Unitary Plural Outlet Means Patents (Class 239/548)
  • Patent number: 6349557
    Abstract: A water sprinkling apparatus for an ice making machine. The sprinkling apparatus includes a spray tube formed by two snap fit parts from which water flows over onto vertical evaporator plates in the ice making machine. The open top channel body permits the water to flow easily as well as having the apparatus cleaned in a simpler and more efficient manner. Furthermore, particle buildup as well as clogging of apertures is eliminated, thereby maintaining continuity of flow and simplifying maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Hoshizaki America, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph A. Gresham
  • Publication number: 20020020757
    Abstract: A double-swirl spraying nozzle has two swirl chambers which are open toward opposite sides and are in each case arranged on respective sides of a longitudinal center plane extending through the inflow duct and are preferably designed mirror-symmetrically with respect to the center axis of the inflow duct. This design makes it possible for the medium to enter without any cross-sectional constrictions into the two swirl chambers and to exit with a different swirl in opposite directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Juergen Speier
  • Publication number: 20020020767
    Abstract: Disclosed is a showerhead and a liquid raw material supply apparatus using the same. The liquid raw material supply apparatus comprises a carrier gas supply tube for supplying a carrier gas, a precursor supply tube connected to a given portion of the carrier gas supply tube, for supplying a precursor of a liquid state, a liquid mass flow controller installed at a given portion of the precursor supply tube, for controlling the supply amount of the precursor, and a showerhead including a first baffle connected to an end portion of the carrier gas supply tube facing the end portion of the carrier gas supply tube, the first baffle has a plurality of holes for spraying a misted precursor at the bottom of the showerhead. A second baffle is installed below the first baffle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Sung Gyu Pyo
  • Patent number: 6347750
    Abstract: A water display installation generating two-dimensional flow patterns on a net wall which includes a reservoir supplied with liquid by a conduit incorporating a plurality of perforations emerging into the reservoir, and provided with an overflow lip arranged such that the liquid flows from the reservoir along the wall. The reservoir includes a filtering foam for ensuring uniformity of the liquid flow from one end of the lip to the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Delettre
  • Publication number: 20020017575
    Abstract: A spray head for delivering a hair care composition onto and/or into the hair comprising an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet, the inlet of the spray head being adapted for connection with an outlet of a container including a hair care composition, the outlet of the spray head including at least one hollow protrusion defining a fluid channel extending from the spray head, the hollow protrusion including an opening for delivering the atomized hair care composition onto the hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren Paul Andrews, Gregory Alan Erickson, Euan Stuart Reid, Keith Leslie Rutherford
  • Publication number: 20020011528
    Abstract: A nozzle beam for descaling or cooling metal strand material, particularly rolling stock, includes an inlet for the product treatment liquid and an additional inlet for a device cooling liquid, an outlet for the device cooling liquid, and a switching member for opening and closing the device cooling liquid outlet. The switching member is automatically switchable through a device cooling liquid pressure which controls the state of operation of the nozzle beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Dankfried Klempel, Heinz-Peter Schmitz, Dirk Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20020011533
    Abstract: A nozzle hole of a conductive nozzle plate exposes the liquid surface of conductive ink. Ultrasonic generation means vibrates the ink for forming fine surface waves on the liquid surface so that the ink is sprayed from the nozzle hole as an atomized liquid particle group. A back plate provided on the opposite side of the nozzle hole in relation to a printing paper is supplied with a potential different from that for the nozzle plate, so that an electric field is formed therebetween. The sprayed liquid particle group is charged and hence urged by this electric field to adhere to the printing paper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroshi Fukumoto, Jyunichi Aizawa, Munehisa Takeda
  • Patent number: 6341732
    Abstract: Liquid to be atomized is supplied from a wick to the underside of a vibrating orifice plate which pumps the liquid up through atomizing orifices in the plate and ejects the liquid from is upper side; and liquid which is pumped up through the orifices in an elevated region of the plate, but which has not been ejected, is directed back down through larger openings in a lower region of the plate. The liquid also flows back onto the wick which places the liquid in capillary communication along the underside of the plate with the atomizing orifices for reputing and ejection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick H. Martin, Thomas A. Helf, David J. Schram, Maryann Jashinske, David A. Tomkins, Edward J. Martens, III
