With Means To Apply Fluids Both Internally And Externally Patents (Class 134/170)
  • Patent number: 5190063
    Abstract: Improvements in washing machines for bottles or the like, by immersing bottles into hot washing solution, wherein in the front and rear zones, at that of higher temperature, the washing solution is forced to circulate in a direction opposite to that of the movement direction of the bottles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Antonio M. Urcola
  • Patent number: 5186195
    Abstract: A portable power rinse system which can be truck-mounted and has a rinse pipe, drum support arms and nozzle mounted in off-center relation within the vessel so that a drum can be inverted into the vessel and the rinse nozzle inserted into an opening at one end of the drum and the drum tilted in different directions about the support arm for thorough flushing of the contents of the drum which are removed through a drain hose at the lower end of the vessel. A manifold with a flow control valve regulates flow of a rinsing liquid either into the rinse nozzle in the vessel or to an externally located, hand-operated spray for rinsing out the interior of the vessel as well as other smaller containers to be flushed or rinsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Bernard W. Wall
  • Patent number: 5186194
    Abstract: A probe washing vessel for sucking in and dispensing blood plasma, blood cells, blood serum, or body fluid and the like comprises a washing reservoir, a washing chamber in a form of a hole which formed in the washing reservoir and in which a probe is inserted, and a bypass flow path formed in the washing reservoir and having one end communicating with the washing chamber and the other end opened to the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaichi Kitajima
  • Patent number: 5174317
    Abstract: A system for cleaning paint from objects such as spray guns, associated cups and paint cans comprising: an enclosed housing divided into a work chamber and a fluid storage reservoir containing paint solvent and a fluid, having a specific gravity greater than that of the solvent; spray nozzles attached to a first and a second outlet adapted to receive and spray pressurized solvent therefrom; the first outlet includes a tube for receiving and supporting a spray gun and for directing solvent to flow through an inlet of the gun; a foraminous layer definesg a surface for supporting articles to be cleaned in a preferred orientation relative to the second outlet. The system includes additions spray nozzles for spraying the exterior of the articles being cleaned. In addition the system includes a bracket for orienting a paint can in a relatively rotational manner relative to a spray nozzle interior to the paint can for enhancing the cleaning thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignees: Herkules Equipment Corporation, A.B.T. Equipment Manufacturing Ltd.
    Inventors: Richard A. Robb, Michael J. Grubb, John J. Grubb, James T. Asanger
  • Patent number: 5156813
    Abstract: A fluid cup is provided for use with a cup support having a cup-receiving receptacle and a drain. The cup is adapted for use with a pipette probe which may introduce contaminants into the fluid, for example a dilutant fluid, in the cup. The cup has a lower cup portion and a cap, with a notch or other overflow element being provided near the top of the lower cup portion. Diluent fluid is introduced near the bottom of the lower cup portion after each probe entry, creating a fluid flow pattern which flushes any contaminant from the cup through the notch without requiring the use of a large fluid volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Medical Laboratory Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Calhoun
  • Patent number: 5145033
    Abstract: Disclosed is a permanent liquid filter assembly, which includes an oil filter unit made up of an outer housing with inlet and outlet ports and a reconditionable filter material and a bypass valve means for providing a passage way between the inlet and outlet ports, when the differential pressure across the filter means exceeds a certain predetermined value contained therein. The assembly also includes an adapter with multiple inlet and outlet ports, providing fluid communication means between the inlet and outlet ports of the filter and the oil inlet and outlet ports of the engine block to which the filter assembly is attached, as well as inlet and outlet ports for making fluid connections with an external pump device by means of fluid quick disconnet couplers, thereby enabling a flushing fluid to be pumped through the filter element in a reverse direction opposite that of the oil normal flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Assignee: K.J. Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Ram D. Bedi, Adrianus J. van der Griendt
  • Patent number: 5135014
    Abstract: Apparatus for washing bottles, in which a transfer conveyor define an endless loop belt between an inlet end and outlet end. A plurality of cups are carried along the endless loop. An inlet elevator adjacent the inlet end supplies a quantity of bottles in an open end down orientation to the cups. Fluid injectors are movably mounted on the conveyor to position a nozzle into each open end down oriented bottle to supply fluid to inside of the bottles. An outlet elevator is adjacent outlet end for removing bottles from the apparatus in an open end up orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Assignee: The West Company, Incorporated
    Inventor: Frank Beswick
  • Patent number: 5133373
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for cleaning delivery probes used for dispensing protein-containing reagents. The apparatus includes: a bath of a cleaning solution for a protein-containing reagent; a device for lowering the probe into the cleaning solution for aspirating cleaning solution into the probe and for coating the outside of the probe; a device for raising the probe from the cleaning solution; a device for forcing primer liquid through the probe for expelling aspirated cleaning solution followed by primer liquid from the probe for washing the inside of the probe; and a device for deflecting cleaning solution and primer liquid expelled from the probe onto the outside of the probe for washing the outside of the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1992
    Assignee: AKZO N.V.
