Abstract: A reduced size tank cleaning machine that has an impeller rotated by an inlet stream is disclosed. The impeller turns a shaft connected to a sealed planetary gear train that causes the tank cleaning machine to rotate about an axis, and this rotation causes a set of nozzles to rotate about a second axis. The fluid from the inlet stream exists through a port located between the impeller and the gear train and through the spray nozzles. Thus, the planetary gear train drives the tank cleaning machine about a first axis and a second axis. The design disclosed is preferably constructed so that it can be inserted into an opening that is about three inches (3.00"=76.2 mm) in diameter. Methods of cleaning vessels are also disclosed.

Abstract: A rotatable high pressure tool for cleaning hollow objects by forcing a high pressure fluid such as water from nozzles to create cleaning jet streams and use jet reaction at the tool to continually change the direction of the jet nozzles about a longitudinal axis of the tool while the jets are carried by a cross body rotating about an axis essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Each of the nozzles provides the same amount of reaction torque to rotate the cross body about its axis. This torque is selectively adjustable at the tool before use by similarly releasing, changing and reclamping the orientation of all nozzles relative to the cross body and by changing the discharge diameters of uniformly sized nozzle tips. The adjustable nozzles are interconnected by gearing so that the changes in orientation of all nozzles during adjustment will be the same.

Abstract: A method for washing the interior surfaces of tanks with a washing head is provided with a nozzle (28) which ejects a liquid beam and which is rotatable about a first (11) and a second (34) axis whereby the nozzle is allowed to cover a two-dimensional solid angle. The washing head is controlled in such a manner that for an entire revolution about the first axis, the nozzle performs a small rotation about the second axis, and that over a number of revolutions about the first axis the nozzle follows a path which covers the entire a solid angle. The drive mechanism for rotating the washing head is arranged externally of the conduits carrying washing liquid in order to avoid loss of washing pressure and wear of the drive mechanism. According to the invention the movement of the nozzle along the defined path is monitored and the result of the monitoring is utilised to control the energy density of the beam in order that it is reduced when the beam is directed at the zones which do not require the maximum energy.

Abstract: The present invention provides a robotic dispensing apparatus comprising a gear pump operably coupled to a rotatable element positioned along the sixth axis of a multi-axis robot such that the gear pump is driven by the multi-axis robot. In one embodiment of the present invention, a sixth axis motor of the multi-axis robot drives the rotatable element and a dispense valve communicates with the gear pump for receiving and dispensing viscous material from the gear pump. Preferably, a flexible coupling interconnects the gear pump and the rotatable element and a manifold and piping system cooperate to deliver the viscous material pumped by the gear pump to the dispense valve.

Abstract: A high pressure washing device is provided which is suited for high pressure cleaning of vehicles and, in particular, the highly creviced or inaccessible surfaces of that vehicle including the vehicle front and rear bumper areas, rocker panel areas and the wheels. The invention provides a cleaning system having the advantages of a rotary and fixed nozzle system which provides maximum cleaning strength and coverage through reciprocal oscillation of a nozzle system while also system which rotates the nozzles. Still further, the device may rotate about a third access to track a vehicle in an automated car wash.

Abstract: A method for treating liquid stored in a tank includes the steps of installing a liquid jetting device having a nozzle in a tank, providing the device with separate power sources for swinging the nozzle in the vertical and horizontal directions, jetting liquid from the nozzle at high pressure, monitoring the jetting of liquid from outside the tank, and controlling the power sources from outside the tank. The liquid jetting device used in the method includes a frame mounted on the tank, a casing provided to be swingable inside the frame, a first shaft extending laterally inside the casing, a jet nozzle for jetting liquid provided to be swingable by the first shaft in a direction perpendicular to the swinging direction of the casing, a first power source for swinging the casing, a second power source for swinging the jet nozzle in the direction perpendicular to the swinging direction of the casing, and means enabling the driving of the first and second power sources to be controlled from outside the tank.

Abstract: A circular, surface-coating application of sprayable composition or mortar is achieved through a rotatable spray head with at least one lateral discharge opening. The composition or mortar is distributed as uniformly and over as large a surface area as possible in the vicinity of the spray head. The spray head is moved axially forwards and back in an axial direction through the same distance during conveying of the composition or mortar and is rotated automatically through the same angular distance about the axis.

