Gravity Flow From Holder (e.g., Hopper Type) Patents (Class 239/379)
  • Patent number: 7753289
    Abstract: A flexible, disposable cup for use in a fluid supply assembly. The disposable cup is made of an antistatic material whereby chargeable particles in a coating mixture do not stick to the disposable cup so that uniformity of the coating mixture is maintained while it is dispensed. A method of maintaining the uniformity of a coating mixture during dispensing is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Kosmyna, Ralph A. Wisniewski, Mark E. Charpie
  • Patent number: 7744011
    Abstract: A flexible, disposable cup for use in a fluid supply assembly. The disposable cup is made of an antistatic material whereby chargeable particles in a coating mixture do not stick to the disposable cup so that uniformity of the coating mixture is maintained while it is dispensed. A method of maintaining the uniformity of a coating mixture during dispensing is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Kosmyna, Ralph A. Wisniewski, Mark E. Charpie
  • Patent number: 7731104
    Abstract: A hand-held apparatus for spraying texture material including a body, a pressurized air source mounted on the body, a texture material hopper mounted on the body, and a texture delivery nozzle for selectively spraying texture material from the hopper onto a surface to be coated by propelling the texture material using pressurized air from the pressurized air source wherein each of the air source and the hopper can be disconnected from the body without the use of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Peterson, Anthony J. Torntore, Ross Rossner
  • Patent number: 7694896
    Abstract: Disposable reservoirs for use with spray apparatuses, reservoir-adapter kits, spray assemblies employing such reservoirs, and methods of use are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Trade Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: William N. Turnbull, Clifford W. Turnbull
  • Patent number: 7686233
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing an anti-traction, mobility denial material on a target surface. In various exemplary embodiments, a method of dispensing an anti-traction material on a target surface includes providing a polymer particle powder to a first section of a dispensing nozzle, providing a water stream to a second section of a dispensing nozzle, and mixing the polymer particle powder with the water stream upon exit of the streams out of the first and second sections of the dispensing nozzle to form the anti-traction material on the target surface, the formed anti-traction material being a gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Cliff J. Scribner, Geronimo I Elias, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7665672
    Abstract: A flexible, disposable liner for use in a fluid supply assembly. The disposable liner is made of an antistatic material. In use, the chargeable particles in a coating mixture do not stick to the disposable liner so that uniformity of the coating mixture is maintained while it is dispensed. A method of maintaining the uniformity of a coating mixture during dispensing is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Kosmyna, Ralph A. Wisniewski, Mark E. Charpie
  • Patent number: 7654470
    Abstract: A rolling liquid herbicide applicator with an adjustable shield is attached to a hollow pole having an adjustable width protective shield mounted to one end weighted, textured wheels for rolling over most terrains are attached to the adjustable width protective shield. On the opposite end of the hollow pole handle is a trigger. When the trigger is activated, an internal trigger stick is moved down through the hollow pole, thereby causing a ā€œCā€ piece to move upward. This upward movement pushes on a hard flat disk. The movement of the hard flat disk causes pliable cap center to move. The gravity flow of liquid herbicide from a liquid herbicide container causes the liquid herbicide to move through a tube and nozzle assembly. The adjustable width protective shield over the nozzle prevents overspray and accidental contact of the liquid herbicide on healthy desired vegetation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Elizabeth Gray Crosswell
  • Publication number: 20090288532
    Abstract: A waterjet system for generating and delivering fluid jets suitable for processing a workpiece has a cutting head body and a mixing tube. The cutting head body includes a mixing chamber and a bore. The bore is positioned downstream of the mixing chamber, and an abrasive fluid jet from the mixing chamber passes through the mixing tube. The mixing tube has a first coupler adapted to magnetically couple the mixing tube to the cutting head body when the mixing tube is installed. The cutting head body has a second coupler positioned to engage the first coupler of the mixing tube to keep the mixing tube properly positioned during operation of the waterjet system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: Flow International Corporation
    Inventor: Mohamed Hashish
  • Patent number: 7617995
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for applying texture materials to wall and ceiling surfaces, and more particularly to an improved hopper gun with an internal air control valve for controlling the on and off function of the atomizing air stream and an integrated flow control valve to manage the volume/pressure ratio of the pressurized atomizing air. The air control valve and flow control valve integrated into the improved hopper gun provides improved control over the texturing process and simplified operation of the improved hopper gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Wallboard Tool Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy Florio
