Fluid Discharge Reaction Nozzle Patents (Class 134/179)
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7914625
    Abstract: A sequencing diverter valve system in a washing appliance includes a fluid distribution manifold having a fluid inlet for receiving washing fluid and a plurality of fluid outlets. A fluid responsive rotating drive arm is connected to a drive reduction mechanism which, in turn, is operatively connected to a rotating sequencing valve for shifting the valve through a plurality of discrete positions at a rate of rotation less than the rate of rotation of the drive arm. As it rotates, the sequencing valve sequentially directs the washing fluid to a respective one or more of the plurality of fluid outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Roger James Bertsch, Bruce W. Gillum, Donald Joseph Wilson
  • Patent number: 7832419
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a cabinet and a wash system slidably mounted within the cabinet in such a manner that it may be withdrawn horizontally out of the cabinet for loading with dishes. The wash system includes an open top wash chamber having a floor and side walls adapted to accommodate dishes within which wash liquid is sprayed. Two rotating spray arms are mounted in the bottom of the chamber for producing a spray of wash liquid within the chamber. A wash pump for pressurizing wash liquid discharges into a manifold located on the floor of the chamber. The spray arms receive wash liquid from the manifold. A drain pump evacuates wash liquid from said chamber. A wash chamber closure is mounted in the top of the cabinet. The closure engages with the wash chamber opening to sealably close off the wash chamber on its retraction into the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Appliances Limited
    Inventors: Wayne Andrew Mason, Robert William Todd
  • Patent number: 7806128
    Abstract: An automatic steam car washing system is provided. The automatic steam car washing system according to current application is comprised of a moving station and 10 metal beams that comprise a frame. Car to be washed stays inside of the frame. Pluralities of steam spraying nozzles, a vacuum nozzle, and a towel are installed in a moving station and moves along the surface of the car. Pluralities of steam generators are installed inside of the moving station and connected to the steam spraying nozzles. Tip of the steam spraying nozzle oscillates horizontally with an angle to the surface of the car. The distance between the spraying nozzle and the surface of the car is maintained constant irrespective of the surface geometry. The automatic steam car washing system according to current application realize a no water spill automatic car washing system and protects the air by collecting the dusts that comes out from the contaminated car surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventors: Yong Chu Kim Brillouet, Pierrick Brillouet
  • Publication number: 20100186775
    Abstract: A cleaning system for food processing equipment is disclosed. An exemplary system includes a supply source of cleaning media, an apparatus including a main housing having a media inlet, media outlet, an internal media travel path defined between the media inlet and the media outlet, and a rotation generating mechanism, wherein rotational speed of the rotation generating mechanism is controllable by pressure flow of the media in the media travel path. A supply line connects the supply source and the media inlet. A rotatable lance secured to the main body media outlet, and has at least one nozzle disposed between the media outlet and a distal end of the lance. The media is sprayed from the at least one nozzle in a rotational path. A method of use is also disclosed. In an exemplary method, operational time, temperature, pressure, rotational speed and media type are controlled to reach target cleanliness levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventor: Ole T. Madsen
  • Patent number: 7523874
    Abstract: Dissolving a solid detergent packed in a detergent container while forming a dissolved surface into a horizontal surface without leaving any detergent in the container. Among these, a rotary nozzle within a closed structure, in which the rotary-nozzle fixture is mounted in a center of rotation of a rotary-nozzle body, the rotary-nozzle body is formed to be substantially S-Shaped in a plan view and divided vertically into two upper and lower parts, where the lower part of the rotary-nozzle body is provided with a rotating shaft hole, which is disposed centrally in a longitudinal direction, formed on a top thereof with a circular groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Welco Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Kon, Kenichi Ono
  • Publication number: 20090101185
    Abstract: A spray arm assembly for a dishwashing machine includes at least one arm rotationally mounted about an axis, the arm including an internal cavity for receiving a pressurized service fluid and being provided with a plurality of spraying nozzles for spraying service fluid from said arm in the form of spray jets. The arm is shaped so that its opposite ends radially extend from the rotation axis in a manner diametrically opposite to each other about the rotation axis. The spraying nozzles are numbered, sized and positioned such that a total flow rate of service fluid delivered in use by the spraying nozzles at each concentric nozzle location circumference traced about the rotation axis of the arm during a complete rotation of the arm increases as a function of the radius of said nozzle location circumference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: Premark FEG L.L.C.