  • Patent number: 6340122
    Abstract: A spreader for spreading a fluid, such as an adhesive, in a thin layer on a surface including a spreader housing and a plurality of outlet nozzles, which are arranged at regular intervals along one side of the spreader housing, and which are connected to a feeding channel system accommodated in the housing. The feeding channel system communicates with an inlet opening for the fluid. The nozzles, the feeding channel system thereof and the inlet opening are shaped in a separate lining detachably secured in the housing, the housing including cavities for receiving the lining and being able to firmly clamp around the lining in use, and whereby at least one opening is provided in the housing, where the nozzles project from the interior of the housing through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Assignee: Casco A/S
    Inventor: Jørgen Kamstrup-Larsen
  • Publication number: 20020005442
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gas supply nozzle plate constructed by laminating a plurality of metal members each having a fluid path and branch. A fluid nozzle plate member provided by the invention has high sealing at a joined part, and high reliability even when used in high vacuum or at a high temperature. The fluid nozzle plate member comprises a plurality of plate-like metal members each having a fluid path and/or a branch. In this case, the plurality of plate-like metal members are laminated, and the laminated surfaces thereof are joined together by press forging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventors: Katsumi Watanabe, Akira Fukuchi
  • Publication number: 20020003175
    Abstract: A showerhead has a water-exit element, a button pivotally received in the water-exit element, a moveable flapper disposed inside the water-exit element, and a water-separating plate and a nozzle cover placed in front of the moveable flapper. The button and the valve are able to control water to flow in a selected passage and create a particular type of shower jet. By adjusting the button, different kinds of shower jets can be easily selected. The controlling device, that is, the button and the moveable flapper, has a simple structure which is easy to manufacture and to repair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Inventor: Chen-Yueh Fan
  • Publication number: 20020000484
    Abstract: A low-noise air delivery system including a nozzle plate having a plurality of tubes. Each tube acts as an independent nozzle with an external diameter (d). Each tube is spaced approximately two external diameters (2d) apart from an adjacent tube. The system also includes a hand-held portion coupled to the nozzle plate engageable to and in communication with an air supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Frederic P. Berg
  • Publication number: 20010051042
    Abstract: The present invention is a hairdryer. The hairdryer includes a housing body which has an opening at a front end thereof and an air intake at a rear end thereof. A handle is disposed at a bottom portion of the housing body. A heater and a fan are disposed within the housing body. An outer nozzle is disposed at its front end of the housing body and forming an outer air outlet opening. An inner nozzle is disposed inside the outer nozzle and forming an inner air outlet opening. The inner nozzle includes an inclined portion and a parallel portion. The inclined portion extends from a predetermined position inside the outer nozzle toward the inner air outlet opening while inclining toward a central axis of the outer nozzle. The parallel portion extends from a front end of the inclined portion toward the inner air outlet opening approximately in parallel with the central axis of the outer nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Shingo Ohmura
  • Publication number: 20010048036
    Abstract: An atomizing injector includes a metering set having a swirl chamber, a spray orifice and one or more feed slots etched in a thin plate. The swirl chamber is etched in a first side of the plate and the spray orifice is etched through a second side to the center of the swirl chamber. Fuel feed slots extend non-radially to the swirl chamber. The injector also includes integral swirler structure. The swirler structure includes a cylindrical air swirler passage, also shaped by etching, through at least one other thin plate. The cylindrical air swirler passage is located in co-axial relation to the spray orifice of the plate of the fuel metering set such that fuel directed through the spray orifice passes through the air swirler passage and swirling air is imparted to the fuel such that the fuel has a swirling component of motion. At least one air feed slot is provided in fluid communication with the air swirler passage and extends in non-radial relation thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventors: Adel B. Mansour, Rex J. Harvey, Peter Laing
