With Signals, Indicators, Recorders, Meters Or Changeable Exhibitors Patents (Class 239/71)
  • Publication number: 20090039172
    Abstract: The improved sprayer system of the present invention utilizes a docking drogue and probe assembly to quickly and easily allow refilling of the sprayer tanks with a material from an enlarged nurse tank. The coupling of the drogue and probe allows for fluid communication, as well as electronic transmission of material data to a processor in the prime mover. This processor software also receives input regarding field data and crop data, as well as feedback data from the sprayer regarding the material application. A GPS system on the prime mover allows for tracking the spraying operation, while a time stamp in the processor software tracks the timing of the spraying operation. This system thus allows for accurate accountability and traceability for the use of materials during the spraying operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Michael T. Vickers, Steve A. Junge
  • Patent number: 7487925
    Abstract: A system for automating the growing of crops, such as grapevines. Combinations of data from sensors local to a vineyard, and from optional remote stations and sensors, is combined with a control system to accurately control the dispensing of water and chemicals such as insecticides, disease prevention fungicides and fertilizers. The materials are dispensed through a multiple channel conduit which allows conflicting, or incompatible, types of materials to be transported through a common assembly. Sensors are attached to the conduit so that the placement of sensors can occur simultaneously with the laying of the conduit. This approach also ensures correct placement and spacing of the sensors with respect to each plant, or plant area, to be monitored and treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Inventor: Paul W. Skinner
  • Publication number: 20090008472
    Abstract: Control devices and the associated methods for programming and using such devices for irrigation systems are described. The control devices contain an interactive user interface that allows a step-through programming method that can be initiated upon first use or reset of the control device. The user interface is simple and easily understood and be easily toggled between one part of the programming and any other part, allowing immediate modification of any part of the program. The user interface also contains quick set options in the user interface. The control devices therefore have a gentle learning curve and the programming is simple and easily navigated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Chadwick Loring Wilson
  • Patent number: 7461798
    Abstract: A collector ring for use with a center pivot irrigation system which permits the mounting of a communication device above the span structure. The collector ring also includes a monitoring device which senses the angle or rotation of the span structure with respect to the fixed center pivot structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Inventors: Craig S. Malsam, Donald M. Salazar, Mark G. Schechinger, Joseph F. Novotny
  • Patent number: 7458521
    Abstract: An irrigation unit (20) for irrigating an area (12) with a fluid (19) from a fluid source (18) includes a housing (200), a nozzle (220), one or more electronic components (221), and a unit control system (240). The nozzle (220) is directly or indirectly secured to the housing (200) and the nozzle (220) is in fluid communication with the fluid source (18) so that fluid (19) from the fluid source (18) is transferred to the nozzle (220). The unit control system (240) can include an electronic processor (240B) and/or an electronic storage device (240C). The unit control system (240) is in electrical communication with the electronic components (221). The unit control system (240) can process and/or store electronic data generated by one or more electronic components (221). Further, the unit control system (240) can precisely control one or more electronic components (221).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Norman Ivans
  • Patent number: 7458524
    Abstract: A spray nozzle assembly includes a nozzle tip and a nozzle tip holder. The holder can be rotationally adjusted so as to change the spray pattern orientation for a nozzle tip that produces an asymmetrical spray pattern. The nozzle holder includes a keyway feature such as different sized holes that provide an indication to the operator of the nozzle pattern orientation. The holes may also be used in combination with a tool or key that allows the nozzle holder to be adjusted for a particular spray pattern orientation. The tool may optionally include a feature that indicates to an operator the spray pattern orientation. The nozzle holder may also include a recess for retaining the nozzle tip at an angle relative to an axis of the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Vincent A. Prieto, Deborah Kosovich
  • Patent number: 7455245
    Abstract: A diffusion device includes a housing having a battery disposed therein and adapted to receive a replaceable fluid reservoir for holding a fluid, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a wick for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. The diffusion device further includes a piezoelectric element energized by a power source for vibrating a perforated orifice plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the wick, wherein the piezoelectric element develops vibratory movement to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the perforated discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control circuit and light emitting diode (“LED”) are disposed in the housing, wherein the control circuit energizes the LED at a particular frequency when the dispenser is active and a voltage developed by the battery is above a threshold voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Gene Sipinski, Jeffrey L. Harwig, Murthy S. Munagavalasa, Gopal P. Ananth
