With Alarm, Signal, Indicating, Testing, Inspecting, Illuminating Or Display Means Patents (Class 134/113)
  • Publication number: 20140238451
    Abstract: A food preparation assembly for use in cleaning food products generally includes a tank for holding washing fluid for use in cleaning food products positioned within the tank, and a pump in fluidic communication with the tank to provide movement of the washing fluid within the tank for use in cleaning the food products when positioned within the tank. A processing module is configured to receive settings from a user for cleaning the food products, and to monitor and adjust, as necessary, parameters of the washing fluid based on the user input settings. The processing module is also configured to report and/or store measured values of the parameters of the washing fluid in addition to select user defined input information (e.g., user defined wash settings, etc.). Labels may also be generated indicative of completion of cleaning of the food products by the food preparation assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Duke Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: James W. Bigott
  • Patent number: 8815018
    Abstract: The invention concerns detergent dosing devices and particularly a device for metering detergent doses within a dishwashing machine. A detergent dosing device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention comprises: a water/wash liquor collection area (12), a controlled inlet valve (14) for receiving water/wash liquor from the water/wash liquor collection area (12) and selectively allowing the collected water/wash liquor to pass through it, a housing part 10 for receiving water/wash liquor passed to it by the controlled inlet valve (14), a detergent supply (16) for mixing with said water/wash liquor, a first sensor (18) for sensing the cleanliness level of water/wash liquor, a second sensor (20) for sensing detergent, a controller (22) for receiving signals from said first and second sensors (18, 20) and for selectively controlling said inlet valve (14) on the basis of the outputs from the first and second sensors and an outlet (28) for dispensing mixed water/wash liquor and detergent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser N.V.
    Inventors: Chris Efstathios Housmekerides, Karl Ludwig Gibis
  • Publication number: 20140234175
    Abstract: A toothbrush sanitation device includes a base with a container for immersing toothbrush bristles in a sanitizing, disinfecting or cleaning fluid and a lid. The base includes a perimeter flange with an annular protrusion and an annular cavity that are circular and concentric to the base and has a height that is 20% to 40% of the total height of the device. The container has a cylindrical inner wall with a rounded bottom and a conical outer wall, which tapers toward an open end of the container, and has one or more level tags/indications. The lid has a column and a fitting zone disposed in an open end adjacent to the column. An inner wall of the fitting zone is cylindrical, and the external taper of the container and the internal cylindricity of the fitting zone define a locking line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: TUPER S.A.
    Inventors: Frank Bollmann, Charles Adriano Duvoisin
  • Publication number: 20140202497
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus to monitor and control cleaning systems are disclosed. One disclosed example method includes detecting initial contamination of workpieces before cleaning and detecting residual contamination of workpieces after cleaning. The example method also includes determining, via a processor, a system malfunction from a comparison of the initial contamination with a first threshold value and from a comparison of the final contamination with a second threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Durr Ecoclean GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Kreis, Hermann-Josef David, Egon Käske
  • Publication number: 20140190520
    Abstract: A method for rinsing endoscope channels of an endoscope with a rinsing agent from a rinsing agent supply. The method including: connecting a first endoscope channel to the rinsing agent supply via a first rinsing agent distributor, which has a testing device for checking an endoscope channel for a blockage; connecting at least one other endoscope channel to the rinsing agent supply via a second rinsing agent distributor; and checking the first endoscope channel for a blockage using a testing device and simultaneously rinsing the at least one other endoscope channel with rinsing agent from the rinsing agent supply. A device is also provided for rinsing endoscope channels of an endoscope with rinsing agent from a rinsing supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBH
    Inventor: Andreas NOACK
  • Publication number: 20140190517
    Abstract: The system and method permits the use of equipment that is located exterior to a container, such as a tank container liquid hydrocarbon material within which a sludge deposit has accumulated, and then inserted, as through an access opening in the side of the tank. In addition to other innovations, an improved hydraulic equipment positioning arrangement is provided, for both positioning, inserting and withdrawing the conduit structure and end effectors for accessing the sludge or sediment, which may include a leveling element preferably in the form of an hydraulic system that operates to move the assembly in a vertical plane as well as a rotary driven hydraulic system for driving the conduit structure along a long axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: TRADEBE ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: James T. Fallon, James W. Miller, III, Sergio Nusimovich