  • Patent number: 7614571
    Abstract: Disposable cup for preparing, applying and preserving a paint to be set up on a paint spray gun characterized in that it includes on one of its end faces a closable vent device (7) forming a vent valve with valve duct (22) and valve plug (25) which allows when opened, to let the air pass for occupying the inner volume that empties and when closed, to close liquid-tightly the opening (6) of air passage to form a container for the preparation of the paint and then to form a pot for the preservation of the leftover paint. This invention is of interest to manufacturers of paint spray guns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventors: Michel Camilleri, Joseph Guarino
  • Patent number: 7607592
    Abstract: An apparatus for accessorizing water and beverage bottles, including a water mister, a portable humidifier, a vitamin or nutritional supplement dispenser, and other useful accessories, which are quickly, easily, and removably attached to any commercially available consumer water or beverage bottle or container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Sang B. Kim
  • Patent number: 7588195
    Abstract: A deicing apparatus may include a reservoir containing a deicing agent, a distribution network, and at least a first nozzle, for deicing a surface, such as a sidewalk. In one embodiment, at least one or more of the reservoir or distribution network is located underground and at least one or more of the reservoir, distribution network, and nozzle is operatively fixed with respect to the associated surface. The apparatus may further be provided with pumping means for pumping the deicing agent through the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Louis Berkman Winter Products
    Inventor: Robert A. Balogh
  • Publication number: 20090218417
    Abstract: A reservoir for use with a spray gun has a body and a flexible diaphragm that define a chamber for liquid to be supplied to the spray gun. The body has an outlet opening leading to a spout connectable to the spray gun and the diaphragm deflects to reduce the volume of the chamber as liquid is withdrawn from the reservoir. The diaphragm gradually conforms to the internal surface of the body as the liquid is withdrawn to prevent pockets forming in which the liquid may be trapped so that substantially all the liquid can be dispensed. The reservoir may be supplied pre-filled with the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Malcolm F. Douglas, Phillip J. Bouic, Stephen C.P. Joseph
  • Publication number: 20090121043
    Abstract: A horizontal-type atomizing apparatus with automatically controlled working fluid level includes a portable horizontal base internally defining a dispensing chamber and an atomizing chamber horizontally opposite to but communicating with each other; a pressure container assembled to the dispensing chamber for supplying a working fluid into the dispensing chamber and the atomizing chamber; and an atomizing module arranged on the base. By utilizing the principle of atmospheric pressure balance, the working fluid in the dispensing chamber is maintained at a constant level, allowing the atomizing module to obtain constant volume of working fluid and constant working load to produce a stable amount of mist containing uniformly-sized droplets. An ambient atmospheric condition sensing unit is included for detecting atmospheric conditions in the environment surrounding the atomizing apparatus, regulating the amount of mist to be produced, and generating a warning signal for timely replenishing the working fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: KAI CHIH INDUSTRIAL Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nai Ying JEAN, Wen Pin Chen
  • Publication number: 20090114236
    Abstract: Make-up application systems are provided that comprise an air compressor unit, an airbrush connected to the air compressor unit, the airbrush having a gravity feed cup, and a tube connecting the air compressor unit to the airbrush. A cosmetic formulation comprising at least one mineral and water may be introduced into the gravity feed cup, which may then be aspirated into the airbrush and dispersed in a fine mist or atomized spray for delivery on a surface such as a person's skin. The system permits a more flawless make-up application finish for the face, neck and chest, and body, permitting feathering and blending not capable with traditional brush or sponge make-up application systems. Advantages are numerous and include, a more desirable appearance, longer lasting and quicker drying make-up, avoidance of harmful toxins and skin irritants, and enhanced hygienic application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: Pershant Mehta
  • Publication number: 20090078789
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid reservoir for a paint spray gun, comprising a cup-shaped receptacle (1), a lid (2) that can be placed thereon (1) and a connecting part (3) which can be formed on the receptacle (1) or on the cover (2) and which is used to secure the fluid reservoir to the paint spray gun. According to the invention, a transition area (12) between the connecting part (3) and the receptacle (1) or the cover is embodied in a flexible manner in order to adjust the inclination of the receptacle (1) or the cover (2) in relation to the central axis (14) of the connecting part (3) in order to improve material guiding, even when the paint spray gun is inclined positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2005
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Albrecht Kruse
