With Movably Or Flexibly Mounted Spray Or Jet Applying Conduits Or Nozzles Patents (Class 134/172)
  • Publication number: 20120247520
    Abstract: A portable cleaning apparatus may include a handle and a wheel rotatably mounted to the handle. Pressurized fluid may enter the apparatus, and a fluid flow director directs the fluid to scrubbing elements to rotate the wheel. The scrubbing elements may be secured to the wheel, and different types of treatment material dispensing systems are operable to apply treatment material to the scrubbing elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Larry C. WILKINS
  • Patent number: 8276605
    Abstract: A device (11) for cleaning a pleated filter element, the device having; a body, a fluid inlet (13), a work face (14) having at least one pleat separating projection (19) and at least one fluid outlet (22) for directing fluid between pleats separated thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Pool Systems Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Warwick Heathcote, Jeremy Smith
  • Patent number: 8276603
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a system and method of cleaning and/or disinfecting medical equipment. A medical equipment washer system can include an enclosure that receives and substantially surrounds the medical equipment and one or more spray assemblies positioned inside the enclosure. The spray assemblies can automatically emit fluid to clean and/or disinfect the medical equipment. In some embodiments, spray arms of the spray assemblies can oscillate while jets emit fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Stat Medical Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Berklund, Keith Roepke
  • Patent number: 8273187
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for cleaning measuring probes (18) of a gas turbine engine (1). The invention further relates to a method for cleaning measuring probes (18) of an gas turbine engine (1). The apparatus comprises distribution means (30) comprising a plurality of supply means (31, 32, 33), each comprising connection means (33) arranged for connection to a probe (18), and each supply means (31, 32, 33) being arranged to, when connected to a probe (18), distribute pressurized cleaning liquid to said measuring probe (18), wherein a substantially simultaneous cleaning of probes connected to said distribution means (30) via said supply means (31, 32, 33) can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Line Maintenance Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Asplund, Carl-Johan Hjerpe
  • Patent number: 8262806
    Abstract: Provided area cleaning apparatus and an associated method of using the disclosed apparatus wherein the apparatus utilizes one or more nozzles configured to provide a coherent stream of one or more cleaning fluids for removing accumulated fine particulate matter, sludge, from surfaces. The nozzles may be sized, arranged and configured to provide coherent streams that maintain the initial stream diameter for a substantial portion of the maximum dimension of the space being cleaned. The apparatus and method are expected to be particularly useful in the cleaning of heat exchangers incorporating a plurality of substantially vertical and narrowly spaced tubes by directing cleansing streams along a plurality of intertube spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Dominion Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Collin, Ryan Jones, Joshua Luszcz, Marc Kreider, Aaron Pellman, Robert D. Varrin, Jr., David Arguelles
  • Patent number: 8240320
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for cleaning solar panels by means of a washing apparatus (1) which can be displaced on the solar panel (2) and applies rinsing water to the surface of the solar panel (2) and washes the surface with the help of washing nozzles and/or brushes. The washing apparatus (1) embraces the solar panel (2) in the edge region in such a way that the washing apparatus (1) is guided in a longitudinally movable way directly on the solar panel (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Novatec Solar GmbH
    Inventors: Max Mertins, Martin Selig
  • Patent number: 8240321
    Abstract: A motorized system drives rotation of a rotatable sprayer of a dishwasher. The drive system includes a magnetic coupler. The magnetic coupler includes a first portion that resides inside the wash chamber of the dishwasher, and a second portion that resides outside the wash chamber, such that the motor and the output shaft of the drive system are located entirely outside of the wash chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Jordan R. Fountain, Sathish A. Sundaram
  • Patent number: 8238510
    Abstract: A method of cleaning sludge from the tube sheet (34) of a nuclear steam generator (10) includes introducing a moveable sludge lance (76) said moveable sludge lance having duel lance heads (77) through handholes (62) in the side of the generator and into a central tube lane (60) having a central stay rod (61) and sludge lancing with high pressure fluid through the row 1 tubes (85) in the tube lane, where the distance (200) between the dual lance heads (77) is wide enough to allow the dual lance heads to extend beyond the central stay rod (61).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Company LLC
    Inventor: Eric R. Haberman
  • Publication number: 20120181446
    Abstract: There is disclosed a cleaning apparatus for a radiation source assembly in a fluid treatment system. The clean apparatus comprises a cleaning sleeve moveable to remove fouling materials from an exterior portion of the radiation source assembly, the cleaning sleeve comprising at least one chamber for receiving a cleaning fluid and a cleaning sleeve inlet in fluid communication with the at least one chamber and a first conduit element for conveying the cleaning fluid to the cleaning sleeve inlet, the first conduit element being configured such that a distal portion of the first conduit element is in fluid communication with the cleaning sleeve inlet and a proximal portion of the first conduit element is disposed outside of fluid being treated in the fluid treatment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: TROJAN TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventors: Joseph Elku, Douglas Penhale