    Inventors: Julie F. Hoffman, Lionel E. Jones
  • Patent number: 5111834
    Abstract: A paint roller flushing stand for supporting a generally cylindrical paint roller having an open upper end under a faucet to facilitate flushing accumulated paint from the paint roller. The paint roller stand includes a base and a disk-shaped mounting pedestal for mounting the paint roller on the base such that the paint roller extends generally upwardly from the base with the open upper end of the paint roller facing generally upwardly. In this way, the paint roller is positioned for receiving water from the faucet into the interior of the paint roller. A leveling mechanism associated with the base can be used to selectively adjust the orientation of the paint roller to maintain portions of the paint roller surrounding the open upper end in a generally horizontal plane such that water received into the paint roller, upon filling the interior volume of the paint roller, spills over the upper end of the plant roller and down all sides thereof in generally equal volume rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Inventor: Gene E. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 5106428
    Abstract: Reusable containers such as totes for paint, chemicals and the like are cleaned to exacting standards by apparatus which includes a spray booth and at least an internal spray head. The spray head is moved along a vertical axis to a plurality of different positions within the tote. In addition, the spray head is tiltable about a horizontal axis. In such manner, the spray head can be tilted so that its nozzles are brought very close to the side walls of the container to thereby concentrate the spray of solvent thereon to remove paint residue and the like. An external spray head is also provided for cleaning the external sides of the container while it is being rotated relative to both internal and external spray heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Automated Cleaning Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William G. Goerss, William J. Farrah
  • Patent number: 5066336
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for cleaning delivery probes used for dispensing protein-containing reagents. The apparatus includes: a bath of a cleaning solution for a protein-containing reagent; a device for lowering the probe into the cleaning solution for aspirating cleaning solution into the probe and for coating the outside of the probe; a device for raising the probe from the cleaning solution; a device for forcing primer liquid through the probe for expelling aspirated cleaning solution followed by primer liquid from the probe for washing the inside of the probe; and a device for deflecting cleaning solution and primer liquid expelled from the probe onto the outside of the probe for washing the outside of the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Assignee: Akzo N.V.
    Inventors: Julie F. Hoffman, Lionel D. Jones, II
  • Patent number: 5058610
    Abstract: A fluid supplying and processing device has a plurality of fluid guide pipes having distal ends opening above a workpiece such as a disc base. The open ends of the fluid guide pipes discharge respective different processing fluids supplied from respective fluid sources toward the workpiece for thereby processing the workpiece, such as to form a photoresist pattern on the surface of the disc base. At least one of the fluid guide pipes has at least a distal end portion inserted in another of the fluid guide pipes. The outer side surface of the distal end portion of said one fluid guide pipe is cleaned by a fluid flowing through the other surrounding fluid guide pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignees: Pioneer Electronic Corporation, Pioneer Video Corporation
    Inventor: Kazumi Kuriyama
  • Patent number: 5044140
    Abstract: A packaging machine for forming a web of packaging material into a vertical tube, filling contents into the tube, dividing the tube into lengths each corresponding to one container and forming each length into a baglike container. The machine comprises a filling device for filling a liquid into the tube to a specified level with the lower end of the tube closed, and a cleaning device for cleaning a required portion of the filling device. The filling device has a vertical filling pipe to be covered with the tube. The cleaning device has a vertical tubular jacket having a top wall and covering the upper portion of the filling pipe, a bottomed tubular cleaner removably connectable to the jacket for covering the lower portion of the filling pipe, and a cleaning liquid collecting duct removably connectable to the jacket. A cleaning liquid is supplied to the filling pipe with the duct connected to the jacket to clean the pipe and is thereafter collected through the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignees: Shikoku Kakoki Co., Ltd., Jujo Paper Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumiyuki Iwano, Kazuo Sasaki