Abstract: The rotor nozzle is in particular provided for a high pressure cleaning apparatus. It consists of a nozzle housing (1) which has a central inlet opening (2) at its one axial end and an outlet opening (3) for the cleaning liquid at the other end. In the nozzle housing (1) there is arranged a rotor (4) which is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis (14) of the nozzle housing, which is rotationally driven and which rolls off around the wall of the housing. The rotor (4) is provided with a nozzle (6) arranged in a support (5) with the cleaning liquid flowing through the nozzle (6) and with the end of the nozzle pointing towards the outlet opening (3) being pivotally supported in a cup bearing (7). At its end towards the outlet opening the rotor (4) is of sleeve-like design and is journalled there at its end in the manner of a ball joint on a bearing sleeve (8). The bearing cup (7) is arranged concentrically in the bearing sleeve (8).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and rinsing the interior surfaces of a railway tank car with a single, high-pressure fluid spray. The apparatus is inserted into a tank car through its manway and secured using a lockdown assembly. A swivel assembly includes a swivel shaft which is disposed longitudinally through a swivel housing and is interconnected with a rotor motor and with a hollow spindle assembly. A fluid channel communicates the fluid to the spindle assembly where the fluid is sprayed through a single nozzle onto the interior surfaces of a tank car. Control of fluid spray orbit is accomplished by two perpendicular axes for causing rotation and actuation of the nozzle affixed to the spindle assembly, through the cooperation of an idler gear.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning vessels is inserted into a vessel to automatically clean the interior thereof. The apparatus is particularly adapted to clean rail tank cars and similar vessels, and includes a spray nozzle that is moved at a controlled speed back and forth across the length and width of deposits within the tank to blast loose and flush the deposits out of a drain from the tank. The spray nozzle is carried at a lower end of a support trunk, and is rotated back and forth about respective longitudinal and transverse axes to direct a jet stream of solvent against the deposits. The support trunk is pivotable to shift the spray nozzle from side to side within the vessel to clean behind obstructions often found in tanks, and vertically movable to position the spray nozzle at selected heights within the tank. The apparatus can be rotated about a vertical axis to rotate the longitudinal and transverse axes about which the spray nozzle is rotated.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning the inside surfaces of a tank with a jet of fluid from a nozzle lowered into the interior of the tank. The nozzle is capable of being rotated around a first axis and also capable of being swivelled upward and downward in an oscillating movement around a second axis at right angles to the first axis in a predetermined manner. A drive mechanism for the nozzle includes a turbine driven by a stream of fluid with a drive connected to the turbine.

Abstract: A shower head including a housing, a turbine and a fluid exit body in operative engagement therewith, such that a fluid flow through the turbine causes rotation thereof and periodic motion of the fluid exit body. The fluid exit body is in a tilted position in the housing and the periodic motion consists of a simultaneous rotational travel of the fluid exit body around the axis of the turbine and an oscillatory, rocking movement of the fluid exit body in the housing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for washing machining debris from machined parts. The apparatus includes a machine transfer housing with front and rear sidewalls, a top, a bottom, an entrance sidewall defining an entrance, and an exit sidewall defining an exit. A transfer line enters the housing at the entrance, extends through the housing and exits the housing at the exit to transport the machined parts through the housing. A header is attached to the top housing wall for delivering a wash solution to the housing. A solenoid valve controls the flow of the wash solution in the header. One or more rotating nozzles are connected to the header for spraying the wash solution in the housing to remove machining debris from the machined parts and the housing walls.

Abstract: A paint spray apparatus for painting a vehicle in a paint spray booth includes a paint spray arm, a pump, and a motor and transmission adapted to drive the pump. The paint spray arm is disposed within the paint spray booth and has a nozzle disposed at a free end of the paint spray arm. The pump is mounted on said paint spray arm adjacent the nozzle. The motor is disposed remote from the pump outside the paint spray booth. The transmission drives the pump from the motor. In one embodiment, the paint spray arm may move in several planes. The transmission is adapted to allow for movement of the paint spray arm in the plane while the motor drives the pump. In a preferred embodiment, separate motors are provided which actuate the paint spray arm in the planes.

