Adjustable Distributor Patents (Class 239/176)
  • Patent number: 11758837
    Abstract: A spray apparatus for a vehicle includes a processing unit with at least one image of an environment. The processing unit analyzes the at least one image to activate at least one chemical spray unit mounted on the vehicle. Air is blown by at least one air blower mounted on the vehicle into a first downward directed air flow with respect to the vehicle. Air is directed by at least one diverter mounted on the vehicle into a second downward directed air flow with respect to the vehicle. A chemical spray unit of the at least one chemical spray unit is positioned relative to one or more air blowers and is positioned relative to one or more air diverters such that ejected liquid chemical is at least partially entrained within the first downward directed air flow and is at least partially entrained within the second downward directed air flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: Discovery Purchaser Corporation
    Inventors: Pascal Day, Thomas Arians, Reinhard Friessleben
  • Patent number: 11517923
    Abstract: An application system for applying a substance over a predetermined surface includes a frame movable over the predetermined surface, a pressurized carrier source, a vessel containing the substance. The system further includes a first conduit for conveying the substance from the vessel to at least one nozzle and a second conduit for conveying a pressurized carrier from the pressurized carrier source to the at least one nozzle for applying a mixture of the pressurized carrier and the substance over the predetermined surface. The system further includes a cover laterally surrounding the at least one nozzle for minimizing overspray of the mixture, the frame carrying the pressurized carrier source, the vessel, the first conduit, the second conduit, and the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: Roof Equipment LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin B. Hartzler, Jeffrey Zook, Jeremy Suydam
  • Patent number: 11045827
    Abstract: A spreader for spreading a material including at least one pair of rotating discs having a plurality of generally radially oriented blades attached thereon for disbursing the material in a pre-selected pattern. The discs are rotatably positioned below an end of a funnel unit to receive material passing through the funnel units. The material, as it passes through the funnel units, is directed to a predetermined impact region on each of the rotating discs by a corresponding pair of deflecting vanes integrally fit and movably attached within each funnel of the pair of funnel units. Each deflecting vane is selectably movable by a corresponding actuator from a first position to a second position while the spreader is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: GVM, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Anderson, Larry L. Hoover
  • Patent number: 10683626
    Abstract: A device and method for dispersing oil on water comprises a rig structure for being mounted in a vessel, the rig structure including a front transverse structure with at least one nozzle for flushing with pressurized water supplied from a pressure facility located on the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: SINVENT AS
    Inventors: Stein Erik Sorstrom, Trond Nordtug
  • Patent number: 9277741
    Abstract: An improvement to a roadside sprayer fixates spray nozzles on a registration plate. The registration plate may include integral tabs depending on the application. Inclination of the tabs is adjustable to place streams and droplets in a desired swath coverage. With the nozzles rigidly mounted onto the plate, the entire plate is nutated. The use of the registration plate in a spray unit creates a uniform nutation among the nozzles, thereby reducing variability in droplet placement, and providing a more predictable spray from the nozzles. In other embodiments, the spray unit is utilized in a spray system adaptable to service vehicles, and may be utilized in conjunction with a vegetation engagement device, such as a cutter to engage multiple zones of a roadway right-of-way. Additionally, an improved spray unit includes an electromagnetic field and an attractor to generate plate motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Inventor: Johnny Lee Kubacak
  • Patent number: 8978579
    Abstract: A method for regeneration of internal conduit surfaces by thermal projection of metals, includes inserting a device including a vehicle having a rolling assembly to permit rolling of the vehicle and carrying a thermal projection system, through a manhole in a conduit installation, including the steps of inserting the device in a conduit with the rolling assembly in a retracted position, and expanding the rolling assembly inside the conduit until the device is centered in the conduit; inserting electrical, pneumatic and/or hydraulic conduits and conduits for supplying metal to be thermally projected, through the manhole, such that the conduits are connected with the vehicle; positioning a regeneration device including the thermal projection system connected with the vehicle by a remote-control pulling system in a particular position to be regenerated; thermally projecting metal from the regeneration device; advancing the vehicle and connected regeneration device to a new regeneration position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Ingeníera y Marketing, S.A.