  • Patent number: 5025818
    Abstract: Apparatus for removing residual paint from the inside and outside of an industrial paint spraying outfit includes a drum containing a spray manifold and a hose for connecting the output of the paint pump to the spray manifold. In use, a few gallons of solvent are placed in the drum, and the paint-bearing portions of the outfit are lowered into the drum. Thereafter, the pump is operated so as to circulate solvent through the pump, through the hose to the manifold, which sprays the solvent on the portions of the outfit that are in the drum. No separate solvent pump is needed; the paint pump is caused to spray solvent on itself. A splash ring is provided around the cover portion of the outfit to prevent liquid solvent from escaping the drum. The apparatus greatly reduces contamination of the atmosphere because only a small amount of solvent is needed, and it is confined during use to the drum. Accordingly, the cost of disposing the spent solvent is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1991
    Inventor: David L. Kalar
  • Patent number: 4997000
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for washing and drying (cleaning) a wetsuit. The system employs a two-tiered, fluid piping structure having an upper and lower hanger portions. The upper hanger portion is directly or indirectly connected to a hose which is connectable to a water or/and air source. During washing and rinsing operations, the appropriate liquid is introduced through the hose into the hanger portions, and is driven through a plurality of spray heads disposed selectively on both upper and lower hanger portions. The individual spray heads are oriented to overlappingly spray the entire outside and inside surfaces of the wetsuit. In a commercial embodiment, two or more systems are connected in series along a common horizontal tube. The entire unit is suspended and housed within a special enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventors: Vance C. Feast, Marcus A. Leo
  • Patent number: 4989623
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for cleaning delivery probes used for dispensing protein-containing reagents. The apparatus includes: a bath of a cleaning solution for a protein-containing reagent; a device for lowering the probe into the cleaning solution for aspirating cleaning solution into the probe and for coating the outside of the probe; a device for raising the probe from the cleaning solution; a device for forcing primer liquid through the probe for expelling aspirated cleaning solution followed by primer liquid from the probe for washing the inside of the probe; and a device for deflecting cleaning solution and primer liquid expelled from the probe onto the outside of the probe for washing the outside of the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Assignee: Akzo N.V.
    Inventors: Julie F. Hoffman, Lionel D. Jones, II
  • Patent number: 4964444
    Abstract: To provide a suitable filling atmosphere around a produce filling pipe on a packing machine and to make possible a rational, accurate cleaning of the filling pipe of the machine without having to dismantle and disassemble the filling pipe at a normal stoppage of the machine, the filling pipe is surrounded by a permanent tubular casing whose lower end is adapted so that it can be closed for cleaning with the aid of a detachable lid to form a container enclosing the filling pipe. The filling pipe, via a connecting means at the upper end of the casing, can be joined to an outer flow system to allow circulation of a cleansing agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Assignee: Roby Teknik Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Goran Hanerus, Tommy Ljungstrom
  • Patent number: 4961440
    Abstract: Chemical dispensing apparatus for emptying and rinsing containers of chemicals, with dilution of chemical. The apparatus includes a chamber in which the container can be enclosed and supported, draining means provided at a lower portion of said chamber and a hollow perforated wash pipe mounted on the chamber so as to be moveable into the interior thereof to pierce twice any container supported therein, the wash pipe being connected to a diluent supply. The chamber is provided with means for supporting the container in a generally tilted manner such that a corner thereof is presented as the lowest portion and the wash pipe is arranged to pierce the container through said corner, means being provided on the wash pipe to hold apart the lowest pierced portion of the container and one or more nozzles being provided to spray diluent over a substantial part of the interior of the container while the pierced portion is held apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1990
    Assignee: Schering Agrochemicals Ltd.
