Paint Mixer Patents (Class 366/605)
  • Patent number: 11590465
    Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a system and method for customizing a cosmetic product. The system includes: an interface device, in electronic communication with a single batch cosmetic device. A container configured, to be imported into the single batch cosmetic device containing a base. The single batch cosmetic device configured to formulate a customized cosmetic product by mixing a cosmetic additive with the base inside the imported container using at least one mixing element. The container exported from the single batch cosmetic device containing the customized cosmetic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: Blee. LLC
    Inventors: Charles C. Brandon, Travis Floyd, Walter J Wallace, Peter J Richards, Jenny L. Lam, Amanda D. Braught, Phillip A Powers, Mitch K Meiss, Dave A Seeman, Evan A Reese, Camille L B Cohen, Peter Phillips
  • Patent number: 11464354
    Abstract: A system for dispensing individual servings of a beverage, said system comprising: a beverage receptacle holder adapted for retaining a beverage receptacle; a plurality of dry formulation beverage mixtures; selection means for selecting one or more of said beverage mixtures for said beverage; dispensing means for measuring an individual serving quantity of said selected one or more beverage mixtures and for depositing said individual serving quantity into said beverage receptacle; fluid dispensing module for depositing an individual serving quantity of a selected fluid into said beverage receptacle; means for sealing said beverage receptacle; and means for mixing said individual serving quantity of said beverage mixture and said fluid to provide a mixed beverage for dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Inventor: Giuseppe Di Maria
  • Patent number: 11446628
    Abstract: Improving health and experience of a cosmetic product user, the robotic cosmetic mix bar of the present invention is disclosed. The robotic cosmetic mix bar allows the user to select safe ingredients tailored to their own unique hair and skincare goals. In one embodiment, the robotic cosmetic mix bar contains a robotic arm surrounded by a dispenser and multiple processing stations. Based on a user input indicating a type of cosmetic product and the ingredients to include in the cosmetic product, the robotic arm obtains the desired ingredients from the dispenser and, by transporting the ingredients from one processing station to another, the robotic arm facilitates the processing of the ingredients. The processing of ingredients can include boiling, cooling, mixing, whisking, blending, etc. Within approximately two minutes, the cosmetic product built according to the user specifications is delivered to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: YATEOU, INC.
    Inventor: Adedayo Oyetola McIntosh
  • Patent number: 8936390
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for producing an aqueous paint from a plurality of premixed compositions at the point of sale wherein the apparatus is cleaned during the paint production. The premixed compositions include a pigment composition, a dispersant-thickening agent composition, a high resin content binder, and a low resin content binder. The dispersant-thickening agent, when supplied in a cleaning amount, effectively cleans the nozzles and valves, used to supply the premixed compositions to a receiving reservoir for the desired aqueous paint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: MicroBlend Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall L. Hughes, Kevin A. Newell, Michael Mowen
  • Patent number: 8905629
    Abstract: A gyroscopic paint mixer having a rotatable frame with a clamp lock providing automatic transfer from an unclamping to a clamping condition, providing silent operation through the use of one way clutches, the mixer also having a vertical stop apparatus coupled to an access door for stopping and holding the rotatable frame in an upright position, the mixer also having a bail retainer supported by a carriage assembly mounted for rotation on a clamp plate with a cam urging the bail retainer to the side of the frame when the bail retainer is released from the paint container with the paint container in an upright position in the rotatable frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Benjamin M. Johnson, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 8899825
    Abstract: A stirrer device (1a, 1b) includes at least one shaft (13), a first blade-type stirrer assembly (3) and a second blade-type stirrer assembly (2), characterized in that the blade-type stirrer assemblies are movable relative to each other in the axial direction. Also provided is a method of adjusting the above stirrer device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Fillon Technologies
    Inventors: Cyril Denize, Aurelien Brule
  • Patent number: 8845179
    Abstract: An adaptor for a vortex paint mixer. The adaptor includes a pair of semi-cylindrical holding structures pivotably connected together by a pair of pivot links. Each of the halves has a depression formed therein. When the holding structures are placed together, the two depressions form a cavity having first and second regions adapted to hold a conventional cylindrical quart paint container and a rectangular quart paint container, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventor: Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 8845180