    Inventors: Héctor Dominguis Perez, Fernando Lazaro Terron, Marcelo Soto Tomas, Juan Ferre Prieto
  • Patent number: 8864889
    Abstract: A dust suppression apparatus comprising: (a) a turntable; (b) an engine; (c) a water mist blower comprising an air conduit, a plurality of water nozzles positioned so as to supply a spray of water to the air conduit, and a fan positioned so as to supply a stream of air through the air conduit, the water mist blower and the engine mounted on the turntable, the turntable adapted to permit the air conduit to be rotated horizontally, and the air conduit mounted so as to permit the air conduit to tilt vertically; (d) a water conduit adapted to supply pressurized water to the plurality of water nozzles; (e) a belt drive connected to the engine and adapted to supply power to the fan, and (f) a constant velocity joint connecting the belt drive to the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: C.W. Machine Worx, Ltd.
    Inventor: Brad Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 8864053
    Abstract: A spray head for a fluid distribution system that includes a spray head base defining a fluid inlet passage connected to a spray head body, a pair of deflectors extending outwardly from the base and the body, respectively, defining a fluid outlet passage, a piston disposed in a chamber of the body defining a variable orifice between the inlet and outlet, and a deflector plate positioned on an inner surface of the deflector of the base having a deflector plate surface opposing the variable orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Peter W. Anderton, Apostolis P. Kouvelis, Steve M. Jelaca
  • Publication number: 20140131475
    Abstract: A portable washing device, including: a housing, a motor arranged in the housing, a pump driven by the motor, a container for storing washing liquid connected to the pump, a spraying pistol held and controlled by a user connected to the pump, the liquid spraying out from the spraying pistol, the pistol comprises a control unit for controlling the portable washing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Positec Power Tools (Suzhou) Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Gianni BORINATO
  • Publication number: 20140131469
    Abstract: An ammonia applicator system is provided that has adjustable orifices with openings having variable sizes that can be changed remotely, without having to disassemble exit lines from a distribution manifold. In this way, the restriction of the exit lines and, thus, line flow rate can be adjusted remotely and/or automatically, even during ammonia application use. Each adjustable orifice may include a valve and an actuator that controls the valve for changing the size of the opening of the adjustable orifice. The actuator may be a rotary actuator, such as a stepper motor, and the valve may include an adjustment knob and a screw that can rotate to allow a needle to advance or regress through an opening of a valve body of the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: James W. Henry, Mohammad Vakil
  • Patent number: 8657941
    Abstract: A dust suppression apparatus comprising: (a) a turntable; (b) an engine; (c) a water mist blower comprising an air conduit, a plurality of water nozzles positioned so as to supply a spray of water to the air conduit, and a fan positioned so as to supply a stream of air through the air conduit, the water mist blower and the engine mounted on the turntable, the turntable adapted to permit the air conduit to be rotated horizontally, and the air conduit mounted so as to permit the air conduit to tilt vertically; (d) a water conduit adapted to supply pressurized water to the plurality of water nozzles; (e) a belt drive connected to the engine and adapted to supply power to the fan, and (f) a constant velocity joint connecting the belt drive to the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: C.W. Machine Worx, Ltd.
    Inventor: Brad Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 8627596
    Abstract: A method is provided for inhibiting plant growth by inducing hypothermia by applying a treating substance to summer annual weeds and grasses. Susceptible undesirable plants will be killed by this treatment, while non-susceptible desirable plants will not be adversely affected by this treatment. Compressed carbon dioxide may be applied to other summer grasses to cause the grasses to become dormant. An apparatus is provided for inducing hypothermia in undesirable plants by applying a treating substance. A canister capable of housing gas may be provided. A valve may be provided to control the amount and pressure of gas dispensed from the canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Artic, Inc.
