Conduit Or Nozzle Attached To Or Operatively Interconnected With Treating Chamber Closure Patents (Class 134/175)
  • Patent number: 11490779
    Abstract: A dishwasher may utilize a multi-level dishwasher rack that in some instances may be reconfigurable into different configurations to optimize the rack for different types and/or combinations of utensils. A movable divider may be used in some instances to selectively expose a deep portion of a rack, and a drawer may be used in some instances to provide access utensils stored underneath a divider. A movable portion of a bottom of a rack may also be used in some instances to provide different support surfaces in the rack at different elevations. A tubular spray element or another rotatable spray tube may also be positioned relative to a multi-level dishwasher rack in some instances to facilitate concentrated washing of different facing surfaces of different utensils stored in the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: MIDEA GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Robert M. Digman, Mark W. Wilson, Garen Gibbs
  • Patent number: 10589325
    Abstract: A method for cleaning the cooking space of a cooking appliance with a pan including adding a cleaning agent to the cooking space and if necessary, after this agent has been allowed to work for a certain period of time, a liquid jet is introduced under high pressure from the a spray head of a cleaning device through the at least one spray nozzle, which rotates around an axis perpendicular to the rotational axis of the spray head rotating around this axis. The liquid jet consists exclusively of water and which swirls and splashes the cleaning agent, and if necessary, after this splashed agent has been allowed to work for a further certain period of time, removes the residues mechanically from the bottom, the walls, and the inside surface of the lid, and wherein said residues are then carried away together with the washing solution out of the cooking space via the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: MKN Maschinenfabrik Kurt Neubauer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Helm
  • Patent number: 10413147
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a wand that is configured to clean a surface, such as carpeting and rugs, are disclosed herein. While the described wand can comprise any suitable component that allows it to be used to clean a surface, in some cases, the wand includes a wand head having a shroud, with a jet orifice and a vacuum port being disposed within the shroud. In some such cases, the vacuum port includes a breaker bar that is recessed within the shroud such that a portion of the shroud extends past the breaker bar. Additionally, in some cases, the shroud further includes one or more rollers that are optionally adjustable in height such that the wand head can is useable by operators of varying heights. In some cases, the wand head is coupled to a vacuum tube that attaches to a vacuum. Additional implementations are also described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Inventors: John M Hopkins, Gaylord M Karren, James K Stone, William R Shupe
  • Patent number: 10172508
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dishwasher (1) comprising a tub (3) having more than one side wall (2), wherein the washing process is performed, a door (4) providing access into the tub (3) and a detergent dispenser (5) disposed on the door (4) wherein the chemical substances like detergent, softener and rinse aid are placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: ARCELIK ANONIM SIRKETI
    Inventors: Nasir Efe Aras, Orhan Atabey, Nurgul Gokdere
  • Patent number: 9545177
    Abstract: A kit for the repair of a tub or shower includes an inlay comprising a PVC thermoplastic and a one-part adhesive comprising an polyurethane-modified functional compound. A method for repairing a tub or shower use the kit to apply adhesive the inlay to secure it to the tub or shower floor. A preferred adhesive for use with the kit and the method exhibits excellent adhesion to many substrates including porcelain, steel, fiberglass and many plastics. Preferably, the adhesive cures fast, even at low temperatures, contains no solvents or isocyanates and is non-yellowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Steven R. Coven
  • Patent number: 8950031
    Abstract: A garment hung in a vertical orientation has at least one entire side of the garment exposed to steam from a steaming device including a planar steam panel having a steam emitting side with a surface area including restricted orifices distributed substantially uniformly over the steam emitting side. Jets of steam shoot under pressure from the surface area of the steam panel, this surface area being essentially the same as or greater than the area of the one entire side of the garment being treated. The hanging garment is placed next to the steam panel with the steam emitting side positioned to direct the steam jets from the orifices towards the garment so that essentially the one entire side of the garment is treated simultaneously as steam impinges against the entire area of this one side of the garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Vincent I. Jaramillo
  • Patent number: 8857452
