Abstract: An awning control system provides automatic retraction of an extended awning upon detection of awning motion in multiple dimensions caused by windy conditions. The awning control system includes a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS)-based accelerometer for motion-based auto-retraction. A single, combined motion sensor/controller module may be located in the motor head and connected to switches and a 12V power source through wires routed along or within the awning framework. The control system operates by gauging the vertical, horizontal (inward/outward), and lateral motion of the leading edge or lead rail of the awning when in a fully or partially extended position. When persistent motion or gust exceeds preset thresholds, the control system will automatically engage the motor to retract the awning. The control system provides full automatic retraction of the awning unless halted or interrupted by additional user input. Manual switching also controls the extension and retraction of the awning.

Abstract: A retractable awning adapted to be moved between extended and retracted positions includes a pair of support arms and a pair of rafter arms each of which can be extended or retracted with the awning. A motor rotates a drive shaft and a roll bar to which an awning sheet is connected so that energization of the motor causes the awning to be wrapped around the roll bar when the awning is being retracted or unwrapped from the roll bar when the awning is being extended. A belt system is disposed in each support arm which causes the support arm to extend or retract depending upon the direction of rotation of the motor so that the arms are extended simultaneously with the unwrapping of the awning sheet from the roll bar or retracted simultaneously with wrapping of the awning sheet around the roll bar. A rigid or alternatively resilient brace extends between each support arm and an associated rafter arm for holding the rafter arms in an extended position as the awning reaches a fully extended position.

Abstract: An improved poppet valve seat having a predetermined through-bore restricting orifice operating in conjunction with a fluid diffuser and diffuser flow passages thereof reduce the velocity of fluid ejected from the spray gun below levels which are hazardous for potential injection into the skin of a user or the like when the spray tip and associated safety guards are removed from a spray gun. However, while the velocity of the paint passing through the spray gun is reduced to avoid the injection hazards, the atomization pressures required for cohesive and complete atomization of the fluid passing through the airless paint sprayer is maintained to provide an efficient and effective atomization of the fluid in an airless sprayer.

Abstract: An airless paint sprayer includes an inlet check valve assembly having a dual spring configuration which allows for increased travel distance of the inlet check valve thereby increasing the fluid flow through the valve without diminishing response time of the valve or the priming operations of the system. A dampener also contributes to lessening the cavitation and loss of pressure in the paint sprayer and comprises a generally T-shaped fitting in which one leg of the T-shaped fitting is capped and includes a trapped volume of air to dampen acceleration/deceleration forces and acceleration spikes being transmitted from the pump to the fluid being pumped through the fitting.

Abstract: A secure tool display includes a quick-connect pneumatic coupling and a cable extending therethrough. A cable stop limits withdrawal of the cable from a first coupling fitting mounted on the tool. The other end of the cable is attached to the display unit. When the coupling is connected, the tool is statically mounted and displayed. When the fittings or components of the coupling are detached, the tool can be lifted off the display unit and manipulated, but not removed therefrom beyond the length of the cable.

Abstract: An incremental drive mechanism for a switch operating timing cam is disclosed. The mechanism includes a camshaft having a radially extending cam and a cooperating slide which is adapted to reciprocate along a rectilinear path. The slide has first and second cam surfaces which are engaged during a major portion of a single revolution of the camshaft to reciprocate the slide in a positive manner. The slide has a cantilever spring arm which carries a pawl tooth at its end to engage successive teeth provided on the periphery of a switch operating cam drum or disc. A cantilever leaf spring is provided which bears against the slide to urge the pawl tooth into engagement with the cam disc or drum in the event the cantilever spring arm becomes permanently displaced toward the slide.

Abstract: A sump pump assembly having a primary sump pump and a secondary sump pump and including a T-fitting for connecting together the outlets of the primary sump pump and the secondary sump pump to a common exhaust. The T-fitting contains a one-way valve on the secondary pump outlet connection and a fastening means for a water level sensing device.

Abstract: A double insulated vacuum motor assembly for use in wet/dry utility cleaners. Strategic elements of the motor assembly are shielded by or formed of electrically insulating material to prevent hazardous electrical current between the fan chamber and the motor and migration of fluids into the motor. A unique fan mounting arrangement permits a conventional motor shaft construction and use of a metal fan while preventing the possibility of electrification of the fan. Mounting arrangements and an insulating shroud for the vacuum motor and the fan chamber prevent migration of pressurized fluids into the motor.

Abstract: A self-starting, high running torque, synchronous motor is disclosed. The motor has an annular stator and a cylindrical rotor mounted within and spaced from the inner cylindrical periphery of the stator. The rotor is provided with a plurality of evenly spaced rotor poles about its cylindrical periphery. Spaced, axially tapered poles are provided about the inner periphery of the stator. One stator pole is angularly and circumferentially offset to serve as a starting pole, while the remaining stator poles are evenly spaced about an arc which does not include the offset pole.