  • Publication number: 20140190524
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a concrete bowl is provided including the steps of a) introducing water into at least one concrete bowl; b) collecting the water from the bowl after it has been used; and c) cleaning a concrete bowl by introducing at least some of the collected water into the bowl under pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: 1M2 Design Limited
    Inventors: Michael Gervase Keith Eastwood, Michael Ian Powick
  • Patent number: 8771431
    Abstract: A vehicle wash system having a wash bay including a plurality of pivotable robotic wash monitors disposed therein. The system includes measuring devices that calculate the distance between the robotic wash monitors and a vehicle in the wash bay. A master control unit is provided for programming the plurality of robotic wash monitors to clean the vehicle in accordance with an optimal set of cleaning instructions. The master control unit generates the optimal set of cleaning instructions based on three-dimensional (3D) data associated with the wash bay, 3D data associated with the vehicle, and the location of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Interclean Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Pasi Kaipainen
  • Publication number: 20140174468
    Abstract: Provided are a cleaning device that may be applied to a manufacturing equipment without stopping operations of the equipment, a cleaning method, and a method of manufacturing a device. The cleaning device includes: a frame substrate configured to frame the cleaning device; a first functional membrane on a first surface of the frame substrate; and a second functional membrane on a second surface of the frame substrate, which is opposite to the first surface. The cleaning method includes: positioning a cleaning device including a frame substrate and functional membranes formed on opposite surfaces of the frame substrate on a support configured to support a substrate, during a semiconductor manufacturing process or a display manufacturing process on the substrate; maintaining the positioning of the cleaning device on the support for a predetermined time period; and removing the cleaning device from the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Jeong-Yong PARK, Sang-Kyu PARK, Seok-Ju PARK, Min-Kyu BANG, Un-Myung SHIN
  • Publication number: 20140166059
    Abstract: A cleaning/disinfecting apparatus includes: a plurality of attachment portions for attaching an endoscope; a cleaning/disinfecting portion that communicates with the plurality of attachment portions and can execute different types of cleaning/disinfection menus for the respective attachment portions; and an endoscope information reading portion that reads endoscope information from the endoscope. Also, the cleaning/disinfecting apparatus includes: a control portion that determines a cleaning/disinfection menu based on the read endoscope information and outputs attachment portion identifying information for identifying an attachment portion for executing the determined cleaning/disinfection menu; and a notifying portion that notifies the attachment portion identifying information outputted from the control portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventors: Aiko KOSUGI, Michifumi YOSHIE, Akihisa OGAWA, Masahiko TOMITA, Yoshitomo YAGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20140150825
    Abstract: Techniques relate to a cleaning device for an interior of a thermal power plant carrying flue gases, especially a so-called soot blower. The cleaning device includes at least one rigid lance having a base and a lance add-on part which includes at least one nozzle, the lance add-on part being detachably connected to the base. At least the lance add-on part includes at least one sensor for measuring an environment parameter. The techniques further relate to a method for installing such a cleaning device and to a cleaning and monitoring method for defined areas of the interior of the thermal power plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Clyde Bergemann GmbH Maschinen-Und Apparatebau
    Inventors: Nina Heißen, Christian Mueller, Manfred Frach
  • Patent number: 8707576
    Abstract: A tableware sterilizing and drying apparatus of the present invention includes a rotatable base plate, several frames, and a fixation wheel. The frames have rotatable members, which are revolved by rotation of the base plate, and rotated by engagement or contaction of the fixation wheel. Thus, the rotatable member is provided for tableware to be placed thereon. The tableware is then brought drying and sterilizing with flipping motion. Surface of the tableware can be fully dried and sterilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Yang Yih Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei-Cheng Lin
  • Patent number: 8685176
