Abstract: Automatic paint stirring equipment of the type having a rack adapted to removably receive and support a plurality of paint cans in which each paint can includes a cover having a paint stiffing assembly mounted to the cover with a paddle inside the can and a driven member positioned above the cover. A plurality of drive assemblies are also provided wherein each drive assembly includes a drive shaft rotatably mounted to the rack having a drive member secured to its lower end which mechanically engages the driven member on the paint can cover. A pulley is secured to the other end of the drive shaft while a motor rotatably drives the pulley via an endless belt. The paint stirring equipment includes an improved bushing for rotatably mounting the drive shafts to the rack. This improved bushing includes a one-piece housing having an axial throughbore adapted to receive the drive shaft therethrough. A flange is provided at one end of the bushing while a bayonet coupling is provided at the other end of the bushing.

Abstract: An improved paint can accessory that permanently replaces an original paint can lid is provided. The accessory includes a main body with three apertures therein. The first aperture is circular and provides access by a siphon hose from paint spraying machines. A releasable plug closes the first aperture when not in use. A semicircular second aperture receives an insert having a pouring spout to permit controlled pouring of liquid contained in the container. A third aperture receives a mixing shaft which is connected to a mixing plate to mix liquid within the container. A handle facilitates actuation of the mixing shaft and, by its rotational position, ensures that the mixing plate is properly positioned. The accessory also completely covers the sealing groove of the paint can to prevent flow of liquid therein.

Abstract: An improved drive mechanism is provided for use with automatic paint stirring equipment of the type having a rack adapted to removably receive and support paint cans wherein each paint can has a cover, a stirring element contained within the can and a driven member positioned above the cover and mechanically connected to the stirring element. The improved drive mechanism includes a drive shaft having a diametric cross bore at a position spaced from the first end of the shaft. A diametrically extending opening extends from the cross bore to the first end of the shaft and this opening has a smaller cross-sectional area than the shaft cross bore. The shaft is rotatably mounted to the rack so that the first end of the shaft is positioned adjacent the driven member on the paint can. A drive member is then secured to the first end of the shaft which drivingly engages the driven member on the paint can during rotation of the shaft. This drive member has an axle and a drive plate secured to the axle.

Abstract: An agitator for mixing or blending various products, in particular paints, varnishes or the like, disposed in a container, has a fixed support structure which is resiliently connected to a first framework which in turn supports a second framework in a generally oscillatory manner. An upper plate and a lower plate, rotatable about a vertical axis and mounted on the second framework, hold the container. When the machine is in use, an electric motor, mounted on the first framework, rotates a shaft provided with pins which are eccentric relative to the axis of rotation of the shaft and are connected to the second framework. The actuation of the motor gives rise to an orbital oscillatory motion of both frameworks together and the intermittent and unidirectional rotation of the lower plate about a substantially vertical axis. This promotes quick and homogeneous mixing of paints, varnishes or other such products in a broad range of quantities.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing liquids such as ink and paint includes a support platform having a plurality of rotating spindle and support tray combinations. Each tray is adapted to receive and support a respective open container or bucket containing ink or paint to be mixed, while each spindle is coupled to and rotationally driven by a respective hydraulic motor. A blade positioned within each container thoroughly mixes the container's contents as the container rotates. Hydraulic motor control allows each container to be rotated at a selected fixed RPM or at a continuously variable RPM for improved control of mixing of the materials within the container. By controlling mixer RPM, increased quantities of the ingredients may be mixed within the tub without spilling the contents, while also permitting faster, more thorough mixing of the ingredients. Each support tray is adapted to receive either a large container such as on the order of 15 gallons or a 3.5 gallon kit adaptor to mix smaller portions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for closing shaker lids of tins of paint on shaker machines.This device, of the so-called cam type, including a series of lower tabs (1) mounted so as to rotate over the lid (3), the said tabs being uniformly arranged at its periphery and each actuated at the upper level by a maneuvring lever (9) in order to be applied, during service, under the opening rim (11) of the treated tin (13), by means of a spindle (5) connecting the tab (1) to the maneuvring lever (9) and mounted with freedom to slide and rotate on a suitable bearing (7) formed on the body of the lid, is characterized in that an elastic flexible tube (15) or lining is mounted with a small amount of play about the spindle (5) of each of the tabs (1), this tube being interposed between the maneuvring lever (9) and the upper end of the bearing (7).