  • Patent number: 7445163
    Abstract: A suck back valve comprises an ON/OFF valve, a suck back mechanism which includes a second piston connected to a second diaphragm to make displacement integrally and a second spring member fastened to the second piston, a load sensor which detects a load applied by a resilient force of the second spring member corresponding to a pressure of a pilot pressure to be supplied, and a second control unit which detects loads before and after displacement of the second diaphragm by using the load sensor to calculate a displacement amount of the second diaphragm based on a difference between the detected loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Fukano, Tadashi Uchino
  • Patent number: 7438239
    Abstract: A fire-fighting piercing nozzle device having two chambers for extinguishing and monitoring fires within a storage unit. The fire-fighting piercing nozzle device includes a dispensing system for dispensing fire-fighting materials onto a fire, a temperature measuring system for measuring the temperature within a storage unit to determine the location of a fire, and a combustion gas extraction system for extracting a sample of combustible gas from a storage unit to determine the location of a fire or to determine whether the fire has been properly extinguished. The fire-fighting piercing nozzle device includes a nozzle tip, a plurality of extenders (if necessary), and a head connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: The Southern Company
    Inventor: Damon Eric Woodson
  • Publication number: 20080251603
    Abstract: A nozzle for use with a pressurized fluid delivery apparatus having an output device for discharging pressurized fluid includes a body portion configured to be coupled to the output device, an orifice supported by the body portion and through which the pressurized fluid is dischargeable, and a tactile indicator coupled to the body portion and configured to provide tactile feedback to a user to indicate a discharge characteristic of the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: BRIGGS & STRATTON POWER PRODUCTS GROUP, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel D. Monty
  • Publication number: 20080223952
    Abstract: A system for the data management of a thermal spraying apparatus with a spray gun (2) is made available, wherein the system includes a decentrally arranged device (1) with a memory (4), in order to detect process parameters and to store data of the thermal spraying apparatus and wherein the data contain identification and operating data of the thermal spraying apparatus and the device (1) additionally includes a bus interface (6) for the transmitting of the data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: Sulzer Metco AG
    Inventors: Heinz Wernli, Andreas Kilchenmann, Urs Ruedi
  • Publication number: 20080223951
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a handheld element and a remote control. The handheld element has a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal flow conduit. The internal flow conduit extends between the proximal and distal ends. The internal flow conduit is configured to be in fluid communication with a hose. The remote control is integrated with the handheld element. The remote control is configured to transmit wireless data signals for controlling a device associated with the hose. The device may include a reel, a valve system, a valve unit, and/or a plurality of valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: Great Stuff, Inc.
    Inventors: James B.A. Tracey, James E. Burke, Roy Paul Prosise, Christian Okonsky
  • Publication number: 20080191050
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) adapted to disseminate a volatile liquid (4), such as a fragrance, into an ambient atmosphere for a desired period of time, the apparatus comprising a reservoir (2) having a single opening (3) to the atmosphere, this opening being closed by a permeable membrane (5) not in contact with the liquid in the reservoir when the apparatus is in operation, the membrane having a thickness of from 0.1-5 mm and being capable of absorbing a quantity of liquid that will evaporate over the desired period when the membrane is brought into direct contact with the liquid. The membrane may also act as a end-of-life indicator by changing colour as the liquid is disseminated. The apparatus is an easy-to-use, spill-proof device, with the ability to control the amount of liquid in an atmosphere and to prevent habituation to the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: GIVAUDAN SA
    Inventors: Philippe Blondeau, Alice Bresson Boil
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7392956
    Abstract: A rotary sprinkler having an adjustable arc segment whose angular extent and absolute direction relative to the ground are represented by an arc indicator, which arc indicator may comprise a band whose visible length represents the angular extent and whose position on the sprinkler points to the direction. The sprinkler may have the arc segment adjusted by a movable arc limit stop that is coupled to a toggle member only at drive reversal, and the sprinkler may be converted to full circle operation by raising the arc limit stop relative to a cooperating trip tab. A buckling spring assembly used to shift the drive comprises a compression spring held between two spaced pivot members, and the drive can be built in continuous and intermittent drive versions by replacing a few normal rotary gears with multilated gears. A friction clutch having asymmetric teeth for smooth operation prevents damage to the drive during forced nozzle rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Jeff McKenzie, Chad Philip McCormick, Peter Janku