    Abstract: An adaptor for a vortex paint mixer. The adaptor includes a pair of semi-cylindrical holding structures pivotally connected together by a pair of pivot links. Each of the halves has a depression formed therein. When the holding structures are placed together, the two depressions form a cavity having first and second regions adapted to hold a conventional cylindrical quart paint container and a rectangular quart paint container, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventor: Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 8690048
    Abstract: A reinforced container system comprises a container having a bottom wall, a pair of opposite side walls, a pair of opposite end walls, and opposed pairs of diagonal corner panels interposed between adjacent side and end walls to form an interior space. The bottom wall includes two opposed glue panels each of which is foldably joined to respective longitudinal edges of the bottom wall and each of which attached to the respective side walls. A protective sleeve is configured to detachably attach to the container. The protective sleeve includes two side walls, two end walls and opposed pairs of diagonal corner walls interposed between adjacent side and end walls. The side walls, the end walls and the diagonal corner walls are joined to one another along four vertical hinges to whereby protect the container against tremendous forces and inertia caused by mixing or shaking machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Philips, Wayne H. Kuhn
  • Patent number: 8641264
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing paint and a system for producing paint, which enable, in a paint-producing process, moderate stirring and dispersive mixing without causing entrainment of air bubbles, and are also economically advantageous and easier to clean. The system includes a tank 2 for receiving a paint material to be mixed and dispersed, a pump 3 for sucking part of the paint material in the tank 2 and discharging the sucked paint material into the remaining part of the paint material in the tank 2, and a flow path reduction area 5 disposed between the pump 3 and a paint material discharge outlet 4, the discharge outlet 4 being positioned so as to be submerged in the paint material in the tank. This achieves the stirring, mixing, and dispersion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Kansai Paint Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidenori Sawada, Masahiko Hiraki
  • Patent number: 8419267
    Abstract: A one-piece stackable container restraining apparatus incorporates a flat surface and four legs. The restraining apparatus can be used on the crest of a roof or on other surfaces. The stackable feature is used to accommodate roofs of differing pitches and to create a more stable combination. In certain embodiments attachment holes are utilized for ease in transportation and movement. The attachment of the container to the flat surface allows one to lift a container along with the container restraining apparatus together by lifting only the container, for example by its handle. Additionally, the container restraining apparatus can be used on a flat surface to prevent overturning of the container during transportation, such as paint buckets transported in a truck or van. Mounting holes on each leg can be used to accommodate a variety of fixtures such as wheels or articulating pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Edmund Waller Melvin
  • Patent number: 8414180
    Abstract: A fluid mixing apparatus for mixing a fluid in a circular container includes a circular lid for engaging the open top container. A shaft is rotatably positioned through the lid and is rotatable about a shaft axis. A mixer is attached to the shaft adjacent one end for rotating with the shaft in a plane perpendicular to the shaft axis. The mixer receives the shaft. The mixer has a fixed portion and a hinged portion hingedly connected to the fixed portion. An agitator is mounted to the shaft for agitating a fluid when the apparatus is mounted in a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventors: Jackie R. Mattingly, Robert M. Rolfes
  • Patent number: 8333500
    Abstract: A one-piece stackable container restraining apparatus incorporates a flat surface and four legs. The restraining apparatus can be used on the crest of a roof or on other surfaces. The stackable feature is used to accommodate roofs of differing pitches and to create a more stable combination. In certain embodiments attachment holes are utilized for ease in transportation and movement. Additionally, the container restraining apparatus can be used on a flat surface to prevent overturning of the container during transportation, such as paint buckets transported in a truck or van. Mounting holes on each leg can be used to accommodate a variety of fixtures such as wheels or articulating pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Edmund Waller Melvin
  • Patent number: 8322913
    Abstract: A plastic container used to hold a dispersion-based paint colorant and capable of dispensing the colorant into paint dispensing machines, comprising an open top capable of holding and securing a cap, and having a wide mouth with a diameter of at least 50 mm. The plastic container has a cylindrical body extending below the open top, and a plurality of vertical ribs spaced around the body to strengthen the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Galowina, Dennis Futo, Dale Panascewicz
  • Patent number: 8287181
