With Spray Material Quantity Or Flow Indicating Means (e.g., Sight Gauge) Patents (Class 239/74)
  • Patent number: 8309021
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to corrosion management systems designed to deliver corrosion protection and/or the management of corrosion to a top portion of an enclosure (e.g., storage tanks, cisterns, containers, etc.). In one embodiment, the present invention relates to corrosion management systems designed to deliver corrosion protection and/or the management of corrosion to a top portion, or roof portion, of an enclosure where such a system includes one or more dispensers designed to deliver at least one corrosion inhibitor to a system designed to protect a top portion of an enclosure (e.g., storage tanks, cisterns, containers, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Northern Technologies International Corporation
    Inventors: Efim Ya Lyublinski, Yefim Vaks
  • Patent number: 8100344
    Abstract: A fuel injector which may be employed in injecting fuel into an internal combustion engine. The fuel injector includes an injector body and a head body formed to be separate from the injector body. The head body has installed therein a fuel pressure sensor working to measure the pressure of fuel in the fuel injector and is joined detachably to the injector body. The fuel injector alternatively includes an injector body and a fuel pressure-sensing unit equipped with a fuel pressure sensor. The fuel pressure-sensing unit is installed detachably on the injector body. This structure provides enhanced productivity of the fuel injector and facilitate the ease of replacement of the fuel pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Kondo, Akitoshi Yamanaka
  • Patent number: 8070074
    Abstract: A bathing apparatus includes an in-line mixing unit and a hand operated injecting unit. The mixing unit is coupled between a water supply pipe and a water dispensing device, such as a showerhead and is in fluid communication with the hand operated injection unit. The injection unit, upon user demand, draws a controllable predetermined quantity of bathing fluid from a standard off the shelf purchased bottle of bathing fluid, such as a bottle of bath oil, and then ejects, upon user demand and in a hands free operation, the drawn bathing fluid, at a user selected flow rate. The ejected bathing fluid passes to the mixing unit which causes the ejected bathing fluid to be mixed within a stream of water being delivered to the water dispensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: William Richard Craig
  • Publication number: 20110266360
    Abstract: Systems and methods for executing a fluid delivery mission are disclosed. In one embodiment a mobile fluid delivery machine for delivering fluid to a site has a tank storing fluid, and at least one spray head configured to spray the stored fluid onto the site. In addition, the mobile fluid delivery machine has a communication device configured to receive fluid delivery mission instructions from a site computing system, the mission instructions identifying a sequence of path segments on the site and corresponding fluid delivery amounts allocated to the path segments, and a location device configured to determine the location of the mobile fluid delivery machine on the site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Adam J. Gudat, James D. Humphrey, Peter W. Anderton, David C. Orr, Kenneth L. Stratton, Craig L. Koehrsen, Claude W. Keefer, Michael D. Braunstein
  • Publication number: 20110240758
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to systems and devices for spraying fluid materials such as paints, stains, and the like, and more specifically, but not by limitation, to a fluid level indicator for an airless fluid sprayer. In one example, an airless fluid sprayer is provided and includes a fluid container, a controller, and a fluid level indication module implemented by the controller to generate an indication of a level of fluid material in the fluid container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne D. Robens, Gregory Wayne Parkhurst, James Leo Campbell
  • Patent number: 7987712
    Abstract: A seal assembly for an optical sensor employed in a high temperature environment is disclosed which includes an elongated metal guide tube having a distal end portion defining an open distal end and an inner rear wall, a sapphire window disposed within the distal end portion of the metal guide tube, the sapphire window having a rear end surface abutting the inner rear wall of the distal end portion of the metal guide tube, and a platinum mounting sleeve for securing the sapphire window to the metal guide tube, the platinum mounting sleeve having one portion joined to the metal guide tube and another portion joined to the sapphire window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Rosemount Aerospace Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Myhre, Joseph R. Michel
  • Patent number: 7988067