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for optimizing a wash procedure. Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a system for optimizing a wash procedure. In a first embodiment, a system comprises: means for collecting a sample of fouling, wherein the sample of fouling comprises one or more contaminates; means for identifying the one or more contaminates; and means for selecting one or more washing products for removing the one or more contaminates from a turbine. In an alternate embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for optimizing a wash procedure. The method comprises: collecting a sample of fouling, wherein the sample of fouling comprises one or more contaminates; identifying the one or more contaminates; and selecting one or more washing products for removing the one or more contaminates from a turbine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: EcoServices, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Wagner
  • Publication number: 20140083474
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a cleanroom for storing glass substrate and which is incorporated with a particle-monitoring device. The cleanroom further includes an automatic cleaning container for cleaning the particle-monitoring device. The cleanroom can conveniently perform a cleaning process to the tray and the particle-monitoring device. With this, the laborious cost is largely reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Shenzhen China Star Optoelectronics Technology Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Zenghong Chen, Chunhao Wu, Kunhsien Lin, Minghu Qi, Zhenhua Guo, Weibing Yang
  • Patent number: 8679260
    Abstract: A method of cleaning an area using an automatic cleaning device may include receiving, from a video camera, information associated with an edge located on a surface, determining, by an automatic cleaning device, a position of the automatic cleaning device on the surface relative to the edge and using the received information to move the automatic cleaning device from the determined position along a path so that the automatic cleaning device cleans the surface along the path. The path may be substantially parallel to the edge, and the edge may be located a distance from a reference point on the automatic cleaning device during movement of the automatic cleaning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Intellibot Robotics LLC
    Inventors: Henry L. Hillman, Jr., David M. Knuth, Jr., Daniel M. Daly, Vinton Coffman, Ralph McCann, Stephen D. Herr, Kevin L. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20140060582
    Abstract: An external lens washing system has an aiming fixture configured to support and constrain an external lens which is exposed to the elements and apt to become soiled with debris. A nozzle assembly is configured to be supported and aimed toward the external lens by the aiming fixture and has at least one laterally offset washing nozzle projecting from the aiming fixture to a spray washing fluid toward the external lens surface, spraying at a shallow, glancing spray aiming angle to impinge upon and wash the lens external surface. Optionally, an integrated image sensor and lens washing assembly is configured for use with a remote control method for cleaning an exterior objective lens surface and includes a sealed image sensor housing assembly including an integral, remotely controllable lens cleaning system with an optimized configuration for aiming one or more cleansing sprays from one or more laterally offset fluidic oscillators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Evan Hartranft, Robert Bower, Srinivasaiah Sridhar, Alan Romack, Keith Berning, Russell Hester, Eric Koehler
  • Publication number: 20140060594
    Abstract: A household appliance for treating at least one item according to at least one cycle of operation, includes a treating chamber for receiving the at least one item for treatment according to the at least one cycle of operation, a treating chemistry dispenser receiving a unit dose container having an optically sensible element, a physical alteration element located proximate to the treating chemistry dispenser and operable to physically alter at least a portion of the optically sensible element, and a sensor to sense the physical alteration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: BENJAMIN E. ALEXANDER, BRIAN A. BLACK, THOMAS A. LATACK, MATTHEW D. RHODES
  • Publication number: 20140041699
    Abstract: The present invention is a device that is for cleaning a porous hollow fiber membrane by running the porous hollow fiber membrane through a cleaning tank containing a cleaning liquid, thus eliminating residual substances in the porous hollow fiber membrane, wherein the inside of the cleaning tank is provided with a duct structure having a hollow fiber membrane running path at which the porous hollow fiber membrane can be continuously run through from an entrance at one end towards an exit at the other end; the duct structure comprises at least two structures that can separate; the duct structure has a running groove, which is formed to at least one structure of the at least two structures, and a branched duct, which pumps or sucks the cleaning fluid to cause the cleaning fluid to flow through; and the branched duct is a duct that is connected to the running groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaki Kurashina, Toshinori Sumi, Hiroyuki Fujiki, Yasuo Hiromoto
  • Patent number: 8640718
    Abstract: A spray-type car wash system includes an overhead carriage which can move longitudinally the length of a wash bay. A pair of laterally opposed spray arms depend from the carriage. During vehicle entry into the bay, LED-based lights running down the length of each arm are caused to flash to help the driver center a vehicle between the arms. Cushioning and breakaway features protect the arms from damage. A single-arm system is also disclosed. A double-light, stationary support system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry S. Turner, Thomas E. Weyandt, Jerry Alan Kotrych