    Inventors: Robby James Howerton, Gina Marie Stewart, Steven Lee Worm, Michael Alan Batalia
  • Patent number: 8584968
    Abstract: A height adjustment assembly for a drop hose on an irrigation machine is composed of an elongated bracket having a first end provided with a pair of fittings, and a second opposite end provided with a drop hose retention ring; the drop hose retention ring formed with an opening adapted to permit a drop hose to slide through the opening, the opening defined by an interior surface provided with a pair of diametrically opposed open slots, and a pair of diametrically opposed locking recesses. A key lock fitting is adapted for connecting aligned hose ends of the drop hose and is provided with a pair of diametrically-opposed keys which, in use, are adapted to slide through the pair of opposed open slots and, upon ninety degree rotation of the diametrically-opposed keys, to be received in the pair of diametrically opposed locking recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Nelson Irrigation Corporation
    Inventors: Reid A. Nelson, Barton R. Nelson, Craig B. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20130277444
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a fluid ejection device and a method for ejection of fluid into a marine environment. The device includes at least one foldable ejection arm with at least one fluid ejection nozzle, the arm(s) being mounted on a transport vessel in one or several mounting points. Furthermore, the ejection arm is foldable, where the folded position of the arm(s) is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the transport vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Martin Hartland, Trond Harald Olsen
  • Patent number: 8444062
    Abstract: A fluid distribution system and method for mobile applications. The system includes a power source, a pump driven by the power source, and a motor driven by the pump. The system also includes a spray head with a fluid inlet passage, a fluid outlet passage, a fluid piston disposed in a chamber for controlled access between the inlet and outlet passages and defining a variable orifice, and a hydraulic cylinder controllably engaged to the orifice. The fluid piston and the hydraulic cylinder are aligned with a common longitudinal axis, and the inlet passage is offset from the axis in a direction opposed to the location of the outlet passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Peter W. Anderton, Gary A. Ellertson
  • Patent number: 8376244
    Abstract: A fluid distribution system and method for mobile applications. The system includes a power source, a pump driven by the power source, and a motor driven by the pump. The system also includes a spray head with a fluid inlet passage, a fluid outlet passage, a fluid piston disposed in a chamber for controlled access between the inlet and outlet passages and defining a variable orifice, and a hydraulic cylinder controllably engaged to the orifice. The fluid piston and the hydraulic cylinder are aligned with a common longitudinal axis, and the inlet passage is offset from the axis in a direction opposed to the location of the outlet passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Peter W. Anderton, Ronald Brown, David C. Orr, Gary A. Ellertson
  • Patent number: 8282021
    Abstract: An apparatus for application of a liquid or liquid-solid solution to soil includes an articulating tractor, a frame, a pivot point, a boom and a drag hose. The articulating tractor has a front portion and a rear portion connected to an articulation point. The rear portion has a rear wheel axle. The frame is adapted to mount on the rear portion of the articulating tractor. The frame has a front frame end located between the rear wheel axle and the articulation point. The pivot point is on the front frame end and positioned about 12 inches or more from the rear wheel axle. The boom pivotally attaches to the pivot point. The drag hose has a distal end in fluid communication with a source of liquid or solid-liquid solution and a proximal end coupled to the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Tom Schottler
  • Patent number: 8262004
    Abstract: A hopper spreader apparatus adapted for mounting to a vehicle, to be towed by a vehicle or to be pushed by hand, includes a sprayer apparatus for spraying liquid material as well as dispensing dry free-flow material. The hopper spreader apparatus includes a variable discharge mechanism, allowing adjustment of both the flow rate and the distribution pattern of the dry free-flow material particulate material being dispensed. The operation of the hopper spreader apparatus can be controlled remotely using radio frequency (RF) signaling. The hopper spreader apparatus obtains electrical power from an on-board battery and includes a battery charger to allow the battery to be charged when the hopper spreader apparatus is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert N. Gamble, II, Lynn W. Schultz, Terry C. Wendorff
  • Patent number: 8118241