Abstract: A system for cleaning storage tanks is disclosed having a remotely controlled collapsibile tracked robotic tank entry vehicle, a closed circuit television system for observation including controllable light sources and an articulatible nozzle, also remotely controllable. The nozzle is capable of rotation fully 360 degrees in each of two planes perpendicular to each other under hydraulic control fully independent of its source of cleaning fluid for delivery to the tank.

Abstract: A scissor jet cleaning device (10) for cleaning the interior of a tank (12) through a dome (14) on the tank (12) of a tanker (16). The device (10) comprises a support arm (18) that is adjustable in length. An assembly (20) is mounted to the dome (14) and is connected to a first side of the support arm (18), for extending and retracting the support arm (18) within the tank (12). A double spray nozzle head (22) is mounted in a rotatable manner to a second side of the support arm (18). A facility (24) is for fluidly connecting the double spray nozzle head (22) to pressurized cleaning fluid, so as to clean the interior of the tank (12). A structure (26) is connected to the extending and retracting assembly (20), for rotating the support arm (18) in its retracted position 180 degrees, so that the double spray nozzle head (22) can clean the interior of the tank (12) in an opposite direction.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus and method relate to a cleaning nozzle which, in multiple embodiments, is rotated in a circle or in an ellipse, being one nozzle in one embodiment and multiple nozzles in alternate embodiments so that the surface of a pipeline can be clean with high pressure water or other fluids. Furthermore, the rotating nozzle is supported in a carriage in one embodiment which encircles and travels along a pipeline. The carriage is supported by drive wheels which cooperate with separate drive motors and a control circuit to assure that the carriage remains upright. Multiple rotating nozzles are supported in the carriage to clean adjacent portions of the pipeline. Alternate embodiments are shown for cleaning a horizontal surface with a hand pushed or motorized version, and another version is disclosed supported on a moveable boom, thereby enabling cleaning of an upstanding vertical surface such as the hull of a ship.

Abstract: Device for cleaning the wall (1, 23) of a silo, comprising a compressed-air gun (12) suspended from two cables (14, 15) which are connected to two separate winches (16, 17), bearing on two pulleys (9, 10) fastened to a frame (6) which is arranged inside the silo and which is fixed to a rotary plate (4) which can move on a circular track (5) above an opening (2) in the silo.

Abstract: The production of hot soup from soup concentrate involves the use of an apparatus that includes a housing having a refrigerated first section and a second section. A soup concentrate container is positioned within the refrigerated section for receiving soup concentrate and a discharge device is operatively associated with the soup concentrate container for discharging a predetermined amount of soup concentrate from the soup concentrate container. A nozzle which is adapted to be connected to a source of hot water is positioned in the second section of the housing for producing a stream of water. A movable tray is also positioned in the second section for receiving a cup or the like in which is to be mixed hot water and soup concentrate. A tray driving device is connected to the tray for moving the tray between various positions at which a cup is placed on the tray, soup concentrate is discharged into the cup and hot water is dispensed into the cup.

Abstract: A nozzle system for imparting compound motion, including an orbital component and a rotational component, to the discharged fluid. The nozzle system comprises a specially engineered shell surrounding a freely flexible hose of sufficient structural integrity to simultaneously exhibit two different motion characteristics to impart the compound motion to the discharged fluid. When fluid is delivered to the nozzle system, the hose moves orbitally; that is, the hose rides against the wall of the shell in a cork screwing manner. Simultaneously, the hose rotates or twists back and forth about its own axis relative to its fixed end. Both components of motion are imparted to the discharged fluid to enhance spray power and expanse.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for marking a surface with a predetermined pattern is described. The apparatus includes a surface marking mechanism that supports a material dispenser. The material dispenser is manipulated along a number of axes including an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis. In addition, the material dispenser is manipulated to rotate around a w-axis and to form a tilt angle with the w-axis. The surface marking mechanism includes movement devices for initial positioning of the mechanism and for re-positioning the mechanism to complete a selected pattern that does not fit within the border of the mechanism. The surface marking mechanism is responsive to control signals from a controller. The control signals are derived from a mathematical model characterizing the spatial relationship between the predetermined pattern, the material dispenser, and the surface to be marked.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for cleaning and stripping residue, contaminants, and debris from all of the interior surfaces in a storage tank and the like. The present invention may be conveniently inserted into a tank through its manway and, after quick assembly thereof, hydraulically positioned vertically and then maneuvered and articulated to clean and strip interior storage tank surfaces. A means is provided which inherently coordinates and synchronizes hydraulically driven rotation of the vertical pole on the tank floor with the hydraulically driven rotation of a spray bar disposed at the remote end of a boom assembly. Close proximity of the spray to the surfaces is controlled by hydraulically operated cylinders contained on a rotor assembly.

