Miscellaneous Patents (Class 134/201)
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Patent number: 6047717Abstract: An improved mandrel device (100) and method. The mandrel device (100) has an elongated member (117) for supporting a plurality of hard disks, for example. The elongated member (117) includes an inner member (107) that is defined between a pair of outer members (105), where each of the members have ridges (103) defined thereon. The combination of these members and ridges are used to support a plurality of disks that do not touch each other during, for example transportation.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1998Date of Patent: April 11, 2000Assignee: SCD Mountain View, Inc.Inventors: Rajiv Bhushan, Ru Chang, Raj Mohindra, Vincent Chiu, Dong T. Tran
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Patent number: 6045205Abstract: An automatic dishwasher comprising a metal wash tub mounted to a structural frame. The metal tub comprises multiple sides, which are welded together to form a weldment. The structural frame comprises a rear leg that is positioned beneath the bottom wall of the metal tub adjacent the weldment formed by the sidewall and the bottom wall. A retainer is mounted to the face of the leg and abuts the sidewall to mount the rear of the metal tub to the structural frame. The retainer conforms to the shape of the leg, weldment, and the sidewall to apply a clamping pressure thereto to clamp the weldment and the corner of the metal tub formed by the junction of the sidewall and the bottom wall between the retainer and the leg. The retainer and the leg have positioning means and alignment means to position and align the retainer relative to the leg for quick and easy assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1997Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Geoffrey L. Dingler
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Patent number: 6041797Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for cleaning a vacuum drum used for transferring gummed labels. The apparatus operates by sealing the drum and backwashing a cleaning fluid through the vacuum ports to unplug the perimeter holes. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical housing closed on one end by a plate and, on the opposing end, by a detachable lid. A drum seat, the size of which corresponds to the size of the vacuum drum to be washed, is locked to the bottom of the housing. The drum seat has an inlet for receiving the cleaning fluid and means for dispensing the received fluid to the vacuum ports of the vacuum drum under pressure. Initially, the cleaning fluid is heated to dissolve the adhesive. Subsequently, a cooler liquid is flushed through the vacuum drum to cool it for handling.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1997Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Inventor: David S Casselman
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Patent number: 6016818Abstract: A recirculating parts washer is disclosed that features a vertically mounted base and a sink and lid rotatably connected to the base. The recirculating parts washer features a cleaning fluid supply container which is separate from the sink but connected to it via a supply line and a drain line.Cleaning fluid is circulated to the sink via the supply line by means of a submersible pump submerged within the cleaning fluid inside the cleaning fluid supply container. Cleaning fluid returns to the supply container via the drain line, thus enabling the cleaning fluid to be reused over and over again until it is exhausted.By having the sink and lid rotatably mounted to the base of the recirculating parts washer, the bulk of the assembly can be conveniently pivoted upwards and back against the wall when not in use. The recirculating parts washer also features a direct current power supply assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1997Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: NCH CorporationInventors: Jose E. Evaro, Dale V. Kiplinger, David L. Varnell, Don A. York
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Patent number: 6006767Abstract: A joint for forming a seal between a warewasher and the bottom of a generally rectangular, vertically movable door housed in the warewasher to inhibit release of moisture into the ambient atmosphere. The door has an outer face and is shaped to cover a generally rectangular opening in the warewasher. The joint includes a sill located along the bottom edge of the opening having a downwardly angled surface to retain moisture in the warewasher and an upper assembly located along the lower edge of the outer face including a handle shaped to mate with the sill. The upper assembly further includes a downwardly extending saddle shaped to cover the interface between the handle and the sill to facilitate the retention of moisture in the warewasher.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Premark FEG L.L.C.Inventors: Dean A. Hecker, Walter L. DeBrosse
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Patent number: 6003531Abstract: There is disclosed a pipette-washing device for use with an automatic biochemical analyzer. The pipette-washing device includes a wash fluid-ejecting block for ejecting a wash fluid toward pipette. An upwardly spreading groove is formed in the top surface of the body of the block and extends along the trajectory of the front end of the pipette. The groove is connected at its lower end with the vertical wash fluid channel. A lateral draining channel is formed in the body of the block and connected with the lower end of the vertical wash fluid channel. When the pipette moves, the front end of the pipette moves through the groove. The block is inclined at an angle to the vertical within a plane in which the groove extends.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1997Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: JEOL Ltd.Inventors: Akio Kimura, Shin Saito