    Abstract: A surface cleaner system includes a base assembly having a housing movable along a surface, a pump supported by the housing and operable to pressurize a fluid, and a prime mover supported by the housing. The prime mover is coupled to the pump to drive the pump. The surface cleaner system also includes a spray assembly coupled to the housing. The spray assembly is operable to discharge fluid from the pump toward the surface. The surface cleaner system further includes a spray gun in fluid communication with the pump to receive pressurized fluid from the pump. The spray gun includes an outlet portion that is connectable to the base assembly to direct the pressurized fluid from the pump into the spray assembly. When the outlet portion is disconnected from the base assembly, the spray gun discharges the pressurized fluid from the pump toward the surface without directing the pressurized fluid into the spray assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Techtronic Outdoor Products Technology Limited
    Inventors: Michael Robert Gardner, Klaus Karl Hahn, Charles Keith Long
  • Patent number: 8021077
    Abstract: A self-moved device (1) suitable for spraying a fluid substance on a surface (50), comprising a moving system (6) for motion on the surface (50), at least one tank (4) suitable for containing said fluid substance, a spraying system (5) for spraying the fluid substance, a management and control system (7) for managing and controlling said moving system (6) and said spraying system (5), wherein the management and control system (7) is suitable for guiding the motion of said self-moved device (1) on said surface (50) and for activating said spraying system (5) in a plurality of spots of said surface (50) according to a predetermined scheme.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventors: Barbara Annese, Marco Scianame'
  • Patent number: 7975939
    Abstract: An apparatus for application of a liquid or liquid-solid solution to soil includes an articulating tractor, a frame, a pivot point, a boom and a drag hose. The articulating tractor has a front portion and a rear portion connected to an articulation point. The rear portion has a rear wheel axle. The frame is adapted to mount on the rear portion of the articulating tractor. The frame has a front frame end located between the rear wheel axle and the articulation point. The pivot point is on the front frame end and positioned about 12 inches or more from the rear wheel axle. The boom pivotally attaches to the pivot point. The drag hose has a distal end in fluid communication with a source of liquid or solid-liquid solution and a proximal end coupled to the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Tom Schottler
  • Patent number: 7740189
    Abstract: A suspension arrangement mounted in support of a boom lift assembly and boom supported thereon on a chassis of an agricultural sprayer is provided. The boom lift assembly is configured to move the boom between a raised, inoperative position and a lowered, operative position. The suspension arrangement includes a pivot linkage pivotally coupling the boom lift assembly and the chassis, and a dampener located between the boom lift assembly and the chassis. During operation of the sprayer, the dampener of the suspension arrangement reduces transfer of an impact force or stress force from transferring between the chassis and the boom lift assembly so as to isolate suspension of the boom lift assembly from the chassis of the sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Peter R. Meyer, James Keppers
  • Patent number: 7703699
    Abstract: A beam (16) such as a spray bar of an agricultural sprayer (10) is pivotable about an axis (22) into an operating position. In the operating position, the bar is in contact with a stop (28) located on a two-legged lever (30), one leg (42) of which is acted upon by the beam (16) and the other leg (44) of which is acted upon by a energy storing mechanism (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: John Deere Fabriek Horst B. V.
    Inventor: Joris Hiddema
  • Patent number: 7611076
    Abstract: A line marker has a wheeled frame on which an outrigger arm is pivotally carried. The outrigger arm carries a spray nozzle. The spray nozzle can be placed in a rear spray position or in a front spray position depending upon whether the outrigger arm extends rearwardly or forwardly from a pivot hub therefor. The outrigger arm can be placed in the front or rear spray positions along either side of the frame. The line marker includes a reservoir for holding a marking liquid that is sprayed from the spray nozzle. The reservoir includes a drain outlet that is positioned to drain unused marking liquid back into a standard five gallon paint bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Benjamin A. Street, David J. Scherbring, Benjamin A. Bricko, Keith A. Goetz
  • Patent number: 7502665
    Abstract: A networked delivery system and method for controlling operation of a spraying system includes nozzles for emitting an agrochemical according to a predetermined spray pattern and flow rate; vibration sensors located adjacent an agricultural spray system component to sense vibrations of the agricultural spray system component, such as spray nozzles. The networked delivery system also includes a control area network with a computer processor in communication with the vibration sensors. The processor conveys information to an operator regarding the agricultural spray system component based on the sensed vibrations. The processor also actuates each of the agricultural spray system components such as the spray nozzles to selectively control each of the nozzles or a designated group of the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Capstan Ag Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Durham Kenimer Giles, Duane Needham