    Abstract: A one-piece stackable container restraining apparatus incorporates a flat surface and four legs. The restraining apparatus can be used on the crest of a roof or on other surfaces. The stackable feature is used to accommodate roofs of differing pitches and to create a more stable combination. In certain embodiments attachment holes are utilized for ease in transportation and movement. Additionally, the container restraining apparatus can be used on a flat surface to prevent overturning of the container during transportation, such as paint buckets transported in a truck or van. Mounting holes on each leg can be used to accommodate a variety of fixtures such as wheels or articulating pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Edmund Waller Melvin
  • Patent number: 8182136
    Abstract: A paint mixer support and tray apparatus providing a pounding station for reclosing a paint container having friction fit lid. The support allows for vertically supporting up to two paint mixers, each supported on a separate horizontal plate. The tray is movable between a horizontal operating position wherein the paint container may be placed on the tray and the lid pounded down against the container, and a vertical storage position wherein the tray is pivoted up out of the way, where it may rest against a paint mixer, retained there by magnets. In the absence of an upper paint mixer, the tray may be further pivoted to rest against the upper plate resulting in a shipping position for the tray and stand. The tray may have a pair of arms in contact with the stand to support the tray in the operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Brent Thomas Harrold, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 8157436
    Abstract: A gyroscopic paint mixer having a rotatable frame with a clamp lock providing automatic transfer from an unclamping to a clamping condition, providing silent operation through the use of one way clutches, the mixer also having a vertical stop apparatus coupled to an access door for stopping and holding the rotatable frame in an upright position, the mixer also having a bail retainer supported by a carriage assembly mounted for rotation on a clamp plate with a cam urging the bail retainer to the side of the frame when the bail retainer is released from the paint container with the paint container in an upright position in the rotatable frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Aaron Curtis, Stephen J. Carlson, Charles Ringhofer, Benjamin M. Johnson, Brent Thomas Harrold, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 8147123
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for mixing paint disposed in either a conventional one gallon paint container or a square paint container having a body with a handle passage extending therethrough. The apparatus includes a square bucket for holding the container. A rocker is pivotably mounted to a side wall of the bucket and includes a pair of heads aligned over a pair of openings in the side wall. A floor of the bucket has a plurality of support structures extending upwardly therefrom. When the conventional one gallon paint container is disposed in the bucket, the container rests on the floor, the vertical axis of the container is offset from the central axis of the bucket, and both heads of the rocker are disposed against the container inside the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventor: Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 7967497
    Abstract: The present invention sets forth an implement which enables the user to mix paint, and optionally to perform several other painting related functions. The implement has a perforated paddle with oppositely deflected upper portions to enhance mixing of the paint. The implement may be selectively positionable to either mix paint or to support a paint roller for cleaning. A paint can remover and a paint can rim cleaning device are also incorporated into the implement. A single implement can serve the functions of opening paint cans, stirring paint in a container, cleaning the groove around the lip of a paint can, cleaning a paint roller, and as a spatula to aid in removing paint from a can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Mike Whitney
  • Patent number: 7966095
    Abstract: A color paint formula adjusting system and the method thereof are provided, which allow a user to log onto with a stand-alone or a network, input color paint and adjust it. By computer-aided computing of mix ratio of resin, the color paint is made satisfactory to restrictive conditions of physical and chemical properties, with the color unchanged, wherein the color paint is manufactured by mixing a plurality of color pastes. And color paste content data and color paint mix ratios are stored in a database. The mixture contents input by the user and the amounts thereof to be added are corrected by color paint formula adjusting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Chen-Te Huang
  • Patent number: 7959345
    Abstract: A holder and system for mixing a volume of material within a closed container in a mixing machine. Holders and systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may permit mixing of fluids in containers that are otherwise ill-suited for conventional mixing machines. The holder may include a receptacle or bucket into which a first insert or adapter is placed to receive and hold one end of the closed container. A second insert may also be inserted into the bucket to receive and hold a second end of the closed container. The bucket may include a tapered inner sidewall surface and one or both adapters may include side surfaces that generally conform to the sidewall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Valspar Sourcing, Inc.