  • Patent number: 7387038
    Abstract: A particle generating system includes an aerosol generator, an ejector diluter, and an aerosol diluter. The ejector diluter receives the generated aerosol and dilutes the aerosol to an expected raw concentration. The aerosol diluter further dilutes the aerosol to a concentration in the range of 0% to 100% of the expected raw concentration. The aerosol diluter includes a mini cyclone for diluting the aerosol. The particle generating system may be configured to provide variable concentrations of monodisperse or polydisperse aerosols for instrument calibration. The system may provide constant concentrations in the range of 0% to 100% of the raw concentration. The mini cyclone makes the system compact, and the system may be portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Horiba Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Qiang Wei, Ichiro Asano
  • Patent number: 7387264
    Abstract: A spraying system is provided including a spray gun and a spray nozzle. The spray gun has a discharge end. A locating pin is arranged on the discharge end of the spray gun. The spray nozzle is selectively mountable on the discharge end of the spray gun. The spray nozzle has a discharge orifice configured to produce a asymmetrically distributed fluid discharge pattern wherein the location of maximum fluid discharge is offset from the center of the fluid discharge pattern. The spray nozzle has an alignment notch extending along an outer surface of the spray nozzle. The locating pin is arranged on the spray gun and the alignment notch is arranged on the spray nozzle such that when the spray nozzle is mounted on the discharge end of the spray gun in a predetermined orientation the locating pin extends into the alignment slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Spraying Systems Co.
    Inventor: Richard Kassanits
  • Publication number: 20080061167
    Abstract: A pressure washer wand assembly configured to discharge pressurized fluid in a changeable spray pattern. The wand assembly comprises a tube portion having an input end and an output end. A nozzle assembly has a plurality of selectable nozzles, and the nozzle assembly is disposed near the output end and configured to discharge the pressurized fluid in a spray pattern. A nozzle indicator is spaced from the output end and indicates a spray characteristic of a selected nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Neil Gansebom
  • Patent number: 7328853
    Abstract: There is provided a turret member for a reversible airless spray tip unit having an easily readable identification device or indicia for the particular turret member imprinted on a tag or label attached to a securing device or attaching ring secured to the handle of the turret member. A plurality of turret members are carried on a keychain by their attachment rings for their ease of accessibility to the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: TriTech Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Danuta H. Carey, John Plocic, Christopher M. Walsh
  • Publication number: 20080011872
    Abstract: A new and improved combination pressure gauge and relative humidity indicator for use upon a compressed air or gas too, such as, for example, a paint spray gun, comprises a housing within which a pressure transducer, for determining the pressure level of the incoming compressed air or gas, and a humidity sensor, for determining the relative humidity of the incoming compressed air or gas, are disposed and contained. A first end portion of the housing has a first coupling mounted thereon for connection to an inlet port coupling of the paint spray gun, while a second end portion of the housing has a second coupling mounted thereon for connection to a compressed air or gas line of a compressed air or gas supply source. In this manner, the combination pressure gauge and relative humidity indicator can be readily incorporated within the fluid flow line of the compressed air or gas so as to be separably and independently useable with any compressed air or gas tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: Mark E. Charpie
  • Patent number: 7306167
    Abstract: An automatic mist-sprayer system comprising a control unit having electronic circuitry adapted to activate the sprayer for a predetermined interval in response to a sensed ambient light condition of desired intensity and duration. The system desirably further includes an electrical power supply and a plurality of spaced-apart sprayer heads. A preferred utility for the system of the invention is spraying dilute solutions of insecticide or insect repellent during the periods of significant insect activity that typically occur around dusk and dawn. Manual overrides and a remote receiving unit are also disclosed for use of the system at times other than dusk and dawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: NCH Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Thomas Colarusso, Dale Vilmer Kiplinger, Michael Lee Paulson, Robert Clarence Pearce, III
  • Patent number: 7296760
    Abstract: A valve for controlling the flow of a gas or mixture of gases through a passageway in a coating material dispensing device includes first and second valve portions. The first valve portion is adjustable with respect to the second valve portion selectively to adjust the flow through the passageway. One of the first and second valve portions includes a first engagement member and the other of the first and second valve portions includes a second engagement member. Engagement of the first and second engagement members indicates the relative orientation of the first and second valve portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Alexander, Michael C. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 7243864