  • Publication number: 20080251609
    Abstract: An apparatus is used in combination with a paint delivery hopper. The hopper includes a body and a connecting portion, with the connecting portion having a connecting end and a projection extending from the body thereof. The apparatus is used to engage with the hopper and it includes a receiving region, a through hole defined in the receiving region for allowing the connecting end to be attached thereto and an engaging hole which allows the projection to be inserted therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Chin-Ming TING
  • Patent number: 7416140
    Abstract: Disposable cup for preparing, applying and preserving a paint to be set up on a paint spray gun characterized in that it includes on one of its end faces a closable vent device (7) forming a vent valve with valve duct (22) and valve plug (25) which allows when opened, to let the air pass for occupying the inner volume that empties and when closed, to close liquid-tightly the opening (6) of air passage to form a container for the preparation of the paint and then to form a pot for the preservation of the leftover paint. This invention is of interest to manufacturers of paint spray guns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventors: Michel Camilleri, Joseph Guarino
  • Publication number: 20080164338
    Abstract: A fluid applicator. The fluid applicator includes a body having a nozzle and trigger and optionally at least one part connected to the body, the body having a groove therein; and a removable color-coded identification clip made of a flexible material positioned in the groove in the body. The invention also involves a method of identifying a fluid applicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventor: Marvin D. Burns
  • Publication number: 20080128534
    Abstract: A connecting rod for coupling to a mating socket or to a coupler that includes a shaft having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end, at least one of the first and second ends of the shaft having a substantially convex end face that is preferably arcuate or hemispherical in shape; and a spline formed on at least one of the first and second ends of the shaft, the spline having at least two projections that extend from the shaft to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the projections contoured to accommodate universal movement of the shaft relative to the socket. The spline projections may be contoured to taper into the convex or hemispherical end face of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: David J. McLeod
  • Patent number: 7374111
    Abstract: A spray gun (1) has a fluid reservoir (11) with a removable liner (13) received in a container (12) having a detachable lid (15). The liner (13), which may be thermo/vacuum-formed from a planar material, has a shape that corresponds to and is a close fit within the interior of the container (12) and collapses as fluid is withdrawn from within the liner (13) during operation of the spray gun (1). The lid (15) has an outlet (16) connected to an inlet on the spray gun (1) for transfer of liquid from the reservoir (11) to the spray gun (1) and the container (12) has a vent (12A) in the base end for admitting air between the container (12) and the liner (13) as liquid is withdrawn from within the liner (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. P. Joseph, Malcolm F. Douglas, Alan F. Butler
  • Patent number: 7246757
    Abstract: An air brush includes a brush member with a head portion at an end and a nozzle on the head portion. A nozzle cover is detachably bonded to the nozzle. The nozzle cover has a first attracting portion, and the nozzle has a second attracting portion associated with the first attracting portion. The first attracting portion and the second attracting portion are attracted together by a magnetic force to bond the nozzle cover to the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Victor Air Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung-Tsuen Juo
  • Patent number: 7232077
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a level sensing spray applicator. In one embodiment, the spray applicator includes a gun that receives a liquid and a supply vessel coupled to the gun. The vessel includes a level sensor responsive to the volume retained by the supply vessel. In another aspect, a level-sensing supply vessel includes a level sensor responsive to a volume of liquid retained by the supply vessel, the sensor including a sensor element to detect the volume by sensing a resistance property of the liquid. In still a further aspect, a method of sensing a level of a liquid retained within a storage vessel includes sensing a first liquid volume, removing a portion of the first volume to define a second volume, determining if the second volume is less than a minimum volume, and generating an alarm signal if the second volume is less than the minimum volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Trade Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Clifford W. Turnbull
  • Patent number: 7201289
    Abstract: A method for introducing a polymerization catalyst into a coating formulation as the formulation flows from a reservoir includes the steps of: opening the first end of a sealed dispenser holding a predetermined volume of a polymerization catalyst solution and inserting the dispenser into the reservoir such that the open end of the dispenser is positioned near the outlet of the reservoir; with the dispenser so positioned, opening the second end of the dispenser to atmosphere. The head of the liquid coating formulation in the reservoir prevents flow of the catalyst solution from the dispenser until the liquid coating formulation flows from the reservoir into the flow channel. Thus, the catalyst solution mixes with the coating formulation in a way that a predetermined concentration of the catalyst solution is maintained in the coating formulation as the coating formulation flows from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventor: Kamlesh Kumar Bhatia