    Inventor: Wilken Benjamin, II
  • Patent number: 7922383
    Abstract: There is described a modular cabinet for storing and driving stirrer cans containing liquids, the modular cabinet comprising a bottom stand on which at least one cabinet module is mounted, and a motion transmission system constituted by driver transmission elements and by driven transmission elements, each cabinet module being made up of two upright elements and a mechanical shelf for supporting and driving stirrer cans. The driver transmission elements of the motion transmission system are disposed outside said mechanical shelf and are independent thereof, and the mechanical shelf contains only the driven transmission elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Fillon Investissement
    Inventors: Thierry Leon Claude Garcia, Michel Denis Lesimple, Jacky Gaulupeau
  • Patent number: 7896540
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and method for adequately securing the currently available metal and plastic containers for paint and other fluids as well as other foreseeable containers in an automated fashion without crushing or damaging the containers, without using any special adapters for particular container types and without operator intervention. To avoid crushing a plastic container, the disclosed system and method takes advantage of the compressibility of these less rigid plastic containers. It has been found that a plastic paint container can be safely clamped in place without structural damage if the clamp plate travel after engagement with the top of the container is limited to a certain value, for example, about 5/16?. When the compression amount if limited or controlled, the plastic container will not move or will move very little during a three minute violent shake cycle. Some conventional containers are not readily compressible, such a metal cans, drums or the larger (five gal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Fluid Management Operations, LLC
    Inventors: Margaret M. Lowan, Steven Page
  • Patent number: 7850093
    Abstract: An agitated and pressurized paint pot that is mounted directly to a paint spray dispenser uses a small volume pressurized pot with constant agitation. This design prevents the settling of material and ensures that the materials are applied through the system at a consistent feed rate to meet the specific needs of applying radar absorbing materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Larry T. Burton, James R. Reed, Jacob A. Johnson, Kelly B. Choban
  • Patent number: 7819577
    Abstract: Clamping device and method to temporarily clamp, in a mixing machine (11), a container (12) containing a fluid product, comprising two clamping elements (20, 21), opposite each other and able to clamp the container (12) in a determinate position. A movement mechanism (22), controlled by a control unit (24), is able to reciprocally move the clamping elements (20, 21) and impart thereto a clamping force (F) or clamping impulse, according to the actual height (L) of the container (12). The control unit (24) is also able to calculate, as a function of the clamping force (F), a relative clamping speed (v3), at which to move reciprocally the two clamping elements (20, 21) so as to clamp the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: CPS Color Equipment Spa Con Unico Socio
    Inventors: Guido Greco, Fabrizio Benatti, Andrea Capucci
  • Patent number: 7815361
    Abstract: In a method for automated colour mixing in a customer-operated and enclosed arrangement, a container with colour base component can be inserted and shaken, the tin with the shaken colour base component is provided with a hole, one or more doses of colour pigment are added via the hole, the hole is closed and shaking is then carried out again. Devices for carrying out the said functions are controlled by microcomputer equipment that is arranged to work interactively with the customer. The making of the hole is carried out using a knife edge or injection device that penetrates the material of the container. The dosing of the colour pigments is carried out by means of a pump and valve arrangement in which one or more valves are opened and closed or by means of a pressure or piston arrangement. The dosing is initiated in the open state of the valve or by activation of the pressure or piston device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Texo Application AB
    Inventor: Bo Lindblom
  • Patent number: 7717614
    Abstract: A clamping mechanism and method are disclosed for a mixing machine that detects when the upper clamping member engages the tops or lids of the containers loaded into the mixing machine. The disclosed clamping mechanism includes a lower base and an upper plate defining an adjustable clamping distance disposed therebetween. At least one of the lower base and upper plate is moveable to increase or decrease the clamping distance. The upper plate is pivotally connected to a cross member so the upper plate is at least partially pivoted away from the cross member when nothing is clamped between the upper plate and lower base. At least one of the cross member and upper plate is associated with a sensor. The sensor is linked to a controller, which controls the movement of the upper plate or the lower base (or both) for clamping and unclamping articles disposed on the lower base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Fluid Management Operations, LLC
    Inventor: William A. Miller
  • Patent number: 7686502
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for mixing paint disposed in either a conventional one gallon paint container or a square paint container having a body with a handle passage extending therethrough. The apparatus includes a square bucket for holding the container. A rocker is pivotably mounted to a side wall of the bucket and includes a pair of heads aligned over a pair of openings in the side wall. A floor of the bucket has a plurality of support structures extending upwardly therefrom. When the conventional one gallon paint container is disposed in the bucket, the container rests on the floor, the vertical axis of the container is offset from the central axis of the bucket, and both heads of the rocker are disposed against the container inside the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventor: Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 7654730