Abstract: A computer controlled system for high speed surface mount adhesive placement in circuit board production includes a dot generator supported for motion along the X, Y and Z axes. The dot generator ejects a jet of viscous adhesive that breaks away from the nozzle of the dot generator as a result of its own forward momentum. The system includes an automatic circuit board conveyor with adjustable width and pneumatically operated lift and lock mechanisms. The system runs through a self-diagnostic set-up procedure and dot calibration routine. Dot size and location are monitored through a video camera and vision circuit. A computer interfaces with the vision circuit and with motion, dot generator and conveyor controllers so that the system can operate in a high volume production assembly line. Application programs are executed by the system computer typically utilizing CAD data from a disk or a computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) controller.

Abstract: A vacuum toilet system comprises a tank having a sewage inlet connection for entry of sewage into the tank, a level detector establishing a maximum filling level for the tank, and a spray nozzle assembly for distributing cleaning liquid inside the tank. The spray nozzle assembly comprises an axle member having a first end portion provided with a mechanism attaching the axle member to the tank and a second end portion defining a vertical axis of rotation. The axle member is hollow and defines a passage that extends from the first end portion of the axle member and debouches at an outlet at the second end portion thereof. The spray nozzle assembly comprises a spray head mounted on the second end portion of the axle member for rotation about the vertical axis of rotation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for marking a surface with a predetermined pattern is described. The apparatus includes a surface marking mechanism that supports a material dispenser. The material dispenser is manipulated along a number of axes including an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis. In addition, the material dispenser is manipulated to rotate around a w-axis and to form a tilt angle with the w-axis. The surface marking mechanism includes movement devices for initial positioning of the mechanism and for re-positioning the mechanism to complete a selected pattern that does not fit within the border of the mechanism. The surface marking mechanism is responsive to control signals from a controller. The control signals are derived from a mathematical model characterizing the spatial relationship between the predetermined pattern, the material dispenser, and the surface to be marked.

Abstract: A vehicle washing machine is disclosed having an inverted U-shaped housing mounted for movement lengthwise of a stationary vehicle and return movement to an initial reference position during a vehicle washing cycle of the machine. The housing includes first mechanism comprising a vertically movable and rotatable pod depending from a bridge portion of the housing and having horizontally reciprocative nozzles mounted thereon for successively applying a cleaning solution and pressurized rinse water to a front end, top, and rear end of the vehicle, and second mechanism associated with opposite legs of the housing and having vertically reciprocative nozzles mounted thereon for successively applying a cleaning solution and pressurized rinse water to opposite sides of the vehicle. The machine includes a relay logic system for controlling the vehicle washing cycle.

Abstract: An automatic cleaning device for use on a stock farm, including an automatic switching system, a transmission case, a sprinkling system and a water pump. The automatic switching system utilizes water pressure to push a valve seat so as to achieve an automatically switching effect without using electric power. By means of a splined circular rod, a first and a second rotary rods and a one-way bearing in the transmission case in cooperation with a linking lever and connecting arch block of the sprinkling system, a linear movement of a slidable piston is converted into a speeded up and down pivoting and left and right swinging movement of a sprinkling head of the sprinkling system. A flow controlling mechanism of a hydraulic means is used to achieve alternate fast and slow cleaning operation of the sprinkling system. By means of changing pivot holes of a connecting block for pivotally connecting with the linking lever, a starting point of the sprinkling head is adjustable.