  • Patent number: 7191957
    Abstract: A peristaltic depositing machine includes a hopper to store viscous material. A flexibly deformable tubing section is connected to the hopper for receiving the viscous material. A pair of rollers cooperate to compress tubing section and thereafter move forwardly along the tubing section such that the viscous material is forwardly propagated. A manifold is connected between the hopper and the tubing section to transmit the viscous material there between. A flow control unit is connected to a portion of the tubing section forward of the pair of rollers. The flow control unit alternately constricts and unconstricts the portion of the tubing section in synchronism with the forward movement by the pair of rollers. A nozzle is connected to an output end of said tubing section to shape the viscous material upon output. A carriage is also connected to an output end of the tubing section and moves about a predetermined travel path to thereby direct an output location of the viscous material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph Anderson
  • Patent number: 7172139
    Abstract: A connector system for releasably securing a reservoir to a spray gun includes hook members on a lid of the reservoir that engage a flange of an inlet adaptor on the spray gun with a push/twist action to secure the reservoir to the spray gun. A retainer clip mounted on the inlet adaptor is movable between an inoperative position to allow the reservoir to be connected to and disconnected from the spray gun, and an operative position in which the clip blocks release of the reservoir. The clip provides security against accidental release of the reservoir in use of the spray gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Phillip J. Bouic, Neil Delbridge
  • Patent number: 7147172
    Abstract: A personal decontamination apparatus includes an adapter valve attachable to a water source for mixing water with a concentrated decontamination fluid for rapid detoxifying washing of the skin of a user exposed to toxic chemical, biological or nuclear radioactive substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventors: Charles W. Darling, III, John Mizzi
  • Patent number: 7143960
    Abstract: A single use, disposable reservoir of low volume for use in conjunction with a spray gun for spray painting small areas, for example ā€˜spray outā€™ cards for color matching a paint mix for spray painting a vehicle. The reservoir is in the form of a syringe body with a plunger having a sealing member slidable within the body for drawing paint into the body via an open end. The body has an aperture adjacent to a closed end and the plunger can be moved to position the sealing member between the aperture and closed end for releasing a partial vacuum created when the paint is drawn into the body and allow the paint to be withdrawn, in use, when the reservoir is connected to a spray gun without actuating the plunger. In other embodiments, the reservoir comprises a concertina-type body or a pipette body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. P. Joseph, Malcolm F Douglas
  • Patent number: 7104467
    Abstract: A liquid flow restrictor in the supply line of an eductor or other dilution or dispensing device has a rotatably mounted disc with opposite faces and a plurality of apertures or holes, which provide different flow restrictions between the faces, and a pair of flow conduits sealingly engaging against the faces, whereby on rotation of the member the zones are selectively brought into communication with the conduits to provide a desired flow restriction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry William Crossdale, Brian Peter Onufryk, Dean Alan Percival
  • Patent number: 7036752
    Abstract: A paint sprayer includes a threaded hole defined in a barrel thereof and a connection member is threadedly engaged with the threaded hole. A passage defined through the connection member and shares a common axis with the threaded hole in the sprayer. An eccentric hole is defined in a top of the connection member and an annular groove is defined in an inner periphery of the eccentric hole. An inner diameter of the annular groove is larger than an inner diameter of the eccentric hole. An insertion piece has a first end fixed to a cup and a flange eccentrically extends outward from an outer periphery of the insertion piece. A second end of the insertion piece is rotatably inserted in the connection member via the eccentric hole and the flange is rotatably engaged with the annular groove. The cup can be quickly disengaged from or connected to the sprayer by rotating the cup less than one revolution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Shin Kuei Hsiang
  • Patent number: 7028921
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing a polymerization catalyst solution into a liquid coating formulation has a cross sectional area ā€œaā€ given by the relationship: a?PĀ·AĀ·[W/w]Ā·10?6, where ā€œAā€ is the cross sectional area of the reservoir holding a liquid coating formulation having ā€œWā€ weight percent of solids; ā€œwā€ is the weight percent of catalyst in the dispenser; and P is the ratio by weight of the catalyst to the solids desired in the finished coating, in parts per million.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: E.I. duPont de Nemours and Company