  • Patent number: 8220470
    Abstract: The Furniture Pad Folding Machine is a dry cleaning machine that is multi-faceted; it can clean and disinfect furniture pads and the machine has the ability to fold furniture pads. The machine is portable and can function on the moving truck and at the warehouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Jessie Lee Hicks
  • Patent number: 8210191
    Abstract: A spray assembly for an automatic dishwasher is provided comprising a conduit system for receiving pressurized washing liquid, and an elongated spray arm including an upper surface and a lower surface. The spray arm includes a dividing wall between the upper surface and the lower surface. The spray arm includes a plurality of orifices formed in the upper surface and the lower surface for distributing the liquid throughout the dishwasher. The dividing wall and the upper surface define an upper interior compartment and the dividing wall and the lower surface define a lower interior compartment. The conduit includes a water feed system and a water diverting mechanism for selectively diverting water into the upper compartment, the lower compartment, or both the upper and the lower compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Errin Whitney Gnadinger, Mohan Ponnaganti
  • Patent number: 8201570
    Abstract: A cover assembly for sealing a dishwasher drawer includes a rigid, movable cover casing that frames a flexible sealing cover which is capable of receiving and covering tall dishes extending beyond a height of the drawer. Rocker arms are placed on each perimeter edge of the cover casing, and pivot to raise and lower the casing onto the drawer so that the sealing cover seals a wash chamber therein. A seal adhered to a bottom of the cover casing presses against a lip of the drawer to prevent leakage of wash fluid circulated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Steve B. Froelicher
  • Publication number: 20120138109
    Abstract: A cleaning system for solar collectors, characterized in that movably mounted cleaning nozzles for introducing steam or water are secured to collectors, which can be closed in pairs at the mirror ends. The cleaning process is to take place partially or completely in the closed state or protective position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Martin Hadlauer
  • Patent number: 8186366
    Abstract: A portable manual vehicle wash assembly including a base removably attachable to a top exterior surface of a vehicle. A hollow pipe is attached to the base and includes an inlet formed at a first end thereof, and an outlet at a second end thereof. The inlet is adapted to receive an end of a first hose in fluid communication with a water source. The outlet is generally directed away from the exterior surface of the vehicle, and has a swivel member attached thereto. The swivel member is connected to a water emitter, typically in the form of a second hose or a spray nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventors: Jerry J. Montoya, Nicomedes A. Trujillo
  • Patent number: 8187391
    Abstract: A pet waste disposal device having a motor driving a set of cutting blades inside of an open ended plenum. A water supply such as a garden hose provides water to a nozzle or jet inside of the plenum, the water washes away the waste as it is chopped by the blades. The motor may be electrical, gasoline driven, or water driven. The plenum may have a safety screen across the open end. In preferred embodiments, the device may be mounted on an elongated support with a hand grip at one end and the plenum and motor at the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: William H. Wood
  • Patent number: 8181890
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for a cleaning apparatus that includes a swash assembly for allowing independent control of the nozzle pitch from the nozzle rotation, and further includes supplying a cleaning fluid through the same apparatus used to rotate the nozzle. The method and system allows cleaning with spray patterns of substantially 360 degrees spherical ranges of motion. The nozzle angle can be controlled by hydraulic cylinders that can reversibly translate a rack along a longitudinal axis of a nozzle assembly to engage a pitch gear coupled to the nozzle. The system is automatically resettable to a default position upon failure of hydraulic pressure. Generally, a plurality of nozzles are used to balance the side forces on the main mast. A remote control system allows an operator to design and control an optimal cleaning procedure, and to adjust the nozzle rotation, angle, and cleaning regime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Nanoworx, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Shawn Zilai, Charles Horace Camp, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8176883
    Abstract: A sootblower is provided having a multidirectional cleaning range for directing a cleaning medium against heated surfaces in a heat exchanger. The sootblower includes a rotatable lance tube that is selectively advanced and withdrawn along a longitudinal axis from an interior volume of the heat exchanger. The lance tube includes an articulating wrist coupled to a nozzle for projecting the cleaning medium in multi-directions onto the heated surfaces when the lance tube is advanced into the heat exchanger. The nozzle is pivotable about the longitudinal axis and about a second axis transverse to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Diamond Power International, Inc.
