Abstract: Mobile fluid delivery systems and methods are disclosed. The disclosed embodiments are particularly useful for spraying herbicides on a roadside shoulder. The systems include nozzles mounted upon a movable arm extending from a vehicle. A sensor mounted upon the vehicle detects objects which the extended arm is approaching, such as telephone or other utility poles on the side of the road. The sensor signals a control unit, which directs retraction of the movable arm to avoid collision with the object, and extension of the arm after passing the object. In targeted fluid delivery, the control unit can direct forward fluid spray to the backside of the object as the extended arm approaches, lateral fluid spray as the arm passes the object, and rearward fluid spray to the front side of the object as the arm is extended after passing the object. The system can thus effectively douse the ground surrounding a utility pole, for example, with herbicide and reduce fire hazard.

Abstract: A mobile system for delivering a fluid to a fluid application area includes a vehicle, an arm carried by the vehicle and movable between a retracted position and an extended position, a fluid delivery system carried by the vehicle and including at least one fluid delivery device coupled too the arm, a mechanism for maneuvering the arm between the retracted position and the extended position, a sensor mounted on the vehicle for sensing the approach of an obstacle in the path of the arm, and a control circuit responsive to the sensor for causing the arm maneuvering mechanism to retract the arm towards the retracted position when the sensor detects an approaching potentially interfering obstacle and for extending the arm towards the extended position when the relative positions of the arm and the obstacle are no longer potentially interfering. A safety breakaway mechanism is incorporated into the system for enabling the arm to deflect when struck by an undetected obstacle.

Abstract: A cable connector housing assembly with an automatic ejector apparatus integral thereto for facilitating disconnection between cable connector housings. A convenient quick-release operating handle is positioned on the connector housing assembly. The handle is used to disconnect the mechanical and electrical connection between first and second electrical connector housings. The connector housing assembly has a novel, pivoting internal cam apparatus which is operatively coupled to the handle, which, when extended, causes the internal cam apparatus to move a captivated V-shaped bar from a first position to a second position, thereby breaking the electrical connection. Internal to the connector housing are rows of locating ribs that facilitate the correct positioning and alignment of the cable end during assembly of the connector.