    Abstract: A spray device for cleaning residue from a filter member. In one embodiment, the spray device includes a tubular stem telescopically slideable in a sleeve. A coil spring surrounds the stem and resists movement of the stem out of the sleeve. A tubular halo with nozzles is fastened to the end of the tubular stem so that when a pressurized fluid is applied to the stem, the stem is forced out of the sleeve against the spring force, thereby causing the halo to travel along a cylindrical filter surface. The pressurized fluid is also jetted from the nozzles and cleans the cylindrical surface. When the pressurized fluid is removed from the spray device, the spring retracts the stem and the halo back to a rest position. In another embodiment, the halo is replaced with a nozzle head that moves within a cylindrical filter surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: John D. Martin
  • Publication number: 20140075682
    Abstract: A home appliance (2), in particular dishwasher or laundry treatment apparatus, further in particular a laundry treatment apparatus capable of washing and/or drying, includes a liquid supply channel (24) and/or a liquid reservoir (22) and a droplet spraying device (26). The droplet spraying device includes a membrane (36) arranged in fluid connection with the liquid supply channel (24) and/or the liquid reservoir (22). The membrane (36) has a plurality of openings (38), and at least one actuator (40) is provided for actuating the membrane (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS CORPORATION N.V.
    Inventors: Mario Filippetti, Andrea Zattin
  • Patent number: 8524008
    Abstract: In the case of a device and a method for cleaning substrates on a carrier, to the underside of which the substrates are fastened so as to be parallel to and slightly apart from one another, the carrier has in its interior a plurality of longitudinal channels, which run parallel to one another. As a result of the sawing of the wafers, they merge, via openings, into interstices between the substrates. As a result of a relative movement, an elongate tube, from which cleaning fluid is let out, is introduced into one of the longitudinal channels, the relative movement being achieved substantially through moving of the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Gebr. Schmid GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Worm, Reinhard Huber
  • Patent number: 8499409
    Abstract: A cleaning device (1) for hose filters comprising a cleaning head (5) having at least one nozzle (11) rotating about a longitudinal axis (L), is characterized in that the cleaning head (5) comprises a fixed jacket (15) having a smooth outer surface which surrounds the at least one rotating nozzle (11) at a distance and in which a series of through holes (17) are formed, said holes being distributed over the circumference of the jacket (15) and being arranged with respect to each nozzle (11) such that a jet emerging from each nozzle (11) during operation can pass through a through hole (17) at least intermittently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Christian Reining
  • Patent number: 8490635
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an arrangement of two conduits, wherein the conduits are positioned parallel with respect to each other and wherein each conduit is provided with means suitable to remove solids from its surface and positioned along the length of one of the two sides of the conduit, wherein the means are one or more pairs of oppositely oriented nozzles, each nozzle having an outflow opening for gas directed, along the surface of the conduit, towards the outflow opening of the other nozzle of said pair, wherein the pairs of oppositely oriented nozzles of one conduit are arranged in a staggered configuration relative to the pairs of oppositely oriented nozzles of the other conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Mathew Baker, Wouter Koen Harteveld, Hans Joachim Heinen
  • Patent number: 8475603
    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: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Stewart Kaiser
  • Patent number: 8434501
    Abstract: A cleaning system which includes an enclosure and having a door with a transparent window. The door is opened and closed to load and unload products to be cleaned. An operator puck on the outside of the enclosure couples magnetically to another actuator puck on the inside of the enclosure. This coupling allows an operator to move and direct the inside puck to actuate spray or air blast functions, without opening the enclosure. The outside operator puck includes one or more switches which turn on the various electronic components such as the liquid pump, light, or air blast valve. The cleaning system enables a user to efficiently direct cleaning action to parts inside to minimize the cleaning time, and to prevent exposure of chemicals. The cleaning fluid is cycled out of the enclosure continuously, and into a “trap” box, through a pump and back into the cleaner box in a closed loop cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Transition Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Curtin
  • Patent number: 8297660
    Abstract: Water-conducting household appliance, in particular dishwasher, comprising a circulation pump (3) having a tube-like outlet connector (4) and a subsequent tube (5) connected to the outlet connector (4), wherein a decoupling device (6, 6?) for damping vibrations generated by the circulation pump (3) is provided between the outlet connector (4) and the subsequent tube (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.