    Inventors: Clinton A. Brown, Stephen L. Shover, Ryan M. Tooill
  • Patent number: 8171945
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle wash system comprising a first treatment unit (2) arranged on a frame (1) so as to be height-adjustable and at least one second treatment unit (3) arranged on the frame (1) so as to be height-adjustable. In order to reduce the components required for driving and controlling the treatment units (2, 3) the latter are coupled to a common drive motor (11) via a traction mechanism drive (12, 13, 14, 15) for their mutual adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Washtec Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Georg Wimmer, Rudiger Hirschmann
  • Publication number: 20120085376
    Abstract: An apparatus with which areas near surfaces in a water environment that are contaminated by radioisotopes are decontaminated by non-thermal laser peeling without suffering re-melting, re-diffusing and re-contaminating. The apparatus includes a piping structure with which a substance to be irradiated that has been deposited on outer and inner surfaces of a nuclear reactor pressure vessel, and a nuclear reactor container tank, and the internal nuclear reactor structures all having been contaminated with radioisotopes, can be removed in the water environment. The piping structure, to secure a region in a water environment that is gas pressurized to discharge the water and filled with the gas to not interfere with laser irradiation, has a semi-hermetically closed, incomplete water seal that is half-open with a siphon provided downward, a mechanical structure that withstands water pressure in a radial direction, and an extendable bellows-like tube to enable the piping structure to tilt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicants: THE JAPAN ATOMIC POWER COMPANY, JAPAN ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY
    Inventor: Eisuke MINEHARA
  • Patent number: 8151739
    Abstract: Certain techniques involve the use of a device including a fluid distributor which has at least one flow duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The inlet opening can be connected to a supply line for a fluid. Means for moving the fluid distributor are provided. Additionally, means are provided for recording an environmental parameter through the outlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Clyde Bergemann GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Mussmann, Manfred Frach
  • Patent number: 8141568
    Abstract: A breakaway knuckle for an arm of a car wash is disclosed. The knuckle allows the arm of a car wash to receive an impact from a vehicle without breaking and return the arm to its original position automatically. The knuckle preferably comprises a joint having a series of inclined grooves and corresponding balls. The knuckle is spring loaded to actuate the return of the arm to an in-use position after an impact, and the balls roll into the grooves to hold the arm in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Washworld, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan G. Huntington, Kenneth R. Smith, Michael K. Close, Jeffrey A. Martin, Peter T. Jensen
  • Publication number: 20120048311
    Abstract: A rotary spray washer for heavy duty applications. Each spray device in the system comprises a rotary coupling and two sets of radially extending spray arms. Each set of arms has nozzles at the distal ends to direct water generally toward a target area but angled enough to produce a rotation-producing reaction torque. One set of arms is longer than the other whereby the shorter arms produce a reaction torque which limits the overall speed of rotation without the need for a friction brake or fluid pump brake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: BELANGER, INC.
    Inventors: Barry S. TURNER, David L. TOGNETTI, Michael S. SAYYAE
  • Patent number: 8122898
    Abstract: A rotating and telescoping cleaning system improves high pressure water cleaning of the inner surfaces of vessels or tanks. Vessels can be vertically divided with dividing plates with centered through-holes. Synchronized and controlled transverse and rotary movements of water jets result in a controlled spiral or helical cleaning track along the vessel walls. The water jets are directed at a pre-adjusted distance from the vessel wall and the travel speed of the water nozzle jets is exactly controlled allowing the removal of very hard deposits. One pass with the tool carrier with operating water jets along the length axis of the vessel results in a thoroughly cleaned vessel wall. The tool unfolds and folds inside of the vessel powered by the flow of the high pressure cleaning water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Aquajet Ltd.