  • Publication number: 20080310917
    Abstract: A marking sphere dispensing apparatus for dispensing fluid-assisted marking spheres into pavement marking materials applied to a surface has a frame defining a marking sphere receptacle, a valve seat defining an opening between the marking sphere receptacle and an expulsion duct. A plunger is disposed coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the dispensing apparatus and defines an internal fluid passage for providing pressurized fluid. The plunger is moveable in a longitudinal direction within the marking sphere dispensing frame between a first position at which a plunger head of the plunger is seated against the valve seat to close the opening, and a second position at which the plunger head is axially offset from the valve seat to define a marking sphere inlet gap across the opening. A method for applying marking spheres uses the marking sphere dispensing apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: POTTERS INDUSTRIES, INC
    Inventors: Kevin E. Hall, Christopher Davies, Thomas Still, Keith Wolos, Kenneth Grimbilas
  • Publication number: 20080205984
    Abstract: A spray gun mounting tube (116) in a walk behind gas powered line striper (110) is clamped to only one side (112) of the striper frame. The mass of the spray gun (122) and gun mounting bracket (120) allows the gun (122) to hold a steady position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: James C. Schroeder, Robert J. Gundersen
  • Patent number: 7407116
    Abstract: A spray washer structure used for attaching to an aircraft and washing insulators on high-voltage transmission lines includes a pivot seat, a core tube, an inner tube, and a nozzle. The pivot seat is supported by a plurality of legs and a rear leg that are attached at the aircraft. The mid-section of the core tube is pivotally connected to the pivot seat by the use of a pivot, and an end portion of the core tube is connected to at least an inclined resilient buffer link at another end portion of the pivot. The innertube is passed through and pivoting within the core tube. The nozzle is secured at the front end of the inner tube by an adjustable joint. Moreover, the nozzle is also connected to a hose connected to a water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Emerald Pacific Airlines
    Inventor: James Lee
  • Patent number: 7344091
    Abstract: Spraying apparatus (1) is provided that has two horizontally disposed upright spray arm assemblies (33) that each carry sprayers (43). Each spray arm assembly (33) has a sprayer (43) in an upper part (35) and a sprayer (43) in a lower part (37). The upper part (35) is able to move relative to the lower part (37) so the axis of spraying from the upper part (35) will be downwardly directed towards an upper part of crop to be sprayed. The spray arm assemblies (33) are mounted on respective arms (25) for moving laterally inwardly or outwardly relative to a longitudinal direction of a row of crop to accommodate for different width crops and/or different crop row widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Leon Joseph Caccaviello
  • Patent number: 7311004
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for monitoring fluid flow through a nozzle is disclosed. A vibration sensor, such as an accelerometer, is mounted to a nozzle. The vibration output received from the sensor is then analyzed to determine whether or not the nozzle is operating properly. Through the present invention, information can be obtained regarding variations in flow rate, and/or variations in spray pattern and droplet size spectra. If the nozzle flow pulsates, the vibration sensor may also provide information regarding whether the nozzle is pulsating according to a desired frequency duty cycle or waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Capstan Ag Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Durham Kenimer Giles
  • Patent number: 7159794
    Abstract: This invention is a station for aiding in the washing of automobiles and other similar objects. The station is a wheeled cart that contains everything needed for the job. Space is provided for storage on the station of wash or rinse water; hose for connecting the station to a local water supply and for applying water to the automobile; and any article, fluid, or tool which may be of use for the task. All such space and any article therein is protected from the weather so the station may be stored outdoors. The station is of such a configuration as to minimize or eliminate the bending, stooping, and squatting usually associated with car washing. It may be constructed of molded plastic to minimize production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Arthur N. McIntyre
  • Patent number: 6945438
    Abstract: Provided is a pesticide spraying cart. In one embodiment, the comprises a pesticide tank, a retractable handle, two wheels, a recess provided between the wheels, a longitudinal hose compartment provided in a rear of the tank, a coil hose adapted to either extend out of the hose compartment by pulling or retract thereinto automatically after the force exerted on the coil hose has been released, a spray gun provided at an open end of the coil hose, a hook for holding the spray gun in an unused position, a pipe is extended from the coil hose into the tank, and a foot operated pump assembly provided in the recess. Repeatedly pressing a foot pedal to pressurize the tank, pulling the coil hose out of the hose compartment, and activating the spray gun will shoot out a uniform spray of liquid pesticide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventors: Chun-Chia Shih, Jen Yen Yen