    Inventor: Philip H. Wright
  • Patent number: 4941491
    Abstract: Reusable containers such as totes for paint, chemicals and the like are cleaned to exacting standards by apparatus which includes a spray booth and at least an internal spray head. The spray head is moved along a vertical axis to a plurality of different positions within the tote. In addition, the spray head is tiltable about a horizontal axis. In such manner, the spray head can be tilted so that its nozzles are brought very close to the side walls of the container to thereby concentrate the spray of solvent thereon to remove paint residue and the like. An external spray head is also provided for cleaning the external sides of the container while it is being rotated relative to both internal and external spray heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Assignee: Automated Cleaning Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William G. Goerss, William J. Farrah
  • Patent number: 4938242
    Abstract: A spray rinsing apparatus carried by a mobile chemical spray apparatus which includes a pair of flexible rinse water storage vessels shaped and adapted to be supported in draped position from the top of a chemical reservoir tank and the sides of the tank. A gasoline engine driven pump is connected to withdraw rinse water from the flexible vessels. The rinse water is pumped at high pressure into a built-in spray head assembly inside the chemical tank and also through a jet spray gun to clean the exterior of the chemical spray apparatus. The system is capable of confining the chemical spray chemicals to the application job site and thus avoid contamination anywhere else.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Inventor: John E. Redmond
  • Patent number: 4889620
    Abstract: Cleaning of multi-pore diffusion elements in place with cleaning gases while submerged in liquid media by applying said cleaning gases intermittently or continuously to said diffusion elements between predetermined limits of operating pressure and flow through flow regulation means and plenums for the respective diffusion elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Assignee: Water Pollution Control Corporation
    Inventors: Frank L. Schmit, David T. Redmon, Lloyd Ewing
  • Patent number: 4881561
    Abstract: The invention refers to a process and a device for the fully automatic cleaning of spray guns foulded with paint or varnish, wherein the spray guns are immersed with their paint or varnish reservoir open into a cleaning fluid free of solvents or thinners, during a first cleaning phase the fluid is circulated and a fluid jet is introduced into the open paint or varnish reservoir or into the paint or varnish inlet, during a second phase ultrasonic waves are introduced into the cleaning fluid while the spray guns are moved oscillating up and down in the fluid, the two cleaning phases are repeated at least once and the spray guns are subsequently repeatedly immersed in a rinsing fluid and, if applicable, are moved therein, while the rinsing fluid is circulated and a rinsing fluid stream is introduced into the open paint or varnish reservoir or into the paint or varnish inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1989
    Inventor: Gottlob Schwarzwalder
  • Patent number: 4827955
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for cleaning paint distributing channels in spray guns, whereby paint distributing channels are adapted to direct paint from a supply (3) thereof to a paint discharge nozzle (5) and cleanable by leading a dissolvent (6) filled into the paint supply (3) from the supply through the paint distributing channels (2) and out from the spray gun (1) through its paint discharge nozzle (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Inventor: Leif E. Stern
  • Patent number: 4820351
    Abstract: A method for washing and vacuum drying long necked laboratory flasks. The apparatus includes a cabinet which presents a washing and drying compartment and a pump and rotary spray arm. A special rack which can be rolled into and out of the compartment includes a central manifold and a plurality of distribution arms extending radially from the manifold. Upright spindle tubes extend from the distribution arms to receive the inverted flasks such at that the tubes extend through the narrow necks of the flasks with the open ends of the tubes located within the bodies of the flasks. A diaphragm coupling allows water to be pumped to the manifold for delivery to the spindle tubes during washing and rinsing cycles. The tubes spray the water directly inside of the flask bodies for thorough washing and rinsing. A vacuum conduit extending from the manifold carries a seat which engages a gasket to couple the manifold with a vacuum blower when the rack is moved into the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Assignee: Labconco Corporation
    Inventors: Larry G. Hambleton, Claude L. Sears, Elmer B. Offutt
  • Patent number: 4817443
    Abstract: A device is provided for cleaning a liquid sample taking needle, mounted fixedly on the frame of a sample taking apparatus, which device includes a mobile mechanism formed of a rinsing case (14) sliding over the sample taking needle (3) between a top position which it occupies during sample taking and a low position which it occupies during cleaning in which it covers the whole of the lower part of the needle, the end of this latter remaining withdrawn inside a cylindrical cleaning chamber (18) provided in the case through which the needle passes and at the lower part of which a depression is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1989
    Assignee: A.B.X.