    Inventors: Christian Geppert, Stefan Schroth
  • Patent number: 8061373
    Abstract: The surface cleaning apparatus is provided in self-propelled embodiments and in a trailer embodiment. The apparatus draws liquid from a supplied tank. Liquid is pressurized to approximately 4,000 psi, then directly to the surface to be cleaned. All cleaning and cleaning component functions are powered via the same fluid pumps via a supply manifold. Total width limitations dictated the design of the sidewalk capable apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: John R. Storms
  • Patent number: 8057605
    Abstract: A system and method for cleaning tapered towers such wind turbine towers. A semicircular member hugs the tower surface. A plurality of nozzles affixed to the semicircular member sprays high pressure cleaning fluid on the tower surface as the semicircular member is raised and lowered. The spray nozzles are kept at a constant distance from the tower surface by a plurality of wheels affixed to the semicircular member. At least one constricting structure is used to force the plurality of wheels to be in constant contact with the tower surface. The constricting structure can be a spring loaded scissor apparatus and/or a bungee cord with rolling beads. A brush can be optionally added to the semicircular member to aid in cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Frank J. Gallegos
  • Patent number: 8057117
    Abstract: An assembly structured to clean the head portion of a stethoscope comprising a housing including a path of travel along which the head portion passes during cleaning. A supply of cleaning fluid associated with a dispenser assembly is cooperatively disposed relative to an activating assembly. The activating assembly is operated in moveable engagement with the head portion, and activates the dispenser assembly when engaged by the head portion as it passes along the path of travel. The dispenser assembly delivers the cleaning fluid to an applicator assembly which distributes the cleaning fluid to the head portion and facilitates the cleaning thereof and removal of excess cleaning fluid there from. At least one disinfectant agent is dispersed within or comprises a portion of the housing and is formulated to be destructively effective against pathogenic bacteria, such as in the spore form, which is generally not affected by the cleaning fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Perlman, James M. Sellers, Keith Rubin, Mathew Cardinali, Michael R. Cole, Sidney Perlman
  • Patent number: 8034194
    Abstract: [Object] To provide a pallet capable of reliably holding a board-like work on a table and applying a liquid to a desired position on an upper surface of the work, and to provide an applying apparatus provided with the pallet. [Solving Means] A pallet for fixing a board-like work is arranged on a table of a liquid applying apparatus, which applies a liquid by moving a nozzle for discharging the liquid and the table relatively to each other. The pallet comprises a base having a work area in which a plurality of works are arranged in parallel in a row direction and/or a column direction, and a holding plate for holding the work at both ends thereof, the holding plate having a window (69) which is positioned to make open central portion of the works arranged in the work area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Musashi Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazumasa Ikushima
  • Publication number: 20110232685
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing an adhesive substance such as gum, paint, and the like from a surface is provided. The apparatus includes at least two reservoirs, one reservoir contains water so as to provide steam and another reservoir contains a cleaning agent. A common conduit is in fluid communication with the first and second reservoirs and comprising an outlet. A controller modulates the dispensing of steam and cleaning agent. Applying an effective mixture of steam and cleaning agent onto the surface area having this adhesive substance causes the removal thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Robert Paffrath, Robert Houston
  • Patent number: 8025070
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a surface bounding a space within which a bulk supply of flowable material can be contained. The apparatus has an elongate support with a proximal region and a distal region. At least one flexible tube is provided at the distal region of the elongate support through which a fluid from a pressurized supply can be directed. The at least one flexible tube is movable continuously in a whipping action to thereby cause a force to be applied to a surface at or adjacent to which the flexible tube is located to thereby at least one of: a) apply a fluid; and b) separate matter adhered, to a surface at or adjacent to which the flexible tube is located. The apparatus further has a moving assembly for the elongate support. The moving assembly is operable to controllably reposition and/or reconfigure the elongate support, thereby to controllably place the at least one flexible tube at different selected locations with respect to a surface to be treated by the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Nick Griffith
  • Patent number: 8016947