Abstract: The invention relates to a lid for a paint stirring machine.This lid is provided with a conventional sealing gaiter (13) on the stirrer rod (5) bearing on the hub (15) of the lid via its circular upper collar (19). It includes a bearing washer (3) for the stirrer rod, this washer being interposed between the said hub (15) and the said collar (19) of the gaiter, this washer being shaped with a surface for receiving the collar which complements the latter and an opposing surface for being applied to the hub of the lid, and being provided with at least three snugs (21) on the said surface for receiving the collar, these snugs being arranged around the periphery of this collar, applied to it, evenly angularly arranged so that the periphery cannot move laterally with respect to this hub, these snug (21) each being equipped with a catch shaped to have the said collar (19) clipped into it.

Abstract: Adjustable coupling device for driving a stirrer rod shank of devices including a stirrer lid positioned on a tin of paint located in a paint stirring machine. A first tube has an upper fork capable of being coupled to a shelf drive plate of the stirring machine, and a second tube whose height is equivalent to that of the first tube has a reduced diameter so that it can slide at a slight clearance within the first tube, with the stirrer rod shank projecting from the stirrer lid so that it can slide with a clearance along the second tube.

Abstract: Automatic paint stirring equipment of the type having a rack adapted to removably receive and support a plurality of paint cans in which each paint can includes a cover having a paint stirring assembly mounted to the cover with a paddle inside the can and a driven member positioned above the cover. A plurality of drive assemblies are also provided wherein each drive assembly includes a drive shaft rotatably mounted to the rack and having a drive member secured to a lower end of the drive shaft which mechanically drivably engages the driven member on the paint can cover. A pulley is secured to the other end of the drive shaft while a flexible endless belt is positioned around the pulley as well as the output from a motor. The paint stirring equipment includes an improved idler wheel having a cylindrical outer surface and which is constructed of a plastic material.

Abstract: A cover assembly is provided for a paint can. The cover assembly includes a lid which is dimensioned to overlie the open top of the paint can and the lid includes a spout for dispensing paint from the can. Locking feet detachably secure the lid to the paint can chime. The cover assembly further includes a stirring assembly having an elongated shaft which extends through the lid so that a lower end of the shaft is positioned within the interior of the paint can while an upper end of the shaft extends upwardly above the lid. A paddle is secured to the lower end of the shaft so that rotation of the shaft stirs the paint within the paint can. A driven member is secured to the upper end of the shaft and this driven member cooperates with a drive mechanism in a paint can rack. Furthermore, a resilient locking dog is mounted to the driven member which cooperates with transversely extending and axially spaced slots formed along the drive shaft.

Abstract: A cover assembly for a paint can having an open top and an inwardly extending chime is disclosed. The cover assemble includes a lid dimensioned to overlie the open top of the can and the lid has a spout for dispensing the contents of the can. Similarly, a paint stirrer is connected to the lid and extends downwardly into the paint can when the lid is secured to the paint can. A pair of locking feet are also provided detachably securing the lid to the paint can and each locking foot includes an elongated shank pivotally mounted to the lid and a laterally outwardly extending portion which extends under the paint can chime thus locking the lid to the paint can. Each locking foot, furthermore, includes a metallic inner core and an outer sheath constructed of a material which is non-oxidizable by water.

Abstract: A tint mixing and dispensing system includes a plastic bag holder for storing a plurality of tint bags, and dispensing the bags one at a time for receiving and mixing tinting substances. The bag holder includes a vertical stand supported on a base plate, and a pair of arms extend outwardly from the vertical stand to support a bag with the upper unsealed end in an open disposition. The bag holder includes a flange extending from the base plate thereof, so that the holder may be slidably translated along a shelf below an array of tint storage and metering units. A bag sealing stand includes a stage for receiving and supporting the bag holder assembly, and a bag sealing device for hermetically sealing a tint bag after it is filled with a desired tint mix. The bag sealer may be supported on a sealer stand, which also supports a roll of plastic bag material.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing a medium in a vessel has structure for moving the vessel in a path defining a cone. A clamp assembly includes jaws which releasably clamp the vessel in the apparatus and prevent rotation of the vessel around its own axis. The structure includes a spherical bearing mounted at each end of the clamp assembly. A threaded shaft for moving one of the jaws is axially slidably received in one of the spherical bearings. The other spherical bearing connects a shaft extending from the other jaw at an eccentric position relative to a rotary shaft of a drive motor.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus for mixing paints contained within one or more containers. The mixing apparatus has an inner frame with a removable shelf to support the container. The mixing apparatus also has a cam-operated clamping device to selectively clamp the paint container to the shelf and a drive assembly to agitate the inner frame to mix the paint within the container. The clamping device may be selectively configured to accommodate paint containers of different heights.