    Inventor: Jürgen Rösch
  • Patent number: 8146613
    Abstract: A system and method for a surgical scrub automated cleaning station are disclosed. The surgical scrub cylinder automated cleaning station includes a rotatable, extendable, and retractable wash cylinder that is operable to accommodate any variety of arm length. More specifically, the surgical scrub automated cleaning station may include an accordion, telescoping, or otherwise adjustable cylinder to accommodate a variety of arm lengths. The surgical scrub cylinder automated cleaning station may be used to provide a surgeon or other health care personnel with a hand and forearm washing. The surgical scrub cylinder automated cleaning station may also be monitored to ensure compliance with one or more hygiene protocols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Resurgent Health & Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Paul R. Barnhill, James Glenn, Kathy Lockridge, Jeff Heng
  • 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: 7823595
    Abstract: An apparatus for etching a substrate includes (a) a nozzle system including at least one nozzle through which acid solution containing at least hydrofluoric acid is sprayed onto the substrate, (b) a mover which moves at least one of the nozzle system and the substrate relative to the other in a predetermined direction in such a condition that the substrate and the nozzle system face each other, (c) a filter system which filters off particles out of the acid solution having been sprayed onto the substrate, and (d) a circulation system which circulates the acid solution having been sprayed onto the substrate, to the filter system, and further, to the nozzle system from the filter system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Kazushige Takechi
  • Patent number: 7493907
    Abstract: An improved nozzle assembly for a dishwasher is provided. The nozzle assembly includes first and second nozzles rotatably installed adjacent to corresponding first and second racks so as to selectively spray water in first and second directions. One of the nozzles includes a device for manually setting the spraying direction, including a fixed central piece and first and second nozzle sections. The fixed central piece is in communication with a water circulator, and supplies water to the first and second nozzle sections. An open end of each nozzle section is rotatably coupled to an open end of the fixed central piece, and the first and second nozzle sections may be rotated using a manual setting device so as to direct a spray of water in different directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Hee Seok Roh
  • Patent number: 7416647
    Abstract: A plating processing device comprises: a plating bath, on which an object to be plated is mounted; and a sparger provided with plating nozzle and washing nozzle for jetting plating solution and washing solution, respectively, toward the object in such a manner that the used plating solution and washing solution are accumulated and collected in the plating bath. Plating solution is supplied to the plating nozzle from a plating solution tank. Washing solution is supplied to the washing nozzle from a washing solution tank. The used plating solution and washing solution are accumulated in the plating bath, are recovered to the plating solution tank and used again as a plating solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Shinko Electric Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Eiichi Yamamuro
  • Patent number: 7320329
    Abstract: Apparatus for remotely operated fluid pumping in work spaces, particularly suitable for the cleaning of enclosed space tanks such as those on marine vessels. The apparatus comprises one or more arm assemblies, each made up of two or more arm sections each, with the arm assembly mounted within of the tank. Hydraulic rotary actuators disposed between the arm sections provide up to 360 degree rotation of one arm section with respect to the next. A nozzle is mounted on a pair of hydraulic rotary actuators near the end of the arm assembly distal from the mount, with a hose supplying fluid from a supply pump to the nozzle. Fluids and solids from the cleaning operation can be pumped from the area being cleaned via a discharge pump to a holding vessel, such as a disposal barge. A video camera is mounted on the arm assembly, preferably at the nozzle, to permit an operator to remotely view the cleaning process and area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Stephen A. Luke, Robert P. Luke, Ben T. Deslatte
  • Patent number: 7261109