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a surface such as a driveway or a vertical wall which includes converting or retro-fitting a zero-turn radius (ZTR) or other type of mower to a cleaning apparatus. The conversion of the mower includes the steps of adding a water supply tank to the deck area of the mower and providing low pressure and high pressure flow lines. The low pressure flow lines are supplied via a low pressure pump. The high pressure flow lines are supplied by a separate high pressure pump unit. Plural solenoid valves are utilized in the method and system to control the flow of a cleaning solution for various method operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventors: William Rushin, Charles Rushin
  • Patent number: 8012265
    Abstract: A surface cleaning system having a storage container, debris collection apparatus and debris conduit is disclosed. Water discharged from spray nozzles configured in a circular arrangement forces debris into a debris collection ring and then a debris conduit. An auger, water pressure or air pressure is used to force the debris through debris conduit into the storage container for disposal. The design of the debris collection apparatus also facilitates the capture of most of the water used to force the debris into the debris collection apparatus. Accordingly, the system is able to reuse the water thereby extending the surface area that may be cleaned with a specified amount of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: The Mendenhall Family Trust
    Inventors: Robert L. Mendenhall, Gilbert Cabrera
  • Patent number: 8006710
    Abstract: In order to produce a cleaning device which cleans in a particularly effective manner wherein the cleaning device comprises a cleaning chamber for accommodating a workpiece requiring cleaning and a fluid transfer device for transferring at least one fluid into the cleaning chamber and/or out of the cleaning chamber and wherein the fluid transfer device comprises at least one nozzle in the form of a slotted nozzle extending along a slot axis and said fluid is arranged to be fed into the cleaning chamber or fed out of the cleaning chamber by means of said fluid transfer device in a direction transverse to the slot axis, it is proposed that the cleaning device comprise a slotted nozzle moving device for moving at least a part of the slotted nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Dürr Ecoclean GmbH
    Inventor: Egon Käske
  • Publication number: 20110197937
    Abstract: A dishwasher having a tub defining a wash chamber for washing dishes and a dish rack located within the wash chamber. The dishwasher also has a spray arm assembly configured to spray a first flow of wash liquid toward the dish rack, thereby providing a first wash zone. A spray manifold provided within the wash chamber is configured to provide a second flow of wash liquid toward the dish rack, thereby providing a second wash zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: CHAD T. VANDERROEST, JAY C. LANDSIEDEL, CHRISTOPHER J. CARLSON, VINCENT P. GURUBATHAM, EDWARD L. THIES
  • Patent number: 7975708
    Abstract: A proximity head including a head surface. The head surface including a first flat region and a plurality of first conduits. Each one of the plurality of first conduits being defined by corresponding one of a plurality of first discrete holes. The plurality of first discrete holes residing in the head surface and extending through the first flat region. The head surface also including a second flat region and a plurality of second conduits. The plurality of second conduits being defined by a corresponding plurality of second discrete holes that reside in the head surface and extend through the second flat region. The head surface also including a third flat region disposed between and adjacent to the first flat region and the second flat region and a plurality of third conduits. The plurality of third conduits being defined by a corresponding plurality of third discrete holes that reside in the head surface and extend through the third flat region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Ravkin, John M. de Larios, Fred C. Redeker, Mikhail Korolik, Erik M. Freer
  • Patent number: 7967918
    Abstract: Provided area cleaning apparatus and an associated method of using the disclosed apparatus wherein the apparatus utilizes one or more nozzles configured to provide a coherent stream of one or more cleaning fluids for removing accumulated fine particulate matter, sludge, from surfaces. The nozzles may be sized, arranged and configured to provide coherent streams that maintain the initial stream diameter for a substantial portion of the maximum dimension of the space being cleaned. The apparatus and method are expected to be particularly useful in the cleaning of heat exchangers incorporating a plurality of substantially vertical and narrowly spaced tubes by directing cleansing streams along a plurality of intertube spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Dominion Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Collin, Ryan Jones, Joshua Luszcz, Marc Kreider, Aaron Pellman, Robert Varrin, Jr., David Arguelles
  • Publication number: 20110146733