  • Patent number: 8632640
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dish-washer (1) having a single push-button (3) which is utilized by the user to select all of the programs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Arcelik Anonim Sirketi
    Inventors: Ebru Cetinkaya, Yahya Kose
  • Patent number: 8627984
    Abstract: A removable non-integrated treating chemistry dispensing cartridge assembly may emit a signal in response to a predetermined amount of treating chemistry being detected and in response to a predetermined amount of illumination being detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Paul E. Beshears, Jr., Sathish A. Sundaram
  • Publication number: 20140010727
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a service and maintenance station for a handheld drug delivery device of pen-injector type, comprising: a receptacle section to receive at least a portion of the drug delivery device, at least one service module adapted to maintain and/or to restore the operability of the drug delivery device, wherein the at least one service module comprises a cleaning and/or sterilizing module adapted to receive, to clean and/or to sterilize a distal end section of the drug delivery device to be connected with a piercing assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: SANOFI-AVENTIS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Michael Jugl, Axel Teucher
  • Publication number: 20140000649
    Abstract: A cleaning system and method for cleaning substrates having at least one semiconductor material thereon, which includes a transporting conveyor, an acid bath module and a hanging conveyor for suspending acid resistant blocks in the spaces between substrates as they are transported through the cleaning system. The acid resistant blocks shield the semiconductor materials from acid contact while a lower portion of the substrate is submerged in the acid cleaning solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: First Solar, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8602041
    Abstract: A spray-type car wash system includes an overhead carriage which can move longitudinally the length of a wash bay. A pair of laterally opposed spray arms depend from the carriage. During vehicle entry into the bay, LED-based lights running down the length of each arm are caused to flash to help the driver center a vehicle between the arms. Cushioning and breakaway features protect the arms from damage. A single-arm system is also disclosed. A double-light, stationary support system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry S. Turner, Thomas E. Weyandt, Jerry Alan Kotrych
  • Patent number: 8602042
    Abstract: A dishwasher having a control device to control the dishwasher and at least one water feed controlled by the control device. The water feed is connected to at least one external water supply to take in water and the control device automatically controls a monitoring sequence in which at least one limit value is monitored for a temperature of the water that is provided by the external water supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Grüll, Anton Oblinger
  • Publication number: 20130306111
    Abstract: A machine is presented for the cleaning of jewelry. The machine allows the manual or automatic cleaning of jewelry. Under both modes of operation, the jewelry is secured by a user to a support bracket inside a transparent, water-tight cylindrical wash chamber. When in manual mode, the user can direct the spray of wash fluid onto the jewelry by rotating the jewelry using a trackball. When used in automatic mode, the machine washes the jewelry during a preset washing cycle. For both modes, the washing cycle is followed by the drying cycle where a blower directs air onto the jewelry for a set time period to blow off excess moisture. The drying cycle concludes with a blower venting the cylindrical wash chamber to remove residual moisture from the wash chamber and the jewelry. After the cleaning, the user removes the jewelry from the machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: SHADE SAVER, INC.
    Inventor: SHADE SAVER, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130298944
    Abstract: A cleaning method is disclosed for wet cleaning of an exhaust-gas turbine. An amount of cleaning fluid injected via a nozzle into the flow duct of the turbine can be variable over a course of time about a defined mean amount of cleaning fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Gerd Mundinger, Joel Schlienger, William Gizzi, Martin Eckert
  • Patent number: 8578951
    Abstract: A dish washer comprises a washing tub having a sump, at least one spraying nozzle located within the washing tub, means for feeding fresh water into the sump, a circulation pump for circulating process water from the sump to the spraying nozzle and a conductivity sensor for measuring the conductivity of the fresh and/or the process water. In order to enable use of a single conductivity sensor for measuring the conductivity of both the fresh and the process water, the conductivity sensor is located in a conduit for feeding fresh water into the sump and there further is provided a bypass line which is arranged to cause process water to flow through the conductivity sensor when the circulation pump is in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Corporation, N.V.