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Patent number: 5996598Abstract: A drain valve for controlling the flow of water from a source of standing water to a drain, the drain valve comprising: a valve body, an inlet in said valve body connectable to said source, an outlet in said valve body connectable to a drain, a fluid passageway through said valve body running from said inlet to said outlet, a cavity in said valve body intersecting said passageway, a gate disposed in said cavity, said gate being movable between an open position wherein water can flow through said passageway to a closed position wherein the flow of water through said passageway is blocked, a water supply line for supplying water under pressure to said cavity on one side of said gate, and a water supply valve for controlling the flow of water from said supply line to said cavity, whereby when said water supply valve is open, water flows into said cavity and moves said gate from said open position to said closed position and when said water supply valve is closed, said gate returns to said open position.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Premark FEG L.L.C.Inventors: Michael T. Watson, Flavil M. Pollock
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Patent number: 5992430Abstract: A hand washing and drying apparatus comprising a washing and drying chamber including at least one access port providing access for inserting at least one hand to be washed, a wash liquid dispenser in fluid communication with the interior of the washing and drying chamber for dispensing wash liquid within the washing and drying chamber, a blow dryer in fluid communication with the interior of the washing and drying chamber for providing a directed supply of drying air within the washing and drying chamber, a towel dispenser in communication with the interior of the washing and drying chamber for dispensing a towel, e.g., a disposable paper towel, within the chamber, and a waste disposal for disintegrating a spent towel dispensed from the towel dispenser and exhausting disintegrated waste through a drain. The apparatus further may include a control device for controlling the operation of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1998Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: 144 Limited PartnershipInventors: William M. Chardack, Charles A. Pfretzschner
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Patent number: 5988192Abstract: They consist in the arrangement, as bottom of the cask (1), of a pluri-grooved sheet (7) which defines a plurality of cylindrical grooves, laterally adjacent and with coplanar mouths, the width of said grooves (7), being at a level with its mouth, corresponding with the spacing between the beams (3) which constitute the supporting structure for the false grated bottom (2), permitting that said supporting structure (3) be outside the receptacle (1), abutting in the first place, on the upper edge of the beams (3) which constitute the same, flat facets (8) of the pluri-grooved sheet (7) which separate the different grooves (7-7') of the same, and immediately on said facets, the marginal zones of the grated modules (2) .Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1998Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: Seeger Industrial, S.A.Inventor: Francesco Belvedere
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Patent number: 5988189Abstract: A cleaning system (1, 5) having multiple cleaning chambers (200) is provided. Each cleaning chamber (200) includes an interior region sufficient for immersing a carrier (242), which has at least one wafer disposed therein, into an ultra-clean liquid. The cleaning chamber (200) also has an inlet operably coupled to the interior region to introduce a gas into the interior region and a drain operably coupled to the interior region to remove the ultra-clean liquid from the interior region at a selected rate. A controller 14 is operably coupled to the chamber (200) for selectively controlling the selected rate. In an alternative embodiment, an installation technique (80) for the above cleaning system (1,5) is provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1998Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: YieldUP InternationalInventors: Raj Mohindra, David C. Wong, Suraj Puri
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Patent number: 5983908Abstract: A glass washing and dishwashing machine including an improved oscillating spray mechanism, an improved tank valve/water diversion mechanism, and an improved water tank assembly, which are all incorporated into the glass washing and dishwashing machine. The oscillating spray mechanism directs a spray of wash water or rinse water at glasses, dishes or the like and oscillates the spray mechanism in order to more completely contact glasses or the like with wash water during a washing and rinsing operation. The tank valve mechanism selectively supplies wash water or rinse water from the tank assembly to the spray mechanism. The valve/water diversion mechanism is interconnected with two water reservoir chambers for delivering wash or rinse water to a washing station.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Carl L. Bradley
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Patent number: 5983432Abstract: A portable, multigolf cleaner is provided having an enclosure which includes several fluid reservoirs for containing separate cleaning fluids for cleaning different types of golf equipment. The enclosure has three openings through which cleaning utensils are inserted into the cleaning fluids. The cleaning utensils have integral threaded caps for sealing respective ones of the three openings. Two of the cleaning utensils have integral cleaning brushes which are immersed in the cleaning fluids stored in respective ones of the reservoirs. The cleaning brushes have cleaning brush bristles of various stiffness and coarseness, for cleaning the different types of golf equipment. A third cleaning utensil is a ball washing fixture which is used for retaining a ball for reciprocation within a third one of the fluid reservoirs.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Nathan Jones