    Inventor: Gianluca Pardini
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20090025758
    Abstract: A warewash machine includes a housing including an area for receiving wares to be washed and a liquid dispensing arm removably positioned within the housing, the liquid dispensing arm including a nozzle receiving opening. Removably positioned in the nozzle opening is a nozzle that is configured to output liquid in a specific output pattern. The nozzle receiving opening and the nozzle are cooperatively shaped and configured such that when the nozzle is inserted in the nozzle receiving opening the nozzle is automatically positioned such that an orientation of the specific output pattern relative to the area is automatically set to a specific orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: Premark FEG L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael Watson, Kui-Chiu Kwok, Anatoly Gosis, Robert G. Kobetsky
  • Patent number: 7279051
    Abstract: A method for treating an exposed surface. A treating apparatus is provided having an elongate support and at least one flexible surface contacting element at a distal region of the support. The elongate support is manipulated from a proximal region of the support so as to place the flexible surface contacting element at the exposed surface to be treated. The flexible surface contacting element is caused to be repeatedly moved to effect treatment at the exposed surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Nick Griffith
  • Patent number: 7225818
    Abstract: Water spraying systems for a dishwasher including water spraying devices for mounting on the ceiling, dish rack and a rotating spray arm of a dishwasher for effectively spraying water throughout the dishwasher cabinet. The device includes a housing on which a spinner is mounted that has an open trough and angled end for effectively spraying water and causing rotation of the spinner without clogging. The small size of the device allows placement in strategic locations for effective water spraying distribution and yet does not obstruct or reduce the placement of dishes, glasses, cups, utensils, pots, pans, etc. in the dish racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Distinctive Appliances, Inc.
    Inventors: Jae Y. Kim, John B. Harp
  • Patent number: 7185664
    Abstract: A dish-cleaning appliance comprising a sink having a bowl defining a wash chamber with an open top for providing access to the wash chamber. A liquid recirculation system is provided for spraying liquid throughout the wash chamber. A drain conduit can be provided, alone or in combination with the recirculation system, for draining liquid from the wash chamber when the drain is closed. A fill control system is provided to ensure that the dishwashing cycle is not started with liquid in the wash chamber and that the sink drain is properly closed. One or more sensors can be provided for enabling the fill control system. The sensors can be located within the drain above the location where the drain is plugged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Ralph E. Christman, Ryan K. Roth
  • Patent number: 7165564
    Abstract: A device having at least one cleaning unit for cleaning installations, especially for the production and/or processing of food stuffs or pharmaceuticals is provided. The device may include a cleaning unit that is configured to move within the installation to be cleaned. The cleaning unit may also be provided with one or more nozzles with rotatable nozzle tips configured to rotate as cleaning agent flows through the nozzle tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Volker Kamm
  • Patent number: 7047986
    Abstract: A movement reversal device is used in a dishwasher. The dishwasher has a washing receptacle and a hydraulic assembly provided with at least two spraying devices impinging upon goods to be washed with a fluid transported via a circulating pump. The transported fluid flows through the movement reversal device that contains at least two outlets for feeding different spraying devices. The outlets are opened or closed by a positioning element such that one or several or all outlets are open or closed one after another and/or continuously. In order to better influence the course of the wash cycle and to obtain an optimal washing effect corresponding to the degree of dirtiness of the goods to be washed, the characteristics of the hydraulic assembly and the characteristics of the circulating pump are simultaneously or alternately changed by the movement reversal device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Ertle, Claus Köther, Michael Rosenbauer
  • Patent number: 7028697