    Abstract: Apparatus for remotely operated fluid pumping in work spaces, particularly suitable for the cleaning of enclosed space tanks such as those on marine vessels. The apparatus comprises one or more arm assemblies, each made up of two or more arm sections each, with the arm assembly mounted within of the tank. Hydraulic rotary actuators disposed between the arm sections provide up to 360 degree rotation of one arm section with respect to the next. A nozzle is mounted on a pair of hydraulic rotary actuators near the end of the arm assembly distal from the mount, with a hose supplying fluid from a supply pump to the nozzle. Fluids and solids from the cleaning operation can be pumped from the area being cleaned via a discharge pump to a holding vessel, such as a disposal barge. A video camera is mounted so as to permit an operator to remotely view the cleaning process and area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Stephen A. Luke, Robert P. Luke, Ben T. Deslatte
  • Patent number: 7114509
    Abstract: Dishwashing machine comprising a programme sequence control unit, at least two rotating spray arms, a circulation pump (3) capable of operating even intermittently, a distribution valve (10) arranged directly on the delivery-side section (6) of the pump (3) and having at least a first and a second outlet (11, 13) which communicate with a respective rotating spray arm. The shutter member (20) of the valve, in accordance with the flow direction of the liquor at the delivery side (6) of the pump, is adapted to selectively displace both between said first and second outlets (11, 13) and into an intermediate seat (15) situated between the same outlets. The duration of the pauses in the intermittent operation of the pump (3), as controlled by the programme sequence control unit, is correlated to the actual pressure at the inlet of the valve (10) by the action of means (21) provided to monitor the localized pressure of the liquor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Italy S.p.A.
    Inventor: Ugo Favret
  • Publication number: 20040226584
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-functional surface cleaning machine having a fluid tank, a pump, and at least one receptacle for holding concentrated cleaning chemicals. The receptacle(s) are in fluid communication with an operator controllable selector. The selector, either alone or in combination with a metering valve, may control which chemical(s) and the amount of such chemical(s) that will be allowed to flow to an inlet of a multi-inlet mixing member. A second input to the mixing member is a fluid to be stored within the fluid tank. The fluid and chemical which may be supplied to the mixing member may be mixed within the mixing member to create a cleaning solution, which may be supplied to any number of dispensing devices. One such device could be a spray gun for dispensing pressurized cleaning solutions onto a surface to be cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Guest, Roger Pedlar, Brian J. Doll
  • Patent number: 6019843
    Abstract: An apparatus coats a semiconductor wafer with photoresist that is to be etched in the manufacture of the semiconductor. The apparatus includes a body having an open top, a spin chuck for revolving a wafer fixed thereon at a uniform rate, a bowl for preventing photoresist from spattering on the body and which is installed inside the body, a photoresist dispensing nozzle for spraying photoresist on the wafer, a side rinse nozzle for removing photoresist adhered to the peripheral edge of the wafer, a cover for opening/closing the top of the body, and a cleaning device associated with the cover for cleaning the bowl. The apparatus allows the bowl to be cleaned while the cover is closed and the bowl is still disposed inside the body. The cleaning device includes a sprinkler and a pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sung-hyeon Park, Sung-il Kim
  • Patent number: 5964955
    Abstract: An operating system (20) for a washer (1) is mounted on a moveable trolley (52). The trolley carries all of the failure prone elements such as pumps (24, 28, 40) solenoid valves 80, electrical heaters (48), an electrical control circuit (50) and the like. Quick-release couplings (58, 59,60 62), between the operating system and plumbing associated with a washing chamber (10), allow the operating system to be quickly disconnected from and reconnected with the chamber. The trolley is then wheeled a distance away from the chamber, providing ready access to all the operating equipment for maintenance and repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Steris Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Rochette, Michel Lemay, Yves-Andrebec Theriault, Michel Emond, Mario Duchaine, Ghislain Parent, Nathalie Thibault
  • Patent number: 5937880
    Abstract: An under counter dish washing machine has an upper spray assembly with a spray base recessed at the top of the wash compartment. An enclosed control housing is provided around the recess to house various controls in order to make use of what is otherwise wasted space. The sump of the machine is covered by a screen having an opening in which a pump filter moves up and down to open and close the drain opening. The filter has a perforated body so that all water draining to the sump must pass through either the screen openings or the perforations of the pump filter. The supply hose which delivers water to the machine is relieved from constant water pressure by a solenoid valve which closes except during a fill cycle of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: TCA, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell L. Payzant
