Liquid Type Patents (Class 361/228)
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Patent number: 11446684Abstract: The present invention provides an air-wash powder sieving apparatus for a powder coating system having a powder spray gun, a powder suction pump assembly, and a powder container/hopper. The said sieving apparatus includes a housing, a sieving section and at least one air jet section adapted within the housing, for directing compressed air on the sieve. The compressed air impinged by the air jets onto the sieving mesh not only skims and washes the sieving mesh and keeps it de-clogged but also acts as a secondary air of the powder suction pump.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2018Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Inventor: Amal Bhupendra Shah
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Patent number: 11292017Abstract: An insulated electrostatically-assisted insulated spraying extender (10) is described, which is installed on the spraying bar (100) of a spraying device and positioned adjacent to a hydraulic nozzle (20) that atomizes the spray solution, said extender (10) being equipped with an insulated internal shaft (12) for the passage of the power supply cable (30) and the placement of an encapsulated electric device (13) that feeds the induction electrode (151) surrounding the opening (21) of the hydraulic nozzle (20), causing the dielectric rupture of atomized drops, eliminating or decreasing the wetting of the induction electrode (151) and of the power supply cable (30), as well as of other electric parts that affect the efficiency and the full operation of the spraying nozzle, while hindering leakage of the electric current through cable (30) by contacting any section of the machine structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2020Date of Patent: April 5, 2022Inventors: Adriano Marin, Leonardo Kozoroski Veiga
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Patent number: 11178487Abstract: A furniture system including a base and transverse member, with an induction charger provided in the transverse member and/or base, hidden from view and feel, embedded, e.g., at least 10 mm below the charging surface. In an embodiment, the transverse member includes a frame having an upper panel and an induction charger elastically secured at least partially above the upper panel such that the induction charger is elastically pushed down toward or through the upper panel when a force is exerted downward onto the induction charger. The induction charger elastically yields downward or otherwise toward or into the furniture system in response to loads, such as loads from sitting on the induction charger, to prevent damage thereto. The induction charger can elastically yield as such and still be positioned close enough to the surface of the furniture system to effectively charge electronic devices placed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2020Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: The Lovesac CompanyInventors: Shawn D. Nelson, David M. Underwood, Brian Kuchler, Clint Gibson, Troy Christiansen
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Patent number: 10991498Abstract: Sine pulse actuation, and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method for actuating an actuator includes: supplying a first input to the actuator, where the first input corresponds to a rising edge of a first sine function; supplying a second input to the actuator, where the second input corresponds to a generally constant amplitude plateau; and supplying a third input to the actuator, where the third input corresponds to a falling edge of a second sine function. The first, second and third inputs are control inputs or actuation inputs.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2017Date of Patent: April 27, 2021Assignee: PACCAR INCInventors: Stephen Elliott, Austin Walker, Kevin Vardas, Drew Bell
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Patent number: 10272454Abstract: A compressed air treatment chamber for improving the flow properties of compressed air or compressed gas mixtures in a coating process, comprising a housing for forming a hollow space, at least one air inlet opening and at least one air outlet opening are arranged in such a way that the compressed air or the compressed gas mixture can flow through the hollow space, preferably in a longitudinal direction, at least one electrode arranged within the hollow space, at least one high-voltage source for supplying high voltage to the electrode, wherein at least one insulation layer is arranged within the hollow space on an inner surface of an outer casing of the housing, and an electromagnetic field, with an active zone through which compressed air which is to be treated can flow, can be produced in the interior of the hollow space between the electrode and a counterelectrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2016Date of Patent: April 30, 2019Inventor: Thomas Mayer
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Patent number: 9071192Abstract: An oscillator (100) for providing an oscillating voltage for a powder spray coating device (200) is specified. With the aim of improving operational safety, the oscillator (100) as claimed in the invention has a first signal generator (10) for generating an intermediate circuit voltage (11), a second signal generator (20) for generating a modulation signal (21) and a modulation signal isolating element (61), connected to the second signal generator (20), while a first voltage monitoring device (60) is also provided, designed for continuously measuring the oscillator voltage (34), comparing it with at least one specified or specifiable oscillator voltage reference value and, if a first comparison criterion is satisfied, outputting a modulation isolating signal (80) to the modulation signal isolating element (61).Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: GEMA SWITZERLAND GMBHInventors: Felix Mauchle, Mario Vasella