    Abstract: A dish-cleaning appliance comprising a sink having a bowl defining a wash chamber with an open top for providing access to the wash chamber. A liquid recirculation system is provided for spraying liquid throughout the wash chamber. A drain conduit can be provided, alone or in combination with the recirculation system, for draining liquid from the wash chamber when the drain is closed. A fill control system is provided to ensure that the dishwashing cycle is not started with liquid in the wash chamber and that the sink drain is properly closed. One or more sensors can be provided for enabling the fill control system. The sensors can be located within the drain above the location where the drain is plugged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Ralph E. Christman, Ryan K. Roth
  • Patent number: 6997193
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a wash and rinse system that operates to dislodge soil particles that adhere to internal surfaces of a washing chamber. During wash and rinse cycles, the washing chamber is initially filled to a first level with washing fluid. The washing fluid is drawn into a wash system through operation of a pump, that causes the washing fluid in the washing chamber to fall to a second level, and directed to a spray arm that sprays jets of washing fluid onto the kitchenware. Thereafter, the wash system enters a pause period during which the washing fluid is caused to return to the first level in the washing chamber to loosen particles from walls of the chamber. After the pause period, the trajectory of the jets of washing fluid is varied to further clean the kitchenware and the internal surfaces of the washing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Elick, Scott D. Raches
  • Patent number: 6997196
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a washing receptacle for items to be cleaned, a pump for liquid, a flow heater for liquid, a device for spraying items to be cleaned, a control device for wash cycles of the spraying device, and a device for providing steam having a separate steam dispenser and unit for producing a jet of steam supplied by the steam dispenser. The steam dispenser and the steam jet unit are disposed in the dishwasher in such a way that the steam jet unit always supplies steam to the same predetermined location in the washing receptacle specifically identified and configured for receiving particular items to be cleaned, e.g. particularly dirty items. An uncontrolled escape of steam from any section of the entire washing receptacle is prevented, thus improving the cleaning result with maximum usage of the steam and without also being dependent on activation of a separate steam washing cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventor: Rüdiger Eiermann
  • Patent number: 6959881
    Abstract: A nozzle of a dishwasher reduces a space for installing a supplementary nozzle on a main nozzle by having first and second connectors coupled to be caught on each other between main and auxiliary nozzles. The nozzle assembly includes a main nozzle having a first coupling hole; an auxiliary nozzle, having a second coupling hole, for coupling with the main nozzle; a first interlocking device, having a first end, for coupling with the main nozzle at the first coupling hole, by being caught in the first coupling hole by the first end; and a second interlocking device, having a first end, for coupling with the auxiliary nozzle at the second coupling hole, by being caught in the second coupling hole by the first end and by having a second end to be caught on the first interlocking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Yong Hee Kim
  • Publication number: 20040255992
    Abstract: A dishwashing machine containing spraying devices and at least one dish rack. The dishwashing machine has at least one dish rack having stationary spraying devices to optimally clean material stacked in the at least one rack and increase and optimize storage room in the dishwashing machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventor: Rudiger Eiermann
  • Publication number: 20040255986
    Abstract: The method and apparatus are for safely cleaning live equipment. The method comprises the steps of heating a water-based solution by means of an apparatus to produce superheated steam; grounding this apparatus; conducting the superheated steam through an insulated conduct; and concentrating this superheated steam into a pressurized jet at an output of the insulated conduct. After the step of grounding the apparatus, the method further comprises the step of applying the pressurized jet through the insulated conduct output, onto the live equipment to be cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Applicant: HYDRO-QUEBEC
    Inventors: Robert Lanoie, Dave Bouchard, Yvon Turcotte
  • Patent number: 6823881