    Abstract: An apparatus for mixing material in a container includes a platform mounted for simultaneous movement on at least two axes and for supporting a container containing material to be mixed. A motor can be operatively associated with the platform to move the platform on the two axes. A container holding assembly having a vertical extent can be carried by the platform, and is moveable between a closed position in which the holding assembly is positioned proximate the container to retain the container on the platform during mixing operations, and an open position in which the holding assembly is positioned away from the container so that the container can be removed from the platform without lifting the container over the vertical extent of the holding assembly. The platform can be contained within a housing having a low profile opening such that the container can be removed without elevating the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Ultrablend LLC
    Inventors: Steven Marshall, Martin Miguel Salas, James Howard Merritt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7578611
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a stirrer tool that includes a head component having a first body portion and a second body portion connected to the first body portion with a first plurality of projections extending substantially radially out from and substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a body portion. Head component may also have a second plurality of projections extending in a substantially distal direction away from a distal end of the body portion, and all of the projections may be made of a substantially stiff material that is flexible enough to be bent to fit through an opening in a container that is smaller in diameter than a diameter of the head component and stiff enough to mix viscous products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Ralph Hamilton
  • Patent number: 7513678
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a rotary mixing device that is easy to produce, assemble, use and dispose of. The device comprises a shaft, and at least one mixing member. The shaft and mixing member are formed of the same composite material and are produced by molding the components in essentially a single plane. Moreover, the runners that provide the liquid polymer material to form the components of the rotary mixing device also serve as holding elements. Consequently, a one-piece, single shot molded unit is produced containing the components and the holding elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Donald W. Venus
  • Patent number: 7497348
    Abstract: This invention provides an adapter for holding small paint containers in a paint mixer sized to hold a large paint container. The adapter has first and second shells or members that are attached to each other by a hinge. The adapter is opened to hold a small paint container inside the two shells and the shells are held together with a spring clip when the shells of the adapter are closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Benjamin M. Johnson, Aaron Curtis, Thomas J. Midas
  • Patent number: 7484879
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a stirrer tool that includes a head component having a first plurality of projections extending substantially radially out from and substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a body portion. Head component may also have a second plurality of projections extending in a substantially distal direction away from a distal end of the body portion, and all of the projections may be made of a substantially stiff material that is flexible enough to be bent to fit through an opening in a container that is smaller in diameter than a diameter of the head component and stiff enough to mix viscous products. The projections may further be capable of being shortened by cutting off a selected length of the projections. The first plurality of projections may be configured to create a vortex mixing action and the second plurality of projections may be configured to reach and stir up sediment on bottoms and in corners of containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Ralph H. Hamilton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7473026
    Abstract: In a method of cleaning a rotary mixing device having a mixer portion and a driving shaft, a shield is located over at least the mixer portion. The mixing device is rotated, expelling material clinging to or trapped by the mixing portion, such as paint, from the mixer portion of the mixing device. This material is blocked or caught by the shield. In one embodiment, the shield is cylindrical in shape and has a base with an opening through which the shaft of the mixing device may extend, and an open second end leading to an interior area for containing the mixer portion of the mixing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Site-b Company
    Inventors: Ross Clawson, Randy Hansen, Jane Wasley
  • Patent number: 7445373
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for mixing a fluid dispersion disposed in a container having either a cylindrical or a square shape. The apparatus includes a holding structure having a retaining structure connected to a base. The retaining structure prevents lateral movement of the container both when the container has a cylindrical shape and when the container has a generally square shape with a width substantially equal to the diameter of the cylindrical shape. The apparatus rotates the container about at least one axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventors: Dwight R. Huckby, James E. MacDonald, John T. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7399111