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Patent number: 8723371Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems and or methods may be provided to transport electrical energy from a first location having an electrical energy source to a second location, remote from the first location and having a load to accept electrical energy. A first pipeline between the first and second locations may include a first chamber containing a cathodic fluid. A second pipeline between the first and second locations may include a second chamber containing an anodic fluid, and at least of a portion of said first and second pipelines include a contiguous area. A membrane may separate the cathodic and anodic fluids at said contiguous area to exchange electrical energy between said fluids and create an electrochemical storage cell across said membrane. By utilizing additional alternating layers of said electrolyte, casing and membrane multiple cells may be created.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Tessa Durakis GreenInventor: Tessa Durakis Green
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Patent number: 8710456Abstract: A multi-sectional linear ionizing bar with at least four elements is disclosed. First, disclosed bars may include at least one ionization cell with at least one axis-defining linear ion emitter for establishing an ion cloud along the length thereof. Second, disclosed bars may include at least one reference electrode. Third, disclosed bars may include a manifold for receiving gas or air from a source and for delivering same past the linear emitter(s) such that substantially none of the gas/air flows into the ion cloud. Fourth, disclosed bars may include means for receiving the ionizing voltage and for delivering same to the linear emitter(s) to thereby establish the ion cloud. In this way, disclosed ionizing bars may transport ions from the plasma region toward a charge neutralization target without inducing substantial vibration of the linear emitter and without substantial contaminants from the gas/air flow reaching the linear emitter.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Aleksey Klochkov, Peter Gefter, Steven Bernard Heymann, Leslie W. Partridge, Greenberry Bedford Brown, Matthew T. Antonelli
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Patent number: 8622324Abstract: Systems and methods for rapidly atomizing and dispensing electrostatically atomized insecticides and similar low electrical conductivity active materials without the use of VOCs. The active materials are dispensed via insertion of a disposable cartridge in a dispensing apparatus. The dispensing apparatus is hand actuated and the exhausted cartridge is minimized to the size of a wad of chewing gum and it is doubly sealed to prevent any residual active material from leaking into the environment. Spray flow and configuration may be user selectable.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: ZYW CorporationInventor: Arnold James Kelly
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Patent number: 8590817Abstract: A coating dispensing device includes a trigger assembly for actuating the coating dispensing device to dispense coating material and a nozzle through which the coating material is dispensed. The coating dispensing device further includes a first port adapted to supply compressed gas to the coating dispensing device and a second port adapted to supply coating material to the coating dispensing device. The coating dispensing device further includes a generator having a shaft. A turbine wheel is mounted on the shaft. Compressed gas coupled to the first port impinges upon the turbine wheel to spin the shaft, producing voltage. An electrode adjacent the nozzle is coupled to the generator to receive electricity therefrom to electrostatically charge the coating material. First and second seals seal the shaft where the shaft protrudes from the generator at its ends.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: James P. Baltz
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Patent number: 8492733Abstract: A multi-sectional linear ionizing bar with at least four elements is disclosed. First, disclosed bars may include at least one ionization cell with at least one axis-defining linear ion emitter for establishing an ion cloud along the length thereof. Second, disclosed bars may include at least one reference electrode. Third, disclosed bars may include a manifold for receiving gas or air from a source and for delivering same past the linear emitter(s) such that substantially none of the gas/air flows into the ion cloud. Fourth, disclosed bars may include means for receiving the ionizing voltage and for delivering same to the linear emitter(s) to thereby establish the ion cloud. In this way, disclosed ionizing bars may transportions from the plasma region toward a charge neutralization target without inducing substantial vibration of the linear emitter and without substantial contaminants from the gas/air flow reaching the linear emitter.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2012Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Aleksey Klochkov, Peter Gefter, Steven Bernard Heymann, Leslie W. Partridge, Greenberry Bedford Brown, Matthew T. Antonelli
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Publication number: 20130155567Abstract: A discharge electrode includes a surface layer to which a surface treatment that enables solder bonding is applied.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATIONInventors: Takayuki Nakada, Takafumi Omori, Yusuke Yamada, Kazunobu Nakata, Toshihiro Ito, Takashi Kozai, Shinya Murase
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Patent number: 8416552Abstract: Self-balancing, corona discharge for the stable production of electrically balanced and ultra-clean ionized gas streams is disclosed. This result is achieved by promoting the electronic conversion of free electrons into negative ions without adding oxygen or another electronegative gas to the gas stream. The invention may be used with electronegative and/or electropositive or noble gas streams and may include the use of a closed loop corona discharge control system.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2010Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Peter Gefter, Leslie Wayne Partridge, Lyle Dwight Nelsen