    Abstract: A sprinkler apparatus comprises a spray tube configured to move between a first side position and a second side position. The sprinkler apparatus also comprises a first side adjustment mechanism and a second side adjustment mechanism. Each adjustment mechanism comprises markings indicating lesser to greater degrees of sprinkling coverage area. The sprinkler apparatus further comprises a coverage indicator component attached to the spray tube. The coverage indicator component includes at least one window defined therein. The first side adjustment mechanism and the second side adjustment mechanism are independently moveable in relation to the coverage indicator such that the markings on the first side adjustment mechanism and the second side adjustment mechanism are selectively viewable to the user through the window. The positioning of one of the markings within the window results in a related degree of sprinkling coverage area by the sprinkler apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: David W. Miller, Doug Burnworth, Michael H. Goetz
  • Patent number: 7971803
    Abstract: The portable sprayer having automated pressurizing means includes a canister, air compressor, and battery compartment. In an alternative embodiment a pair of fold out wheels can extend and retract from underneath the canister to improve the overall mobility of the sprayer. In yet another embodiment, the canister includes an optional manual pump to use in the event the batteries lose their charge. In all embodiments, a cover screws onto a top of the canister to enable refilling of the canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: David Barlowe
  • Publication number: 20110147481
    Abstract: A spreader assembly may include a hopper, an auger mechanism, a torque sensor that provides a signal based on a condition of the auger mechanism and, a controller that receives the signal from the torque sensor and determines a fill status of the hopper based on the signal from the torque sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Marty Warchola
  • Publication number: 20110114749
    Abstract: A sprayer for spraying a fluid can include a sprayer body, a fluid reservoir, a trigger assembly, a flow adjustment mechanism and a flow rate indicator. The sprayer body can include a nozzle assembly that defines a fluid outlet and includes a needle arranged within a fluid conduit. The needle can be movable between a closed position and a fully opened position. The fluid reservoir can be coupled to the sprayer body and be in communication with the fluid outlet and fluid conduit. The trigger assembly can be coupled to the nozzle assembly and be configured to move the needle as the trigger assembly is depressed. The flow adjustment mechanism can be configured to adjust a flow rate of the sprayer by limiting movement of the trigger assembly and the needle. The flow rate indicator can provide an indication of the flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Jamie S. Munn
  • Publication number: 20110079659
    Abstract: A sprayer system includes a pair of tanks, one for storing a dilutent and another for storing a chemical to be mixed with the dilutent in a selected concentration based on the selected orifice of a valve sprayed on the surface. Mixing of chemical with dilutent occurs on the suction side of a diaphragm pump which delivers the mixture to one or more nozzles. Should flow between either tank and the pump be interrupted, flow to the nozzles is automatically interrupted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: Fimco Industries
    Inventors: Troy D. Wilken, Rex R. Guthland
  • Publication number: 20110068192
    Abstract: The present invention is a display apparatus for affixation to a shower or bath water supply piping or incorporated within a shower, or bath or faucet head, in an aesthetically pleasing format and comprised of fabrication materials e.g., a polymeric or metallic bases with chrome, brass white or colored finishes or combination of these finishes and materials of construction. The display apparatus includes a power generation, CPU or microprocessor, temperature sensor and/or water flow sensors, timing circuits and a display means. In the embodiment defined by the attached shower display apparatus, know piping joint technology will be used for installation into both new and presently installed shower systems. In the embodiment defined by the display means incorporate into the shower head the shower head/display assembly can also be installed in both new and presently installed shower systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Klicpera
  • Publication number: 20110036922
    Abstract: An air-freshener for a vehicle, in particular a motorcar, provided with a housing into which a container for a volatile liquid or a liquid containing one or more volatile components can be inserted, in the opening of which container a wick extending into the housing is fitted, and with a movable covering cap which, when the container with wick has been inserted into the housing, can cover the wick entirely or partially, and with a control member for setting the position of the covering cap. According to the invention, the wick is covered by a sideways movable covering cap, thereby making the air-freshener more compact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: SARA LEE
    Inventor: Dirk Jan Bulsink
  • Patent number: 7861943