    Inventors: Jiri Bohac, Rolf Stahlmann, Hansjörg Lampe
  • Patent number: 8578952
    Abstract: A substrate processing system which enables a minute piece of foreign matter attached to a substrate surface to be detected and are suitable for mass production of substrates. The substrate processing system has a substrate processing apparatus that carries out predetermined processing on a substrate. The substrate processing system comprises a substrate surface processing apparatus having a fluid supply unit that supplies onto a surface of the substrate a fluid containing an altering substance that alters a substance exposed at the surface of the substrate, and a substrate surface inspecting apparatus that inspects the surface of the substrate onto which the fluid has been supplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nagaike, Tsuyoshi Moriya
  • Publication number: 20130291896
    Abstract: A dishwasher appliance is provided. The dishwasher appliance includes features for determining a drain time interval or a fluid drain rate of fluid exiting the appliance. The drain time interval or the fluid drain rate can be used to more accurately gauge the amount of fluid contained within the appliance and, in turn, increase the efficiency of the appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Kyle Edward Durham, Gregory Owen Miller
  • Publication number: 20130287943
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the internal treatment of pipes, in particular for coolant tubes of steam condensers and heat exchangers, comprising a supply unit (V) for feeding and conveying treatment media, an application unit (A) to apply the treatment media fed in by the supply unit, as well as a control unit to monitor and control the supplied treatment media and the application of treatment media to the inner wall of the pipes, wherein the application unit (A) is provided with a guiding hose (21) through which an application hose (18) extends designed so as to be inserted into the pipe to be treated, said application hose (18) terminating in a nozzle, wherein the application hose (18) can be wound up in a single layer on a driven reel (17) and secured on the reel (17) by means of tensioning belts, the application hose (18) is capable of moving forward and back via guide rollers (27) arranged on a traversing carriage (55), the guide rollers (27) are powered by a drive operating synchronously with
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Richard Kreiselmaier
  • Publication number: 20130276834
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a system and method for sanitizing a condensate drain to reduce sludge and related pathogens. The system is directed to a sanitizing assembly having a treatment chamber connected to the condensate drain, where the treatment chamber includes a top end and a shaft. A spray assembly is positioned proximate to the top end of the treatment chamber. This spray assembly has a nozzle spray connected to a hot water source. A spray controller within the spray assembly helps disperse a sufficient quantity and pressure of hot water within the shaft to dislodge sludge, when necessary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Stewart Kaiser
  • Patent number: 8555803
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes various embodiments of devices and systems for monitoring the clean/dirty status of dishes inside a dishwashing machine. In one embodiment, for example, a dishwasher status indicator can include one or more vessels for holding water to visibly indicate that a dishwashing cycle is complete. In another embodiment, the indicator can include an attachment feature or portion, such as a hook attached to the vessel. The hook can be configured to removably attach the indicator to a dishwasher frame or rack. A user can quickly determine the clean/dirty status of dishes in the dishwasher by observing whether the vessel is holding water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas P. McCormick
  • Patent number: 8557132
    Abstract: A system of cleaning a CMP pad used for removing copper from a substrate, the system comprising an abrasive cleaning pad, a cleaning solution delivery system that delivers a cleaning solution, an analyzing system that monitors the characteristics of the cleaning solution optically and chemically, and a carriage that allows the analyzing system to monitor the cleaning solution at a plurality of locations on the CMP pad. The use of the abrasive cleaning pad and the cleaning solution removes contaminants from the CMP pad, and the contaminants are dissolved in the cleaning solution. By measuring the concentration of contaminants in the cleaning solution, the condition of the CMP pad can be monitored. To measure the concentration of the contaminants, changes in the refractive index and absorption of light in the cleaning solution are measured, wherein the refractive index and absorption depend on the concentration of the contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Dinesh Chopra, Scott Meikle
  • Patent number: 8550098
    Abstract: A carwash system is disclosed wherein a spray arm dependingly mounted to an overhead longitudinally movable carriage for dispensing fluids onto the exterior surfaces of a vehicle in a wash bay unidirectionally circumnavigates the vehicle for multiple circuits while performing one or more wash functions by coordinating longitudinal and rotational movements of the arm through the selective operation of two independent motor drives. Electrical power and/or data is carried to and from electrical devices on the arm by way of a slip ring conductor which is mounted coaxially with the arm pivot on the bottom side of the carriage. The fluid supply conduit also passes concentrically through this pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Belanger
  • Patent number: 8544484
