, Ernest M. Otani, Gary J. Rutledge, John C. Reinicke, Robert C. Foti
  • Patent number: 6935576
    Abstract: In a cleaning nozzle, a trumpet-shaped portion made up of multiple inclined portions or a curved portion is formed upstream of a minimum diameter portion of an ejection nozzle portion of a converging-diverging shape, and a gas ejection port is opened to an intermediate part of the trumpet-shaped portion. Inside the gas ejection port is formed a cleaning liquid ejection port. A gas is ejected at a higher speed than that of a cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid ejection port to transform the cleaning liquid into droplets, which are further accelerated by a tapered portion formed downstream of the minimum diameter portion before being ejected. A small amount of liquid may be supplied to a pressurized gas passage between a powder injection portion and the cleaning nozzle to prevent a possible clogging of passage due to powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shinichi Hara
  • Patent number: 6921020
    Abstract: The invention provides exemplary methods and apparatus for dispensing liquids as an atomized spray. In one particularly preferably method, a liquid is dispensed as an atomized spray from a vibratable member having a front surface and a rear surface, with the member having at least one tapered hole between the surfaces for dispensing the liquid. The tapered hole has a larger cross-sectional area at the rear surface than at the front surface. The liquid is delivered from a supply container to the rear surface of the vibratable member in an amount sufficient to cover the hole with liquid. The vibratable member is then vibrated to dispense at least a portion of the liquid through the hole and from the front surface. Additional liquid is delivered from the supply container and to the rear surface in volumes that are substantially equal to the volumes dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Aerogen, Inc.
    Inventor: Yehuda Ivri
  • Patent number: 6899279
    Abstract: A rotary atomizing applicator is provided with passages directing ambient air to an area of low-pressure created behind a rotary atomizer of the applicator. The passages have ambient air openings thereto remote from the rotary atomizer. When a low-pressure area is created by the pumping effect from the rotary atomizer, ambient air is drawn through the passages to reduce the low-pressure area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Seitz
  • Patent number: 6871792
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for vaporizing liquid fuel. The apparatus includes at least one capillary flow passage, the at least one capillary flow passage having an inlet end and an outlet end; a fluid control valve for placing the inlet end of the at least one capillary flow passage in fluid communication with the liquid fuel source and introducing the liquid fuel in a substantially liquid state; a heat source arranged along the at least one capillary flow passage, the heat source operable to heat the liquid fuel in the at least one capillary flow passage to a level sufficient to change at least a portion thereof from the liquid state to a vapor state and deliver a stream of substantially vaporized fuel from the outlet end of the at least one capillary flow passage; and means for cleaning deposits formed during operation of the apparatus. The flow passage can be a capillary tube heated by a resistance heater or a section of a tube heated by passing electrical energy therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Chrysalis Technologies Incorporated
    Inventor: Roberto O. Pellizzari
  • Patent number: 6854663
    Abstract: A fluid spray apparatus includes a pump providing fluid at an elevated pressure and a delivery system coupled to the pump to spray the fluid in a predetermined configuration. The delivery system includes a flexible hose and a nozzle receiver adapted to receive one of a plurality of nozzles each having an associated spray pattern. A nozzle retainer coupled to the delivery system is adapted to releasably retain the nozzles in proximity to the distal end of the delivery system. An associated method includes the step of retaining the nozzles when not in use in an ordered pattern relative to the retainer and in proximity to the distal end of the delivery system. A nozzle cleaner having a configuration similar to that of the nozzles includes a pin and a guard pivotally mounted to cover the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Adolfo Arteaga Bugarin
  • Patent number: 6845928