  • Patent number: 6325302
    Abstract: A spray assembly for applying material to an object is provided. The assembly includes a plurality of spray nozzles each having spray openings for applying material to the object. Four nozzles are provided having two orientations each orientation with two spray widths. The assembly also includes a plurality of valves for controlling the flow of material through each of the spray openings. A manifold supports the plurality of spray nozzles and the valves and defines a feed bore and a spray bore extending between the feed bore and each of the nozzles. Water passages are integral with the manifold to regulate the temperature of the material flowing through the spray bores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Fanuc Robotics North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Guzowski, David W. Lazar, James W. Ingles
  • Patent number: 6325305
    Abstract: A fluid jetting nozzle includes a nozzle head and at least one jetting orifice in the nozzle head, the jetting orifice(s) being capable of ejecting a mixture that includes substantially spherically shaped solid particles and fluid to loosen obstructive material from a metallic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Advanced Coiled Tubing, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry George Kuhlman, Jerry W. Noles, Jr., Leslie Dale Skinner
  • Patent number: 6322009
    Abstract: A combination nozzle for applying a developer material and a washing solution material at different time intervals to a photoresist material layer disposed on a wafer is provided. The combination nozzle includes a number of developer nozzle tips connected to a developer supply line and a number of washing solution nozzle tips connected to a washing solution supply line. The developer supply line and the washing solution supply line ensure that the developer material and the washing solution material are always substantially isolated from one another. Furthermore, the developer nozzle tips and the washing solution nozzle tips are arranged so that developer material and washing solution material do not come into contact with one another. The volume of the material and the volume flow of the material can be controlled by electronically controlled valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramkumar Subramanian, Khoi A. Phan, Bharath Rangarajan, Bhanwar Singh
  • Publication number: 20010042797
    Abstract: A hand-held, portable dispensing device (i.e. a wand) is described for dispensing a curtain spray pattern of liquid which includes an elongated tubular body having an open end and a closed end. The open end can be connected to a flexible hose or the like for supplying pressurized liquid to the tubular body which has a plurality of spaced openings along its length on one side. The spacing of the discharge openings is determined by the diameter of the openings, and the ratio of the total area of the openings to the inside diameter of the tubular body is in a defined range. The openings can be in a single line or in a plurality of rows, for example, An adjustable control valve and a quick connect coupler can also be included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventor: Ross P. Shrigley
  • Publication number: 20010042799
    Abstract: There is disclosed a showerhead apparatus for radical-assisted deposition including a showerhead of a two-stair structure separated by a given distance, which has a first buffer for uniformly distributing a raw material gas and a second buffer for uniformly distributing a plasma gas, wherein a plasma is generated within the showerheads and the raw material gas sprayed into the plasma is constantly maintained, thus forming a uniform thin film on a wafer or a substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: APEX Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae Ho Kim, In Chel Shin, Sang Joon Park, Kwan Goo Rha, Sang Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 6315219
    Abstract: A fluid-atomization manifold (50) for use in a misting system (20) configured to distribute a fluid (24) and to render that fluid (24) into a mist (26) is provided. The fluid-atomization manifold (50) has an input connector (54) coupled to a connector (44) of an interface fitting (36) coupled to fluid-distribution tubing (34) of the misting system (20). The fluid-atomization manifold (50) has a plurality of output connectors (56), wherein a connector (48) of each of a plurality of fluid-atomization nozzles (46) of the misting system (20) is configured to mate with the connector (44) of the interface fitting (36) and is coupled to one of the output connectors (56) of the fluid-atomization manifold (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Nathan Palestrant
  • Publication number: 20010038039