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for mixing a fluid dispersion disposed in a container. The apparatus includes a table upon which the container may be disposed. A clamp assembly is disposed above the table so as to define a holding space therebetween. The clamp assembly is movable between an uppermost position and a lowermost position, wherein when the clamp assembly is in the uppermost position, the holding space has a maximum height and when the clamp assembly is in the lowermost position, the holding space has a minimum height. At least one blocking structure is disposed between the table and the clamp assembly to limit the downward movement of the clamp assembly and thereby establish the lowermost position of the clamp assembly, wherein the blocking structure is positioned to provide that the minimum height of the holding space is at least 30% of the maximum height of the holding space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: The Sherwin-Williams Company
    Inventors: James E. MacDonald, Dwight R. Huckby
  • Patent number: 7384188
    Abstract: A mixing and dispensing apparatus having a lid with an opening extending from a first side to a second side of said lid. A shaft is rotatably positioned through said lid so that a first end of the shaft terminates on the first side of said lid and a second end of the shaft terminates on the second side of the lid. Two or more inner paddles are connected to the shaft and two or more outer paddles are connected to the shaft. The outer paddles extend further away from the shaft than the inner paddles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Better Way Tool Company
    Inventors: Breck A. Waggoner, David B. Stott
  • Patent number: 7384186
    Abstract: A mountable reusable paint container is configured for mounting on a wall and includes one or more separate storage compartments formed in a downward sloping configuration with each compartment having a spigot coupled at the base for dispensing the stored paint product. The paint container further includes molded air tight lids configured for fitting over each of the compartments. Each of the paint containers preferably have a stirring mechanism formed within the lid which extends into the paint container when the lid is positioned over the paint container. The stirring device extends downward into the reusable paint container and includes a top handle portion, a threaded distance rod and a bottom fin portion. The bottom fin portion includes a plurality of small evenly spaced fins formed of plastic which rotate with the stirring device in the paint container when the top handle portion is manually activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventor: Timothy J Williams
  • Publication number: 20080094938
    Abstract: A mixing and dispensing apparatus having a lid with an opening extending from a first side to a second side of said lid. A shaft is rotatably positioned through said lid so that a first end of the shaft terminates on the first side of said lid and a second end of the shaft terminates on the second side of the lid. Two or more inner paddles are connected to the shaft and two or more outer paddles are connected to the shaft. The outer paddles extend further away from the shaft than the inner paddles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: Better Way Tool Company L.L.C.
    Inventors: Breck Allen Waggoner, David Brian Stott
  • Patent number: 7344300
    Abstract: An improved paint mixer of the type rotating a paint container about a tumbling axis and a perpendicular spin axis, the improvements of a clamp assembly and lock, splash guards protecting a range-of-travel of upright clamp portions, low friction guide plates, an adjustable height strike plate and roller, a rigid gear assembly, an offset in the clamp to return the paint container to an upright position after mixing, and a relief in a raised portion on a lower plate of the clamp for assisting loading and unloading of the paint container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Midas, Brent Thomas Harrold, William O. Gran
  • Patent number: 7334936
    Abstract: The present invention is a mixing device and a method of mixing viscous fluids with a mixing device. The mixing device includes a shaft and a support mounted for rotation with the shaft. A plurality of vanes extend from the support and are mounted for rotation with the shaft, the vanes extending generally parallel to the shaft and positioned radially outward from the shaft. The vanes have a sloping inner edge which is positioned closer to the shaft at a first portion of the vane than a second portion of the vane. In use, the mixing device is located in a viscous fluid and the shaft is rotated, thereby effecting rotation of the vanes, causing fluid to move through the vanes and mix the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Site-b Company
    Inventor: Ronnald B. King
  • Patent number: 7311437
    Abstract: An improved paint mixer of the type rotating a paint container about a tumbling axis and a perpendicular spin axis, the improvements of a clamp assembly and lock, splash guards protecting a range-of-travel of upright clamp portions, low friction guide plates, an adjustable height strike plate and roller, a rigid gear assembly, an offset in the clamp to return the paint container to an upright position after mixing, and a relief in a raised portion on a lower plate of the clamp for assisting loading and unloading of the paint container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Midas, Brent Thomas Harrold, William O. Gran
  • Patent number: 7306363
    Abstract: A method and a system for holding and mixing a first container of paint having a first volume and a second container of paint having a second volume less than the first volume. The system comprises a holder comprising a clamp having a plate configured to apply pressure to the first container. A motor is configured to move the holder about at least one axis. The platform is configured for being removably placed within the holder and configured to hold the second container. Another embodiment of the system includes a stop placed proximate an edge of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Masterchem Industries LLC
    Inventor: Scott G. Manke
  • Patent number: 7303329
