Patents by Inventor Herbert H. Howard

Herbert H. Howard has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5095558
    Abstract: An improved adjustable orifice spa jet is provided for use in a spa, therapeutic bath, and the like, wherein the spa jet supplies a diverging annular flow stream of mixed air and water. The spa jet includes a housing defining a chamber with a cylindrical discharge outlet at one end and a pressurized water and an air inlet at the opposite end. A nozzle includes a hollow eyeball fitting mounted pivotally within the chamber and defining a venturi section for admixture of air and water. The nozzle further includes a diverging annular discharge flow path for discharge flow of the air-water mixture to the spa. In the preferred form, the nozzle is directionally adjustable from within the spa and includes curved swirl vanes to impart a swirling action to the fluid flow for improved massage action. The preferred nozzle further includes an adjustment knob accessible from within the spa to variably select a desired air-water mixing ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: Vortex Whirlpool Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert H. Howard
  • Patent number: 4861231
    Abstract: A device for automatically disabling operation of a pneumatic device, such as an air-actuated pump switch. The device includes a diaphragm exposed to atmospheric pressure on one side and to water pressure on the other. So long as the water pressure is high enough, the diaphragm is held in a position in which it seals a pneumatic port and ensures continuing operation of an air-actuated switch. If the water pressure falls below a preselected level, the port is vented to atmosphere and the air-actuated switch is effectively disabled until the water pressure increases again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventor: Herbert H. Howard