    Abstract: Adaptive piezoelectric actuator control system, including: a power supply, a piezoelectric actuator, a driver driving the actuator, a signal generator providing a frequency signal to the driver, a user interface allowing user input of operating conditions, memory storing parameters of the actuator, and system control means controlling the power supply, driver generator and memory so operating frequency of the actuator is monitored and regulated, wherein the driver comprises test means providing a test signal to the actuator, voltage measurement means measuring voltage applied to the actuator caused by the test signal and voltage applied to the actuator caused by the frequency signal, the system control means receiving a response signal in response to the test, and receiving voltages measured by the voltage measurement means, and comprising signal analysis means creating a response signal envelope and controlling the generator to generate a frequency signal corresponding to the envelope maximum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: EP Systems SA
    Inventors: Amir Feriani, Joseph Hess, Jean-Paul Sandoz
  • Patent number: 7849851
    Abstract: A nebulizer having an insertable container and a monitoring device for counting actuations of the nebulizer is proposed. The monitoring device is mounted in a detachable housing part and directly detects movements of container during a nebulizing process, an air supply current in the region of a mouthpiece, and/or the production of aerosol, in order to detect this as the actual dispensing of fluid and actuation of the nebulizer, while preferably the time of actuation of the nebulizer is additionally detected and stored. This allows better monitoring and guidance for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Zierenberg, Klaus Noehl, Johannes Geser, Gilbert Wuttke, Stefan Kaulmann, Hubert Kunze, Andreas Fiol
  • Patent number: 7841544
    Abstract: A fuel injector and a method for manufacturing a fuel injector are described. The fuel injector includes a glass substrate and a nozzle enclosed within the glass substrate. The nozzle includes at least one injection hole. The method of manufacturing a fuel injector includes defining a shape of at least one injection hole in a glass substrate to obtain an at least one outlined injection hole and etching the at least one outlined injection hole to obtain the at least one injection hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Translume, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. Haddock, Philippe Bado, Mark Allen Dugan, Ali Said
  • Publication number: 20100288848
    Abstract: A head spray system of a reactor pressure vessel includes a head spray line, a check valve, a vent line, a vent line shut-off valve, and an interlock mechanism. The head spray line supplies cooling water into the reactor pressure vessel when shutting down a reactor. The check valve is set up on the head spray line. The vent line which is connected to the head spray line evacuates a noncondensable gas. The vent line shut-off valve is set up on the vent line, and is open during normal plant operation. The interlock mechanism closes the vent line shut-off valve when a certain period of time has passed from the time of detecting a supply of the cooling water to the head spray line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventor: Kazuhiro KAMEI
  • Patent number: 7828229
    Abstract: An oscillating sprinkler head transmission for alternately driving an output shaft and sprinkler head nozzle to oscillate it with spring bias being provided to prevent the transmission from being placed in an inoperative position, where the sprinkler head is not oscillated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Carl L. C. Kah, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7823805
    Abstract: A spray gun capable of mixing detergent includes a detergent tube having a water guiding tube passing through its upper cover, an interior tube fixedly connected to its bottom having a horizontal water inlet communicating with the detergent tube; a separate tube fixedly put between the interior tube and the adjustment tube for connection, an upper end of the separate tube connected to the water guiding tube, an inside of the separate tube partitioned by a partition wall to form an upper tube hole and a lower tube hole, an upper end of the upper tube hole having a detergent guiding inlet, a bottom of the upper tube hole having a water guiding inlet, the lower tube hole connected to a water source, an upper end of the lower tube hole having a water outlet; and an adjustment tube having an upper extension tube for putting the interior tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Shun-Nan Lo
  • Publication number: 20100212745
    Abstract: A meter arrangement for a shower comprising a timer, a controller with a display and a standard measure, the timer arranged to determine a standard time to fill the standard measure at a user's desired show flow rate, the controller arrangement determines a shower time period over which a predetermined volume is dispensed at the user's desired flow rate and arranged to provide a signal to a display indicative of pre-determined volume dispensed based upon the time elapsed since initiation determined by reference time signals from the timer
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Hamish MacDonald
  • Patent number: 7770826
    Abstract: The invention concerns a rotary nozzle combination (P) for coating product comprising an atomizing bowl (3) and a rotor (11) adapted to rotate the bowl about a geometrical axis (X-X?), and means (4, 5, 6, 7) for controlling the presence and/or proper mounting of the bowl (3) on the rotor (11). The rotor (11) is spaced apart from a non-rotating part (P1) and the control means comprise first means (4, 5) enabling a force (F3) to be applied on the bowl (3) tending to vary the thickness of an air-film of the pneumatic thrust bearing (P1), as well as second means (7, 8) for determining the air pressure in the bearing (P1). The pressure of air in the thrust bearing (P1) can be determined when the latter is normally supplied and compared with at least one reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Sames Technologies