    Inventor: Kamlesh Kumar Bhatia
  • Patent number: 6953155
    Abstract: An assembly for feeding liquid to the inlet port of a liquid spraying device or spray gun. The assembly includes a stiff container that defines an opening into a cavity in the container, and a flexible liner positioned within the cavity in the container has an outer surface generally corresponding in shape to the inner surface of the container, an inner surface defining a cavity in the liner, and an annular lip along the top end of the side wall defining an opening into the cavity in the liner. An included adapter assembly has a central portion with a through opening that is adapted to engage the inlet port of a liquid spraying device, a transverse portion including a peripheral part adapted for engagement within the flexible liner adjacent said top end of the container, and means for sealing the flexible liner around the peripheral part of the adapter assembly. An air supply assembly connected to the container supplies air at a relatively low pressure (e.g., in the range of about 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. P. Joseph, Gary Brotherton, Robert J. Rothrum
  • Patent number: 6941702
    Abstract: A rainwater collection and dispensation system for economically conserving water usage by using collected rainwater. The rainwater collection and dispensation system includes a gutter being adapted to be mounted along an edge of a roof of a building structure; and also includes a tank support member being adapted to rest upon a ground and being disposed beneath a portion of the gutter; and further includes a tank being securely and removably supported upon the tank support member; and also includes a drainage spout interconnecting the gutter and the tank for draining rainwater from the gutter into the tank; and further includes a rainwater dispensing assembly including an overflow pipe member being disposed through a wall of the tank for draining rainwater from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventors: Lyndon Abrams, Priscilla Abrams
  • Patent number: 6863227
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for swivel attachment of supply vessels to applicator devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an applicator device, a supply vessel having an interior volume, and a swivel assembly coupled between the supply vessel and the applicator device. The swivel assembly includes a first engagement member having a protruding portion and a first passageway disposed therethrough, and a second engagement member having a concavity and a second passageway disposed therethrough, the protruding portion being moveably engaged within the concavity such that the interior volume of the supply vessel fluidly communicates with the applicator device through the first and second passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Trade Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Skye Lechner Wollenberg, Neil Garrett Stockman
  • Patent number: 6845923
    Abstract: An ergonomic hopper holder for use with spray application equipment includes a vertical support member having a holster end, an opposite hopper end, and a hopper hanger proximate to the hopper end. The holder also includes an arm member having a support end, a spray gun end, and a spray gun support proximate to the spray gun end for supporting a spray gun. The arm member is pivotably joined to the vertical support member. The holder further includes a holster and belt combination capable of being worn by an artisan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Robert R. Slotsve
  • Patent number: 6820824
    Abstract: A spray gun has a fluid reservoir that contains a removable liner. The liner, which may be thermo/vacuum-formed from a plastics material, is a close fit within the interior of the reservoir and collapses as fluid is withdrawn from within the liner during operation of the gun. Preferably, the liner has a comparatively-rigid base and is capable of standing, unsupported, outside the reservoir. The side walls of the liner are preferably thin in comparison to the base and can be collapsed for disposal of the liner. The reservoir has a removable lid and is capable of standing, inverted, on its own so that it can be filled with fluid. The lid also functions to secure the liner in the reservoir and, at the end of a spraying operation, the lid and the liner are removed together from the reservoir and discarded, thereby simplifying the cleaning of the spray gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. P. Joseph, Malcolm F. Douglas, Alan F. Butler, David R. Bastow, Jerry E. Salhus, Margaret A. Hartfel
  • Publication number: 20040217201
    Abstract: To further improve upon a spray gun container, according to the present invention a spray gun container, preferably a flow container, is used to accommodate coating materials whereby the spray gun container has a container part and a fixed container insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Martin Ruda
  • Patent number: 6805301
    Abstract: A fluid product dispenser includes: a fluid product tank, a dispenser part comprising a pierced membrane connected directly to the tank, a mechanism to vibrate the pierced membrane, and an actuator button to activate the vibration mechanism. The tank is located above the pierced membrane such that the fluid product is supplied to the membrane from the tank using the force of gravity under normal operating conditions. The membrane is connected to the tank by a passage provided with an inlet valve capable of opening and cutting off the passage selectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Valois S.A.