    Abstract: A gas wiping nozzle for a wire coating apparatus includes an inlet portion defining a converging inlet passage for a coated wire that is axially drawn through the gas wiping nozzle. A wiping portion is further included and defines a wiping passage for the coated wire, downstream and in an axial extension of the inlet passage. The wiping portion has a gas outlet surrounding the wiping passage for blowing wiping gas onto the coated wire. A protruding annular lip is arranged between the converging inlet passage and the wiping passage, and the annular lip defining a passage for the coated wire that is narrower than the wiping passage so that the gas outlet means in the wiping passage is protected by the protruding annular lip against direct contact with the coated wire which is axially drawn through the passages of the wiping gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Trefilarbed Bissen SA
    Inventor: Fernand Felgen
  • Patent number: 6843431
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing the drying of at least one nozzle of a fluid dispensing device includes an element providing moist gas, a supply hose for moist gas and a gas controller which forms a space around the nozzle. Moist gas is led into the space around the nozzle from the elements providing gas through the supply hose. Moist gas leaking out of the space is replaced by new moist gas led into the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: CPS Color Group Oy
    Inventors: Pentti Airaksinen, Esko Hietanen, Jukka Hietanen
  • Patent number: 6824072
    Abstract: A spray gun cleaning system uses a separate cleaning fluid container which is substituted for the normal applied product container of the spray gun. The product feed tube of the spray gun is inserted into the cleaning fluid container, which is then sealably clamped to the spray cap of the spray gun. The container has a side opening, to which one end of a fluid hose is sealably attached. The other end of the hose is sealably attached to the nozzle portion of the spray gun. Pressurized air is discharged into the spray gun and this pressurization causes the cleaning fluid to circulate through the spray gun. As long as the pressurized air is discharged into the spray gun, cleaning fluid will automatically continue to circulate, without user involvement, through the sealed, closed circuit or path formed by the body of the spray gun, the fluid hose, the cleaning fluid container, and the feed tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Darren R. Minder
  • Publication number: 20040217192
    Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing thermoplastic material and configured for easy cleaning and maintenance procedures to address residual thermoplastic material in the apparatus. The apparatus includes a distribution body having an interior space for receiving a removable insert. The removable insert includes a flow passage for providing the thermoplastic material, for example, to a dispensing element. Alternatively, or in addition, the distribution body may be formed of separable portions to allow easy access to the passage and/or insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Duane J. Fisher, Wesley C. Fort, John M. Raterman
  • Publication number: 20040200409
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for scrubbing and drying a wafer. The apparatus comprises a chamber, a plurality of rollers adapted to support a wafer in a vertical orientation within the chamber, a pair of brushes adapted to respectively scrub a first and a second side of the wafer, a first spray bar adapted to spray a liquid on the wafer to thereby form a meniscus on the wafer as the wafer is lifted out of the chamber, and a second spray bar adapted to direct a vapor to the meniscus, the vapor being adapted to lower a surface tension of the liquid at the meniscus to thereby perform Marangoni drying of the wafer as the wafer is lifted out of the chamber. Also provided is a method of cleaning and drying a wafer. The method comprises scrubbing a wafer in a vertical orientation, lifting the wafer, spraying a fluid on the wafer as the wafer is lifted, thereby forming a meniscus on the surface of the wafer, and directing a drying vapor to the meniscus as the wafer is lifted, thereby Marangoni drying the wafer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventor: Julia Svirchevski
  • Publication number: 20040195365
    Abstract: A gas sprayer mounted on an edge removing robotic arm is disclosed, wherein the edge removing robotic arm circles around along the edges of a substrate and sprays a chemical solvent over the edge surface of the substrate to dissolve photoresist materials attached to the edges of the substrate; the edge removing robotic arm has a pumping conduit for sucking out the chemical solvent sprayed over the surface of the substrate and dissolved photoresist particles; the gas sprayer is mounted on the top of the edge removing robotic arm and comprises a hooked nozzle extending forward around the front end of the edge removing robotic arm and facing an opening of the pumping conduit to spray gas out so as to prevent the chemical solvent sprayed out from the edge removing robotic arm from splashing onto the interior of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: AU Optronics Corp.