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Patent number: 8416554Abstract: A method and system are provided for decontaminating at least a portion of an object. A misting device is configured to discharge a cloud formed from a plurality of cloud droplets. At least some of the cloud droplets include a decontaminating agent. A spraying device is configured to discharge a stream including a plurality of stream droplets into the cloud. At least some of the stream droplets have an electrostatic charge. At least some of the cloud droplets are deposited on the portion of the object to facilitate decontaminating the portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2011Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Leora Peltz, Shawn H. Park, John E. Kuhn
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Patent number: 8366028Abstract: An electrostatic atomizer equipped with an electrostatic atomization pole having superior resistance to migration. The atomizer includes an electrostatic atomization pole, a liquid supply mechanism that supplies the pole with liquid, and a power supply that supplies the pole with high voltage to electrostatically atomize the liquid held on the pole. A coating is formed on the surface of the pole, and the coating is formed of simple metal or alloy, which displays resistance to migration.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sumiaki Nakano, Akihide Sugawa, Fumio Mihara, Yasunori Matsui, Kishiko Hirai
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Patent number: 8342120Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, an apparatus having a tube with an ingress opening to receive a liquid, and an egress opening to release the liquid, a conductor positioned in a conduit of the tube, the conductor and the conduit having dimensions to cause a surface tension of the liquid to prevent a constant flow of the liquid from the egress opening, and a power supply coupled to the conductor to apply a charge to the liquid to overcome the surface tension and form at the egress opening a single jet stream of the liquid applicable on a substrate to create a pattern. The single jet stream can be controllable in part by a viscosity of the liquid. Additional embodiments are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2009Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventors: Kyekyoon Kim, Hyungsoo Choi, Philip Edward Heil, III
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Patent number: 7980493Abstract: An electrostatic atomizer equipped with an electrostatic atomization pole having superior resistance to migration. The atomizer includes an electrostatic atomization pole, a liquid supply mechanism that supplies the pole with liquid, and a power supply that supplies the pole with high voltage to electrostatically atomize the liquid held on the pole. A coating is formed on the surface of the pole, and the coating is formed of simple metal or alloy, which displays resistance to migration.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sumiaki Nakano, Akihide Sugawa, Toshihisa Hirai, Kishiko Hirai, legal representative, Fumio Mihara, Yasunori Matsui
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Patent number: 7983016Abstract: An electrostatically atomizing device comprises an emitter electrode, an opposed electrode, cooling means for condensing water on the emitter electrode, and a high voltage source; and high voltage is applied to the condensed water so that minute water particles are discharged from a discharge end at a tip of the emitter electrode. The device comprises a controller for causing the charged minute water particles to be discharged stably. The controller has an initial control mode and a normal control mode. In the initial mode, the cooling means is controlled so as to cool the emitter electrode at a predetermined cooling rate. Once discharge current reaches into a predetermined target discharge current range, the cooling means is controlled by feedback control, on the basis of the value of the discharge current, in such a manner that the discharge current is kept within the target discharge current range.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2007Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shousuke Akisada, Kenji Obata
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Patent number: 7874503Abstract: An electrostatically atomizing device capable of instantly giving an electrostatically atomizing effect without requiring a water tank. The electrostatically atomizing device includes an emitter electrode, an opposed electrode opposed to the emitter electrode, a water feeder configured to give water on the emitter electrode, and a high voltage source configured to apply a high voltage across said emitter electrode and said opposed electrode to electrostatically charge the water on the emitter electrode for spraying charged minute water particles from a discharge end of the emitter electrode. The water feeder is configured to condense the water on the emitter electrode from within the surrounding air, enabling to supply the water on the emitter electrode in a short time without relying upon an additional water tank. Thus, an atomization of the charged minute water particles can be obtained immediately upon use of the device.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Osamu Imahori, Toshihisa Hirai, Kishiko Hirai, legal representative, Akihide Sugawa, Fumio Mihara, Shousuke Akisada, Tomoharu Watanabe, Hirokazu Yoshioka, Kentaro Kobayashi, Shinya Murase, Kouichi Hirai, Junji Imai
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Publication number: 20110007446Abstract: An electrostatic colloid thruster for implementing a method of ionizing a liquid is disclosed herein. The electrostatic colloid thruster includes an electrically conductive extractor having a plurality of holes defined therethrough; an ultrasonic atomizer having an electrically conductive atomization surface at least partially facing the extractor and being arranged relative thereto so as to define a gap; a reservoir system in fluid communication with the atomization surface; and an electrical power source in electrical communication with both the extractor and the atomization surface. The apparatus and method are generally utile in various applications including, for example, spacecraft propulsion, paint spray techniques, semiconductor fabrication, biomedical processes, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventor: WEIDONG SONG