    Abstract: In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a wind turbine blade treatment apparatus comprises a support having a frame with an edge follower configured to be positioned near an edge of a wind turbine blade. The support also includes a side member connected to the frame, configured to extend at least partially along a width of the wind turbine blade and to be positionable near the wind turbine blade. The wind turbine blade treatment apparatus further comprises a sprayer connected to the support, configured to spray fluid onto the wind turbine blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventors: Dustin Jensen, Broque L. Fraughton, Sonny K. Fraughton
  • Patent number: 8539968
    Abstract: A touchless, automatic spray-type car wash system includes one or more arms delivering washing fluids wherein the arms are constructed with translucent plastic sleeves which can be illuminated from within by LEDs. Different colors for the arm or arms can be coordinated with wash process steps. Signage can be provided in the bay and can include panels which are illuminated in a sequential fashion coordinated with arm illumination colors to inform the driver as to each step being performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry S. Turner, Thomas E. Weyandt, Jerry Alan Kotrych
  • Publication number: 20130239991
    Abstract: A composition for treating a water system to remove scale, microorganisms and biofilm, and corrosion by-products. The composition comprises chelating agents and a surfactant. Depending on the water system being treated, the composition may be a solid dissolved by water in the system being treated or may be a pre-mixed foam or aerosol. A treatment system particularly suitable for flowing water systems comprises a container for holding such a treatment composition and mixing it with a portion of water from the water system, a filter for removing solids dislodged during treatment, and a corrosion monitor. A method for using such a treatment composition comprises draining substantially all existing water in the water system, filling or rinsing the system with fresh water, contacting the treatment composition with substantially all parts of the water system, and draining the treatment composition from the system before resuming normal operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: NCH Corporation
    Inventors: Adrian Denvir, David F. Vela, Christina B. Burton, Katrell D. Copeland, Scott M. Boyette, Robert C. Pearce, III
  • Publication number: 20130228201
    Abstract: A carwash system is disclosed wherein a spray arm dependingly mounted to an overhead longitudinally movable carriage for dispensing fluids onto the exterior surfaces of a vehicle in a wash bay unidirectionally circumnavigates the vehicle for multiple circuits while performing one or more wash functions by coordinating longitudinal and rotational movements of the arm through the selective operation of two independent motor drives. Electrical power and/or data is carried to and from electrical devices on the arm by way of a slip ring conductor which is mounted coaxially with the arm pivot on the bottom side of the carriage. The fluid supply conduit also passes concentrically through this pivot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. BELANGER
  • Patent number: 8524010
    Abstract: A transportable wash unit comprises a wash fluid delivery system for delivering wash fluid to a desired washing location; a power supply for providing power to components of the transportable washing unit; a unit controller for controlling one or more components of the transportable wash unit; and a mobility unit for mobilizing the transportable wash unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: EcoServices, LLC
    Inventors: Johan Sebastian Nordlund, Henrik Amcoff, Rodney W. Kohler, Thomas Wagner
  • Publication number: 20130213441
    Abstract: Cleaning of a bulk dispense system of an appliance is provided. The appliance can include a user accessible compartment whereby the bulk dispense system is connected to a supply of a cleaning fluid. The appliance can be activated so as to flow the cleaning fluid through the bulk dispense system to help clean the system by e.g., removing particulates of detergent, fabric softener, and/or other undesirable matter that may be in the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Christopher Nils Naber, Bryan T. Snook, Aaron Lee Welch, Todd Anthony Reger
  • Patent number: 8511326
    Abstract: A tank system is described for dropping fluid onto a passing vehicle. The tank system includes a tank with a fluid supply inlet. Optionally, a soap injector is included for injecting soap into the water flow to create a fluid mix that is supplied to the tank. A lighting system is attached to the tank. The fluid mix, or any other chemical in the tank, may be heated with the heating unit. An air motor is included for providing air to an air manifold that is disposed within the tank. When air is introduced into the fluid mix, bubbles are created. As the fluid mix and bubbles fill the tank, they fall from the tank via an overflow lip, with the fluid mix and/or bubbles being illuminated by the lighting system as they fall onto a vehicle passing below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: G. Thomas Ennis
  • Patent number: 8505560