    Inventor: Chao-Min Wu
  • Patent number: 6799729
    Abstract: An ultrasonically excitable tool or probe is provided with a central bore, and a coupling for attachment to an ultrasonic transducer also provided with a central bore. Fluid may be injected along the communicating bores for filling a bowl or concavity on a distal end of the tool. Upon energization of the transducer, fluid in the concavity serves as a conventional ultrasonic cleaning bath for depending parts which the tool may be raised to accommodate in the concavity. This cleaning may be achieved in a confined space where the presence of the transducer is impossible or impermissible, which is further facilitated by the existence of an extended handle or shaft portion, containing the bore, on the ultrasonic tool. A particular shape of the concavity is found to have unexpected utility in creating and focussing an atomized spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Misonix Incorporated
    Inventor: Dan Voic
  • Patent number: 6789553
    Abstract: A coatings removal head assembly for mounting on a self-propelled apparatus and for connection to one or more fluid supplies and one or more vacuum containment systems. A spring mounting assembly maintains a constant nozzle stand-off distance from a surface to be cleaned. A positively driven rotary spray bar assembly is employed to control the nozzle pass rate in conjunction with the movement of the self-propelled apparatus. A specifically configured exhaust is provided to enhance collection and containment of waste fluid and removed material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Hammelmann Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Phillip Harris, Dennis Lynn Mesarvey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6769627
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid or beverage dispensing device having self-cleaning dispensing nozzle. The device includes a body provided with a conduit having a first end to which a dispensing nozzle is connected, and a second end to which a fluid inlet line is intended to be connected. The device further includes a collector member that can move relative to the body between a first dispensing position in which the outlet of the nozzle is released from the collector member and a second cleaning position in which the collector member is placed in front of the nozzle outlet to collect any fluid that exits the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Peter W. Carhuff, Edward L. Dickinson, Andrew C. Harvey, Edward M. Kolvek
  • Publication number: 20040124258
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing fog, said apparatus having ultrasonic circuitry for producing ultrasonic energy for vaporizing a liquid, comprising a receptacle having a recess in the bottom thereof and a surface located at an upper part of said recess for containing said liquid, said recess defining a space devoid of said liquid, wherein said ultrasonic circuitry is located on a bottom of said surface in said recess and positioned such that said ultrasonic energy produced by said ultrasonic circuitry is transferred to said liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: Perry H. Monitto
  • Patent number: 6736336
    Abstract: A shower head is disclosed having a front housing portion and a rear housing portion. Intermediate the front and rear housing portions is an integral filter canister including copper-zinc media for the removal of chlorine and other chemicals and contaminants. The shower head also has a plurality of spray openings for spraying water outwardly from the shower head, with a plurality of spray modes and patterns achievable by rotation of the front housing portion. A cleaning ring is also positioned within the front housing portion, it has a camming surface such that upon rotation of the front housing portion to change the spray modes, the cleaning ring is cammed forward to clean associated spray holes of accumulated minerals such as calcium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: International Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Kwok Din Wong
  • Publication number: 20040089733
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for cleaning a clogged or contaminated spray nozzle (10) or the filter (14) of such a spray nozzle used in coating a web of paper or paperboard. Herein, into at least of portion of the coating mix flow channel (24) of the spray nozzle (10) to be cleaned is formed a cleaning medium flow running reverse to the normal flow direction of the coating mix. The invention also relates to an apparatus suited for implementing the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Vilho Nissinen
  • Patent number: 6729556
    Abstract: An airless spray painting system wash-out apparatus is provided to facilitate cleaning of fluid transfer pump and other components. A wash-out apparatus or element is adapted for temporary or permanent insertion between a liquid source pick-up point and where the fluid may exit the system. The wash-out element includes a body portion, a flow valve, and a wash-out hook-up valve. The flow valve is operable to control the flow of fluid from a first hose into or through the body. A wash-out hook-up is provided to couple the body of the wash-out apparatus to a cleaning fluid source or supplying line. A wash-out hook-up valve is provided to control the flow of fluid between the body and the wash-out hook-up. Alternatively, the flow valve and wash-out hook-up can be arranged within the pump housing to permit cleaning fluid to pass through and cleanse all parts of the wash-out apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Ronnie Joe Weiand
  • Patent number: 6708615
    Abstract: A powder apparatus for a printing press includes delivery chains or a transfer cylinder, spray nozzles, and a circular columnar rotary member or transfer cylinder. The delivery chains or transfer cylinder has gripper units or grippers for holding and moving in a sheet convey direction a sheet having a printing surface. The spray nozzles spray a powder toward the printing surface of the sheet which is being conveyed by the delivery chains or transfer cylinder. The rotary member or transfer cylinder is provided downstream of the spray nozzles in the sheet convey direction and is supported rotatably. The rotary member or transfer cylinder has at least one notch that opposes the gripper units or grippers, during rotation, which move along with sheet convey operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Komori Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Sugiyama