  • Patent number: 6942735
    Abstract: An adjustable spray apparatus with multiple outlet for applying a flowable coating onto a non-vertical surface. A carriage includes an outwardly extending arm with a plurality of downwardly facing spray tips connected to a manifold mounted on the carriage. The manifold, in turn, is connected to a remotely located reservoir of flowable material. An auxiliary spray gun in connected to the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Rich Roofing Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David D. Rich
  • Publication number: 20040262434
    Abstract: A surface cleaning or surface conditioning pressure sprayer which has one or more liquid sprayers with a source of pressurized liquid. The sprayer is mounted on one or more liquid spray headers. The header is moved in a traversing motion by a connecting arm attached to a rotary cam. An angle adjustment device moves the header on a pivot in order to accomplish the most effective angle of attack for cleaning between the surface to be cleaned or conditioned and the pressurized liquid spray. The above described device may be mounted on a support having a mobility means, a housing to contain and manage liquid and air flow. Airflow, air velocity, air temperature, air dryness and air impingement may be adjusted to improve cleaning and drying of the surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Lynn A. Buckner
  • Patent number: 6752328
    Abstract: A spreader device for distributing particles over a large area of ground includes: (a) a hollow, barrel-shaped body including a distribution door covering an opening at a front, lower end of the barrel-shaped body, and a fill door covering an opening in an upper, rear portion of the barrel-shaped body; (b) a frame on which the barrel-shaped body is mounted at a forward angle, with the front portion of the barrel-shaped body being substantially lower than the rear portion; (c) a remote-operated door opening mechanism attached to the barrel-shaped body for periodically opening and closing the door; and (d) a remote switch mechanism for activating the door opening mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Perry Sauls
  • Publication number: 20040069866
    Abstract: Aerial spraying is accomplished with a system including a storage tank for holding a substance to be sprayed, a compressed gas cylinder for pressurizing the storage tank, a spray nozzle assembly, and a feed line for delivering pressurized substance from the storage tank to the spray nozzle assembly. The spray nozzle assembly includes a spray nozzle that will discharge a pressurized shot of the substance onto the ground when the spray nozzle assembly is activated. A controller is provided for automatically activating the spray nozzle assembly in accordance with user selected settings. The storage tank, cylinder and spray nozzle assembly are all mounted on a frame, which can be supported from an aircraft. In operation, the system is suspended or otherwise mounted below an aircraft and flown over the target site. At which point, the spray nozzle assembly is selectively activated to spray a pressurized and directed solid stream of substance onto the ground surfaces with precision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Sean P. Ireland
  • Patent number: 6702200
    Abstract: A nozzle attitude controller for use in connection with a farming apparatus for precision farming, the apparatus comprising an applicator vehicle, a boom supported by and extending across the rear of the vehicle, a manifold rotatably supported by the boom, a plurality of nozzles disposed from the manifold and oriented in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the vehicle, but disposed at an angle with respect to the horizontal, the attitude controller including a linear actuator operated by a stepper motor and a radar sensor which connects to the stepper motor and which measures the speed of the vehicle such that pulses from the radar sensor to the stepper motor moves the linear actuator to change the angle of the nozzle so that the horizontal component of its velocity is equal and opposite to the speed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: The Board of Regents for Oklahoma State University
    Inventors: John B. Solie, Marvin L. Stone, Stewart D. Reed
  • Patent number: 6607146
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus to be mounted on an agricultural sprayer with the purpose of decreasing the drift and improving the deposition, penetration and uniformity of distribution when applying liquids, such as pesticides and liquid plant nutrients, the use of the apparatus and a method of manufacturing a movable part in one piece. The apparatus comprises a movable part (A) on which a sheet (B) and a sprayer (C) are mounted, which movable part (A) is mounted on a boom (D), and is characterized in that the movable part (A) is manufactured in one piece of an elastic material and is stiffened and weakened in sections and in mounting and use has the shape of a parallelogram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Acanova AB
    Inventors: Kenneth Alness, Sven Andersson, Per Bengtsson, Sven Bergman, Patrik Enfalt, Anders Engqvist, Niclas Engstrom, Torvald Larsson, Carl Westberg, Per Wretblad