    Abstract: A radio controlled liquid monitor, capable of rotation about a vertical axis through an infinite arc is disclosed. A rotatable body is rotatably mounted onto a base element for rotation about a vertical axis, and a discharge elbow is rotatably mounted on the rotatable body for rotation about a horizontal axis. A horizontal drive unit and a vertical drive unit operate on gears on the rotatable body and the elbow, to enable the rotatable body to rotate about a vertical axis, and the discharge elbow to rotate about a horizontal axis. A control module is attached to the rotatable body which receives radio control commands from an operator via a portable transmitter apparatus or a fixed transmitter apparatus. The control module and drive unit receive electrical power and control signals through a rotating connector positioned within the base element and rotatable body so that the control module and drive units receive electrical power and control signals regardless of the rotational position of the rotatable body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Elkhart Brass Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Trapp, Raymond A. Boissonneault
  • 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: 7195181
    Abstract: The invention is an improvement in a disc and a handle for the receiver section of a fire fighting nozzle. Together, this disc and handle facilitate the opening and closing of a fire nozzle assembly, for permitting and preventing, respectively, the discharge of fire extinguishing fluids from that nozzle. The improvement of the present invention results from the use of a one-piece disc with generally resilient arms, and from the use of a plastic handle with a generally oblong shaped slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Task Force Tips Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Steingass, David E. Kim, William I. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7191964
    Abstract: A fire-fighting monitor for directing the flow of fluid from a fluid source includes a base, which is adapted to connect to a fluid source, and a monitor housing. The monitor housing includes an inlet and an outlet, with the inlet releasably mounted on the base and for receiving fluid through the base. The outlet is in fluid communication with the inlet for discharging fluid from the housing. A rotatable connection is provided between the inlet and the base. The inlet is rotatable about the base at the rotatable connection about a first axis. A drive mechanism is associated with the rotatable connection for rotating the inlet about the base at the rotatable connection. The monitor further includes a control system for selectively actuating the drive mechanism and includes a receiver for receiving an input signal from a transmitter remote from the monitor. The control system actuates the drive mechanism in response to the receiver receiving the input signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: James M Trapp
  • Patent number: 7188781
    Abstract: During a liquid spray pattern detection procedure, the sensor (50, 52) is operable to detect the presence or absence of an edge of the dispensed liquid spray pattern. The nozzle (18) of the liquid dispensing system is moved to a predetermined position (A) relative to the sensor (50, 52) to determine the presence or absence of the spray pattern and is then moved to a second predetermined position (B) relative to the sensor (50, 52) to again determine the presence or absence of the spray pattern. Based on these determinations, the width of the spray pattern can be verified. This provides a quick means to verify that the width of the dispensed pattern is within certain tolerances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Reighard, Kenneth Espenschied, William E. Donges, Jacques Mycke
  • Patent number: 7182145
    Abstract: A water bucket system having a water bucket is provided. The water bucket system comprises computer controlled loading of the water bucket from a water source, partial drop control means for controlling the drop of water from the water bucket onto a desired location, and variable flow rate control means for varying the flow of water from the water bucket. A water bucket for carrying water is also provided. The water bucket comprises a main support cable, a spreader plate secured to the main support cable, a plurality of secondary support cables secured to the spreader plate, a plurality of equally spaced webbing straps secured to the secondary support cables, a fabric envelope secured to the webbing straps, and a compression hoop secured to the webbing straps and the fabric envelope, and a valve secured to the fabric envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Aerial Firefighting Specialists
    Inventors: Duane Allan Powers, Timothy James Mikus, Cody Lee Barritt
  • Patent number: 7182271
    Abstract: A flow sensor for detecting liquid flow generated by a spray device is non-invasive and capable of responding to rapid changes in the flow. The flow sensor includes a light emitter and a light detector, which may be disposed adjacent the liquid outlet of the spray device and oriented such that a light beam projected by the light emitter is aimed at the spray generated by the spray device and reflected by the spray into the light detector. The light detector senses the reflected light and generates an output indicative of the presence of the flow from the spray device. A deviation of the spray from the intended spray axis may also be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Spraying Systems Co.