    Abstract: A dialyzer header cleaning device composed of: a housing having two opposed ends and delimiting a passage that extends in a flow direction between the two ends; a connecting element disposed at a first end of the housing for connection to the header; and a flow directing element having a fluid inlet end retained in the passage and a fluid outlet end. The flow-directing element has a cleaning position in which the fluid outlet end extends into the header when the first end of the housing is connected to the header. The flow-directing element is constructed to rotate about an axis that extends in the flow direction in response to a flow of liquid between the fluid inlet end and the fluid outlet end, and to eject at least one liquid stream from the fluid outlet end in a direction transverse to the flow direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventors: Gary Mishkin, Mark Mishkin
  • Publication number: 20040226586
    Abstract: A movement reversal device is used in a dishwasher. The dishwasher has a washing receptacle and a hydraulic assembly provided with at least two spraying devices impinging upon goods to be washed with a fluid transported via a circulating pump. The transported fluid flows through the movement reversal device that contains at least two outlets for feeding different spraying devices. The outlets are opened or closed by a positioning element such that one or several or all outlets are open or closed one after another and/or continuously. In order to better influence the course of the wash cycle and to obtain an optimal washing effect corresponding to the degree of dirtiness of the goods to be washed, the characteristics of the hydraulic assembly and the characteristics of the circulating pump are simultaneously or alternately changed by the movement reversal device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Ertle, Claus Kother, Michael Rosenbauer
  • Publication number: 20040182427
    Abstract: A plurality of incrementally rotating nozzles are mounted in the bottom and side walls of a swimming pool provide bursts of water to channel in a cascade manner debris toward outlets disposed in the bottom of the pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: John M. Goettl
  • Patent number: 6789553
    Abstract: A coatings removal head assembly for mounting on a self-propelled apparatus and for connection to one or more fluid supplies and one or more vacuum containment systems. A spring mounting assembly maintains a constant nozzle stand-off distance from a surface to be cleaned. A positively driven rotary spray bar assembly is employed to control the nozzle pass rate in conjunction with the movement of the self-propelled apparatus. A specifically configured exhaust is provided to enhance collection and containment of waste fluid and removed material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Hammelmann Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Phillip Harris, Dennis Lynn Mesarvey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040173249
    Abstract: The invention has the objective of achieving high degree of hydraulic efficiency of the flow system—consisting of a circulation pump (1) and a water diverter (15)—in a dishwasher (2) with spray arms and with a circulation pump (1), having an impeller, a suction port (3) and at least one discharge port on the pump housing, with a water diverter (15) provided on the delivery side of the pump in order to generate a flow leading from an inlet to one of several selectable outlets associated with the spray arms, whereby the water diverter (15) has a blocking element (19) with at least one diaphragm opening (21) that can be positioned by a drive (20) in at least one outlet position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventors: Walter Assmann, Ulrich Hettenhausen, Volker Marks
  • Publication number: 20040163685
    Abstract: A nozzle assembly of a dishwasher enables injection holes of a top nozzle to selectively face a top or bottom rack to spray water toward the bottom rack when items to be washed are loaded on the bottom rack only. The nozzle assembly includes a first and second nozzles, rotatably installed adjacent first and second racks, respectively, for selectively spraying water in first and second directions. The first nozzle includes a device for manually setting the spraying direction. The first nozzle also includes a fixed central piece, communicating with a water circulator, having two open ends; and first and second nozzle sections, communicating with the fixed central piece and each having a closed end and an open end, the closed end of each nozzle section being rotatably coupled to one open end of the fixed central piece. The first and second nozzle sections are rotated using the manual setting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventor: Hee Seok Roh