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Patent number: 7748343Abstract: An electrohydrodynamic spray apparatus includes a liquid inlet and a spray nozzle in fluid communication with the liquid inlet, where the spray nozzle has an opening downstream of the liquid inlet. An inner electrode is situated at least partially inside the spray nozzle. An outer electrode is situated external to the spray nozzle and within about 100 mm of the opening of the nozzle. The electrohydrodynamic spray apparatus can be combined with a substrate to form an electrohydrodynamic spray system. The electrohydrodynamic spray apparatus or system can be used to form nanostructures such as nanodrops, nanoparticles and thin films.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2004Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventors: Kyekyoon Kim, Ravindra Pratap Singh
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Patent number: 7697257Abstract: Apparatuses, systems and methods for generating, dispersing and delivering chemical compounds utilizing desorption electrospray ionization. Embodiments include an airflow channel into which an airflow is directed, a solvent reservoir containing a volume of solvent, at least one charged droplet source for producing a plurality of charged liquid droplets in the channel, and at least one grounded counter electrode positioned within the channel with the electrodes having at least one surface containing one or more chemical compounds that include releasable ions. In operation, the charged droplets are directed onto the surface or surfaces so that the impact of the charged particles on said surface produces gaseous ions of at least one chemical compound on said surface, after which the gaseous ions are dispersed into the airflow.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Sentor Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gary C. Tepper, Royal Kessick, Dmitry Pestov
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Publication number: 20100044476Abstract: An electrostatically atomizing device includes a housing and an electrostatically atomizing unit disposed within the housing. The atomizing unit includes an emitter electrode and an heat exchanger. The heat exchanger cools the emitter electrode to develop condensed water. A high voltage is applied to the emitter electrode in order to electrostatically atomizing the condensed water and generate a mist of charged minute water particles. The housing accommodates a fan generating an air flow accelerating a heat radiation of the heat exchanger, and a high voltage source generating the high voltage applied to the emitter electrode. The heat exchanger has its heat radiator section exposed to a flow passage of the air flow. The atomizing unit is formed with an air inlet for introducing the air flow which carries the mist of the charged minute water particles and release the mist. The atomizing unit and the high voltage source are arranged on opposite sides of the flow passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2006Publication date: February 25, 2010Applicant: PANASONIC ELECTRIC WORKS CO., LTD.Inventors: Takeshi Yano, Toshihisa Hirai, Kishiko Hirai, Sumio Wada, Akihide Sugawa, Tatsuhiko Matsumoto, Shousuke Akisada
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Patent number: 7621471Abstract: An electrostatic spray gun includes a power supply, an enclosure having a wall and a valve providing access through the wall to evacuate the enclosure. Components of the power supply are housed in the enclosure and subject to the atmosphere within the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2005Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Varce E. Howe
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Patent number: 7567420Abstract: An electrostatically atomizing device includes an emitter electrode, an opposed electrode opposed to the emitter electrode, and a cooling means which condenses the water on the emitter electrode from within the surrounding air, and a high voltage source applying a high voltage across the emitter electrode and the opposed electrode to electrostatically charge the water for atomizing charged minute water particles from a discharge end of the emitter electrode. The device further includes a controller for discharging the charged minute water particles in a stable manner. The controller monitors a discharge current flowing between the two electrodes to control the cooling means for keeping the discharge current at a predetermined level, thereby regulating the atomizing amount of the charged minute particles from the emitter electrode.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2005Date of Patent: July 28, 2009Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.Inventors: Kentaro Kobayashi, Hirokazu Yoshioka, Tomoharu Watanabe, Akihide Sugawa, Shousuke Akisada, Kishiko Hirai, legal representative, Fumio Mihara, Kouichi Hirai, Shinya Murase, Atsushi Isaka, Osamu Imahori, Sumio Wada, Tatsuhiko Matsumoto, Toshihisa Hirai
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Publication number: 20080259519Abstract: A non-respirable aerosol, particularly a non-respirable aerosol comprising a biologically-effective amount of a biologically-active agent dissolved, emulsified, or suspended in a highly-aqueous liquid carrier vehicle. The highly-aqueous liquid carrier vehicle comprises about 60 wt % to about 100 wt % water, about 0 wt % to about 40 wt % of a co-solvent, about 0.05 wt % to about 10 wt % of an acceptable surfactant, and about 0 wt % to about 10 wt % of an excipient. The non-respirable aerosol is substantially monodisperse when dispensed from a sprayhead assembly comprising a preferably linear array of a plurality of nozzles and at least one counter electrode adapted to substantially equalize the charge fields of the plurality of nozzles.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2005Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicant: Battelle Memorial InstituteInventors: Ada S. Cowan, Sreedhara Alavattam, Beverly A. Piatt, James E. Dvorsky, William M. Fountain, Mark R. Wilson