    Abstract: A support removal apparatus is disclosed for removing water-soluble support material from rapid prototype parts, substantially comprising a retention tank for holding an aqueous cleaning solution; a box manifold hydraulically coupled to the retention tank and equipped with nozzle heads in hydraulic communication with a pump's discharge; a heat chamber for housing a heating element to heat the aqueous cleaning solution to a predetermined temperature range; a drain box hydraulically coupled to the retention tank and a pump's intake to convey the aqueous cleaning solution into and through the box manifold; a thermocouple for maintaining the temperature within an optimal range; a level indicator for measuring the solution level in the retention tank for safe operability of the pump and heating element; a cabinet for housing select components of the support removal apparatus and having an integral work platform, accessible compartments, and a localized water supply; and a microprocessor having communicative capabi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: David Jonathan Tafoya
  • Patent number: 8506761
    Abstract: An assembly for recycling a solvent from a contaminated solvent solution includes a recycler module including a distillation assembly and an air handler assembly. The distillation assembly includes a distiller and a conduit that includes a condenser and a sight glass. The air handler assembly includes a duct having an intake port, an exhaust port and a source of air flow. The condenser is disposed within the duct and the sight glass is disposed external to the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudy Publ, David Kisela, Tim Rothwell, Greg Merz, Gary Myers
  • Publication number: 20130193108
    Abstract: Methods and substrate processing systems for analyzing an end point of a process are provided. By-products of the process are detected and monitored to determine the completion of various types of reaction processes within a substrate processing chamber. The methods provide real time process monitoring, thereby reducing the need to rigidly constrain other substrate processing parameters, increasing chamber cleaning efficiency, and/or increasing substrate processing throughput.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Bo Zheng, Mei Chang, Arvind Sundarrajan
  • Patent number: 8470136
    Abstract: An assembly for removing contaminants from objects and recycling a solvent from a contaminated solvent solution includes a parts washer assembly including a container for a contaminated solvent solution and a recycling assembly that includes a reservoir module connected to a recycler module. The reservoir module includes a mounted reservoir including an interior volume and a removable lid that reduces the interior volume and includes an access port. The recycler module includes a distillation assembly and an air handler assembly. The distillation assembly includes a distiller and a conduit including a condenser and a sight glass. The air handler assembly includes a duct having an intake port, an exhaust port and a source of air flow. The condenser is disposed within the duct and the sight glass is disposed external to the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudy Publ, David Kisela, Tim Rothwell, Greg Merz, Gary Myers
  • Patent number: 8470137
    Abstract: An assembly for recycling a solvent from a contaminated solvent solution includes a reservoir module connected to a recycler module. The reservoir module includes a mounted reservoir including an interior volume and a removable lid that reduces the interior volume and includes an access port. The recycler module includes a distillation assembly and an air handler assembly. The distillation assembly includes a distiller and a conduit including a condenser and a sight glass. The air handler assembly includes a duct having an intake port, an exhaust port and a source of air flow. The condenser is disposed within the duct and the sight glass is disposed external to the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudy Publ, David Kisela, Tim Rothwell, Greg Merz, Gary Myers
  • Publication number: 20130152980
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods to clean a paint roller are disclosed. Such apparatuses and systems include a housing with an outlet; a handle connected to housing; an adapter disposed on an end portion of the handle; a nozzle disposed inside the handle; an idler attached to an inside surface of the housing; and a slot disposed on the housing on a location substantially opposite to the location of the inside surface of the housing where the idler is attached, wherein the idler is configured to support a paint roller cover to be cleaned and the slot is configured to receive a first portion of a paint roller frame configured to support the paint roller cover so as to dispose the paint roller cover substantially in front of the cleaning fluid jet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: Peter James HUES
  • Publication number: 20130146108
    Abstract: An endoscope cleaning/disinfecting apparatus has a cleaning tank capable of housing a plurality of endoscopes, a holding net that is provided in the cleaning tank, and defines positions of the plurality of endoscopes which are housed and set in the cleaning tank, and an endoscope information reading section. The endoscope information reading section is provided in the cleaning tank, and, in a state in which one endoscope is set in the cleaning tank in a position defined by the holding net, is arranged in a site exposed toward an upper side of the cleaning tank without being covered with the one endoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventor: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
  • Patent number: 8453657
    Abstract: A vehicle washing system associated with a bay in which a vehicle is parked during the washing operation is equipped with a centering target which can be selectively deployed upon entry of a vehicle to assist the driver in placing the vehicle on the longitudinal centerline of the effective washing area in the bay. The target may be provided by a vertically-depending spray arm having internal LEDs which are illuminated in a flashing effect during vehicle entry and in constant colors during the washing program. Several alternative target arrangements are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Belanger