    Inventors: Henri Champseix, Serge Champseix
  • Patent number: 4800908
    Abstract: Device for use in wet removable of asbestos from pipes comprising a trough having means for securing the trough on pipes, and means to allow a poured in aqueous solution to completely immerse said pipes and prevent leakage of said solution from spaces between said pipe and said sealing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1989
    Inventor: William G. Lyons
  • Patent number: 4793369
    Abstract: A system for cleaning paint from objects such as spray guns, associated cups and paint cans comprising: an enclosed housing divided into a work chamber and a fluid storage reservoir containing paint solvent and a fluid, having a specific gravity greater than that of the solvent; spray nozzles attached to a first and a second outlet adapted to receive and spray pressurized solvent therefrom; the first outlet includes a tube for receiving and supporting a spray gun and for directing solvent to flow through an inlet of the spray gun; a foraminous layer defines a surface for supporting articles to be cleaned in a preferred orientation relative to the second outlet. The system includes additional spray nozzles for spraying the exterior of the articles being cleaned. In addition, the system includes a bracket for orienting a paint can in a relatively rotational manner relative to a spray nozzle interior to the paint can for enhancing the cleaning thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1988
    Assignees: Herkules Equipment Corporation, ABT Equipment and Manufacturing Ltd.
    Inventors: Richard A. Robb, Michael J. Grubb, John J. Grubb, James T. Asanger
  • Patent number: 4785836
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for paint spray gun assemblies includes a cleaning cabinet, a paint cleaning fluid flow-line system and a pneumatic system for circulation of the cleaning fluid through the flow-line system; fluid outlets in the flow-line system eject cleaning fluid under pressure within the cabinet; paint spray guns are supported in the cabinet with paint passage interiors of the guns in direct fluid flow communication with fluid outlets; typically there is a plurality of fluid outlets for cleaning a plurality of spray gun assemblies simultaneously, a time control in the pneumatic system interrupts the circulation of cleaning fluid with a predetermined period, usually less than 60 seconds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Soichiro Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 4762670
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for atomic reactor control rod driving means (CRD) comprises a water tub for washing a CRD, rails laid within the water tub, a truck for loading the CRD installed on the rails, a CRD clamp unit mounted on the truck having means for rotating the CRD in the circumferential direction as well as for clamping the CRD, a CRD disassembling and assembling grapple unit installed within the water tub to clamp the CRD and move the same sideways, an outer-surface washing nozzle for washing an outer tube surface and strainer of the CRD, a lance installed within the water tub, which is insertable into the tubes of the CRD and which is equipped with a nozzle assembly to spray the washing water onto the inner surface of the tubes, a filter washing nozzle unit installed within the water tub to spray the washing water onto a cylindrical filter of the CRD, a washing-water circulating pipe connected to the water tub, and a filter unit provided on a portion of the pipe, to filter the washing water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomiharu Yoshida, Tatsuyuki Omote, Yoshimi Ishii, Kiyoshi Izumi
  • Patent number: 4756322
    Abstract: A vertical panel (1) separates the shop into an average cleanness zone (2) and a maximum cleanness zone (3). An elongated tank (4) is located in the zone (2) and an enclosure (6) is inserted in an opening (5) in the panel (1). The tubes are cleaned and prerinsed in the tank (4), then rinsed and dried in the enclosure (6), which also serves as a lock for the transfer of the tubes between the zones (2) and (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Inventor: Philippe A. Lami
  • Patent number: 4748007
    Abstract: A device for disinfecting and storing endoscopes and the like includes a pair of vertically spaced, wall-mounted brackets between which extend a plurality of parallel connecting rods for supporting the brackets in fixed position relative to each other. A pair of vertically extending tubes for holding disinfecting liquid are locked in position between the brackets by a pair of annular cam-action nuts engaging the top ends of the tubes, the nuts being rotatable to release the tubes for removal and cleaning at a remote location. Elastomeric plugs inserted into the bottom ends of the tubes preclude leakage of disinfecting liquid therefrom. Alternatively, valve assemblies can be provided at the bottom ends of the tubes to permit drainage of the disinfecting liquid from the tubes when in their mounted positions. The uppermost bracket supports the annular nuts which in turn support one or two endoscopes with their insertion portions extending through the annular nuts into the disinfecting liquid within the tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1988
    Assignee: Vetrodyne, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Gaudion, Phillip L. Gerwig, Jeffrey J. Sopko
  • Patent number: 4730631
    Abstract: For use with an apparatus for performing biological fluid assays, the apparatus having a probe assembly that includes a tubular probe, a probe wash station for washing the tubular probe with a washing fluid. The probe wash station comprises a probe washing receptacle that is adapted to receive the tubular probe, the receptable having an anti-splash mechanism therein for preventing the splashing of the washing fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Assignee: Sequoia-Turner Corporation