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Patent number: 7402798Abstract: A system for controlling an electrostatically induced liquid spray includes an electrostatic spray device for generating a liquid spray from a liquid sample; a spray current sensing means placed in relation to the spray device and configured to generate a current output signal that represents a current of the liquid spray; and a mechanism that receives the current output signal and compares it to a pre-selected current value, with a difference between the two representing a control signal that is sent to one of (1) a pump that regulates the flow rate of the liquid sample and (2) a power supply to regulate an electric field associated with the spray device that generates the liquid spray according to a set level of current.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Phoenix S&T, Inc.Inventor: Sau Lan Tang Staats
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Publication number: 20080130189Abstract: An electrostatically atomizing device includes an emitter electrode, an opposed electrode opposed to the emitter electrode, and a cooling means which condenses the water on the emitter electrode from within the surrounding air, and a high voltage source applying a high voltage across the emitter electrode and the opposed electrode to electrostatically charge the water for atomizing charged minute water particles from a discharge end of the emitter electrode. The device further includes a controller for discharging the charged minute water particles in a stable manner. The controller monitors a discharge current flowing between the two electrodes to control the cooling means for keeping the discharge current at a predetermined level, thereby regulating the atomizing amount of the charged minute particles from the emitter electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2005Publication date: June 5, 2008Applicant: MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC WORKS, LTD.Inventors: Kentaro Kobayashi, Hirokazu Yoshioka, Tomoharu Watanabe, Akihide Sugawa, Shousuke Akisada, Toshihisa Hirai, Kishiko Hirai, Fumio Mihara, Kouichi Hirai, Shinya Murase, Atsushi Isaka, Osamu Imahori, Sumio Wada, Tatsuhiko Matsumoto
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Patent number: 6724014Abstract: A hybrid semiconductor circuit adjustable by a control current for controlling voltage comprising a single high-voltage reversely polarized diode surrounded by at least two diodes emitting infrared radiation fed in series by the control signal and arranged to allow optical interaction with the high-voltage diode, wherein the diodes are encapsulated with a coating resin having a high transmission rate in an infrared domain.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2002Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique C.N.R.S.Inventors: Jean-Louis Medale, Claude Aoustin, Jacques Coutelier, Pierre Souleille
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Patent number: 6574085Abstract: A power supply apparatus for electrostatic charging sprayed liquids from a spraying apparatus and method for same, the apparatus including a rotor having a magnet and magnetic poles, a booster coil assembly facing the rotor, for inducing high voltage AC pulses during the rotation of the rotor, and a rectifier for rectifying the high voltage AC pulses induced by the booster coil assembly to high voltage DC pulses and for supplying the high voltage DC pulses to a charging electrode. The power supply apparatus provides a compact and lightweight power generator system, thus eliminating cumbersome operations such as replacement or recharging of a large battery. In addition, a lighter weight and simplified operation reduces the burden on users and facilitates more efficient spraying.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2000Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignees: Oppama Industry Co., Ltd., Kioritz CorporationInventors: Yoshiaki Hironaka, Masao Iwata, Kiyoshige Enomoto
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Patent number: 6402063Abstract: A spray head for a spraying apparatus comprising a body formed as a conduit leading from an inlet end to a discharge end at which it forms a discharge pattern. A high velocity stream of air is injected into the head at its inlet end and flows through the conduit to its discharge end. Adjacent to the discharge end, a rank of injection nozzles injects liquid into the air stream, and adjacent to the nozzles, a rank of electrodes is formed as ports in the wall of the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2000Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Progressive Ag, Inc.Inventors: Leonard C. Turner, Elroy G. De Winkle
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Patent number: 6037012Abstract: A process for applying water-based paints and/or varnishes to the surface of a glass article which includes the steps of charging a composition of water-based product to a potential of a given polarity, spraying the composition of the water-based product and diffusing the resulting particles in a wide area so as to form a mist (120, 121), placing the glass article (200) in contact with an electrode at a potential of another given polarity and maintaining its surface temperature between 15.degree. C. and 30.degree. C., and bringing the glass article into the field of the mist making it possible to obtain various appearances of coloration in the glass article.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1999Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: Societe Autonome de Verreries SAInventor: Didier Lourman
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Patent number: 5992771Abstract: A high voltage generator is provided for use in applications where current demand is low but a high voltage is required. The generator comprises an array of photosensitive elements, such as an array of photovoltaic elements produced by laser scribing or etching of a wafer of material conventionally used for solar cells, the number of elements employed and their interconnection being such that a high voltage output of at least 1 kV is obtained.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Timothy James Noakes, Michale Leslie Green, Andrew Jefferies, Maurice Joseph Prendergast