    Abstract: A mixing device for mixing resins and other liquids. The device comprises of a first elongated member which includes a drill end being adaptable to a conventional drill motor chuck and first connection end. A U-shaped member coupled to the first elongated member, which includes a first end coupled to the first connection end and a second end wherein the U-shaped member curves greater than about 180 degrees. A second elongated member is coupled to the U-shaped member and includes a second connection end coupled to the second end and a free end portion. The free portion extends adjacent to and substantially parallel to the first elongated member. The mixing device may also comprise one, contiguous single member. The mixing device may also be made of a rigid material including steel, ceramic, plastic, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Kevin B. Flynn
  • Patent number: 7300198
    Abstract: A fluid mixer is disclosed which alters or changes the operation of the automatic clamping mechanism for different sizes, shapes and styles of containers. Removable and replaceable bottom plates are used on the lower base. These bottom plates have indicia on the resting surfaces thereof which provides the user with a clear indication as to which type of container is used with each plate surface. Typically, both surfaces of the replaceable/reversible bottom plates are used for different styles of containers. The bottom plate provides an identification to a sensor associated with a lower base for communicating a signal to the controller. By selecting the appropriate bottom plate and installing it on the lower base, a signal is generated and sent to the controller indicative of the type of container loaded into the mixing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Fluid Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Khoo, William A. Miller
  • Publication number: 20070211561
    Abstract: A bail retainer is provided for use with a fluid mixer having a clamping area adapted to receive at least one container having a pivoting bail. The bail retainer includes an elastic member having a first fixed portion retained by the fluid mixer and a first free portion. A fastener is coupled to the elastic member first free portion. The elastic member is sufficiently elastic to move from a retracted position, in which the elastic member first free portion is outside of the clamping area, and an extended position, in which the elastic member first free portion is disposed within the clamping area so that the fastener may be coupled to the at least one container bail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Publication date: September 13, 2007
    Applicant: Fluid Management Operations, LLC
    Inventor: Steven Page
  • Patent number: 7229206
    Abstract: The present invention sets forth an implement which enables the user to mix paint, clean the can and can lip, and to clean conventional paint rollers utilizing a hand drill. The implement is selectively adjustable to be configured to mix paint in large and small containers and to support a paint roller for cleaning, thereby being capable of providing several functions. The implement is provided with a paddle member that is perforated and of a geometric form to enhance mixing. A paint can remover and a paint can rim cleaning device are also incorporated into the implement. A single implement serves the six functions of opening paint cans, stirring paint in large or small containers, cleaning the groove around the lip of a paint can, cleaning a paint roller, and as a spatula to aid in removing paint from a can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Mike Whitney
  • Patent number: 7178766
    Abstract: A retainer for immobilizing a bucket containing a liquid material, such as paint or other relatively viscous liquids, during mixing the material or to prevent accidental tipping of the bucket, is formed with a ring-like socket within which the bucket is positioned. Laterally-extending wings are formed on the socket. The user stands upon the wings to hold the socket against the ground-supporting surface upon which the socket is supported so as to prevent rotational or other movement of the socket and, consequently, movement of the bucket. The socket is formed of a generally cylindrically-shaped, vertically-axised wall which is tapered inwardly from its upper edge to its lower edge at a sufficient slope to radially inwardly frictionally grip and temporarily lock the bucket within the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventors: David J Forshee, Gregory S. Forshee
  • Patent number: 7165879
    Abstract: An improved paint mixer of the type rotating a paint container about a tumbling axis and a perpendicular spin axis, the improvements of a clamp assembly and lock, splash guards protecting a range-of-travel of upright clamp portions, low friction guide plates, an adjustable height strike plate and roller, a rigid gear assembly, an offset in the clamp to return the paint container to an upright position after mixing, and a relief in a raised portion on a lower plate of the clamp for assisting loading and unloading of the paint container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Red Devil Equipment Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Midas, Brent Thomas Harrold, William O. Gran
  • Patent number: RE39732
    Abstract: A driving head for a stirrer can is provided. The stirrer can includes a cover with a rotatable plate having upwardly projecting fingers and further includes a stirrer inside the stirrer can. The driving head is mounted beneath a hollow shelf, includes a driven shaft and a blade fixedly connected to the driven shaft. The blade engages the fingers for driving the stirrer inside the stirrer can. A swan-neck shaped body having an upper portion, connected to the shelf, and a lower portion is provided. The lower portion of the body comprises a grip for engaging the rotatable plate of the stirrer can. The driven shaft projects through the upper portion of the body. A device for preventing rotation of the stirrer can is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Fillon Investissement
    Inventor: Michel Lesimple