  • Patent number: 5855217
    Abstract: A device for cleaning surfaces which are soiled in the food industry with grease, starch or protein residues including: a housing body having a first inlet for feeding pressurized water; a propulsion jet positioned behind the inlet and in a direction of flow; a collection jet positioned behind the propulsion jet which is flow connected with a second inlet for feeding a chlorine-free alkaline foam cleaning agent and a third inlet for feeding a hydrogen peroxide solution; and a turbulence chamber into which an elongated jet body of the collection jet extends, the turbulence chamber fitted with a chamber inlet for feeding compressed air into the chamber such that a hydrogen peroxide foam is formed from a solution formed upon dosing an effective amount of the hydrogen peroxide solution into the chlorine-free alkaline foam cleaner at a maximum of 60 seconds prior to contact of the hydrogen peroxide foam with a surface to be cleaned, the turbulence chamber further having a chamber outlet through which the hydrogen
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventor: Andreas John
  • Patent number: 5740821
    Abstract: A cleaning system capable of passing through a manway entry point into a storage tank to be cleaned is disclosed. A remotely controllable robotic cannon for spraying diluent or water is provided which has a light source and CCTV camera axially mounted on the cannon nozzle assembly. Mounting systems permit sidewall or overhead deployment of the system as desired. Operators situated remotely can view and control the cleaning system via TV monitors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Landry Service Co. Inc.
    Inventor: Kermit R. Arnold
  • Patent number: 5725002
    Abstract: A dish washing machine having upper and lower spray assemblies with separate spray arms and separate water supplies for washing and rinsing dishware. A spray base for each spray assembly segregates recycled wash water from clean incoming rinse water. A hollow drum mounted to each manifold has side discharge openings. A ball bearing assembly mounts the wash spray arms for rotation about the drums. A conduit for the rinse water extends through each drum and connects with a spindle on which the rinse spray arms are mounted for rotation. The upper and lower spray arm assemblies are interchangeable. The bearing assembly is uniquely constructed such that it is automatically flushed with clean rinse water during each cycle of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: TCA, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell L. Payzant
  • Patent number: 5651381
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for a paint roller assembly having a roller applicator, the apparatus having a housing assembly forming a cleaning cavity and forming a longitudinal input slot, support apparatus removably supporting the paint roller assembly to dispose the roller applicator within the cleaning cavity for free rotation about the center axis thereof, and a nozzle and sealing assembly supported on the housing assembly having a nozzle having fluid communication with the cleaning cavity through the input slot and closure assembly which movably supports the nozzle for travel along the length of the input slot, the nozzle attachable to a high pressure supply of cleaning fluid, the nozzle supported to direct cleaning fluid against the roller applicator to impart rotation thereof during cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Hossein Balouchian
  • Patent number: 5534077
    Abstract: In order to more especially to be able to dispose of appliance having foam materials containing propellant in a manner compatible with the environment such the same are introduced into a chamber (1) where foam materials are blasted or blasted off in order to render possible the detachment of the synthetic resin foam and to destroy the cell structure while releasing the propellant contained therein. In order to improve upon such disposal and more particularly to decrease the energy requirement there is the provision in accordance that the blasting or blasting away is performed by means of a cooled fluid flow, preferably, water whose temperature is below that of the boiling point of the propellant. As a result the propellants released are immediately liquified or remain liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventors: Josef Lichtblau, Heinrich Wallner
  • Patent number: 5252137