Abstract: A mixer for mixing a container's contents has a holder for holding the container, a first mechanism for effecting rotation of the holder, and a second mechanism for effecting reciprocating linear motion of the holder. The first mechanism effects rotation of the holder and the second mechanism effects reciprocation of the holder simultaneously so as to effect thorough mixing of the contents of the container held thereby.

Abstract: The invention relates to a coupling device on paint stirring machines.This device calls upon a driver (5) in the form of a sleeve (7) receiving, in its bore, and with slight clearance, a stirring rod shank, the said sleeve being equipped with at least one longitudinal slot (9) and with external lateral notches, the stirrer shank (3) including at least one transverse drill hole (15), and a clip-shaped element (17) including two elastic tabs pointing toward one another in order elastically to surround the said sleeve of the driver, each of the said tabs further including an internal projection respectively complementing each of the said notches, the clip element (17) being provided with a pin element or rod (25) capable of engaging in the said drill hole of the stirring rod.

Abstract: The invention relates to a stirrer, particularly for paint-stirring machines.This stirrer is provided with at least two blade elements (13), the surface of which has helicoid development, these being fixed with equilibrium of the rotation to the shaft, at least one of the blade elements being formed along a generatrix (5) in the horizontal plane including, over at least a part of its length, curvature in a spiral shape relative to a point forming a pole (I), for example on the stirring shaft.

Abstract: An extremely compact and accurate device for simultaneously dispensing a plurality of liquids in individually pre-set volumes having: (1) substantially identical radially arranged sets having: a positive displacement metering piston pump, a fluid reservoir which houses a tint, a stirrer, and a valve spring; (2) an interconnecting passage connects the sets to respective dispensing nozzles; (3) a drive plate which moves the pistons and the stirrers between two pre-determined vertical positions for pumping and mixing the fluid; (4) a value for controllably diverting individual liquids independently in predetermined amounts from normally returning from the pumps to the reservoirs to move instead from the pump to small circularly arranged discharge nozzles; (5) a mechanism for aligning paint containers for tint dispensing; and (6) a solvent saturation system for reducing evaporation of fluid.

Abstract: A mixing assembly is provided which mixes liquids within a container. The mixing assembly has a vertically extending support frame enclosed within an outer cabinet. Attached to at least one crank which is in turn attached to the support frame, is a vertically extending rigid frame. A rotary drive apparatus rotates the crank to cause the rigid frame to orbit in a vertical plane about a horizontal axis. The mixing apparatus also includes an attachment device which removably attaches the container to the rigid frame. When the attachment device is in a lower position, the attachment device urges an upper support member against the top of the container to clamp the container between the upper support member and a lower support member. The attachment device also includes a spring to move the upper support member upward and off the top of the container when the attachment device is not locked in a lower position.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a paint stirring stick and for coupling to an electric drill comprising, in combination, a generally box-like container, the container having large parallel upper and lower walls, and small parallel side walls coupled therebetween, the container having an open front end adapted to receive a stirring stick, the device also having a closed rear end formed of symmetric walls adapted to close the rear end of the container.

Abstract: The invention is basically an extruded or injection molded plastic part that is designed to fit on all drill or hand held sanders. The device has a C-shaped bracket of the size and length of an average aerosol can. The C-shaped bracket is adapted such as the aerosol can can be pressed through the opening and snapped in placed within the C-shaped cylindrical structure. In one embodiment of the invention the C-shaped bracket is attached to a rectangular base that is adapted to fit on the top of a hand held electric power sander. The base is either clipped or bolted to the top of the sander. In another embodiment of the invention the C-shaped bracket is attached to a much smaller rectangular base. This rectangular base has an axle running lengthwise through the base that is aligned slightly off center so that when the axle turns the C-shaped bracket will oscillate. The axle is adapted to fit within the chuck of an electric drill.