    Inventor: James Cesak
  • Patent number: 7175104
    Abstract: An apparatus for spraying chemicals in a forestry environment includes a back pack supported reservoir for containing such chemicals and a variable speed pump for urging the chemicals from the reservoir through a rearwardly oriented spraying unit. Positional and delivery rate monitoring equipment may also be incorporated in the design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Woodlands Specialists, Inc.
    Inventor: Leigh B. Allen, IV
  • Patent number: 7121477
    Abstract: This above ground sprinkler system for a water supply provides a main supply hose having an inlet connected to the water supply and an outlet. A main valve is disposed between bib end of the hose and the water supply. A central station including a water supply inlet is connected to the main supply hose outlet and a plurality of hose outlets, each having an associated flow control valve, supplies water to sprinklers, or similar devices at the outer end of hoses which are connected at their inner ends to the outlets. A control system for directing the water supply to the individual hose outlets is provided including a timer. A relief valve is provided for draining water from the main supply hose and a backflow preventor valve is provided for preventing back-siphonage into the water supply. A pressure actuated warning alert system is provided to indicated venting failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Michael A. Noelke
  • Patent number: 7100849
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for applying road marking material to a pavement surface. The apparatus includes a vehicle having a holographic sight and at least one road marking material applicator mounted thereon. In accordance with the method, an operator of the vehicle steers the vehicle to a desired position on the pavement surface based upon aiming information observable through the holographic sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: M-E Companies, Inc. of Wisconsin
    Inventors: Kevin D. Bailey, Keith R. Bauer
  • Patent number: 7097113
    Abstract: An irrigation unit (20) for irrigating an area (12) with a fluid (19) from a fluid source (18) includes a housing (200), a nozzle (220), an electronic component (221), and a power generator (230). The nozzle (220) is directly or indirectly secured to the housing (200) and the nozzle (220) is in fluid communication with the fluid source (18) so that fluid (19) from the fluid source (18) is transferred to the nozzle (220). The electronic component (221) is directly or indirectly secured to the housing (200). The power generator (230) generates electrical energy that is transferred to the electronic component (221). The power generator (230) directly transfers at least a portion of the electrical energy to the electronic component (221) of the irrigation unit (20). The electronic component (221) can be a power storage unit (222) for storing electrical energy for use by the irrigation unit (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Norman Ivans
  • Patent number: 7083124
    Abstract: The invention relates to a spray gun with a handle part (3) comprising a safety switch (6). A nozzle tube (1) is connected on one end of said handle and a feed line (2) is connected to the other end thereof. Said spray gun, which can be actuated in a contactless manner by means of an actuating element (5) and a switch surface (4), is characterised in that the switch surface (4) contains an emitting and receiving unit, whereby the active area thereof is disposed in the antenna field (8) of the switch surface (4) and is connected to an evaluating device (7) which is in permanent active communication with the actuating element (5), which contains an electronic circuit, and which authorises control of the feed supply of the media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Hammelmann Maschinenfabrik GmbH
    Inventors: Christoph Bednorz, Michael Jarchau, Manfred Reimann, Paul Schöning
  • Patent number: 7080695
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fire extinguisher, in particular, to a fire extinguisher with an observation window formed in it, allowing to observe inside thereof so that one can easily confirm with naked eyes whether the extinguishing agent filled in the main body of the fire extinguisher is of prescribed quantity, or the extinguishing agent filled in is in an intact state, i.e. not hardened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Korea Safety.com., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jong-gi Gwak
  • Patent number: 7077336
    Abstract: The present invention refers to an information-displaying unit (1) which has a body of a determined geometrical shape internally with an illumination system having in the narrower portions thereof (12) an arrangement for installation of water atomizing nozzles of a body climatization system, and a pedestal (14) to house the components of said system. The right side portion (10) and the left side portion (10?) of the information-displaying unit (1) have an arrangement for installation of an information-displaying device (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Gilles François Dominique d'Ornano
  • Patent number: 7066218
    Abstract: The present invention provides an automated insect control system. The system utilizes a container tank, a canned pump, distribution system, and a programmable digital timer to allow a user to control the times per day and the duration in which to apply insecticide to an area. A remote control is provided which permits a user to commence and terminate spraying of insecticide as the need arises without resorting to reprogramming of the spraying schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: TMC Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: John Fleming, Eileen Fleming
  • Patent number: 7055762