  • Publication number: 20040163680
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a pump assembly which functions to chop all fluid entrained soil prior to directing fluid to upper and lower wash arms. A flow conduit leading to the upper wash arm is provided with a sampling port which directs a percentage of the fluid flow into a filter chamber having one or more fine mesh filter screens that open into the dishwasher tub basin. The filter chamber receives washing fluid through a sampling port that interconnects with the flow conduit. The filter chamber can be fluidly connected to a drain based on the position of a valve which opens when washing fluid recirculation ceases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicant: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Elick, Barry E. Tuller
  • Publication number: 20040144404
    Abstract: A device having at least one cleaning unit for cleaning installations, especially for the production and/or processing of food stuffs or pharmaceuticals is provided. The device may include a cleaning unit that is configured to move within the installation to be cleaned. The cleaning unit may also be provided with one or more nozzles with rotatable nozzle tips configured to rotate as cleaning agent flows through the nozzle tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Volker Kamm
  • Publication number: 20040123885
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a washing device for a baby bottle. According to the present invention, it is possible to automatically wash a bottle body, a nipple and a nipple cap of the baby bottle, and to dry and sterilize the baby bottle after washing thereof. Further, the baby bottle can be used in a convenient and sanitary manner since the baby bottle can be washed with only water, even outdoors. Furthermore, thc baby bottle can be washed stably since there is provided a fixture capable of holding a bottle body or a nipple cap of the baby bottle to prevent them from being moved when the baby bottle is washed by injecting a washing liquid under high pressure. Since nozzle tube for injecting the washing liquid toward upper, middle and lower portions of the bottle body accommodated in a baby bottle washing chamber is integrally formed, the nozzle tube can be installed in a simple manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: John-hyun Myong
  • Patent number: 6742531
    Abstract: A dish-cleaning appliance comprising a sink having a bowl defining a wash chamber with an open top for providing access to the wash chamber. A liquid recirculation system is provided for spraying liquid onto the dish rack to effect the cleaning of any dishes along the rack. A basket with a sprayer is disposed within the wash chamber. A self-aligning coupling fluidly connects a liquid conduit to the sprayer when the basket is seated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Ralph E. Christman, Arnold L. Denne, Rud J. Lauer
  • Publication number: 20040079402
    Abstract: Disclosed is a car capable of self-washing by the driving force of the car. An air compressor for generating air flow and a steam generation device are installed to operate by the accessory power of the car's engine. Inhalation and discharge holes are formed for inhaling and discharging air, and a separate vacuum accessory or injector may be combined to the hole, selectively. Thus, only a small amount of water is required for washing the car by steam without a cleansing solution, thereby eliminating wasted water and preventing environmental pollution together with no restriction of washing space. Time and costs are reduced compared to conventional washing. In winter, the steam generation device allows washing without water freezing, and ensures sufficient visibility for safe driving by eliminating frost. The vacuum accessory may be used for cleaning the inside of the car, so a user may always maintain the car clean and optimize car functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Kyoung-Ju Shin
  • Publication number: 20040074028
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus having a cleaning system including at least one downwardly directed spray nozzle is supported by the chassis proximal the chassis forward end and in fluid communication with at least one cleaning solution tank. The at least one spray nozzle sprays cleaning solution from the tank onto the floor. At least one ground engaging agitation brush is disposed rearwardly of the at least one spray nozzle for agitating the cleaning solution sprayed onto the floor. At least one vacuum shoe is supported by the chassis rearwardly of the at least one agitation brush, and in fluid communication with the at least one recovery tank, wherein cleaning solution drawn into the vacuum shoe is deposited into the at least one recovery tank. In one embodiment the apparatus is drivable. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a second cleaning system including a vacuum squeegee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Sean K. Goff