    Abstract: An apparatus imparts movement to a fluid dispersing nozzle with a mechanism for converting rotational movement about an axis of rotation into orbital movement about the axis of rotation, and an elongate member is connectable to the mechanism at one end and is connectable to a fluid nozzle at an opposite end from the mechanism. The orbital member provides orbiting movement of the opposite end in response to rotation of the mechanism about the rotational axis, and provides stationary centered positioning of the opposite end in response to a non-rotating mechanism. A speed multiplier transmission or gearbox can be provided between the motor shaft and drive spindle if desired. A separate mixer is positionable within the member and is moveable longitudinally with respect to the member during use. The mixer includes a valve member connected to one end for movement relative to a valve seat defined by an inner surface of the cone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Carl L. Schultz, Scott Taylor
  • Patent number: 6311902
    Abstract: A nozzle for substantially laminar dispersion of gases at an angle to a central axis has a conically shaped portion and a stem portion. A chamfered bore allows a smooth entry of gas or vapor under pressure into a longitudinal bore within the stem portion which extends into the conical portion. A plurality of angularly oriented bores extend from the sloping face of the conical portion into the longitudinal bore forming sharp ridges at their intersection with the longitudinal bore, with the centerlines of the angular bores, all intersecting within the longitudinal bore. The conical portion is truncated and an axial bore extends from the truncated portion into the longitudinal bore. The diameters of the angular bores, the axial bore, and the longitudinal bore are chosen to insure the formation of sharp ridges to the exclusion of flat surfaces or lands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Michael Mueller
  • Patent number: 6302339
    Abstract: A continuously adjustable water flow control apparatus includes at least a control seat, a adjustment head, a push sleeve and an adjustment cap. A relative position between the adjusting plate and the push sleeve can be changed by adjusting the adjustment cap to press against the adjusting plate of the adjustment head. Accordingly, a stepless change of the sectional figure and area of the water channel is attainable. In addition, the use of the continuously adjustable water flow control apparatus in combination with different kinds of shower heads and rotational devices will meet different needs of the users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Hsiao-Tsung Chou
  • Publication number: 20010023901
    Abstract: A shower head having a plurality of spray modes and unique controls to allow the selection of the desired mode. The shower head includes several unique features to allow the inclusion of several different spray modes, such as wide spray, medium spray, center spray, champagne spray, high speed pulsating spray, low speed pulsating spray, and mist. A waterfall mode can be implemented. The shower head includes a flow control valve that controls the pressure of the water flow, and acts to divert water to a mode selector or to a separate spray mode, such as the mist mode. The flow control valve diverts water between the mode selector and the separate spray mode. It also allows a combination of the modes controlled by the mode selector and the separate spray mode. The shower head also includes a mode selector. The mode selector transfers or routes fluids from the flow control valve to any number of individual or a combination of flow spray mode outlets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Inventors: Jay A. Haverstraw, Joseph W. Cacka, Robin D. Harris, Robert B. Male, Gary J. Thomas, Allen Yi
  • Publication number: 20010010257
    Abstract: A plasma processing system for plasma processing of substrates such as semiconductor wafers. The system includes a plasma processing chamber, a substrate support for supporting a substrate within the processing chamber, a dielectric member having an interior surface facing the substrate support, the dielectric member forming a wall of the processing chamber, a gas injector fixed to, part of or removably mounted in an opening in the dielectric window, the gas injector including a plurality of gas outlets supplying process gas into the chamber, and an RF energy source such as a planar or non-planar spiral coil which inductively couples RF energy through the dielectric member and into the chamber to energize the process gas into a plasma state. The arrangement permits modification of gas delivery arrangements to meet the needs of a particular processing regime. In addition, compared to consumable showerhead arrangements, the use of a removably mounted gas injector can be replaced more easily and economically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Tuqiang Ni, Alex Demos
  • Patent number: 6257370
    Abstract: An apparatus for subdividing a viscous liquid conveyed by a gas flow into a plurality of component flows has first and second connecting elements aligned within a tubular casing. The first connecting element has an inflow bore which branches into a number of discharge bores. The inflow bore discharges into a distributing chamber which widens along the direction of flow. The distributing chamber terminates in a rebound face which is aligned concentrically with the inflow bore. The rebound face has inlet openings along a periphery thereof which lead into the discharge bores, which carry the component flows. The first and second connecting elements and tubular casing may be mounted on a body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: REBS Zentralschmiertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Herrmann Schwarze, Alexander Rebs