Abstract: A sprayer for applying an uncured grout to the interior surface of an enclosed wall includes a sprayer motor having a rotor rotatably mounted within the motor housing. A spray head is attached to the rotor and a spray conduit is adapted to introduce fluid grout under pressure to the spray head so that it will be thrown radially outwardly in a circular pattern. The motor and spray head are inserted into a conduit and actuated to throw the grout outwardly on to the interior walls of the elongated conduit.

Abstract: An automatic domestic dish washing machine has a chamber for the items to be washed and a pump to pressurize the washing fluid. A spray arm includes elongated top and bottom walls encompassing an elongated passageway to receive the pressurized fluid. A spray device has an elongated body with a passageway and an exit opening at each end of the passageway. A hollow support shaft extends perpendicular to the body and includes a passageway communicating with the body passageway. The shaft is mounted in the spray arm with lateral openings in the shaft communicating with the passageway in the arm so that fluid flows through the arm, shaft and body and sprays out through the exit openings. The lower portion of the shaft is cylindrical and extends through an opening in the bottom wall of the arm.

Abstract: A water spraying device for a tableware washer. The water spraying device comprises a rotatable frame, a water spraying arm rotatably supported by the frame and turned along with the frame, a water guide member for guiding the water to the spraying arm. The fixed shaft is mounted on the water guide member such that it vertically penetrates the support frame and exposes its top end to bile outside of the support frame. The support member is fixedly mounted on the top end of the shaft. The guider having a guide slot is fixedly mounted on the spraying arm. The connecting rod is movably placed on the support frame and levered by a hinge pin of the support frame, thus to convert a turning motion of the support frame into an opposed directional rotating motion of the spraying arm and to change the direction of the water spraying holes of the arm.

Abstract: In order to limit the rotational frequency of the nozzle body in the housing in a rotor nozzle for a high-pressure cleaning device with a housing provided in a front wall with a pan-shaped bearing for the front, spherical end of a nozzle body having a through-bore, with an insert for a liquid opening tangentially into the housing, the liquid in the housing being caused to rotate thereby about the longitudinal axis of the housing, so that the nozzle body rotates together with the rotating liquid and thereby abuts with a contact surface at its periphery on the inside wall of the housing, whereby the longitudinal axis of the nozzle body is inclined in relation to the longitudinal axis of the housing, it is suggested that a braking member is mounted in the nozzle body at its back end facing away from the front, spherical end for displacement in longitudinal direction of the nozzle body and that a contact surface is arranged adjacent to the back end of the nozzle body at the end face in the housing, the braking me

Abstract: A jet lance device comprising a hydraulic crane with an articulated jib movable by hydraulic motors, a hydraulic rotator mounted on the free end of the jib such that a rotatable support element thereof is turnable about an axis in the vertical plane through the jib, and a jet member mounted on the support element. This jet member comprises a jet lance which is pivotable on a pivot axis transverely of the rotation axis of the rotator and connectable to a source of jet liquid under high pressure, and the device further comprises controllers and drivers for operating the device.

Abstract: A device for processing a concrete layer by water jets, comprising a jet tube on a carriage moveable to and fro along a guide. The jet tube is pivoted in planes substantially parallel to the guide and oscillates in planes making an angle with the guide. The jet tube is inclined in one direction along the extension of the guide during the movement of the carriage along the guide, and a control unit ensures that pivoting of the jet tube with an angular velocity leading to movement of a nozzle of the jet tube along the guide with a velocity substantially equal to the velocity of the carriage is initiated at the same time as the carriage is stopped in an end position, and the control unit starts the movement of the carriage in an opposite direction when the jet tube has finished its pivoting movement.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for cleaning and stripping residue, contaminants, debris. etc. from all of the interior spaces in a railway tank car and the like. The present invention may be conveniently lowered into a tank car through its manway and, after quick assembly thereof, pneumatically configured to accommodate the physical dimensions of the tank car, and then be preset for automatic cleaning and/or stripping operation. A means is provided which inherently coordinates and synchronizes the cleaning and stripping of virtually every internal surface contained in a tank car. The preferred embodiment comprises a X-frame assembly having a pair of corresponding X-members which are attached by an axle disposed therebetween. Pivotally attached to this X-fame assembly is a swivel support assembly which receives a K-frame assembly comprising a plurality of arm means, linkage means and spray means spraying all of the interior surfaces of a tank car.