    Inventors: Patrick Ballu, Caryl Thome
  • Patent number: 7766250
    Abstract: An antistatic reusable cup holder and fluid supply assembly. One or more of the reusable cup holder, disposable cup, disposable lid, or reusable outer lid is made of an antistatic material. In use, the 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 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Kosmyna, Ralph A. Wisniewski, Mark E. Charpie
  • 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: 7721812
    Abstract: A fire suppression system adapted for use in a lavatory of an aircraft. The system includes a supply coupled to one or more fluid discharge nozzles via one or more fluid flow lines. A pressure source in communication with the fluid flow lines provides pressure to assist in supplying a pressurized flow of fluid through the flow line(s) to the nozzles(s). Furthermore, the system is capable of using the potable water supply of the aircraft or it can be self-contained with its own water supply reservoir. If self-contained, the system includes a pressurized fluid source to assist in supplying water to the discharge nozzle(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Thomas L Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20100123018
    Abstract: Device for the thermal fogging of a liquid, said device comprising: an unit (3) for producing a stream of pressurised hot gas; an ejection pipe (5); a first source (7) of liquid; means (9) for injecting a measured flow of liquid into the ejection pipe (5) from the first source (7) of liquid; characterised in that it comprises a sensor (11) for detecting a total or partial interruption of the measured flow of liquid injected into the ejection pipe (5) from the first source (7) of liquid; a second source (13) of liquid; means (15) for injecting an emergency flow of liquid into the ejection pipe (5) from the second source (13) of liquid when the sensor (11) detects a total or partial interruption of the measured flow of liquid injected into the ejection pipe (5) from the first source (7) of liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Alberto Sardo
  • Publication number: 20100123021
    Abstract: A tank sprayer includes a tank having an opening and a cup configured to move between a first position and a second position. The cup is configured to retain a quantity of liquid when the cup is in the first position and is configured to pour the quantity of liquid into the tank when the cup is in the second position. A removable barrier covers the opening in the tank, wherein the cup is blocked from moving from the first position to the second position when the barrier covers the opening in the tank. The cup is allowed to move from the first position to the second position when the barrier does not cover the opening in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicants: GILMOUR, INC., ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: Rick L. Leer
  • 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: 7661604
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for selectively dosing and dispensing a predetermined liquid material in and from a pre-dispensing measuring sight glass container vessel, wherein a housing is disposed to receive a pressurized fluid stream, to provide an intermediate measurement and storage vessel for the liquid material and to provide a selectively operable valve assembly that is disposed in a flow path defined in the housing. The housing includes an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween, which is formed with an admission port for admitting the predetermined liquid material. The valve assembly is disposed between the housing's inlet and outlet, and may be selectively operated to fill the sight glass container from the source container; or, to dispense the liquid material from the sight glass container; or, to clean the sight glass container; or, to just provide a flow of the pressurized fluid without any liquid material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Mark T. MacLean-Blevins
  • Patent number: 7661482
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tree fire extinguishing device including an upright standing hollow body. An air compressor pump is connected to the hollow body for providing pressurized air to the hollow body. At least one heat activated fluid release valve is connected to the hollow body. The present invention further provides a method of configuring a tree display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Sterling Whitney, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7648081
    Abstract: A cleaning and releasing device has a hand valve provided on a flow passage of a pressurized liquid in the vicinity of an injection nozzle, a switching valve 5 provided in a proper position on the flow passage of a pressurized gas, flow detecting means provided in a proper position on the flow passage of the pressurized liquid, and a controller for controlling the switching operation of the switching valve based on a result of detection transmitted from the flow detecting means, and controls the switching valve to supply and stop the pressurized gas depending on the presence of a flow of the liquid generated by the switching operation of the hand valve. The supply and stop of a powder and granular material may be controlled based on the result of detection transmitted from the flow detecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Shibuya Kogyo Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Koichi Hagiwara, Jiro Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20100006667