  • Patent number: 6241166
    Abstract: A shower head has a first chamber defined in part by an outer wall or body and having an entrance bush to receive a supply of water which is deflected into the first chamber by a baffle on spaced legs depending from the bush. The shower head has a second chamber comprising an upper conical wall formed with a ring of openings therein through which water can pass from the first chamber into the second chamber. The second chamber has a lower wall or spray plate with fine water outlet apertures and also has an external peripheral rim at the level of the spray plate. The second chamber is a one-piece unit in which the upper conical wall is secured to the baffle by a screw threaded bolt acting to pull the second chamber into the first chamber and clamp the peripheral rim against a sealing ring pressing on an internal annular shoulder of the outer wall or body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Purdie Elcock Limited
    Inventors: John Overington, Leonard Paul Gauntlet
  • Patent number: 6237862
    Abstract: A rotary drive sprinkler having a multiplicity of nozzles which can be changed at any time. The nozzle assembly can have a cylindrical housing having a plurality of nozzles to rotate against a cylindrical housing having at least one stream outlet opening. A nozzle assembly can have a cylindrical cavity at its outer portion receiving a flexible nozzle strip for directing flow from a nozzle housing. A nozzle sleeve, or ring, having a plurality of exit nozzles around the outside of the nozzle assembly can be rotated about an inner housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventors: Carl L. C. Kah, III, Carl L. C. Kah, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6209799
    Abstract: A shower device having a flexible, flat jet or spray disk is created, in which at least one surface zone is curved outwards and on exceeding a specific pressing in force (E) exerted thereon springs round suddenly with the curvature inwards into a space located behind it and automatically springs back to the starting position when the force is relieved. As a result of the springing or springing round, it is possible to detach lime deposits from the jet disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Hansgrohe AG
    Inventor: Werner Finkbeiner
  • Patent number: 6193165
    Abstract: The invention concerns a fluid-distributor for a substance-exchange column, the fluid-distributor comprising at least one main duct and a plurality of distributor ducts. The distributor ducts are connected for flow purposes to the main duct and are provided with fluid-discharge openings. In order to attain particularly high-quality distribution, the effective length (L) of the fluid-discharge openings is smaller than their diameter (D).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Christian Matten, Anton Moll
  • Patent number: 6116524
    Abstract: A brush and water spray system comprising, a primary head having a flat exterior section with apertures therethrough for dispensing water, a tubular interior section in a cylindrical configuration adapted to be coupled to a shower outlet tube for receiving water to be dispensed and a generally hemispherical intermediate section with a housing therewithin and a connector at the interiormost end of the inner section couplable to the shower outlet tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Thelma Janette Zapalac
  • Patent number: 6113010
    Abstract: A cleaning device of a toilet bowl having a handle tube, which is provided at one end with a head seat. The head seat is formed with a receiving area at one side and covered by a retainer. The retainer is provided with a receiving hole for receiving a perforated plate. A bolt passes through the center of the perforated plate to insert into the pillar of head seat, and a rod inserts into the socket of the of head seat from the rear of the perforated plate. The surface of the perforated plate is formed with a circular trough, which is provided with a plurality of pins engaging inside with a ring body. The surface of ring body is formed with a plurality of protuberances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Hsieh Wu-Hsiung
  • Patent number: 6113002
    Abstract: A shower device having a flexible, flat jet or spray disk is created, in which at least one surface zone is curved outwards and on exceeding a specific pressing in force (E) exerted thereon springs round suddenly with the curvature inwards into a space located behind it and automatically springs back to the starting position when the force is relieved. As a result of the springing or springing round, it is possible to detach lime deposits from the jet disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Hansgrohe AG
    Inventor: Werner Finkbeiner
  • Patent number: 6102306