    Abstract: The invention relates to an injection valve in which the movable valve parts and the valve seat (4) form the electrodes of a capacitor that is connected in an electric circuit, the capacity of said capacitor changing with the valve lift of the closing element. According to the invention, the valve seat (4) is configured in the form of an electrically conductive nozzle body (2) that is connected to the electric circuit and the closing element is configured in the form of a valve needle (5) that is connected to the electric circuit by its end surface opposite the valve seat (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wolfgang Gerber, Uwe Leuteritz, Martin Neumaier, Jörg Wonesch
  • Patent number: 7048204
    Abstract: An irrigation controller (200) receives temperature data, and at least partly derives an estimated solar radiation value from the temperature data. A regression model stored in a memory (220) of the irrigation controller (200) operates upon a data point from the estimated solar radiation to estimate an evapotranspiration rate, which is used to affect an irrigation schedule executed by the controller (200). The regression model is preferably based upon a comparison of historical ETo values against corresponding historical environmental values, with the data advantageously spanning a time period of at least two days, and more preferably at least one month. Data from one or more environmental factors may also be used, including especially estimated solar radiation, temperature, wind speed, humidity, and soil moisture, and so forth. Values relating the environmental factor(s) may enter the controller from a local sensor (240), a distal signal source, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Aqua Conserve, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Addink, Sylvan Addink
  • Patent number: 7044404
    Abstract: A fluid delivery device for supplying fluids, particularly automotive fluids supplied to fluid reservoirs. To attain this, a vessel configured to hold a liquid includes a pressurized gas inlet configured to receive gas into the vessel through a passageway in an integral handle upon actuation of a handle-mounted trigger. Liquid is displaced from the vessel by the gas. In an embodiment, the trigger includes a stem having a solid portion and a hollow portion, and actuation of the trigger aligns the hollow portion with the passageway such that gas may flow. Liquid flows through a hose extending from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Michael A. Kricheldorf
  • Patent number: 7040546
    Abstract: A system for positioning a spray apparatus relative to a surface, in which the spray apparatus directs a liquid coating such as paint toward the surface for applying the liquid to the surface in a spray pattern. A light beam emitter is interconnected with the spray apparatus, and emits a light beam in a predetermined orientation relative to the spray pattern such that the light beam strikes the surface in a center defined by the spray pattern when the spray apparatus is positioned a predetermined distance from the surface. The light beam is oriented such that the distance of the spray apparatus corresponds to a distance providing optimal application of the coating to the surface, to minimize waste and overspray. The light beam emitter may be engaged with the spray apparatus by a releasable mounting arrangement, such that the light beam emitter can be selectively mounted to the spray apparatus. The light beam is emitted from a light beam emitter housing, such as a laser generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Laser Touch and Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Horan, Christopher M. Horan, Scott J. Horan
  • Patent number: 7032832
    Abstract: A spraying system is provided including a spray gun and a spray nozzle. The spray gun has a discharge end. A locating pin is arranged on the discharge end of the spray gun. The spray nozzle is selectively mountable on the discharge end of the spray gun. The spray nozzle has a discharge orifice configured to produce a asymmetrically distributed fluid discharge pattern wherein the location of maximum fluid discharge is offset from the center of the fluid discharge pattern. The spray nozzle has an alignment notch extending along an outer surface of the spray nozzle. The locating pin is arranged on the spray gun and the alignment notch is arranged on the spray nozzle such that when the spray nozzle is mounted on the discharge end of the spray gun in a predetermined orientation the locating pin extends into the alignment slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Spraying Systems Co.
    Inventor: Richard Kassanits
  • Patent number: 7017838
    Abstract: A spray gun having a gun body; a nozzle assembly arranged on the gun body; a compressed air supply channel located in the gun body, controlled by a valve assembly, a regulator for adjusting the supply of the spray material, an actuating element for actuating the valve assembly) and the regulator and a pressure measuring device. A pressure measuring device, resistant to dirt, that contains a pressure sensor integrated into the gun body and is connected to the compressed air supply channel via a capillary (43) located within the gun body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Sata-Farbspritztechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Ewald Schmon
  • Patent number: 6994269
    Abstract: A water supply device includes a pipe connected between a water reservoir and a connector which has an opening defined through a wall thereof. A mouth mount has a first end connected to a valve which is rotatably inserted in the connector. The valve includes a hole defined in a wall thereof and the hole can be adjusted to communicate with the opening by rotating the mouth mount. A slit is defined through a second end of the mouth mount so that the user may deform the slit into a hole to suck water from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Taiwan Vertex Production Corp.