Abstract: In a paint mixing apparatus, a paint can carrying bail retaining device, said device comprising a retaining ring that is movably attached to a blending bucket, said bucket having a diameter selected such that a paint can easily be inserted therein for the mixing or blending operation. The retaining ring has a radius slightly larger than the radius of the mixing bucket plus the thickness of the paint can carrying bail. The retaining ring has a loading/unloading and a retaining position. When the ring is displaced from its retaining position, which is corresponds to its normal position, into its loading/unloading position, sufficient clearance is created to allow the bail to swing freely into a mixing position, where it rests along the outside of the mixing bucket. When the ring is returned to its retaining position, the bail is secured in the mixing position as a result of a lack of sufficient clearance to allow the bail to swing away from its position along the outside of the mixing bucket.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus for providing gyroscopic movement to a mixing container via a direct drive system including a fixed ring gear, a planetary gear engaging the ring gear and a mechanism for rotating the container both about a center drive axis and an orbiting axis which is angularly displaced from the center drive axis. The invention also relates to a mechanism for facilitating insertion and removal of the container from the mixing apparatus including a mixer chassis and a top lid and lid closure assembly which are pivotally connected to a portion of the mixer chassis.

Abstract: A cover assembly is disclosed for a paint can having an open top. The cover assembly includes a lid dimensioned to over-lie the open top of the paint can having a spout attached along one side of the lid to provide access to the contents of the paint can. A closure selectively opens and closes the spout while locking tabs detachably lock the lid across the top of the can. With the lid secured to the top of the can, a paint stir extends down into the interior of the can to continually mix the paint. The lid and spout are constructed of a material which does not react to water-based paint.

Abstract: The stirrer lid device is provided with a stirring device carried by a driving shaft extending through the lid via a sleeve. The lid has an underneath portion which defines a groove for a flat and annular sealing gasket having a width selected for compensating manufacturing tolerances between pots various origins. The lid cooperates with means imparting a uniform pressure on the sealing gasket.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable shaker for cosmetic containers such as nail enamel. The shaker includes a frame assembly, a motor, power transfer means and an upper cylindrical housing. The frame assembly includes a rectangular frame element with two triangular uprights at either end. Mounted to the triangular uprights is the upper cylindrical housing. The housing includes an internal foam bottle holder with recesses adapted to hold bottles of cosmetic product. The motor and power transfer mechanisms serve to rotate the cylindrical housing by way of a beveled gear system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a machine for stirring paints.This machine is of the type comprising support racks (3) of cans of tints provided with an upper stirrer lid (5), and a mechanism for driving the stirrer lids on each of the racks, the stirrer lids (5) each being provided with a motion take-up pinion (27) for the stirrer shaft inside the cans. It is characterized in that said mechanism for driving the stirrer lids brings into play a set of endless screws (29) mounted one on each of the racks, these screws each coming to mesh with the driving pinions (27) of the stirrer lids of a same rack and being driven at an adequate speed of rotation, which is variable depending on the range of the cans of tints of the racks.

Abstract: A hand powered motor for rotational tools and similar articles is provided which consists of a gun shaped housing having an enlarged barrel portion and a hand grip portion. A trigger assembly is mounted to the hand grip portion of the gun shaped housing, while a shaft extends outwardly from an end of the enlarged barrel portion of the gun shaped housing. A fastener is for coupling the shaft to one of the rotational tools and similar articles. A mechanism within the enlarged barrel portion of the gun shaped housing is for storing kinetic energy and rotating the shaft with one of the rotational tools and similar articles in one direction when the trigger assembly is manually squeezed.

Abstract: A control system for mixing materials in a container. A screw-driven pressure plate clamps the container during mixing. Current of the clamping motor driving the screws is monitored and control circuitry allows multiple speed, multiple current draw, automatic switch-over operation of the clamping motor. Circuit components are automatically checked, and control over a mixing or clamping operation is assumed if necessary.

Abstract: An improved mixing apparatus for mixing a liquid and a particulate solid material within a container such that the pigments and/or other solid particulate materials, which are initially precipitated out and usually accumulated at the bottom of the container, are rapidly and thoroughly mixed and dispersed throughout the liquid in a uniform manner such that substantially all of the particulate material is dispersed within the liquid. In one embodiment, a flow pattern in the form of an inverted vortex rising from the bottom center of the container is created by a rotating frusto-conically shaped impeller to pull the particulate material away from the bottom of the container. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a cover mechanism, which is made to function integrally with the mixing apparatus, and which covers the container during the mixing operation to prevent the escape of fumes or spray.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus for providing gyroscopic movement to a mixing container via a direct drive system including a fixed ring gear, a planetary gear engaging the ring gear and a mechanism for rotating the container both about a center drive axis and an orbiting axis which is angularly displaced from the center drive axis. The invention also relates to a mechanism for facilitating insertion and removal of the container from the mixing apparatus including a mixer chassis and a top lid and lid closure assembly which are pivotally connected to a portion of the mixer chassis.