    Abstract: A nozzle for spraying deicing liquid onto surfaces lies flush with surfaces to prevent obstruction of surface treatment. The nozzles may be integral nozzles formed with the surface and may have relief channels designed to spread spray into a stream or a flatter pattern by adsorption of the streaming spray to the relief channel. The nozzles may be adapted for mounting and have an alignment base. An integral check valve and a flow switch are provided in the system. Additionally, either combined with the movement of the nozzle assembly or independently, a pump is regulated to vary the substance flow and pressure to get the desired spray distance and droplet size. Different programs may drive the nozzle and pump assembly depending on the target surface and rheology of the substance under the conditions to be sprayed. The nozzle may be of composite material, stainless or other metal, cast or molded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Odin Systems International, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard J. Ask, Tom Ask
  • Patent number: 6082638
    Abstract: The present invention provides a machine that applies chemical anti-icing agents to any surface to be protected from snow and ice, i.e., driveways, walkways, rooftops, etc. More specifically, the device is affixed to stationary surfaces and permits adjustment to spray nozzles. Thus liquid chemical anti-icing agents are applied to the target surfaces by spraying the liquid in a manner intended to prevent snow and ice from forming a bond with the target surface. The device permits the permanent installation of spray nozzles on, in or near the surface intended to be protected by anti-icing agents. The device is easily maintained and left in a state of preparedness for use in the event of icing conditions. The invention provides a durable, adjustable and permanent point of attachment for spray nozzles for anti-icing purposes. The device may be surface mounted or embedded in an existing structure. Use of the device greatly increases the margin of safety for users of the driveways, sidewalks, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Odin Systems International, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard J. Ask, Tom Ask
  • Patent number: 6065693
    Abstract: A spray shower apparatus reconfigurable and adjustable for watering flowers and other plants planted in beds. The apparatus comprises a kit enabling modular assembly and enclosed within a common enclosure. The principal component of the kit is a rigid liquid conduit having at least one threaded end and a plurality of orifices disposed on the lateral wall of the conduit. The conduit has a plurality of spray nozzles attachable to the orifices of the liquid conduit. Each spray nozzle is adjustable as to direction of spray relative to the liquid conduit. Other components of the kit include a connector for connecting the liquid conduit to an external source of liquid, brackets for securing the liquid conduit to a vertical environmental surface, and an end cap for closing the distal end of the liquid conduit. Preferably, components are provided in quantities enabling a plurality of liquid conduits to be arranged in series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: John J. Lukas
  • Patent number: 6042029
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a pair of firefighting nozzles to a fire service line includes a single inlet and a pair of outlets in fluid communication with the inlet. Each outlet forms the terminal end of a generally tubular arm whose inner diameter is substantially similar to that of the inlet. One arm includes a joint, whereby the one arm may be selectively articulated relative to the other arm from a first position in parallel relation to the other arm to a second position forming an angle of up to about 90 degrees with respect to the other arm. Preferably, the arms are of dissimilar length, with the articulatable arm extending to a point farther removed from the inlet than the other arm when the articulatable arm is in its first position relative to the other arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Marvin E. Massey
  • Patent number: 6016969
    Abstract: A laminated array of pressure swirl atomizers forms spray plate that produces a fine mist or spray of liquid. The atomizers may be arrayed in a custom manner that may be made application specific for greater efficiency. The spray plate is typically formed of a plurality of laminated plates. In a preferred embodiment, a plate adjacent to a fluid reservoir provides an array of aperture sets, each aperture set having two or three apertures that allow liquid to pass from the pressurized reservoir through the first layer. The second plate provides a corresponding array of swirlers, each swirler providing at least two swirl feed ports to tangentially project liquid into the swirl chambers contained in a third plate. A fourth plate provides a corresponding array of discharge apertures, which release the liquid in an atomized state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventors: Charles Tilton, Donald E Tilton
  • Patent number: 6007002