    Abstract: Marking devices for dispensing a marking substance on the ground and marking methods are provided. The marking devices and marking methods use one or more detection mechanisms to detect one or more characteristics of the marking substance. In some embodiments, the detection mechanism may be, but is not limited to, an optical sensor, an olfactory sensor, a weight sensor, a switch device, and any combination thereof. The one or more detection mechanisms may provide, for example, the capability to: (1) determine the type of marking substance that is installed in the marking device; (2) determine in advance of or during a marking operation the amount of marking substance within the marking dispenser; and (3) determine when the marking dispenser is becoming empty.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Steven E. Nielsen, Jeffrey Farr, Curtis Chambers
  • Patent number: 7644775
    Abstract: The invention relates to fire-fighting installation comprising a drive source for feeding medium into at least one heat releasing spray head (4), the drive source comprising a pump unit (5) for feeding liquid into said spray head through a supply line (3) which is filled with gas to a standby pressure, a gas source (9) for maintaining the standby pressure, and a sensor (2) arranged to provide a signal for starting the pump unit in response to a change occurring in the state of the medium in the supply line. In order to rapidly start the pump unit (5) of the drive source as a result of a minor flow occurring in the supply line (3) and in order for the fire-fighting installation to be applicable to be used at low temperatures, the sensor is a flow transducer (2) arranged to provide a signal to the pump unit (5), if the flow of gas in said portion of the supply line exceeds a certain predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Marioff Corporation Oy
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 7614570
    Abstract: A bathing system is disclosed. The system includes a water supply line, an injectant supply line for supplying an injectant such as shampoo and conditioner, and an injector for combining the water and injectant and homogenizing the mixture. The system also includes a sprayer, which is connected to the outlet of the injector and is capable of producing a pulsating spray. Additional injectant supply line or lines can also be included. The injectant lines can be combined with a distribution manifold and in turn fed into the injector. In a preferred embodiment, the injector is of a differential pressure type. A bypass path and valve switch water directing to the sprayer for rinsing without mixing with injectant. The injector and sprayer are configured to produce a water-injectant mixture with a consistent mixing ratio over a wide range of water flow rates and pressures while providing pulsating action in either the wash or rinse cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Hair Patrol LLC
    Inventor: James E. Freidell
  • Patent number: 7611074
    Abstract: A watering nozzle includes a water volume detection unit received in the barrel of the watering nozzle and the water volume detection unit has two stationary members and a rotatable member which is rotatably connected between the two stationary members. The rotatable member has a magnet connected thereto which is rotated with the rotatable member when water passes through the rotatable member. A display unit is connected to the barrel and has a circuit board and a display member which is electrically connected to the circuit board. The times of revolution are detected by a magnetic spring switch on the circuit board and transferred into digits on the display member to show the volume of water that flows through the rotatable member and the nozzle unit connected to the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Yann-Shoou Chen
  • Publication number: 20090242657
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for spraying chemicals and automatically adjusting, in substantially real-time, the drop size of the liquid in the spray. The drop size may be adjusted to control (either minimize or maximize) the amount of drift associated with the sprayed liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: AGCO Corporation
    Inventor: John Peterson
  • Publication number: 20090184173
    Abstract: An assembly includes a refill containing at least one composition, and an appliance that is configured to receive the refill so as to extract the composition from the refill. The appliance also includes a detector system for detecting at least one portion in relief of the refill. The at least one portion in relief may be associated with at least one item of information, in particular information that is associated with the composition. The detector system may further include at least one switch having a membrane that can be actuated by at least one portion in relief of the refill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventor: Nicolas Duru
  • Publication number: 20090095821