  • Patent number: 6702197
    Abstract: An anti-electrostatic discharge spray gun apparatus and method for preventing crystallization of particles formed as a result of electrostatic discharge from forming on a spray gun nozzle and an associated pair of oppositely charged electrodes disposed on the gun. The apparatus has a housing; a nozzle attached to the housing for dispensing gas; a device for dispensing a gas through the nozzle; a device for electrostatically discharging a gas dispensed through the nozzle; and a device for restricting the flow of a gas through the nozzle. The device for dispensing and restricting flow of a gas through the nozzle may be either a bypass piping having a flow control means or a stopper that operates to provide a constant but low volume flow of an inert gas such as nitrogen to the nozzle to prevent particle build up or crystallization from occurring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Rong Hau Hsueh, Simon King, Yung-Dar Chen
  • Patent number: 6702198
    Abstract: A reversible airless spray tip is provided with a housing for mounting to the front of a spray gun, a sealing saddle insertable into the housing, a seal associated with the saddle and a rotatable cylinder having a handle and containing an airless tip. The cylinder is insertable in the housing and has a protrusion on said cylinder for engaging and releasably retaining said seal for insertion into said housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmy W. Tam, Dale C. Pemberton, Steven P. Plager
  • Publication number: 20040035954
    Abstract: An injector nozzle for a fuel injected internal combustion engine, said injector nozzle including a port (5) having a valve seat surface (15) and a valve member (3) having a seating surface (17), said valve member (3) being movable relative to the port (5) to respectively provide a nozzle passage (6) between the valve seat surface (15) and the seating surface (15) for the delivery of fuel therethrough or sealed contact therebetween to prevent said delivery of fuel, the valve member (3) including an outer valve surface (18) located adjacent the seating surface and external to the port, wherein a sharp edge (25) is provided on the valve member (3) at the transition between the seating surface (17) and the outer valve surface (18) thereby for controlling the formation of deposits at or adjacent an exit of the nozzle passage (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Hugh William Carlise, Robert Walter Frew, John Richards Mills, Peter John Murdoch
  • Patent number: 6682002
    Abstract: An ejector is provided with an interior surface wetting device for introducing a cleaning liquid into a suction chamber of the ejector to form a thin wall of the cleaning liquid covering an interior surface of the ejector. The interior surface wetting device includes a cleaning liquid inlet opening to be fluidly connected to a source of cleaning liquid and a cleaning liquid outlet opening for introducing the cleaning liquid into a suction chamber. The wetting device may be in the form of a pipe which extends from the outside of the ejector into the suction chamber to supply a cleaning liquid to a desired portion in the suction chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Kyotani
  • Patent number: 6672517
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system made of an oil pump and of a magnet valve for preventing oil from dripping when the oil burner is switched off. The inventive system is provided with an oil pump (23) and a magnet valve (10) which has a closing body (16) that comprises an oil flow borehole (17). The closing body (16) is displaceably located in a borehole (12). An oil line (11) goes through the borehole (12). The oil flow borehole (17) of the closing body (16) complements the oil line (11) in a first position of the inventive magnet valve (10). The oil flow is thus released. The closing body (16) interrupts the oil line (11) in a second position of the magnet valve (10). A vacuum is simultaneously generated in said second position. The vacuum reverses the direction of oil flow in an end section (15) of the oil line (11). The oil is thus prevented from dripping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Michel Lüscher
  • Patent number: 6655606
    Abstract: A spray tip assembly for airless paint sprayer guns incorporates a tip having multiple nozzles, each of which may be used independently. For a first embodiment of the invention the shaft of the spray tip assembly incorporates multiple spaced apart nozzles and a handle at one end thereof. The shaft also incorporates a spring-loaded detent ball which, in combination with a plurality of spaced-apart annular or semi-annular grooves in the housing bore, serves as a shaft locator for each of the nozzles. The grooves permit positioning of each of the nozzles in either a normal spraying position or in a reversed, unclogging position. For a second embodiment of the invention, the tip housing incorporates three spaced-apart annular channels, all three of which are interconnected by a tab-receiving slot shaped to admit a stop tab attached to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen R. Earl
  • Patent number: 6651902
    Abstract: At least one spraying device (1) and several supply lines (8) for supplying the spraying device with a coating product, the lines being linked to a connecting assembly (3). Each downstream end (6) of a line is provided with a gate valve which can be controlled by an actuator (30) which is itself controlled and which is positioned at the entrance to a product supply pipe (2) for the spray device (1). The actuator (30) and the connecting assembly (3) can be displaced in relation to each other (F1-F4) in such a way that the actuator (30) can be positioned selectively facing a downstream end (6) of one of the supply lines (8) and can manoeuvre the valve of the line. The ends (6) of the lines are arranged in rows and columns and an assembly (30) composed of the actuator and connected to the supply pipe (2) is mobile parallel to a plane surface (5a) where these line ends (6) open out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Sames Technologies
    Inventors: Pierre Ehinger, Caryl Thome