    Abstract: A motorized system drives rotation of a rotatable sprayer of a dishwasher. The drive system includes a magnetic coupler. The magnetic coupler includes a first portion that resides inside the wash chamber of the dishwasher, and a second portion that resides outside the wash chamber, such that the motor and the output shaft of the drive system are located entirely outside of the wash chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: JORDAN R. FOUNTAIN, SATHISH A. SUNDARAM
  • Patent number: 7954501
    Abstract: A pressure cleaner provides a splitter for dividing a fluid stream to a plurality of nozzles without a substantial loss in pressure. A frame is provided to help maintain angle and distances of the spray nozzles relative to each other and to a surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Easywasher Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Sprecher
  • Patent number: 7942158
    Abstract: An edge of a material to be washed is held between forked portions of a vibration transmitting portion. An ultrasonic vibrator is attached to an enlarged portion of the vibration transmitting portion, and the ultrasonic waves supplied from the ultrasonic vibrator irradiate the washing liquid flowing to the forked portion, and the edge of the material to washed is washed by the ultrasonic wave and the washing liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosuke Honda, Yuichi Asayama, Yuichi Maita, Tomomi Hikita, Yoshikazu Muramatsu, Ryoji Kondo, Haruo Yamamori, Naoyuki Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 7931034
    Abstract: The invention relates to a spray arm bearing (1) with a bearing element (2), for mounting a spray arm (20) and a flow-guide device (3), connected to the bearing element (2), whereby the bearing element (2) comprises a through opening for the passage of fluid. According to the invention, the base area (D2) of the flow-guide device (3) corresponds to the base area (D1) of the through opening or lies within the base area (D1) of the through opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.
    Inventors: Friedrich Mack, Wolfgang Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20110088726
    Abstract: In order to produce a cleaning device which cleans in a particularly effective manner wherein the cleaning device comprises a cleaning chamber for accommodating a workpiece requiring cleaning and a fluid transfer device for transferring at least one fluid into the cleaning chamber and/or out of the cleaning chamber and wherein the fluid transfer device comprises at least one nozzle in the form of a slotted nozzle extending along a slot axis and said fluid is arranged to be fed into the cleaning chamber or fed out of the cleaning chamber by means of said fluid transfer device in a direction transverse to the slot axis, it is proposed that the cleaning device comprise a slotted nozzle moving device for moving at least a part of the slotted nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: Durr Ecoclean GmbH
    Inventor: Egon Käske
  • Publication number: 20110088723
    Abstract: A wind turbine tower cleaning apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a frame which circumferentially extends at least partially around a wind turbine tower. A separator structure can be attached to the frame and extends between the frame and the wind turbine tower to position the frame at a predetermined distance away from the wind turbine tower. The separator structure can also include an attachment end which is attached to the frame and a slidabe end positionable near the wind turbine tower. A slider can be attached to the slidabe end of the separator structure and can slide on the surface of the wind turbine tower as the frame is raised and lowered on the wind turbine tower. A frame lift device can raise and lower the frame on the wind turbine tower. A sprayer can spray fluid onto the wind turbine tower to clean the wind turbine tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventors: Dustin Jensen, Broque L. Fraughton, Sonny K. Fraughton
  • Patent number: 7909942
    Abstract: A pet waste disposal device having a motor driving a set of cutting blades inside of an open ended plenum. A water supply such as a garden hose provides water to a nozzle or jet inside of the plenum, the water washes away the waste as it is chopped by the blades. The motor may be electrical, gasoline driven, or water driven. The plenum may have a safety screen across the open end. In preferred embodiments, the device may be mounted on an elongated support with a hand grip at one end and the plenum and motor at the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: William H. Wood
  • Patent number: 7896266
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for a wheeled attachment for use with a conventional pressure washer wherein the attachment comprises a wheeled platform having an inlet to receive fluid, i.e., water or cleaning fluid, from the pressure washer along with a plurality of outlets for spraying water directly onto a relatively wide area of the surface to be cleaned. The attachment is expected to be most effective for cleaning horizontal surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, decks, docks and other horizontal surfaces. The attachment further comprises first and second height-adjustable wheels for attachment to the sides of the platform along with a splash guard disposed on the rear of the platform for protecting the user from overspray. A manifold connects the single inlet to the plurality of outlets in order to transfer fluid from the inlet to the outlets so that fluid is uniformly applied to the surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventors: Martin L. Cooper, Charles S. Houser