    Inventor: Chien-Ping Lien
  • Patent number: 6978944
    Abstract: There is provided a reversible spray tip unit for an airless spray gun having an axially rotatable cylindrically shaped turret member with the spray tip nozzle arranged in a diametric fluid bore therein, the turret member being disposed in a complementary shaped bore of a housing and arranged transverse to the flow of paint, and a saddle seal received axially in the housing and having a cylindrically shaped sealing face mating with the cylindrical shape of the turret member at the diametric fluid bore housing the spray tip nozzle. Upon assembly of the disassembled reversible spray tip unit, the saddle seal is quickly inserted into the housing and accurately oriented so that its sealing face is aligned with the cylindrically shaped bore in the housing for the turret member by means of an insertion/orientation tool which is adapted to be keyed to the fluid bore of the saddle seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: American Products Company
    Inventors: Danuta H. Carey, Christopher M. Walsh
  • Patent number: 6966500
    Abstract: A remote controlled scent dispensing device includes a housing that has a first wall, a second wall and a peripheral wall that extends between and is attached to the first and second walls. The peripheral wall has a peripheral break therein such that the housing is divided into a first portion and a second portion. A moving assembly is mounted in the housing and is adapted for selectively moving the first portion abutting against or positioned away from the second portion. An actuator apparatus is adapted for remotely turning on the moving assembly and selectively moving the first portion with respect to the second portion. A coupler is attached to the housing for selectively coupling the housing to a tree limb. A scent dispensing member is positioned within the housing at a juncture of the first and second portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Richard D. Kelley
  • Patent number: 6945471
    Abstract: A rotary sprinkler having an adjustable arc segment whose angular extent and absolute direction relative to the ground are represented by an arc indicator, which arc indicator may comprise a band whose visible length represents the angular extent and whose position on the sprinkler points to the direction. The sprinkler may have the arc segment adjusted by a movable arc limit stop that is coupled to a toggle member only at drive reversal, and the sprinkler may be converted to full circle operation by raising the arc limit stop relative to a cooperating trip tab. A buckling spring assembly used to shift the drive comprises a compression spring held between two spaced pivot members, and the drive can be built in continuous and intermittent drive versions by replacing a few normal rotary gears with multilated gears. A friction clutch having asymmetric teeth for smooth operation prevents damage to the drive during forced nozzle rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Jeff R. McKenzie, Peter Janku, Rebecca R. Lichte, Chad P. McCormick
  • Patent number: 6944523
    Abstract: The present invention provides a recording node (100) at a consummer site that is used for the receiving, storing, determining and/or sending of utility commodity information. The recording node (100) is an integral part of networks (370) or can access networks (370) for the receiving and transmitting of information. The recording node (100) is part of a network process control system (300) that includes other nodes, such as a controller (200), computer (320), monitor (330), display (340) and communication node (360). The recording node (100) receives data on utility commodity flow rates, commodity pressure and environmental factors; stores the data; performs determinations on the data; and sends utility commodity information over the network (370) to consumers (380) and/or third parties (381). The utility commodity may be water, electricity and/or gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Aqua Conserve, Inc.
    Inventors: John Addink, Sylvan Addink
  • Patent number: 6935575
    Abstract: The invention concerns a spraying device including a first assembly provided with a spray nozzle and a second assembly incorporating means for controlling the first assembly. The first assembly is connected to the second assembly through a wireless communication system, for example by radio. The invention is applicable to hand-held powder-coating guns and sprayers associated with a multiaxial machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Eisenmann France Sarl
    Inventors: Adrien Lacchia, Flavien Dobrowolski
  • Patent number: 6915965
    Abstract: An air delivery system, wherein the air delivery system is coupled to a hose delivering water or fire-extinguishing foam, for providing air to emergency workers and disaster victims. The system includes a high-pressure air hose coupled at one end to an air-supply source and adapted to be coupled at a plurality of outlets along the delivery system to bottles capable of containing pressurized air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Dave Siebert