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Patent number: 5972417Abstract: An apparatus for use in electrostatically applying coating material to an object includes a nozzle which directs a flow of coating material toward the object. A power supply unit provides an electric field to electrostatically charge the coating material. Control circuitry is provided to monitor the operating efficiency of the power supply unit and to provide an output signal when there is an impending failure of the power supply unit. The control circuitry monitors the relationship between an input current to the power supply unit and an output current from the power supply unit. When the relationship between the input current to the power supply unit and the output current from the power supply unit is outside of a predetermined range, the control circuitry is effective to provide an output signal to notify an operator that there is an impending power supply unit failure.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1997Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: Nordson CorporationInventors: Jeffrey A. Perkins, Thomas A. Trautzsch
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Patent number: 5949235Abstract: A system and method for detecting and controlling ungrounded parts during the electrostatic coating process in order to improve production flow, provide an overall cost saving by efficient use of the coating material and prevention of accidental fires and false shutdown during production. The system of the present invention comprises a detection system for detecting any ungrounded parts prior to entering a coating environment, such as a painting booth. The detection system in accordance with one embodiment, comprises an array of detectors, specifically, an ultraviolet sensor, a radio-frequency wave sensor, an acoustic sensor and a light sensor, which upon sensing specific characteristics generate representative signal waveforms. These waveforms are than compared with stored waveforms relating to profiles of sparking or corona discharge characteristics. Correlation circuits may correlate data obtained by two or more sensors in order to ensure that the spark or corona discharge is caused by an ungrounded part.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1995Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Fire Sentry CorporationInventors: David A. Castleman, Anthony B. Williams, Chris A. Selstad
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Patent number: 5939993Abstract: A method and device for monitoring the production of a high voltage for use in electrostatic application of a coating product, the high voltage being produced by a generator and the monitoring being performed by a circuit for measuring an electrical parameter associated with the high voltage, together with verifying operation of the circuit immediately following start-ups of the generator.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1996Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Sames S.A.Inventors: Jean-Pierre Burtin, Flavien Dobrowolski
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Patent number: 5863497Abstract: A hand sanitizing apparatus which uses at least two electrostatic emitters to dispense germicidal fluid to substantially all the surfaces of a user's hands when both hands are placed in proximity to the electrostatic emitters. The apparatus comprises a frame on which are mounted electrostatic emitters in preferably two cells which separate spray directed at one hand from spray directed at the other hand, a reservoir of germicidal fluid in fluid communication with the electrostatic emitters, a power source adapted to supply electrostatic energy to the electrostatic emitters, and a dispensing cycle actuator which is operated by the user to distribute electrostatic energy from the power source to the electrostatic emitters so that a predetermined quantity of germicidal fluid is directed from each electrostatic emitter toward each of the user's hands during the dispensing cycle. In one embodiment each hand is sprayed with an opposite charge.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1996Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Assignee: The Proctor & Gamble CompanyInventor: Robert S. Dirksing
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Patent number: 5851292Abstract: An apparatus for electrostatically coating a workpiece has an insulating separator valve mechanism for electrically separating a paint supply passage for supplying an electrically conductive paint to a coating gun, into a paint supply passage to which a high voltage will be applied and a paint supply passage to which no high voltage will be applied. The insulating separator valve mechanism has a first valve body connectable to said paint supply passage through a first on/off valve, and a second valve body connectable to said paint supply passage through a second on/off valve. While the first and second valve bodies are connected to each other and the first and second on/off valves are closed, a paint trap is cleaned by a cleaning medium, which is discharged into a second dump passage. A process of cleaning the paint trap for a paint color change is efficiently and reliably carried out to reliably remove paint residuals from the paint trap.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1996Date of Patent: December 22, 1998Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shuuji Minoura, Yukihito Ono, Osamu Kageyama, Takashi Shimada, Toshiyuki Kokubo
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Patent number: 5779162Abstract: An electrostatic spraying device for use in spraying liquids having resistivities of the order of 5.times.10.sup.6 ohm.multidot.cm and viscosities of the order of 1 Poise at a spraying rate up to at least 4 cc/min (especially paint formulations) is provided with an annular shroud (112) of semi-insulating material (e.g. bulk resistivity of the order of 10.sup.11 to 10.sup.12 ohm.multidot.cm) which is electrically connected to a high voltage generator (126) for supplying high voltage to liquid emerging at the outlet of the nozzle (114). In this way, a voltage is established on the annular electrode (126) which is of the same polarity, and substantially the same magnitude, as the voltage applied to the liquid thereby modifying the potential gradient in the immediate vicinity of the nozzle outlet so as to allow the use of the high voltage needed to effect efficient spraying of liquids having the specified resistivity and viscosity at flow rates up to at least 4 cc/min.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLCInventors: Timothy James Noakes, Michael Leslie Green, Maurice Joseph Prendergast, Andrew Jefferies