  • Patent number: 6454183
    Abstract: A sprayer boom on a vehicle serves for by means of a number of liquid nozzles spraying a carriageway with a liquid fed under pressure to the nozzles from a storage container via a feed pipe. The nozzles are divided into sets with each their valve arrangement for selectively shutting off and opening for liquid supply to the respective set. The sprayer boom is suitable for tasks where the same amount of liquid per area unit must be sprayed across the area the vehicle passes irrespective of the speed of the vehicle, in as much as the nozzle sets can be regulated quickly and easily to optimum functioning at a given speed and a corresponding liquid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Albert Hedegaard
  • Patent number: 6375089
    Abstract: A multiple nozzle sprayer that includes a fixed or swing bracket assembly configured with a mounting bracket fixedly or adjustably attached by at least one pivot pin to an outwardly projecting angle arm. The mounting bracket is formed with a mounting pad, and the mounting bracket and the angle arm are each formed with at least one nozzle mounting portion. Also included are first and second nozzles mounted to the nozzle mounting portions and configured to project respective spray clouds to intersect. The first nozzle spray cloud is configured with a predetermined droplet size spectra that is greater than that of the second spray nozzle. The first nozzle can be further configured to spray a cloud of a carrier fluid and the second nozzle can be configured to spray an active fluid in a spray cloud that combines with the carrier fluid spray cloud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: The Ohio State University
    Inventors: Robin A. J. Taylor, Andrew Charles Chapple
  • Patent number: 6206300
    Abstract: This invention provides a mobile aerosol generator which enables the vehicle operator to remotely reposition the droplet launch trajectory during normal operation of the generator and the vehicle. Azimuth and elevation launch directions are controlled separately or simultaneously by the vehicle operator using a remote control box. The repositioning ranges are about 180 degrees in azimuth included angle centered about a preset position, normally the direction of vehicle travel, and from about 60 degrees above to about 15 degrees below the plane of vehicle travel. A turntable like actuator provides azimuth repositioning and a linear actuator coupled to the nozzle provides elevation repositioning. Tubular nozzle support structure also acts as conduit for pressurized air to a two-fluid nozzle. A liquid delivery system provides a controlled amount of liquid to the nozzle where the fluid is sheared into droplets using pressurized air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Curtis Dyna-Fog, Lyd.
    Inventors: Dennis A. Roudebush, Conrad D. McGinnis, Sergio Rey-Villamizar
  • Patent number: 6202941
    Abstract: An agricultural/viticultural sprayer including a pair of curved arms to partially encircle a row of crops such as vines to be sprayed. Each arm carries a plurality of fan spray heads, and each arm is mounted on a support arm rotatable about a vertical pivot, whereby each of the curved arms can be rotated from a transport position to a spread operating position while remaining symmetrical about a plane generally normal to the path of travel when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Bent Baek
  • Patent number: 6068200
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for depositing salt granular materials upon a highway pavement at practical speeds. The deposition forms two narrow bands of the salt through utilization of two impeller-based mechanisms which are canted downwardly at an acute angle toward the pavement. The dump bed of trucks utilizing the apparatus is maintained in a down orientation through the utilization of a salt transport mechanism implemented as dual augers extending the length of the truck bed. Two embodiments of the apparatus are described each being self-contained and mountable upon a truck bed with relative ease. In one embodiment, a brine formation tank of generally triangular cross-sectional configuration is combined with a brine holding tank to form the sides of a V-box hopper structure. The brine formation tank is charged with salt and water to form a saturated brine which is permitted to migrate through a baffling system to the brine holding tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: H.Y.O., Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Kime
  • Patent number: 6059201
    Abstract: A crop sprayer includes a number of wheels, a chassis supported by the number of wheels, a boom frame supported by the chassis, and a boom arm segment. The boom arm segment operates in a first mode of operation in which the boom arm segment is maintained at a fixed position relative to the boom frame and a second mode of operation in which the boom arm segment is allowed to freely pivot relative to the boom frame. The crop sprayer further includes an actuator supported on the boom arm segment. The actuator is movable between a pivot-preventing position and a pivot-enabling position. The boom arm segment operates in the first mode of operation when the actuator is positioned in the pivot-preventing position. Movement of the actuator from the pivot-preventing position to the pivot-enabling position causes the boom arm segment to operate in the second mode of operation. A method of preventing damage to a boom arm assembly during a collision between the boom arm assembly and an obstruction is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Equipment Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Weddle