    Abstract: Adaptive piezoelectric actuator control system, including: a power supply, a piezoelectric actuator, a driver driving the actuator, a signal generator providing a frequency signal to the driver, a user interface allowing user input of operating conditions, memory storing parameters of the actuator, and system control means controlling the power supply, driver generator and memory so operating frequency of the actuator is monitored and regulated, wherein the driver comprises test means providing a test signal to the actuator, voltage measurement means measuring voltage applied to the actuator caused by the test signal and voltage applied to the actuator caused by the frequency signal, the system control means receiving a response signal in response to the test, and receiving voltages measured by the voltage measurement means, and comprising signal analysis means creating a response signal envelope and controlling the generator to generate a frequency signal corresponding to the envelope maximum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Applicant: MICROFLOW ENGINEERING SA
    Inventors: Amir Feriani, Joseph Hess, Jean-Paul Sandoz
  • Patent number: 7494070
    Abstract: The present invention includes a unique irrigation sprinkler system with a unique sprinkler head design; a unique method of defining the planted area to be served by the sprinkler head; a unique method for determining when that planted area needs to be watered; a unique way of providing even coverage throughout the planted area when being watered; the ability to use one sprinkler head to individually water multiple, non-overlapping planted areas; a unique way of addressing multiple sprinkler heads in the same sprinkler system; and a unique method for remotely determining the integrity of the sprinkler system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: Galen Collins
  • Patent number: 7472840
    Abstract: A set of nozzle inserts is provided for use with an irrigation sprinkler system. The nozzle set includes a plurality of nozzle inserts that are removably connected to one another via a common carrier. The nozzle set is adapted for storage, transportation and handling in a nested arrangement with another nozzle set, which, in turn, is similarly adapted for storage, transportation and handling in a nested arrangement with other nozzle sets. This nested arrangement facilitates storage, transportation and handling of a relatively large number of nozzle inserts in a manner that protects each insert from unintentional removal from its set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventor: Christian T. Gregory
  • Patent number: 7469570
    Abstract: A calibrating system for measuring amounts of sprayed material has an array of nozzles for dispensing a sprayed material and a capture apparatus positioned to receive the dispensed sprayed material from the array of nozzles. The capture apparatus has aligned channels configured for receiving the dispensed sprayed material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventor: William R. Cooper
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20080283626
    Abstract: A mist-generating device that can be connected to a vehicle's Low Direct Current Voltage (LDCV) power supply is disclosed. The device can be used to treat mold, bacteria and clean or remove odors on exposed and hard-to-reach surfaces of the interior of a car. The device can include a unique filling system that can be used to prevent foreign materials from entering into the unit, including fluids or substances that would deteriorate the performance of the unit or the components of the device itself. The inside of the device can include an internal anti-foam and anti-splash structure designed to keep electronic components dry and reduce the foaming and turbulence of the fluid being misted. Further, the inside of the device in one embodiment is split into three adjacent areas, which govern efficient flow of air and atomized chemicals through the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: UVIEW ULTRAVIOLET SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Leonardo Aldana, Andrew Stanislaw Chochol, Tony Ferraro, Kerwyn Prescod, Ting On Wong, Sasan Raissi
  • Publication number: 20080251600
    Abstract: A mobile spraying plant 1 for spraying crops, comprising a tank (10), at least one nozzle (60) in fluid communication (70) with said tank (10), a controllable regulating valve (30) for regulating a flow of liquid between the tank (10) and the nozzles (60), an electronic control (101) unit configured for controlling the degree of opening of the regulating valve (30) and comprising a calculator unit and a storage/register, and a flow meter (40) for determining the flow of liquid between the tank and the nozzle(s) (60) and configured for communicating with said electronic control unit 101, which spraying plant (1) also comprises a device (35) for registering the degree of opening of the regulating valve, said device being in communication with said electronic control unit, and said electronic control unit being configured for registering, storing and processing data concerning the degree of opening of the regulating valve; and a method of regulating the throughput through said spraying plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Bent Ulsted Sorensen, M. Snorre Krogh Biehe
  • Patent number: 7404420