    Abstract: A hand-held shower comprises a handle through the interior of which the water supply to the shower head is effected, the connection fitting for the shower hose is held in an axially displaceable manner: in a first axial position, the connection fitting is freely rotatable relative to the handle so that the shower hose connected to the hand-held shower is prevented from twisting. In the second axial position of the connection fitting, the free rotatability relative to the handle is suspended by a form closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventor: Roland Huber
  • Patent number: 5992769
    Abstract: Microchannels for conducting and expelling a fluid are embedded in a surface of a silicon substrate. A channel seal is made of plural cross structures formed integrally with the silicon substrate. The cross structures are arranged sequentially over each channel, each cross structure having a chevron shape. The microchannel is sealed by oxidizing at least partially the cross structures, whereby the spaces therebetween are filled. A dielectric seal which overlies the thermally oxidized cross structures forms a complete seal and a substantially planar top surface to the silicon substrate. The dielectric seal is formed of a low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) dielectric layer. The channel is useful in the production of an ink jet print head, and has a polysilicon heater overlying the dielectric seal. A current passing through the heater causes a corresponding increase in the temperature of the ink in the microchannel, causing same to be expelled therefreom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Michigan
    Inventors: Kensall D. Wise, Jingkuang Chen
  • Patent number: 5992770
    Abstract: A burner for a gas grill is inexpensive and durable. The burner may be made of an inexpensive sheet steel, but the steel is fully porcelainized or otherwise treated to resist corrosion. The complete coverage of the porcelain is accomplished by making the burner in two halves, and porcelainizing all surfaces of the two halves. The two halves are subsequently assembled into a single burner. Each half has flanges extending therefrom, and a channel engages the flanges to hold them together. Screws or other fastening means can be used to secure the channel to the flanges. In one embodiment of the invention the channel is integrally formed with one of the burner halves. One or both halves of the burner may also be made of a durable metal without the anticorrosive treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: J. Manning Culpepper
  • Patent number: 5984665
    Abstract: A gas fired burner is provided for use in applications such as chemical process furnaces for process heaters in refineries and chemical plants, and the like. The burner is provided with a plurality of fuel gas inlets for enabling manipulation of the flame shape and combustion characteristics of the burner, based upon variation in the distribution of fuel gas between the various fuel gas inlets.A combination pilot and flame holder for a burner, such as may be used in process heaters and furnaces for refineries, chemical plants and the like, is also provided. The pilot is mounted atop a supply pipe for premixed fuel and air, which is positioned in the bore of a burner quarl. The pilot includes a radially outwardly extending flange which is upstream of a surface combustion flame holder for establishing a radially directed surface combustion flame.The present invention also provides a low-emissions burner and pilot system for use in such process heaters and furnaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Gas Research Institute
    Inventors: Peter J. Loftus, Charles E. Benson, Roberto O. Pellizzari, Richard R. Martin
  • Patent number: 5961047
    Abstract: A liquid spraying system for maintaining a predetermined amount of moisture in an environment, particularly suited for use on produce displayed in a produce display. The system operates in a manner that purposely introduces air into liquid flowing through the system to ultimately spray a fine mist into an environment. The use of a venturi injector in a preferred embodiment allows for the introduction of air into the system while eliminating the need for an added air compressor. The uniform mixture of air and water then flows through a liquid pump, and alternatively an expansion tank, and can be delivered to one or more nozzle assemblies at a predetermined pressure. The air liquid mixture exits nozzles in mist form that has small liquid droplets forming a fine mist which is propelled outward from the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Itamar Kleinberger
  • Patent number: 5957392
    Abstract: Nozzle for a liquid applicator which may be employed to apply a liquid, especially a sprayable herbicide are provided. The nozzles comprise a body having a first end, second end, and relative central horizontal axis. The body defines a bore which extends from the first end to a bore wall which is proximate the second end. The second end defines at least three exit openings which are spaced adjacent from one another. Each exit opening extends from the bore wall out through the second end at an angle between about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees relative to the horizontal central axis. Each one of the exit openings intersects a corresponding deflection surface which are formed in the second end. The first end is adapted to mechanically couple with an spray applicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: David Pincus