Abstract: A paint can cover or lid having a paint mixing device rotatably supported therefrom and extending into the interior of the paint can for mixing paint in the can while the cover or lid is in place to form a closure for the can. The mixer includes a paddle rotatably supported from the paint can cover or lid and a rotatable member which extends rotatably through the paint can cover or lid in a sealed manner to prevent leakage of paint and entrance of air with the outer end of the rotatable member having a polygonal socket receiving the output of a power device. In one embodiment of the invention, the paint can lid or cover is provided with an opening therein receiving an adapter secured to and sealed to the cover or lid by a threaded nut with the rotatable member extending through the adapter in sealed relation thereto.

Abstract: An automated paint-batching system for producing paint cans of any size and color. The system includes a plurality of paint-batching cells, with each cell having a machine comprised of either one or two dispensing stations. When two dispensing stations are used, the two dispensing stations are: A first tint-station, where a small volumetric dispensing of the base, water-base or oil base, of the paint is dispensed, in order to wet the bottom of the can, at which first station, thereafter, is dispensed all of the liquid colorants making up the formula of the paint can, at which the remainder of the base of the formula of the paint is dispensed, and a second base-dispensing station. Each of the first and second stations of the paint-batching machine of the invention has operatively associated therewith a weighing platform upon which rests the paint can during the dispensing at the respective station used in quality-control weighing of each dispensing.

Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a liquid container includes a sealing member with an integral spout. A stirring member is rotatably connected to the sealing member, and a removable spout top is constructed and arranged to seal the spout.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus for pulverulent materials includes guide rods carrying a pair of opposed pressure plates having centers aligned along a common axis of rotation. A tubular frame encloses a three-dimensional volume disposed about said guide rods and pressure plates to shield the guide rods and pressure plates from inadvertent contact, and to mount an electric motor. The pressure plates are locked in position by a transmission shaft which is geared to a lead screw which engages the pressure plates.

Abstract: The invention relates to method and small batch, portable apparatus and article for heating, pressurizing and continuously mixing two fluids, preferably at least one compressible fluid and one non-compressible fluid in a single vessel to form a mixture of such fluids.

Abstract: To provide mixing of paint in a 1 gallon can, a tubular member is passed through the handle of the 1 gallon can and suspended from a tubular handle held by the operator by members sufficiently short so the can is lifted from the ground when a person holding the handle has his arm extended downwardly and is standing. The user then gently moves his hand and wrist so as to cause a resonant pendulum-like motion of the can about the pivot points of the paint can handle so as to mix the paint within it.

Abstract: Driving member of the mixing centers are driven permanently by a transmission element for driving a coupling member with which a complementary coupling member of a stirring pot is brought in engagement. Each driving member comprises a pulley connected to the driving shaft of a coupling member by a resilient means associated with protrusions interposed between the shaft and the pulley, said protrusions disconnecting the shaft from the pulley when there is a unacceptable excess of a retaining torque applied to the coupling member.

Abstract: An automated paint-batching system for producing paint cans of any size and color. The system includes a plurality of paint-batching cells, with each cell having a maching comprised of either one or two dispensing stations. When two dispensing stations are used, the two dispensing stations are: A first tint-station, where a small volumetric dispensing of the base, water-base or oil-base, of the paint is dispensed, in order to wet the bottom of the can, at which first station, thereafter, is dispensed all of the liquid colorants making up the formula of the paint can, at which the remainder of the base of the formula of the paint is dispensed, and a second base-dispensing station. Each of the first and second stations of the paint-batching machine of the invention has operatively associated therewith a weighing platform upon which rests the paint can during the dispensing at the respective station used in quality-control weighing of each dispensing.

Abstract: Each of the modules comprises a base or case with cells been mounted thereon. Each of the cells comprises two vertical panels connected by a plate containing a mechanism for driving coupling members which are complementary to coupling members comprised by the can stirrers. One of the cells at least is provided with a motor reducing unit simultaneously connected to horizontal and vertical movement transmitting units provided for connecting together the motor reducing unit and the various coupling members.

Abstract: An automated apparatus for mixing ingredients stored in closed containers includes two or more mixing mechanisms. A diverter gate upstream of the mixing mechanisms guides containers to one or the other mechanism, as desired. Powered conveyors move the containers past the diverter gate and retractable pusher arm assemblies load the containers onto the mixing mechanisms. After a mixing operation is completed, the pusher arm assemblies discharge the containers onto an exit conveyor for transport to a remote packaging station. Sensors are disposed along the path of travel of the pusher arm assemblies to control operation thereof, providing a ready indication that a container is properly positioned on a mixing mechanism, and that the mixing operation can be initiated.