Abstract: A liquid jetting apparatus includes a drive mechanism, fixed, rotating and jetting cylinder sections connected in order, first rotation transmission mechanism connected to the drive mechanism and having a first operating element, second rotation transmission mechanism connected to the drive mechanism and having a second operating element, the rotational speed of the second rotation transmission mechanism being slightly different from that of the first rotation transmission mechanism, a first operating rod connected at its one end to the first rotation transmission mechanism through a position change mechanism and at its other end to the jetting cylinder section, a second operating rod connected at its one end to the second rotation transmission mechanism and at its other end to the rotating cylinder section, and a detector for detecting the positions of the first operating element and the second operating element and reversing the direction of rotation of the drive mechanism when both operating elements are p

Abstract: A nozzle for providing an oscillating fluid stream has a stationary segment, and at least one oscillating segment pivoted to the stationary segment. In one embodiment, the fluid stream impinges on an inwardly turned lip on the oscillating segment to drive the oscillation. In other embodiments, the reaction of the fluid discharge assists in driving the oscillation of the nozzle, with or without assistance of the inwardly turned lip. For high pressure systems, including the use of liquids, the segments may be more massive to redirect the fluid stream. For compact systems, the plural segments may be completely housed within the stationary segment.

Abstract: A computer controlled sprinkler head with an outlet pipe (14) that can turn in both horizontal and vertical planes. By positioning the outlet pipe at suitable angle any location can be precisely irrigated. This precise irrigation will save significant amount of water compared to conventional systems. In many situations only one sprinkler head will be enough to irrigate an entire lawn, eliminating under ground network of pipe lines. The sprinkler head is programmable and portable.

Abstract: A manipulator with servocontrolled axes, has two or more programmable heads for spraying various liquids and/or air into moulds, more particularly foundry moulds. The manipulator is controlled by a programmable logic (CPU) to move two or more spraying heads in a continuous or discontinuous mode along a predetermined path. The heads are designed to spray, in a programmed manner, various liquids which are atomised either under pressure or by a strong jet of compressed air, thus performing the dual action of atomiser and air blower.

Abstract: An apparatus to remove rubber from airplane tires from an airport runway surface. there is a manifold arm which rotates at as high as two thousand five hundred rpms over the runway surface, with a plurality of water jets being discharged downwardly at a relatively high pressure (e.g. thirty five thousand P.S.I.) against the runway surface. Even though the water pressure is at a level several times higher than that at which damage to the runway surface can occur, at the relatively high linear speed of the water jets (e.g. ninety to one hundred eighty miles per hour), there is no noticeable damage to the runway surface, but yet there is quite effective removal of the accumulated rubber. Also disclosed is a particular shaft and seal assembly which is capable of operating at relatively high rotational speeds and delivering the high pressure to the manifold arm.

Abstract: In a rotor nozzle for a high-pressure cleaning device comprising a housing, a rotor rotatably mounted therein and set in rotation by a cleaning liquid, and a nozzle arranged downstream of the rotor with its outlet axis including a variable, acute angle with the axis of rotation of the rotor and rotated by the rotor about the axis of rotation thereof so that the jet of cleaning liquid issuing from it flows around the lateral area of a cone, to enable adjustment of the outlet angle of the point jet without having to change any other parameters, it is proposed that adjustable stops be arranged in the housing to limit to a greater or lesser extent the widening of the acute angle between the outlet axis of the nozzle and the axis of rotation of the rotor in accordance with the position of the limiting elements.

Abstract: A nozzle arrangement for a high pressure jet for use in a device for treating surfaces by removing material from, roughening or cleaning such surfaces comprises a nozzle having an elongate body which is rotatable about its longitudinal axis. A nozzle head inclined at an angle of approximately 30.degree. to the longitudinal axis of the nozzle body communicates with the interior of the nozzle body and a high pressure pump is provided for generating a high pressure liquid jet to issue from the nozzle head. The nozzle head is maintained at a substantially constant distance from a planar surface to be treated and the nozzle body is reciprocated in partial rotations about its longitudinal axis in opposite directions to cause the high pressure jet issuing from the nozzle head to strike the surface to be treated with a recurring arc-shaped pivoting movement.