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Patent number: 5735958Abstract: Electrostatic spray coating system which accurately determines the actual value of a high voltage present on at least one high voltage electrode as coating material is electrostatically charge. A control or input voltage is measured on the input of a voltage transformer and multiplier circuit and is multiplied by the voltage multiplication factor of the voltage transformer and multiplier circuit, thereby calculating the theoretical or no load value of the voltage on the high voltage electrode. This theoretical value deviates from the actual value of the electrode voltage by the amount of the internal voltage drop across the voltage transformer and multiplier circuit when a current flows in it. The internal voltage drop is determined as a function of the electrode current and is subtracted from the theoretical value in order to generate a signal voltage corresponding to the actual value of the electrode high voltage.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1996Date of Patent: April 7, 1998Assignee: Gema Volstatic AGInventor: Felix Mauchle
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Patent number: 5684666Abstract: A novel semiconductor switching device for use in high voltage applications (typically ranging from 5 kV up to about 50 kV) makes use of the well-known effect of reverse conduction in silicon diodes when exposed to light. Hitherto, photodiodes have been commercial available for relatively low voltage applications. The device disclosed herein is implemented by a high voltage diode having a series of semiconductor junctions and a light emitting diode operable to irradiate the junctions to render the high voltage diode conducting in the reverse bias direction. The switching device finds application in electrostatic spraying devices where the current demands are relatively small, eg up to about 2 .mu.A.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1995Date of Patent: November 4, 1997Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLCInventors: Timothy James Noakes, Michael Leslie Green, Andrew Jefferies, Maurice Joseph Prendergast
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Patent number: 5678770Abstract: A powder coating spray gun includes a high voltage generator with a transformer and voltage multiplier circuitry located within the handle and barrel portions of the gun. The voltage multiplier circuitry includes a number of stages of capacitors and diodes. In the event of failure of the voltage multiplier, backup or secondary circuitry may be selected by the user by removing the barrel of the spray gun from the handle, rotating the barrel to a second position, and re-inserting the barrel into the handle. The secondary circuitry can include a duplicate capacitor for the first stage of the voltage multiplier. A first and second set of connecting pins in the barrel of the spray gun couple the voltage multiplier circuitry with the transformer. The connecting pins are received at active sockets and inactive openings in the handle portion of the spray gun.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1996Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Inventor: Amal B. Shah
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Patent number: 5631802Abstract: A guard ring for controlling size of a sprinkler column of liquid streams from a sprinkler head in an electrostatic spraying system is connected through a large resistor to ground. This provides an interaction between the liquid sprinkler column and the ring which tends to constrict the size of the column of sprinkled liquid and reduce the likelihood of the column spreading out and engaging sides of a receptacle used for receiving the liquid. The ring does not require power.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1995Date of Patent: May 20, 1997Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventor: Dennis L. Trusty
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Patent number: 5598099Abstract: A system and method for coincidence detection of ungrounded or inadequately grounded parts during the electrostatic coating process in order to improve production flow, provide an overall cost saving by efficient use of the coating material and prevention of accidental fires and false shutdown during production. The present invention utilizes a coincidence detection technique which performs a test for radio-frequency electromagnetic energy radiated by sparking and/or corona discharge caused by ungrounded parts outside a electrostatic coating area and a test for sensing and discriminating spurious radio-frequency electromagnetic energy radiated by sparking and/or corona discharge caused by any other external source. In accordance with one specific embodiment, the test performed outside the booth may include a further test for detecting ultraviolet energy radiated by the sparking and/or corona discharge.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1995Date of Patent: January 28, 1997Assignees: Fire Sentry Systems, Inc., Nordson Corp.Inventors: David A. Castleman, Don R. Scarbrough, Robert C. Lindrud
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Patent number: 5598316Abstract: An apparatus and method for substantially eliminating static electrical charges from articles by rinsing the articles with ozonated water is disclosed. A closed loop recirculating system for ozonated water is described. The apparatus provides a pressure differential bypass line for providing a constant recirculating flow of ozonated water from an venturi for injecting ozone into the water directly to a water storage tank, by-passing a rinsing apparatus. Also included are a supply line to a rinsing apparatus and a diverted supply line for diverting flow back to the storage tank and bypassing the rinser apparatus. The supply line and the diverted supply line have a normally closed solenoid valve and a normally open solenoid valve, respectively, for controlling the flow of ozonated water between them. A pair of redox probes are provided for monitoring ozone concentration in the water and determining whether to initiate or to cease rinser operation.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1994Date of Patent: January 28, 1997Assignee: OxiDyn, IncorporatedInventor: John R. Kasting, Jr.