Abstract: An automated apparatus for mixing ingredients stored in closed containers includes a gyroscopically mounted frame with a clamping arrangement for clamping a container therein. A shuttle moves back and forth between a conveyor and the frame carrying containers to and from the frame. An injection arm carried on the shuttle moves the container into the frame, and an ejection arm moves the container from the frame to the shuttle, for return to the conveyor. A braking alignment mechanism orients the frame to receive a container.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus comprising a wire coil body defining a cylinder of revolution, with a cylindrical central cavity. The wire coil body includes a wire lower end portion coaxially aligned with the cylindrical central cavity and extending underlying the wire coil body for securement within a chuck portion of a rotary drill. A modification of the invention includes tubing members mounted along the wire coil body to enhance grasping of an associated spray can in a rotary mixing procedure.

Abstract: A device for restraining paint cans to be stirred comprises a restraining plate having an obtuse-angle bent portion including a plurality of adjoining openings each provided for being firmly engaged by a respective cover of paint cans arranged on a stirring table of a paint can stirring apparatus.

Abstract: A paint mixing container comprising a main body (2) of circular cross section with a base (4), side walls and an open top (6). There is a stirring arm (40) comprising a rotatable central shaft (42) with a helical blade (43, 100) rigidly mounted about the central shaft. As well, there is a removable cover (20) with locking means (12, 52, 70, 72, 73) to allow the cover to be attached to the main body. The removable cover has a sealable opening (22, 69) and means (24) to rotatably support the stirring arm in the interior of the main body.

Abstract: The invention features a mixing device comprising a rotatable impeller having a multiplicity of blades. Each blade of the impeller has an optimal angle of attack with respect to the fluid being mixed.An elliptical, fluid flow-through aperture in each blade provides for an improved flow stream about the impeller blades. The impeller is mountable upon a rotatable shaft which can be rotatively driven by a household drill.

Abstract: An automated paint-batching system for producing paint cans of any size and color. The system includes a plurality of paint-batching cells, with each cell having a machine comprised of either one or two dispensing stations. When two dispensing stations are used, the two dispensing stations are: A first tint-station, where a small volumetric dispensing of the base, water-base or oil-base, of the paint is dispensed, in order to wet the bottom of the can, at the first station, thereafter, is dispensed all of the liquid colorants making up the formula of the paint can, and a second base-dispensing station at which the remainder of the base of the formula of the paint is dispensed. Each of the first and second stations of the paint-batching machine of the invention has operatively associated therewith a weighing platform upon which rests the paint can during the dispensing at the respective station used in quality-control weighing of each dispensing.

Abstract: A mixer incorporating a shaft having one end which is adapted to be received into the chuck of a drill and the other end which includes a specially shaped mixing blade. The blade includes triangular end portions that are both angled up relative to the general plane of the blade. Rotation of the blade in one direction causes fluid to be pushed down and to the side. Reversing the blade direction causes the fluid to be pushed upward and to the side.

Abstract: A vibratory mixer for mixing ingredients by shaking comprising a load platform (51) for receiving a container (88) which holds the ingredients to be mixed, clamping means (47) cooperable with the load platform to clamp a container (88) therebetween, means (14, 26 to 48) for effecting relative movement between the load platform (51) and the clamping means (47) so as to clamp and unclamp a container, said means comprising at least one lead screw (38, 42) and a first motor (14) operable to drive the or each screw, the or at least one of the lead screws (42) being axially movable, the apparatus further comprising a second motor (13) operable to shake the load platform (51), and control means operable to control the sequence of operation of the apparatus and comprising switch means (65) connected in circuit with the first motor (14) and actuatable on axial movement of said the or at least one lead screw (42) which takes place due to the reaction of a container (88) being clamped between the load platform (51) and

Abstract: A paint shaker apparatus utilizing a typically hand held pneumatic random orbital sanding tool (14) as motor and crankshaft. A base housing (10) is adapted to receive and support a pneumatic random orbital sanding tool (14) with the sanding pad removed. The base housing (10) is adapted to be supported on a supporting surface and further includes a container cradle assembly (62) to receive and support a container to be shaken. The container cradle assembly (62) provides a clamp mechanism for holding a container to be shaken and is secured to a main shaft (40) rotatably mounted on the base housing (10) for oscillation about a vertical axis. A crank arm (44) is attached to the main shaft (40) and is connected to the sanding pad spindle (60) by a connecting rod (48).