    Inventor: Firmin Garcia
  • Publication number: 20040140373
    Abstract: A spray gun and a detachable liquid reservoir releasably attached to the spray gun by engagement of mateable, non-threaded formations provided on the spray gun and the reservoir. The spray gun has an integral connector boss with a socket for reception of a connector tube of the reservoir. The boss has an external flange at the distal end and the reservoir has hook members separate from the connector tube. The hook members are co-operable with the flange when the connector tube is received in the socket to secure releasably the reservoir to the spray gun. In another arrangement, the connector tube is an interference friction-fit in the socket to secure releasably the reservoir to the spray gun. In yet another arrangement, the connector tube has bayonet lugs co-operable with bayonet grooves in the wall of the socket when the connector tube is received in the socket to secure releasably the reservoir to the spray gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Stephen C. P. Joseph, Michael J. R. Adams, Neil Delbridge, Michael W. Howcroft
  • Publication number: 20040129802
    Abstract: A hopper spray gun stand holds a hopper spray gun upright, such as during filling and between uses, and facilitates transportation of a hopper spray gun around a job site. The stand includes a frame with a hopper holder, legs and wheels facilitate transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Timmy R. Bell
  • Patent number: 6729558
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a granular spreader device that includes a tear-shaped container having a lower rotary outlet The granular material feeds downwardly by gravity into a flexibly tube through a rotary fitting. From there the granular material feeds into a hand held rigid tube and from there into a distributor head similar to a shower head. At the juncture between the flexible tube and the rigid tube there is a manually operated shutoff valve. The container has shoulder straps for carrying the container on the back of a person or a separate carrier has the container separately attached to the same. A simple agitator operates a wire system inside the container to disintegrate any clumps that may formed within the granular material inside the container because of moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Harold Seenauth
  • Publication number: 20040083176
    Abstract: An ATM (10) includes a housing (46) including a generally L-shaped chest portion (48) and an upper housing portion (54). The ATM includes a fascia (12) which extends on the outside of a wall (14) and includes a user interface (15). Responsive to inputs of a user through the user interface the machine is operative to accept a stack of sheets (84) which are evaluated through operation of a sheet validator device (88) and which enables acceptable sheets to be stored within the chest portion. Unacceptable sheets are routed to a storage area (100). Provisions are made for reducing the risk of attack on the ATM by criminals and to facilitate servicing by authorized personnel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Applicant: Diebold Self-Service Systems, Division of Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: Zachary Utz, Daniel Schoeffler, Shawn Griggy, Nat Ramachandran, H. Thomas Graef
  • Patent number: 6726125
    Abstract: A spray gun suitable for spraying plaster and other particulate matter uses a series of easily replaceable elements for fast cleaning and changeover of the spray gun. A barrel portion of the gun has a supply chamber for receiving material to be sprayed. A slidable tube is mounted in the barrel portion and provides a jet of compressed air for forcing the material to be sprayed through a nozzle plate. A handle portion extends downwardly from the gun and supports a slidable trigger mechanism. The trigger mechanism includes a fixed member at one end thereof which is slidable on the slide tube trapped between an adjustable stop member and a further member secured on the slide tube. The adjustable stop member can also be used to position the slide tube for continuous operation independent of the trigger mechanism. The adjustable stop member is moved along the slide tube until it contacts the end of the barrel. Further movement moves the slide tube rearwardly and is held in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Marmospray 2000 Inc.