    Abstract: A portable sprayer includes a tank and a measuring device in selective fluid communication with the tank. The measuring device may be located adjacent to a funnel at the top of the tank and a valve provided to selectively control the flow of fluid from the measuring device into the funnel. The measuring device may include a plurality of surfaces extending from the internal wall of the measuring device to provide indicia of the amount of fluid within the measuring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Rick L. Leer, Douglas Burnworth
  • Publication number: 20080173728
    Abstract: Provided herein is a system useful for producing polymeric coatings on substrates, by means of a spray that is produced from impinging a compressed gas on a mixture that comprises an organic polyisocyanate and an isocyanate-reactive component. When a coating is produced from two components in accordance with the invention, each component is metered to an atomizing nozzle through peristaltic pumps, which enable increased control over flow characteristics as compared with prior art methods, and which importantly also enables greatly-reduced levels of wasted chemical components and attendant alleviated need for the use of volatile or expensive solvents in equipment cleaning operations. Uncured coating precursor material is allowed greater residence time on the target substrate prior to final cure using a system an process of the invention, which results in coatings having greater integrity over those produced using prior art equipment and methods, as well as reduced overall cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick Ilfrey
  • Patent number: 7389946
    Abstract: A fluid spray device having a body (10) provided with a spray orifice (15), a reservoir (20) containing the fluid to be sprayed, a spray device (30) that sprays one or more doses of the fluid contained in the reservoir (20); and an actuator (40) that actuates the spray device (30). The reservoir (20) is closed in a sealed manner before the spray device is actuated for the first time, the body (10) including reservoir opening device (11) adapted to open the reservoir (20) while the device is being actuated. The reservoir (20) forms a sealed unit that is separate from the body (10), filled with fluid and hermetically sealed before it is assembled in the body (10). The body (10) includes a receiver device (13) that receives the reservoir, and a lateral access device that enables the filled reservoir (20) to be assembled sideways into the body (10) and to be secured therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Valois S.A.S
    Inventors: Pascal Bruna, Matthieu Savalle
  • Publication number: 20080144003
    Abstract: A system for monitoring non-volatile residue concentrations in ultra pure water includes a nebulizer for generating an aerosol composed of multiple water droplets, a heating element changing the aerosol to a suspension of residue particles, and a condensation particle counter to supersaturate the dried aerosol to cause droplet growth through condensation of a liquid onto the particles. The nebulizer incorporates a flow dividing structure that divides exiting waste water into a series of droplets. The droplets are counted to directly indicate a waste water flow rate and indirectly indicate an input flow rate of water supplied to the nebulizer. The condensation particle counter employs water as the condensing medium, avoiding the need for undesirable chemical formulations and enabling use of the ultra pure water itself as the condensing medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: David B. Blackford, Frederick R. Quant, Derek R. Oberreit
  • Patent number: RE41267
    Abstract: A device and method for dispensing precise amounts of dry particulate matter, such as agricultural chemicals, directly into a liquid carrier stream, such as a flow of water, and a method of employing such a device to distribute chemicals. The device includes a bin for holding a quantity of particulate matter, a conduit for transporting a stream of liquid carrier, and a meter at the bottom of the bin for controllably releasing a desired amount of the particulate matter from the bin into the conduit while disallowing entry of the liquid carrier to the bin. The bin, conduit and meter are all mounted upon a portable structure for transportation with particulate matter in the bin. The meter includes a multi-vaned rotor turned by a controlled motor, and defines discrete pockets of known volume. The operator simply connects the device to a flow of water and keys into the controller an amount of material to be released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Rosen's Inc.
    Inventors: Frank G. Reinsch, John A. Latting
  • Patent number: RE43053
    Abstract: An ice maker for creating a layer of ice on a cooled surface, is disclosed. The ice maker has a source of de-gassed water, which may be de-gassed by being heated. A pump to pressurize the de-gassed water is provided and the water is passed to a sprayer hydraulically connected to the pump. The sprayer has nozzles sized and shaped to convert the pressurized water into a fine de-gassing droplet spray directed at the cooled surface. The droplets are sized to substantially freeze on contact with the cooled surface. In one embodiment a microprocessor is provided to change the volume sprayed according to the speed of the ice maker to ensure an even coat of ice is layed down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Ice Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Dawe, Michael Horodenka, Alex Makarenko