  • Patent number: 5921764
    Abstract: A combustor for a heat engine, such as a Stirling cycle heat engine, incorporating a number of nozzles mounted between a pair of plates. Fuel is introduced from above the plates into mixing chambers within the nozzles. Combustion inlet air passing between the plates is introduced into the mixing chambers and create a swirling motion in the fuel/air mixture. The fuel/air mixture passes through an expansion chamber before being discharged to a common combustion chamber. The combustor has been designed to allow the use of high temperature combustion inlet air and to have low NOx emission characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Stirling Thermal Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Marchionna, Matthew J. Brusstar
  • Patent number: 5920289
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a reflector assembly in a satellite system including a reflector and a layer of insulation. The reflector includes a reflecting surface and a heater assembly embedded therein. The heater assembly is disposed on a side of the reflector opposite the reflecting surface. The layer of insulation covers the heater assembly and is disposed on a side of the heater assembly opposite the reflecting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: MSX, Inc.
    Inventor: Thaddeus M. Jones
  • Patent number: 5884849
    Abstract: Disclosed is a nozzle for lubrication, which comprises a substantially oval metallic mounting plate having a bolt-inserting hole at one end of the mounting plate and a plug body-inserting hole with plural protruded pieces at the other end of the mounting plate. A plug body made of a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic is insert-molded so that the protruded pieces of the plug body-inserting hole are embedded in a flange portion formed at a lower portion of the plug body and nozzle holes with different phases are at an upper portion of the plug body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Aoyama Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaaki Ide, Hiromichi Mizuno
  • Patent number: 5871158
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for preparing devices having hollow metallic microchannels on a surface of a planar substrate. More specifically, the present invention is directed to methods for preparing devices having surface metallic microchannels with a range of widths and heights selected to provide efficient flow characteristics and having thick and, thus, strong and durable channel walls. In addition, the methods of the present invention are compatible with standard integrated circuit fabrication techniques and, because the microchannels are formed upon the surface of the substrate without degrading the surface planarity, these techniques can be used to incorporate electronic circuitry into the microchannel-containing devices. For purposes of this application, the term "microchannel" refers to enclosed or partially enclosed channels having heights within the range from about 2 to about 200 micrometers (.mu.m) and widths within the range of about 10 micrometers to about 2 millimeters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: The University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventor: A. Bruno Frazier
  • Patent number: 5860602
    Abstract: A laminated array of pressure swirl atomizers forms spray plate that produces a fine mist or spray of liquid. The atomizers may be arrayed in a custom manner that may be made application specific for greater efficiency. The spray plate is typically formed of a plurality of laminated plates. In a preferred embodiment, a plate adjacent to a fluid reservoir provides an array of aperture sets, each aperture set having two or three apertures that allow liquid to pass from the pressurized reservoir through the first layer. The second plate provides a corresponding array of swirlers, each swirler providing at least two swirl feed ports to tangentially project liquid into the swirl chambers contained in a third plate. A fourth plate provides a corresponding array of discharge apertures, which release the liquid in an atomized state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Inventors: Charles L Tilton, Donald E Tilton
  • Patent number: 5853130
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a fluid dispersion system such as for use in a personal shower. Groups of nozzles on a single showerhead are separately activated and regulated by corresponding valves. Each valve is controlled from a remote panel to provide an appropriate flow of water. A position detection system determines the relative position of a body with respect to the showerhead. The remote panel receives data from the position detection system and adjusts the valves to ensure the user remains in a desired flow of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Inventor: Robert S. Ellsworth