    Inventors: Italo Nonis, Manfred Missalla
  • Patent number: 6719217
    Abstract: The invention provides an air fragrance device (10) having a fan (26) driven by a motor (24) and provided in a blowing chamber (35) and an air fragrance tank (13) having a fragrant agent (1) therein and communicated with the blowing chamber (35), in which the blowing chamber (35) is arranged below the air fragrance tank (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Hirotoshi Tawara, Takashi Yamada, Fumihiko Yoshiro
  • Patent number: 6712292
    Abstract: An adjustable adapter includes two arms, each having an axis, a surface substantially normal to the axis, wherein the surfaces of the arms face each other, an end and a passageway for fluid communication between the end and the opening, wherein one of the arm ends is for connection to an inlet of an applicator and the other arm end is for connection to an outlet of a container, and a fastener for pivotally coupling the arms. One of the arm surfaces is provided with a groove in fluid communication with both arm openings. The groove is sealed to prevent fluid from leaking from between the surfaces. When the fastener is in a rotation-resisting mode, the fastener forces the surfaces of the arm toward one another sufficiently to increase friction and resist rotation therebetween, and when the fastener is in a rotation-permitting mode, the fastener releases the surfaces sufficiently to decrease friction and permit rotation therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Anatoly Gosis, Mark D. Bauer, Marvin D. Burns, Mark E. Charpie, Robert G. Kobetsky, Michael J. Kosmyna, Jan Toczycki, G. Michael Velan
  • Publication number: 20040046051
    Abstract: A system that is used for control of various liquids, including storage, mixing and dispersing thereof, but more particularly pertains to an improved system that is suitable for use with substantially any type of liquid of user choice. The system is economical, simplified, environmentally friendly, and includes use of multipurpose container(s) that further include various components and/or attachments which allow for storage, mixing and dispensing there from.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Cathy D. Santa Cruz, William E. Adams, Steven M. Waldren, Timothy B. Waldren, Phillip B. Waldren, Sharon A. Waldren, Allan E. Schultz
  • Patent number: 6676017
    Abstract: A personal device is provided. The personal device includes an identification verification system that receives first identification data from a physical identification device, such as by inserting a driver's license into a card reader that is adapted to receive a driver's license. Second identification data such as a PIN number is also received. Payment authorization data or other suitable data is generated if the driver's license corresponds to the PIN. A payment selection system or other suitable system receives the payment authorization data and displays one or more payment accounts for selection by a user. Where a payment selection system is used, the payment selection system transmits payment account data to a point-of-sale system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Emmitt J. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 6572034
    Abstract: The structure of a spray gun of the present invention is basically composed of a hook, a pin, a spray gun and a retaining ring. The top portion of the spray gun has a trough to receive the hook therein. The trough has a connecting ridge at one end with a through hole at the center portion thereof. The hook comprises a hole at one end, in correspondence to the through hole of the connecting ridge, and is secured by inserting a pin through the hole of the hook and the through hole of the connecting ridge, this allows the hook to change its angle position with respect to the trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Horng-Hsiang Liu
  • Patent number: 6550692
    Abstract: A self-contained finish spraying apparatus that allows a user to transport the apparatus to a job site and provides the tools to conduct finish spraying regardless of the lack of necessary components at the job site, such as water and electricity, is claimed and described herein. The apparatus includes a generator, a water tank, a dry material silo, a mixer, an air compressor, and a conventional viscous sprayer. The apparatus includes all or most of these materials within security walls so that the apparatus may be left at an exterior location at a job site without risk of damage to the machinery by vandalism or theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Mark W. Schacht
  • Publication number: 20030071144
    Abstract: An air brush is shown and described including a replaceable, rotatable, nozzle head including a media port and a needle arrangement. Media contamination of the air brush is limited to the removable nozzle head, thereby making the air brush body free of media contamination. By rotatable mounting of the nozzle head, a variety of media sources are made available, ranging from gravity fed devices such as media top and side cups to suction fed devices such as media jars. The trigger arrangement of the present invention presents an actuator shaft movable longitudinally in response to trigger movement for engagement of the needle of the nozzle head. Mechanical coupling between the air brush body and nozzle head is limited to structural coupling for mounting the nozzle head and an abutment relationship between the actuator shaft and the needle. This allows rotational freedom of movement for the nozzle head relative to the body, and also ease of dismounting by simply separating the nozzle head from the air brush body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: William H. Naemura