    Abstract: A liquid applying system according to the present invention comprises a liquid supply source and a nozzle communicating with the liquid supply source. The nozzle comprises a liquid storing portion for storing a liquid supplied from the liquid supply source, a number of small passages communicating with the liquid storing portion, each of the small passages having a transverse section which is smaller than that of the liquid storing portion, and a slit-like passage communicating with the small passages, in which liquids from the small passages flow together and from which the liquids are continuously discharged like a curtain toward a semiconductor wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignees: Tokyo Electron Limited, Electron Kyushu Limited, Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Kiyohisa Tateyama, Keizo Hasebe
  • Patent number: 5191740
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning the outer periphery of a pipe (10) by a carriage (28) travelling along the pipe (10). A housing (58) supported from an upper support frame (56) of the carriage (28) includes a pair of housing halves (58, 60) pivotally connected to each other and forming an enclosed chamber about the pipe (10). Nozzles (94) on the housing (58) are spaced about the pipe (10) for the discharge of a cleaning material in a high velocity stream against the outer surface of the pipe (10). A lifting head (114) connected to the housing halves (58, 60) pivots the halves (58, 60) to an open position and also lifts the carriage (28) from the pipe (10). An embodiment shown in FIGS. 8-10 includes a housing (58B) mounted on rollers (85B) of carriage frame (56B) for oscillation of housing (58B) and nozzles (94B) in an arcuate stroke relative to the carriage frame (56B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Assignee: E. B. Thomas
    Inventor: James L. Rose
  • Patent number: 5073258
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for skimming contaminants from a reservoir of a liquid such as an industrial solvent, including a tubular wand having an end inlet extending into the reservoir, a pressure air line extending along the wand, the air line protruding a side wall of the wand and terminating at a nozzle proximate the inlet, the nozzle being directed into the wand, away from the inlet for producing a vacuum. The wand is adjustably mounted to a base that attaches to the reservoir, and is connected to a vented container for collecting the contaminants that are drawn into the wand. Contaminants can be removed from the surface of the liquid, from proximate the bottom of the reservoir, or from a submerged layer concentrated at an intermediate depth within the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Inventors: George E. Boullain, II, Edward C. Allen
  • Patent number: 5041164
    Abstract: Apparatus for washing the disc portions of an electrical insulator includes first and second mating housing portions for positioning about the discs and fluid lines for delivering a cleansing fluid through the housing portions for cleaning the surface of the discs. The two mating housing portions preferably define a basin for collecting the cleansing fluid and facilitating removal of the cleansing fluid after use. A support assembly including a robotic arm positions the first and second mating housing portions about the discs of the electrical insulator for cleaning. A cleaning liquid such as water or freon or a cleaning gas such as air or steam is applied through the mating housing portions for cleaning the surface of the discs. Following the cleaning, a surface-enhancing material such as a silicone coating can be applied to the surface of the insulator for protection from future contamination and make the insulator more resistant to electrical or mechanical degradation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Electric Power Research Institute
    Inventor: Narain G. Hingorani
  • Patent number: 5012537
    Abstract: An apparatus that is particularly useful in a hospital environment when cleaning bedpans and other objects which contain potentially dangerous materials. The apparatus comprises a generally transparent member that is provided with one or more openings for a person's arms, and means for mounting the member so as to locate the transparent member between the basin of the cleaning station and the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Inventor: Joanna L. Underwood
  • Patent number: 4957131
    Abstract: An animal waste flushing assembly utilizes a domed, open-bottomed enclosure and supply and drain tubes. The supply tube is connected at one tube end to a water source and at its other end to a sprayer inside the enclosure. At the opposing enclosure end are drain means. The enclosure is placed over the animal wastes and sprayed water breaks up the wastes and flushes them out a drain tube. Disinfectant or cleanser may be addded to the fluid and the drain tube may have a clip to fasten it to an in-the-ground drain grate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Inventor: James L. Robinson
  • Patent number: 4834121