  • Patent number: 6042020
    Abstract: A crop sprayer includes a chassis, and a lift frame secured to the chassis, the lift frame having a left boom support and a right boom support. The crop sprayer includes a boom frame having a left boom support contact member and a right boom support contact member, wherein the boom frame is movable between (i) a first vertical position relative to the lift frame, and (ii) a second vertical position relative to the lift frame, and wherein the second vertical position is located at a height vertically above the first vertical position. The crop sprayer further includes a lift cylinder operable to move the boom frame in relation to the lift frame between the first vertical position and the second vertical position. The left boom support, the right boom support, the left boom support contact member, and the right boom support contact member are each spaced apart from the lift cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Equipment Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Weddle
  • Patent number: 6015097
    Abstract: A machine for applying a liquid coating material such as floor wax, carpet protector or sealer, to a flat surface, such as a floor or the like, includes a first sealed vessel for containing compressed gas and a second sealed vessel for containing the liquid. A pressure regulator is provided for maintaining a predetermined positive pressure head within the liquid-containing vessel, and associated conduit is provided for conveying gas at the predetermined positive pressure to the second vessel. The machine includes at least one spray nozzle and a conduit for conveying liquid from the second vessel to the at least one spray nozzle. The spray nozzle is height adjustable to insure that the sprayed material is uniformly applied to the floor as a relatively light coat without having to spread the applied material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: Theron A. VanPutten
  • Patent number: 5988535
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for depositing salt granular materials upon a highway pavement at practical speeds. The deposition forms two narrow bands of the salt through utilization of two impeller-based mechanisms which are canted downwardly at an acute angle toward the pavement. The dump bed of trucks utilizing the apparatus is maintained in a down orientation through the utilization of a salt transport mechanism implemented as dual augers extending the length of the truck bed. Two embodiments of the apparatus are described each being self-contained and mountable upon a truck bed with relative ease. In one embodiment, a brine formation tank of generally triangular cross-sectional configuration is combined with a brine holding tank to form the sides of a V-box hopper structure. The brine formation tank is charged with salt and water to form a saturated brine which is permitted to migrate through a baffling system to the brine holding tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: H.Y.O., Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Kime
  • Patent number: 5897057
    Abstract: The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a more efficient and cost effective method and apparatus for applying agents to plants, crops, vegetation, and trees, while avoiding the problems associated with conventional impingement velocity tunnel sprayers. The method and apparatus of the present invention utilizes the conditions in a controlled atmosphere to deposit agents on plants and provides a device which increases the maneuverability of pesticide spray rigs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Dauenhauer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: John Hulls
  • Patent number: 5755382
    Abstract: A self-propelled sprayer having individually rotatable wheels and a pair of wing extensions for a spraying boom, with the wheels able to be turned in line with the boom for transport or turned 90 degrees for spraying, with a GPS receiver to determine the geophysical position of the sprayer, a saddle tank for chemicals to be sprayed, and a mechanism to elevate and depress individual wings of the boom, and a mechanism to adjust ground clearance and leveling of the sprayer for operation on slopes. The chemical tank has a plurality of expandable bladders therein to allow various proportions of chemicals to be carried while maximizing the capacity of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Andrey V. Skotinkov
  • Patent number: 5662267
    Abstract: The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a more efficient and cost effective method and apparatus for applying agents to plants, crops, vegetation, and trees, while avoiding the problems associated with conventional impingement velocity tunnel sprayers. The method and apparatus of the present invention utilizes the conditions in a controlled atmosphere to deposit agents on plants and provides a device which increases the maneuverability of pesticide spray rigs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: Dauenhauer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: John Hulls