Abstract: A fluid handling control/monitoring system is divided into a network of modular, intelligent components. These individual components are generally specific to a certain function within the system and contain all the intelligence necessary to perform that function without external guidance. Examples of the different types of components include but are not limited to: human-machine interface (HMI), fluid control, heater control, motor control, field-bus communications and the like. While each type of board is specialized in function, it may control several items of the same nature. For instance, a heater control may be able to control several heaters on one system. Similarly, a fluid board may have the ability to receive input from more than one flow meter and then control fluid flow of more than one point. An example might be a plural component metering and dispensing system where two fluid components have to be combined in a precise mix ratio.

Abstract: The hydraulic power module 10 consists of 1) a hydraulic manifold 12 to route hydraulic fluid to the correct areas, 2) a hydraulic reservoir 14 that contains hydraulic fluid 16,3) a hydraulic pump 18,4) a DC servo motor 20,5) a directional valve 22,6) a cooling system 24 7) an integrated filter housing 26 and 8) electronics—motor control 28 for controlling the DC servo motor 20.

Abstract: Off-the-shelf electronic packages eliminate the much of the need for hardware redesign for each product. The base unit has a base plastic housing and a power/communication board. The component module is comprised of a mid-section plastic housing, a common board, a component board, panels with connectors and a housing cover. The component board is unique board to each platform and could be, for example, a fluid control module, a low power temperature control module, a gateway module, a USB module, etc.

Abstract: A fluid handling control/monitoring system is divided into a network of modular, intelligent components. These individual components are generally specific to a certain function within the system and contain all the intelligence necessary to perform that function without external guidance. Examples of the different types of components include but are not limited to: human-machine interface (HMI), fluid control, heater control, motor control, field-bus communications and the like. While each type of board is specialized in function, it may control several items of the same nature. For instance, a heater control may be able to control several heaters on one system. Similarly, a fluid board may have the ability to receive input from more than one flow meter and then control fluid flow of more than one point. An example might be a plural component metering and dispensing system where two fluid components have to be combined in a precise mix ratio.

Abstract: A tip guard is provided for protecting an airless spray tip and preventing accumulation of paint on the tip guard. The tip guard has two pair of vanes extending forwardly and radially outwardly from a base, each a pair of vanes being joined by a crossbar. A pointed edge faces radially inwardly from each of the vanes and the crossbar and, generally, planar sides are provided to each plane, thereby allowing air flow through the side of the tip guard and preventing buildup of paint on the surface of the tip guard.

Abstract: A spray gun is designed for mounting on the end of a robot arm. The construction of the gun is provided such that nearly all of the main components with the exception of the spray head itself are located in a main body to which is mounted a pivotal spray head assembly which may pivot approximately 90.degree. to either side of the normal straight-ahead position. The power supply and power generating units are located in the main body. The electrostatic power supply connection to the spray head enters the spray head shaft on the opposite side from the fluid supply entry. The fluid control valve may be located in the spray head shaft.

Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing paint or other liquids having a rotational valve actuable between a dispensing position and a suction position and a piston and cylinder assembly in flow coupling relation to the valve, and having a base plate for rotationally positioning the piston and cylinder assembly between the dispensing position and the suction position, including an inclined plane for imparting a predetermined suction movement of the piston during the rotational positioning.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for spraying paints wherein the paint comprises a predetermined ratio mixture of at least two components, and wherein the ratio of these components is controlled automatically as they are delivered to a spray gun and prior to mixing, by means flow-sensing devices which generate flow-representative signals to a control unit. The control unit calculates the appropriate ratio and adjusts a flow regulating device in at least one of the component lines for ensuring continued flow at the desired ratio.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for delivering two or more liquids in predetermined ratios, where the liquids are pumped by separate reciprocating pistons, the stroke of each piston being independently adjustable by means of a pivotal piston rod anchor and an adjustable piston arc control mechanism. All of the pistons are interconnected by means of an angularly rotating metering shaft which is in turn connected to a toggle valve mechanism for reversing the piston drive control upon reaching a predetermined amount of angular rotation. Since all interconnected pistons pass through the same angular value, but along independently adjustable arcs of travel, the respective strokes of each piston may be thereby controlled. A novel air valving mechanism for accomplishing the reversal and control of valves which regulate the fluid flow in contact with the respective pistons forms a part of the present invention.