    Abstract: Automatic hair shampoo machines were the basis of my U.S. Pat. No. 3,521,647. It overcame the problems associated with prior automatic shampoo machines. One of the imperfections of my earlier hair shampooing apparatus was its washing action. Another one was that during the time the apparatus of U.S. Pat. No. 3,521,647 was in service, it became apparent that the use of liquid tanks or reservoirs imposed limitations on its use. Still another area subject to improvement was a lack of a hair drying apparatus. By improvements herein a hair shampoo machine is provided which can be used unattended. It has an improved washing action, uses no tanks, and incorporates a hair drying apparatus. The washing action has been improved by, among other things, manifolds mounted at definite angles to complement each other. The solution tanks have been eliminated and replaced by a system which injects quantities of hair treating solutions. The hair drying apparatus includes outlets in the bowl or cover of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1989
    Assignee: International Health Technology
    Inventor: Verna M. Bell
  • Patent number: 4828625
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for removal of sludge (26) from a tank (10) having a floating roof (16) floating on the upper surface of oil within the tank (10). Discharge nozzles (58) are received within existing sleeves (22) on the floating roof (16) and positioned adjacent the upper surface of the sludge (26) for the recirculation of the contents of tank (10) directly into the sludge (26) from a position above the sludge (26). A recirculation pump (30) provides pressurized fluid to a manifold (48) on roof (16) for distribution through flexible lines (54) to the discharge nozzles (58).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: Nalco Chemical Company
    Inventor: James J. Moran
  • Patent number: 4785588
    Abstract: A liquid blasting system for blasting an area, surface, structure, part, item, or member with liquid or with liquid and abrasives, or with a liquid-abrasive mixture. The system has a housing through which are disposed a plurality of inlets or nozzles. Liquid, e.g. water, under pressure is transmitted through the inlets or nozzles to the area, etc. to be blasted. Abrasives, e.g. sand, may be injected with the liquid or separate abrasive injection inlets or nozzles may be employed in connection with the liquid inlets or nozzles. The inlet or nozzle housing can communicate with a collection housing for receiving blasted material, liquid, and abrasives and the collection housing can have ports therein through which these liquids and materials can exit. The ports can be suitable for connecting thereto a vacuum source for sucking materials and liquid from the nozzle housing, to and through the collection housing, and thence out of the collection housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Assignee: Weatherford U.S., Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Woodward
  • Patent number: 4768534
    Abstract: A portable cleaning apparatus for cleaning dishes, vegetables, fish, or like items, is disclosed comprising a base, or tray, and removable hood or cover supported thereon to form a cleaning chamber. An inlet opening is formed at the top of the hood through which a rigid hand-held feed conduit extends. A resilient seal at the inlet opening provides a liquid tight engagement between the feed conduit and hood while permitting manual axial and pivotal movement in any pivotal direction of the feed conduit. A nozzle is provided at the inner end of the feed conduit from which liquid is jetted for cleaning items contained in the cleaning chamber. A high pressure pump in communication with a source of liquid pumps the liquid to the nozzle through a flexible supply conduit connected to the feed conduit. At least a portion of the hood is formed of transparent material for viewing the nozzle and items to be cleaned by the jet stream issuing from the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1988
    Inventor: Max F. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4630625
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for cleaning radioactively contaminated articles, including tools and like items of hardware. The system includes a cleaning chamber for receiving and sealing therein the contaminated articles, a high pressure spray gun disposed within the cleaning chamber for spraying the contaminated articles with a clean solvent to dislodge and dissolve the contaminants, and a system for decontaminating the solvent for reuse. The cleaning chamber includes a drain having the capacity to remove contaminated solvent at a rate at least as great as that at which the solvent is sprayed into the chamber, such that substantially no contaminated solvent collects in the cleaning chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1986
    Assignee: Quadrex HPS, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. Capella, David E. Fowler