  • Publication number: 20040069331
    Abstract: An assembly for rotating and axially directing a high pressure spray hose and spray head to clean residue from the bores of thermal transfer tubes. The assembly includes a number of modular subassemblies that are concentrically aligned and mounted to rotate in synchrony and direct a high-pressure water hose and spray head. An air controlled operator control gun directs spray pressure and hose movement. A hose cleaning subassembly washes and/or brushes and cleans the hose exterior with a low-pressure spray. A hose drive assembly controls hose rotation and axial hose movement via biased pinch wheels that abut the hose. An eccentric linkage and spring tensioners coupled to the pinch wheels release and re-engage the wheels to the hose at a preset pressure. A layering arm stacks the hose in uniform layers at a hose reel. The diameter of the reel hub can adjusted relative to an outer cage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel T. Garman, Dennis Swanson, Peter Coldagelli, Kevin Celley
  • Publication number: 20040069332
    Abstract: The invention is a spray arm hub/head for a high-temperature, automatic ware washer. The hub/head sub-assembly of the invention is mounted to the inlet water line via a double ball-bearing coupling that is independent of the hub. The substantially non-enclosed ball-bearing coupling enables the hub/head sub-assembly to rotate freely within the washer. Also, the hub/head sub-assembly has ports and clamps for removably receiving spray arm sub-assemblies. This way, the spray arms may be quickly and easily removed for repair and replacement. In addition, because the ball-bearing mount is not enclosed within the hub/head assembly, the bearing is readily accessible for cleaning and maintenance and is also easily removable for repair or replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Forrest L. LeBaron
  • Patent number: 6662814
    Abstract: A mid-level spray-arm assembly for a dishwasher includes a bracket for mounting a spray-arm hub to an upper rack of the machine, and a bearing coupling extending between the hub and the bracket. The bearing coupling forms a first bearing surface for rotation of the bearing coupling relative to the bracket, and a second bearing surface for rotation of the spray-arm relative to the bearing coupling. Thus, redundant bearing surfaces are provided that facilitate a more even wearing of the bearing surfaces and allow rotation of the spray-arm even when one of the bearing surfaces fails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Joseph Duane Tobbe, Jesse A. Curran
  • Patent number: 6659116
    Abstract: A system for rinsing and cleaning a wafer carrier and a semiconductor wafer mounted thereon during a polishing process is provided. The system comprises a head spray assembly that includes a spray nozzle and a spray cavity. At least a part of the head spray assembly is moveably positionable between a park position and a spray position. The spray position is proximate to the wafer carrier such that liquid discharged from the spray nozzle is in liquid communication with the wafer carrier and the semiconductor wafer. The liquid as well as the materials rinsed from the wafer carrier and semiconductor wafer may be retained in the spray cavity and channeled out of the head spray assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Damon Vincent Williams, Glenn W. Travis
  • Publication number: 20030192578
    Abstract: A water spray system for dishwasher with an upper dish rack and a lower dish rack, with each said dish rack being mounted for selective movement forwardly out the open front. A spray tube is rotatably mounted on the bottom of each lateral side portion of each said dish rack and has a plurality of spray outlets spaced along the tube and directed generally tangentially in the same direction for causing rotation of the tube. A water supply manifold extends up the rear wall of the dishwasher. A releasable water connection device and conduits mounted on each dish rack connect the manifold to the spray tubes for supplying the water from a pump. Spray spinners are centrally mounted below each dish rack. The spray tubes provide a thorough spray at the lateral sides that the spinners may not reach in a very wide dishwasher. Other rotating spray tube arrangements are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Applicant: DISTINCTIVE APPLIANCES, INC.