    Inventor: Henry L. Schwartz
  • Patent number: 4723564
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning both the interior and exterior of a paint dispensing roller that has a water inlet attachable to a faucet with a one-way valve to prevent reverse water flow through the inlet, a first water outlet from which water is supplied through a conduit into the inside of the roller flushing it clean, and a ring holding the roller having a second water outlet communicating with the water inlet to supply water to clean the exterior of the paint roller. The ring snugly fits around the roller in order to hold it in place, and also functions to wipe the water from the roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1988
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel T. West, Gary C. Polk
  • Patent number: 4718441
    Abstract: A decorator tip cleaning device includes a pair of planar sheets of heat resistant plastic material are hinged together at one corner and moveable with respect to each other between an overlying position and an open position. The sheets each define a plurality of apertures sized to receive a plurality of decorator tips. Once the tips are positioned within the apertures of one of the sheets, the other sheet is pivoted to the overlying position to captivate the tips between the sheets. The entire assembly is then placed into a dishwasher for cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Inventors: Harry C. Daum, Marlene K. McKeown
  • Patent number: 4708153
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for washing and vacuum drying long necked laboratory flasks. The apparatus includes a cabinet which presents a washing and drying compartment and a pump and rotary spray arm. A special rack which can be rolled into and out of the compartment includes a central manifold and a plurality of distribution arms extending radially from the manifold. Upright spindle tubes extend from the distribution arms to receive the inverted flasks such at that the tubes extend through the narrow necks of the flasks with the open ends of the tubes located within the bodies of the flasks. A diaphragm coupling allows water to be pumped to the manifold for delivery to the spindle tubes during washing and rinsing cycles. The tubes spray the water directly inside of the flask bodies for thorough washing and rinsing. A vacuum conduit extending from the manifold carries a seat which engages a gasket to couple the manifold with a vacuum blower when the rack is moved into the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Labconco Corporation
    Inventors: Larry G. Hambleton, Claude L. Sears, Elmer B. Offutt
  • Patent number: 4694846
    Abstract: A garbage truck for handling large trash bins has a system incorporated therein for cleaning and deodorizing the bins after they have been emptied. Immediately after a bin has been emptied into the garbage truck trash compactor and while it is in an inverted position, the bin is sprayed with hot water ejected from nozzles mounted on the truck to the rear of the compactor. This spraying operation is controlled from the cab of the truck and is continued long enough with a large enough volume of water to insure thorough cleaning of the bin. After the bin has been washed it is returned to its original position on the ground and sprayed with deodorant from jet nozzles mounted on the top of the truck cab, this operation also being controlled by an operator in the cab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Inventor: Roland D. Bouchard
  • Patent number: 4683009
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for high speed drying of the interior surfaces of a plurality of plastic bottles without causing heat deterioration of the bottles. Bottles to be dried are heated through application of a heated liquid to the exterior surface thereof while a gas jet is simultaneously directed into the bottle interior. Method and apparatus for continuously moving and rotating the bottles during the drying process is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1987
    Assignee: Adolph Coors Company
    Inventor: Frank L. Shriver
  • Patent number: 4561902
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for the ultrasonic cleaning of transmissions, such as automotive transmissions and the like, and which comprises a housing or tank for receiving cleaning liquid therein, a turntable mounted within the housing for supporting the transmission within the cleaning liquid, at least one transducer secured to the housing for impressing ultrasonic energy on the cleaning liquid, heating elements secured to the tank for heating of the cleaning liquid, the transmission being rotatable simultaneously with the turntable for passing the entire outer periphery or external surfaces of the transmission across the face of the transducer within specified or selected spacing therebetween whereby the transmission is cleaned both interiorly and exteriorly without the necessity of disassembly and ultimate reassembly of the transmission during the cleaning operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1985
    Inventor: Cecil D. Lee
  • Patent number: 4502669