Abstract: Fluid applicating and vehicle washing apparatus and processes are disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a plurality of fluid delivery nozzles directed to spray fluid in a clustered pattern in parallel directions toward the vehicle. The nozzles are mounted on a central pipe that is made to rotate about an axis generally parallel to, but at an angle with, the direction of fluid delivery. In a preferred embodiment, the nozzles are zero degree nozzles, mounted on 90.degree. elbows arranged helically on a central pipe. The central pipe is fixed to an extension pipe which has an axis making a fixed angle of 5.degree. to 20.degree. with the axis of the central pipe. The use of a clustered spray of zero degree nozzles is found to produce a synergistic cleaning effect.

Abstract: A vertical remote-controlled gunning apparatus having a horizontal nozzle wherein the water supply conduits and material supply conduits are integrated into a mixer-swivel head which controls the swiveling and rotation of said conduit.

Abstract: A fluid driven tank cleaning apparatus which uses part of the cleaning fluid supplied to the device for lubricating the gear train located in a separate compartment. Passageways are positioned and sized so as to maintain the separate compartment substantially filled with the cleaning solution at a relatively low pressure and flow rate therethrough. The device is constructed to minimize the corrosive effects of cleaning fluid on the moving parts.

Abstract: An apparatus for manipulating a spray device having a spray nozzle relative to a target substrate, which apparatus includes drive mechanisms for moving the spray device in the X, Y and Z directions, and separate mechanisms for rotating the spray nozzle relative to the spray device and for tilting the spray nozzle relative to the spray device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic spray painting machine comprising a first movable portion movable in a direction toward and away from a work object, a second movable portion movable in a specified direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the first movable portion, a supporting portion for supporting a spray nozzle, a first actuator for moving the first movable portion, and a second actuator for moving the second movable portion. The first and second actuators are mounted on the supporting portion. The automatic spray painting machine further includes a transmission mechanism for transmitting drive of the actuator to the movable portion positioned closer to the spray nozzle in the supporting order effects drive transmission, with the other movable portion positioned closer to the supporting portion in the supporting order being allowed to move.

Abstract: Tank car cleaning apparatus mountable on a tank car hatch and movable within the car to clean its interior, the apparatus including a rotatable mast with a movable arm connected thereto having a high pressure liquid nozzle mounted at its end for applying liquid under pressure to the car's interior to clean it, the arm movable from outside the car into its interior, and in one aspect, the nozzle itself articulable through an arc.

Abstract: The fluid jetting device for cleaning surfaces comprises a housing having a fluid inlet for pressurized fluid and a first pressurized fluid space connected with at least one movable high pressure nozzle residing in the housing. A high pressure seal is formed between the nozzle and the housing. At least one mechanical separating means is provided in the housing to form a second pressurized fluid space containing another pressurized fluid, advantageously oil, adjacent the high pressure seal. The second pressurized fluid space is separated from the first pressurized fluid space by mechanical separating means to prevent dirt from reaching the second pressurized fluid space and the high pressure seal but the mechanical separating means allows transmission of fluid pressure in the first fluid space to the other fluid to allow pressure balancing. The sliding surfaces on adjoining sliding members at the high pressure seal may be made of ceramic material to increase life and reduce friction and wear.

Abstract: A plurality of paint spray guns are directed substantially perpendicularly toward respective vertically divided surfaces of a side panel of a workpiece such as an automotive body. The paint spray guns are spaced in a direction in which the workpiece is delivered and being disposed at different heights, respectively. Paint sprays are ejected from the paint spray guns toward the workpiece which is being delivered in the direction. Simultaneously, the paint spray guns are displaced back and forth perpendicularly to the direction and substantially parallel to the surfaces of the side panel to coat the surface respectively with the paint spray guns, thereby coating the side panel.

Abstract: Tank car cleaning apparatus mountable on a tank car hatch and movable within the car to clean its interior, the apparatus including a rotatable mast with a movable arm connected thereto having a high pressure liquid nozzle mounted at its end for applying liquid under pressure to the car's interior to clean it, the arm movable from outside the car into its interior, and in one aspect, the nozzle itself articulable through an arc.