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Patent number: 5566042Abstract: An improved power supply for an electrostatic spray gun device having a voltage multiplier circuit adjusts to variations in the output load conditions of the multiplier circuit and dynamically modifies the operational loadline of the multiplier circuit in order to maintain optimal operating conditions for the spray gun device notwithstanding output load variations. The power supply utilizes a loadline manipulation circuit coupled to a feedback circuit that monitors the output load, and the manipulation circuit, in response to a feedback signal from the feedback circuit that is proportional to the output load, varies the input voltage level to the multiplier circuit to modify the loadline of the power supply in response to varying load conditions. The manipulator means of the power supply has memory means to store a variety of external commands which will control the manipulation means and a user interface to enter the external commands into the memory.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1995Date of Patent: October 15, 1996Assignee: Nordson CorporationInventors: Jeffrey A. Perkins, Gerald W. Crum, John A. Hendricks, Jeffery E. Dailidas
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Patent number: 5506746Abstract: The invention provides a method of generating a high voltage in an electrostatic powder coating gun with a high-voltage generator having a transformer and a high-voltage cascade arrangement. The primary coil of the transformer is fed with an a.c. supply voltage operating at a working frequency. During operation of the coating gun, the frequency of the supply voltage is continuously varied about the working frequency, the current intensity of the primary coil current of the transformer is also continuously detected and the direction of frequency variation is reversed every time an increase in the current intensity of the primary coil current is determined.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1993Date of Patent: April 9, 1996Assignee: Wagner International AGInventor: Kurt Seitz
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Patent number: 5491602Abstract: An air amplifying blow-off system incorporating an ionizing apparatus includes a converter driven by the compressed air being directed to an air distributor. The converter provides the power source for the ionizing apparatus. In this way, the air distributor and ionizing apparatus can be an easily contained unit. The system may comprise a turbine which is electrically connected to an ionizing apparatus, such as an ionizing bar. Another system may comprise an oscillatory device connected to a pair of opposing electrodes through a piezoelectric device. The compressed air drives the oscillatory device. The piezoelectric device provides a pulsating supply of voltage to the ionizing device. This invention allows the blow-off/ionizer system to be utilized in potentially explosive environments. Further, the efficiency of the systems is increased since power losses across the relatively long cables incorporated in the prior art systems is eliminated.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1995Date of Patent: February 13, 1996Assignee: Paul Horn Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Paul E. Horn, Mark N. Horenstein, Donald G. Parent
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Patent number: 5344676Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing nanodrops which are liquid drops with diameters less than one micron and producing therefrom solid nanoparticles and uniform and patterned film deposits. A liquid precursor is placed in an open ended tube within which is a solid electrically conductive needle which protrudes beyond the open end of the tube. Surface tension of the liquid at the tube end prevents the liquid from flowing from the tube. Mutually repulsive electric charges are injected into the liquid through the needle, causing the surface tension to be overcome to produce a plurality of liquid jets which break up into nanodrops.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1992Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventors: Kyekyoon Kim, Choon K. Ryu
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Patent number: 5324434Abstract: A filter of a water purifying apparatus main body which is housed in a sink is made as a positive electrode, and a DC voltage is applied, by a dry battery cell, between the filter and a negative electrode in a purified water passage. Thus, microbes are prevented from proliferating in tap water which remains in the water purifying apparatus main body. A discharge pipe of the water faucet used exclusively for purified water is made as a negative electrode, and a DC voltage is applied, by the dry battery cell, between the positive electrode in the outlet of a cartridge and the discharge pipe. Thus, microbes are prevented from proliferating in tap water which remains in the water faucet used exclusively for purified water.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1992Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignees: Nippondenso Co., Ltd., Inax CorporationInventors: Yukio Oikawa, Isamu Shigeta, Shiro Saito, Mitsuhiro Hayamizu