  • Patent number: 4623186
    Abstract: A removable cover for the engine compartment in a cab-over-engine motor vehicle comprises a frame that fits around the engine access opening in the cab of the vehicle, and an inflatable cover element sealingly attached around its peripheral edges to the frame. The cover element, when inflated, has an aperture or passage through which a hose or the like can be inserted to clean the engine. The cover element is wholly or partially transparent to allow the user to observe and direct the hose. The frame is hinged so that the cover can be folded for easy storage when the cover element is deflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1986
    Inventors: Jose F. Chavarria, Tina F. Chavarria
  • Patent number: 4241744
    Abstract: An improved cleaning system for removing residue from the inside walls of a tank by directing a cleaning solvent flow completely over the tank inner walls at a controlled, minimum pressure. The cleaning solvent is directed through a ring assembly, which equalizes the flow of cleaning fluid through a series of equally spaced openings around the outer periphery of the ring assembly, and is supported such that the openings direct the fluid onto the uppermost surfaces of the tank interior wall. The ring assembly includes a series of releasably secured components and a valve for regulating the fluid flow rate through the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1980
    Inventor: Nathaniel Jordan, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4179307
    Abstract: A dish-washing machine composed of thermoplastic material comprising an inner enclosure fitting within but spaced from an outer enclosure, and a plurality of functional units. The functional units include a dish-carrying drawer unit having a rotor mounted within the inner enclosure, an electrical control unit mounted in the space between the upper end of the inner enclosure and the outer enclosure, and an hydraulic unit located in the space between the lower end of the inner enclosure and the outer enclosure. A vapor condenser is located within the space between the inner and outer enclosures for condensing steam passing through holes in the inner enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1979
    Assignee: Montedison S.p.A.
    Inventors: Pasqualino Cau, Vincenzo Cocca
  • Patent number: 4117855
    Abstract: A square base with upright side walls and a flat top wall defining a large circular opening has an upstanding ring spaced concentrically around the opening. A cylindrical hood open at the bottom fits within the ring and is pivotally connected to the top of the base. A pair of fluid pressure operated cylinders with piston rods are connected to opposite sides of the base and the hood to swing the hood about its pivot to open position above the base. A work supporting grid is supported within the base below the ring. A tank is connected to one side wall of the base, and an inclined collector plate located in the base below the grid drains to a hole opening to the top of the tank. Liquid delivery couplings connected to the top of the hood and the top of the collector plate centrally thereof with fixed cylindrical outlet housings projecting toward the inside of the hood have receiving connections on their ends located outwardly of the hood and plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1977
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1978
    Inventors: Richard J. Olcott, Ronald H. Cross
  • Patent number: 3982965
    Abstract: The present cleaning appliance has a cleaning chamber for receiving the finger to be cleaned, a jet nozzle at the upper end of this chamber for discharging pressurized water onto the finger, a reservoir for a cleaning solution directly above the cleaning chamber, and a manually operated plunger and a check valve controlling the flow of the cleaning solution from the reservoir down into the cleaning chamber. The cleaning solution is conducted separately down to the jet nozzle where it becomes entrained with the water after the latter has just emerged from the jet nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1975
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1976
    Inventor: Donald R. Spotz
  • Patent number: 3943951
    Abstract: The present cleaning appliance has a cleaning chamber for receiving the finger to be cleaned, a jet nozzle at the upper end of this chamber for discharging pressurized water onto the finger, a reservoir for a cleaning solution directly above the cleaning chamber, and a valve controlling the flow of the cleaning solution from the reservoir down into the cleaning chamber. The cleaning solution is conducted separately down to the jet nozzle where it becomes entrained with the water after the latter has just emerged from the jet nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1974
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1976
    Inventor: Donald R. Spotz