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided simultaneously to quench a tubular on the inside and outside surfaces during horizontal axial movement of the heated tubular into the apparatus. The apparatus comprises a generally cylindrical frame carrying two external and internal quench heads mounted 180.degree. apart on the cylindrical frame. The cylindrical frame is mounted for oscillatory motion about the axis of the frame through an angle of 180.degree.. A first heated tubular is delivered to the apparatus for simultaneous inside and outside quenching while the cylindrical frame is in a first position. Thereafter, the cylindrical frame and the first tubular is oscillated through 180.degree. to the second position where the first tubular may be withdrawn from the apparatus. In its second position, the second inside and outside quenching heads are in registry with the heating furnace so that a second tubular may be quenched while the first tubular is being withdrawn from the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1985
    Assignee: Lone Star Steel Company
    Inventors: Christian H. Heine, Jr., Robert W. McGaw, W. Edwin Wetzel, Jr., Joseph Ziegler
  • Patent number: 4495149
    Abstract: Disclosed is an analyzing apparatus for applying samples and reagents to the surface of a reaction carrier and for optically analyzing each component contained in the various samples. The dispensing of the samples and reagents and the optical detection operation are performed by an optics/dispensing mechanism moved relative to the reaction carrier in two dimensions. The optics/dispensing mechanism is combined with a cleaning apparatus for cleansing reagents and samples from a dispensing needle by means of a rinsing agent and air ejected toward the needle. The apparatus further includes an automatic lifting mechanism for lifting and replacing a cover disposed on the reaction carrier, and is adapted to move the dispensing needle to a position over a nearby reagent/sample holder so that the needle may take up a desired reagent or sample from the holder and transfer it to the surface of the reaction carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1985
    Assignee: Toa Medical Electronic Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toyotaro Iwata, Kunio Nakajima, Hiroyuki Otsuki
  • Patent number: 4431015
    Abstract: A small washer and sterilizer for glasses has a counterweighted door with a watertight seal without gaskets, a novel overhead spray unit particularly adapted for under bar installation and an improved drainage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Inventor: Tore H. Noren
  • Patent number: 4422466
    Abstract: An arrangement for cleaning containers includes a spraying nozzle which is constructed as a pressure sprayer, and at least two jet tubes which are arranged at opposite sides of the spraying nozzle, extending substantially parallel to the axis of the latter. The spraying nozzle and the jet tubes are mounted on a common distributor body which, in turn is mounted on a base plate. The distributor body has a tubular configuration and carries at its end remote from the base plate a seat for a valve ball. The distributor body further includes an arrangement for conducting the cleaning water back along itself to the upstream ends of the jet tubes. As a result of this construction, the arrangement has a relatively low height, and yet it is suited for use in cleaning drinking containers of various shapes, such as tumblers and stemware. The valve ball is operated by a valve tappet or operating member which is guided in a tubular guiding wall extending upwardly beyond the distributor member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1983
    Assignee: Schicker & Schafer
    Inventor: Klaus Schafer
  • Patent number: 4421132
    Abstract: A cart washing device is disclosed including a housing defining a washing chamber therein having fluid piping extending therearound with a plurality of nozzles preferably of the rotary type to spray washing and rinsing fluid throughout the washing chamber. A drive shaft is rotatably mounted within the housing and includes arms fixedly secured with respect thereto which include constructions at the lower end thereof for grasping, holding and lifting of carts to be washed. Rotation of the drive shaft will cause movement of the arms upwardly and lifting of the cart upwardly into the washing chamber such that washing and rinsing by fluids coming from the nozzles will be facilitated. The manner of grasping of the carts by the arms will include a cart bracket preferably being fixedly secured to each cart and a bracket head of enlarged dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1983
    Inventor: Henry Y. Kuhl
  • Patent number: 4417596
    Abstract: A filter-cleaning apparatus comprises a hollow, elongate body provided with cleaning fluid inlet and exit means at respective ends thereof. The cleaning fluid inlet means comprises an annulus which extends peripherally around one end of the hollow body and which defines together with the outer wall of the hollow body a space for receiving cleansing fluid from a source of such fluid. The interior of the hollow body communicates with the space defined by the annulus through a series if holes formed in that part of the wall of the body located within the confines of the space. When cleaning a filter, the filter is inserted into the hollow body through the inlet means herefore and the source of cleaning fluid activated. The filter is then moved axially in the hollow body, past the series of holes, until all the filter has been cleaned. A closure means is provided at the cleaning fluid inlet, to prevent the escape of cleaning fluid during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1983
    Inventor: Bo Pahlen
  • Patent number: 4416704
    Abstract: A method and installation for cleaning a squeegee device. The installation includes a housing with a door through which the squeegee device can be introduced and mounted in a tiltable supporting element. After the closing of the door the squeegee device is internally and externally flushed and rinsed by means of a number of stationary and traveling spraying nozzles through which a cleaning liquid is sprayed upon the squeegee device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1983
    Assignee: Stork Brabant B.V.