    Inventors: Orlando P. Ochoa, Joey J. Kitabayashi
  • Patent number: 6514354
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a cyclonic power system and method of using the system to clean flat surfaces. The cyclone power system includes a driven spindle that is mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis. There are a plurality of radially extending straight rod extending from the spindle. Curved blades are connected at one end to the spindle and at their other end to the free end of a straight rod. The centrifugal force, generated as a result of the rotation of the driven spindle is not effective to cause the straight rods, which are constructed of stainless steel, to lengthen and since the curved blades are connected to the straight rods, the centrifugal force is not effective to lengthen the curved blades. In an embodiment of the invention a perforated disc is secured to the bottom surface of the spindle and to the free ends of the straight rods. In this embodiment the water and debris is pulled up through the perforations in the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Cyclone Surface Cleaning, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Rohrbacher, Timothy P. Stahoviak, Jacob M. Sonnett, Ben W. Jentink, R. Scott Rohrbacher
  • Patent number: 6505636
    Abstract: A system and method for rinsing and cleaning a wafer carrier and a semiconductor wafer mounted thereon during a chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) process is provided. The system includes a head spray assembly that comprises a plurality of spray nozzles positioned therein. The head spray assemble is moveably positionable between a park position and a spray position. The spray position is adjacent the wafer carrier such that liquid discharged from the spray nozzles is in liquid communication with the wafer carrier, the semiconductor wafer and the interior of the head spray assembly. The system provides aggressive and uniform cleaning and rinsing while containing and collecting the liquid discharged from the spray nozzles and the materials rinsed from the wafer carrier and semiconductor wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventor: Glenn W. Travis
  • Patent number: 6505635
    Abstract: A nozzle that extends telescopically upward is used to elevate a wafer without contacting the wafer. The nozzle includes a stationary hollow cylinder, closed at its lower end and open at its upper end, within which a spool is disposed to slide vertically. In its lowest position the spool is spaced from the closed bottom of the cylinder, and purified water is supplied under pressure to the space. A passage extends vertically through the spool, and the water is discharged at the upper end of the spool from the passage. As a wafer is lowered toward the upper end of the spool, the wafer partially impedes the discharge, increasing the pressure in the space below the spool. The increased pressure drives the spool and the wafer upward, but the wafer never comes into contact with the wafer because the discharge of water creates a protective cushion between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Michael R. Vogtmann, Terry L. Lentz
  • Patent number: 6491049
    Abstract: A drawer dishwasher includes a drawer which is movable from a closed to an open position. A lid is separate from the drawer and is adapted to seal over the top of the drawer when the drawer is in its closed position and to move upwardly and away from the drawer in response to movement of the drawer from its closed to its open position. Recirculation plumbing and draining plumbing are connected to the drawer dishwasher and lead to a remote pump and reservoir for receiving drained fluid from the drawer and for recirculating drained fluid back into the spray assembly within the drawer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Barry E. Tuller, Rodney M. Welch
  • Patent number: 6418944
    Abstract: An apparatus (10, 300, 400) for cleaning spray guns (18, 418) has a closed vessel (14) having an inlet (24, 424), a drain (22, 422) and a port (29) for receiving a nozzle (30) of a spray gun. A spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436) is rotatably mounted within the vessel (14) and in fluid communication with the inlet (24, 424). The spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436) has an offset cleaning nozzle (42, 44, 144, 141, 142, 282, 244, 442, 444) for projecting a cleaning spray towards the port (29) and a rotational nozzle (46, 48, 148, 246, 248, 446, 448) for projecting a rotational spray to effect rotation of the spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436). The port (29) has a seal (76, 78, 80) for sealing receiving the spray gun (18, 418) and positioning the nozzle (30) of the spray gun in the cleaning spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin R. White, James J. Kay
  • Publication number: 20020069898
    Abstract: An efficient residential dishwasher is disclosed. The residential dishwasher comprises a washing chamber, a rack within the washing chamber for holding dishes, a water tank for holding hot water to be used to clean dishes located on the rack, and at least one spray head within the washing chamber for cleaning dishes on the rack. After hot water has been delivered from the water tank to the washing chamber, the spray head sprays hot water to the dishes on the rack for the purpose of cleaning. The water tank will be filled with water from a fresh water line in response to a cooking apparatus being turned on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Philip R. McKee
  • Publication number: 20020066474