  • Publication number: 20110036382
    Abstract: A dishwasher having water connections and a connection device with an output and inputs, wherein each of the inputs is connected to a respective water connection. The connection device opens the input whose assigned water connection supplies water and automatically seals all remaining inputs when the input whose assigned water connection supplies water is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERATE GMBH
    Inventors: Christian Ertl, Markus Gram, Bernd Heisele
  • Patent number: 7887642
    Abstract: A device for spraying spray products in a dishwasher enables the dishes to be impinged upon with dishwashing fluid in an efficient manner and to avoid wear and tear caused by moving parts and to provide trouble-free operation. The spraying device sprays dishwashing fluid into the inside of the washing container and includes at least one spray channel that guides at least one dishwashing liquid and is integrated into the bottom, top and/or wall area of the washing container, whereby openings which are oriented toward the interior of the washing container are provided on one side and enable the dishwashing fluid to pass therethrough. An improved more homogeneous distribution of dishwashing fluid is provided and it is possible to dispense with moving parts, such as spray arms for the distribution of dishwashing fluid, leading to greater freedom in terms of washing container and wash basket design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Helmut Jerg, Hans-Peter Nannt
  • Patent number: 7870864
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a spray assembly positioned in the wash chamber of the dishwasher's tub. The spray assembly includes a pump outlet that rotates relative to the bottom wall of the tub. One end of a flexible hose is secured to the pump outlet. The other end of the pump outlet is secured a belt that advances around a number of pulleys. Water is sprayed from the flexible hose via a number of nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Roger J. Bertsch, Andrei Tres, Luis F. Welin, Lorraine J. Westlake
  • Patent number: 7866908
    Abstract: An assembly structured to clean the head portion of a stethoscope comprising a housing including a path of travel along which the head portion passes during cleaning. A supply of cleaning fluid is associated with a dispenser assembly which is cooperatively disposed relative to an activating assembly. The activating assembly is manually operated due to moveable engagement with the head portion as it travels along the path of travel. The activating assembly is thereby operatively positioned to activate the dispenser assembly when engaged by the head portion as it passes along the path of travel. The dispenser assembly delivers the cleaning fluid to an applicator assembly which distributes the cleaning fluid to the head portion and facilitates the cleaning thereof and removal of excess cleaning fluid there from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Perlman, James M. Sellers, Keith Rubin, Mathew Cardinali, Michael R. Cole, Sidney Perlman
  • Patent number: 7857908
    Abstract: A dishwasher is provided. The dishwasher has a wash motor for pumping wash liquid, upper and lower spray arm for spraying the wash liquid pumped by the wash motor, and a control unit. The control unit operates the wash motor to perform a lower wash cycle by the lower spray arm and an upper wash cycle by the upper spray arm. The control unit operates the wash motor at a preset first rpm and operates the wash motor at a second rpm for a predetermined duration during the upper wash cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Jhe Hyouk Lee
  • Publication number: 20100300491
    Abstract: Several methods of removing contaminant particles from a surface of a substrate are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the method includes directing an incompressible fluid spray onto a surface of a substrate to remove contaminant particles from the surface. In an embodiment, the surface of the substrate and the nozzle are both immersed in an incompressible fluid. The fluid can flow across the surface of the substrate to remove the contaminant particles from the area. The fluid spray can be positioned normal to the substrate surface, or can be positioned at an angle relative to the substrate surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald L. Yates
  • Publication number: 20100300499
    Abstract: Dish washer is disclosed for efficient removal of humid air formed after drying dishes. The dish washer includes a cabinet which forms an exterior of the dish washer, a tub in the cabinet to form a washing chamber for washing dishes, a water jacket mounted to one sidewall of the tub to hold water supplied from an outside of the dish washer for condensing moisture in humid air formed after washing and drying of the dishes when the humid air is brought into contact thereto, and a condensing duct mounted to an inside or an outside of the water jacket for guiding the humid air to the water jacket in removing the moisture from the humid air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jung Youp HAN, Young Hwan PARK, Min Kyung JUNG, Je Hoon KIM