    Inventors: Antonius T. H. van de Steeg, Gerardus H. van Mondfrans
  • Patent number: 4398552
    Abstract: An apparatus for pickling the inner wall of a tubular member, for example, a zirconium or zircaloy tubular member as a cladding tube for nuclear fuel. The apparatus features the use of ultrasonic instruments for measuring the inner diameter of the tubular member while pickling the inner wall of the same. Owing to the interlocked association of the instruments and mechanism for supplying a pickling liquid into the tubular member, the supply of the pickling liquid can be stopped as soon as the inner diameter has reached a predetermined value. Various mechanisms may also be incorporated in the apparatus to minimize the temperature variation along the length of the tubular member and to improve the accuracy of the measurement by the instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1983
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho
    Inventors: Yoshiro Tanaka, Noritsugu Fujii, Kazuo Akagi, Ryujiro Shitamatsu
  • Patent number: 4381016
    Abstract: A cleaning head for cleaning elongated tubes having multiple separate paths for different cleaning fluids to be supplied in sequence, and an impeller adapted to throw a first portion of the cleaning fluid centrifugally onto the tube inner wall, and to pass a second portion axially of the tube for subsequent mergence with the first portion, and an outer plenum directing cleaning fluid onto the tube exterior, for cleaning the entire tube top to bottom and inside and out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1983
    Inventors: Robin S. Douglas, John M. Sweeney
  • Patent number: 4354514
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning and drying articles of anesthesia and respiratory equipment, particularly corrugated tubing and breathing bags. The corrugated tubes are threaded onto vertically arranged, perforated pipes which have restricted flow passages at their ends. First cleaning liquid, then drying air, is supplied under pressure to the pipes for radially outward flow therefrom to impinge on the lumina of the tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1982
    Assignee: American Sterilizer Company
    Inventors: Craig S. Sundheimer, Bradley D. Joslin
  • Patent number: RE31203
    Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning open-mouthed cylindrical containers has a plurality of pot assemblies mounted on a turntable rotatable to move each pot assembly past an unloading station for discharge of containers from the pot assemblies and a loading station for insertion of containers into the pot assemblies. Each pot assembly comprises a body co-operating with a lid to define a cavity for reception of a container, the cavity having a shape corresponding approximately to that of the container and having a size such that the container subdivides the cavity into two chambers in which the walls of the cavity are spaced close to the inside and outside surfaces of the container. Cam rollers on each pot assembly co-operate with cam tracks, upon rotation of the turntable, to open the lid immediately prior to passage past the unloading station and to close the lid immediately after passage past the loading station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1983
    Assignee: Cleamax Limited
    Inventor: John M. Jackson
  • Patent number: RE33177
    Abstract: Cleaning of multi-pore diffusion elements in place with cleaning gases while submerged in liquid media by applying said cleaning gases intermittently or continuously to said diffusion elements between predetermined limits of operating pressure and flow through flow regulation means and plenums for the respective diffusion elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Assignee: Water Pollution Control Corporation
    Inventors: Frank L. Schmit, David T. Redmon, Lloyd Ewing