    Abstract: An apparatus (10, 300, 400) for cleaning spray guns (18, 418) has a closed vessel (14) having an inlet (24, 424), a drain (22, 422) and a port (29) for receiving a nozzle (30) of a spray gun. A spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436) is rotatably mounted within the vessel (14) and in fluid communication with the inlet (24, 424). The spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436) has an offset cleaning nozzle (42, 44, 144, 141, 142, 242, 244, 442, 444) for projecting a cleaning spray towards the port (29) and a rotational nozzle (46, 48, 148, 246, 248, 446, 448) for projecting a rotational spray to effect rotation of the spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436). The port (29) has a seal (76, 78, 80) for sealingly receiving the spray gun (18, 418) and positioning the nozzle (30) of the spray gun in the cleaning spray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin R. White, James J. Kay
  • Patent number: 6390104
    Abstract: A denture wash for more thoroughly and easily cleaning dentures. The denture wash includes a lower assembly comprising a bottom wall, four walls, a plurality of nozzles, a first central nozzle, and a pump, a upper unit assembly comprising a lid, four walls, a plurality of nozzles, and a second central nozzle, and a denture holding assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Steven P. Gagnon
  • Patent number: 6383331
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for discharging two or more media with media nozzles (15, 25, 35) in which each media nozzle is located on a media arm (10, 20, 30), with a suspension device for each media arm, so that the media arms can perform pivoting movements separately from one another around same axis (Z). Further, the invention relates to a unit for treating in each case a disk-shaped object (2) with at least two media, with a carrier for holding the disk-shaped object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: SEZ Semiconductor-Equipment Zubehor fur die Halbeiterfertigung AG
    Inventor: Franz Sumnitsch
  • Patent number: 6371138
    Abstract: A nozzle structure for a dish washer for washing tableware with washing water and rinsing water jetted from nozzle arranged in a washing tank. The nozzle structure comprising a shaft arranged on the nozzle, a nozzle mount provided in the washing tank and formed with a mount hole, which permits removable insertion of the shaft, and a coming-off preventing means for detachably preventing the shaft inserted into the mount hole of the nozzle mount from coming off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Hoshizaki Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Sadamu Kamoto, Koji Suyama, Hiroshi Omura, Keiichi Toga, Toshio Nanba, Masumi Notsu
  • Patent number: 6357460
    Abstract: A dishwasher having a tub which includes a bottom sump and a side wall wherein a first dishware rack is supported within the tub and a second dishware rack is supported within the tub above the first dishware rack. A pump is provided for drawing wash liquid from the sump for pumping wash liquid through a pump outlet. A hub member is attached to the spray arm and extends downwardly from the spray arm. The hub member includes a bearing flange surface. A cap member which is connectable to the pump outlet has an annular bearing surface arranged between the bearing flange surface and the spray arm. The cap member is connectable to a housing wall provided about the pump outlet without the use of fasteners such that the spray arm may be readily connected to the pump outlet. The cap member is further provided with a discharge conduit. A supply line extends from the discharge conduit and is secured to the tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Roger J. Bertsch, Geoffrey L. Dingler
  • Patent number: 6355114
    Abstract: An apparatus (10, 300, 400) for cleaning spray guns (18, 418) has a closed vessel (14) having an inlet (24, 424), a drain (22, 422) and a port (29) for receiving a nozzle (30) of a spray gun. A spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436) is rotatably mounted within the vessel (14) and in fluid communication with the inlet (24, 424). The spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436) has an offset cleaning nozzle (42, 44, 144, 141, 142, 242, 244, 442, 444) for projecting a cleaning spray towards the port (29) and a rotational nozzle (46, 48, 148, 246, 248, 446, 448) for projecting a rotational spray to effect rotation of the spray impeller (36, 136, 236, 336, 436). The port (29) has a seal (76, 78, 80) for sealingly receiving the spray gun (18, 418) and positioning the nozzle (30) of the spray gun in the cleaning spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin R. White, James J. Kay
  • Patent number: 6325083
    Abstract: A washing device or rinsing device for a dish washer comprises a washing arm or rinsing arm (14) and an axis which rotatably supports the washing arm or rinsing arm (14). The washing arm or rinsing arm (14) comprises a first chamber (36) and a second chamber (33) separate from the first chamber. The first chamber (36) and the second chamber (38) each have at least one inlet aperture (40, 50) and at least one outlet aperture (48, 48a, 22) for washing liquid or rinsing liquid. The at least one outlet aperture (22) of the second chamber (38) is designed as a corner spray nozzle and liquid can be applied thereto only in defined rotary positions of the washing arm or rinsing arm (14) on the axis (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Premark FEG L.L.C.
    Inventor: Markus Wörter