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Patent number: 5979475Abstract: A highly clean fluid treatment system having a small system volume is provided by using a Bernoulli holder to accomplish stable holding of a specimen in a simple configuration. A holder having a specimen hold face formed almost the same as a specimen or having a Bernoulli effect producing region and a region surrounding the Bernoulli region made of a specific combination of materials is used and fluid supply sources are connected to the holder for supplying one or more fluids containing a treatment agent of a specimen. Since a force for inhibiting a position shift occurs on the end face of the specimen 10, stable specimen holding is enabled. The space between the specimen and the holder where treatment is executed is narrow and fluid always flows from the treatment space to the outside. Therefore, the fluid treatment system of a small volume producing high treatment efficiency and minimizing the chances of recontamination of the specimen can be provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1995Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Takao Satoh, Haruo Itoh, Hitoshi Oka, Yoichi Takahara, Akio Saito
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Patent number: 5970995Abstract: A kit for removing calcium deposits in a shower head extending from a shower arm without removing the shower head from the shower arm. The kit includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is replaceably attached to the shower arm, adjacent the shower head. The second portion is replaceably suspended from the first portion and receives the shower head and is filled with a mild acid, with the shower head submerged therein, so as to allow the mild acid to dissolve the calcium deposits in the shower head soaking in the mild acid in the second portion, without having to remove the shower head from the shower arm.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1998Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Inventor: William W. Schy
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Patent number: 5964955Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 14, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: Steris CorporationInventors: Daniel Rochette, Michel Lemay, Yves-Andrebec Theriault, Michel Emond, Mario Duchaine, Ghislain Parent, Nathalie Thibault
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Patent number: 5964229Abstract: A device for or in a garbage truck, particularly a vehicle for receiving and transporting so-called biological or organic garbage, includes tilting arrangements at the end of the vehicle for tilting a can containing garbage upwardly for emptying the can and for tilting the can backwardly into its initial position after the can has been emptied. The garbage dropped into the hold of the vehicle and the emptied can are sprayed with a disinfecting agent for treating the garbage and cleaning the can. The spraying device includes a spray nozzle which is movable between a first spray position for spraying in the direction of the garbage in the hold of the garbage truck and a second spray position for spraying in a second spray direction in which the spray jet is directed into the interior of the can which is in its upwardly tilted position.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: Baier & Koppel GmbH & Co.Inventor: Jurgen Brendel
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Patent number: 5961733Abstract: Provided is a parts washer that includes a multi-tiered basin, a cleaning fluid and a biological component, living within the fluid, that breaks down organic waste. The multi-tiered basin includes a sink member with a false bottom, and a support grid and filter are interposed between the false bottom and a bottom panel of the sink member. The false bottom, support grid, and filter are readily removable from the sink member. The tank is partially filled with the cleaning fluid and a pump and conduit assembly direct a flow of the cleaning fluid to the basin. The cleaning fluid discharged into the basin flows through a drain hole in the false bottom, through the filter and support grid, and then through a drain hole in the bottom panel of the sink member back into the tank for reuse. The cleaning fluid includes, at least, a surfactant that functions to remove organic waste from the parts being washed.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 1996Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignees: Chemfree Corporation, Advanced Bioremediation Systems, Inc.Inventor: J. Leland Strange
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Patent number: 5954841Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method for scouring wool. The method comprises differential heating of grease contaminants in the unscoured wool to at least partially liquefy the grease, absorbing the grease by the addition of a grease-absorbing material, and separating the grease-absorbing material from the wool. The method of the invention involves substantially less water consumption than current methods and is a more efficient means of producing wool.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1998Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Assignee: Primary Applications LimitedInventor: Peter William Beven
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Patent number: 5950647Abstract: A parts washer unit including an aqueous cleaning fluid storage receptacle which can be easily exchanged with a like receptacle by the user of the unit. The unit includes a injection molded plastic base for supporting the receptacle and a sink. The base includes an upper portion configured to support the sink from a fixed work surface, and a lower portion configured to receive the receptacle. The lower portion includes side walls to cammingly guide the receptacle in a lateral direction and a bottom wall configured with an inclined cam surface leading to a generally horizontal receptacle support surface to cammingly guide the receptacle in a longitudinal direction. The bottom wall contains channels that form ribs sufficiently spaced to provide structural rigidity and minimize heat transfer from the receptacle to the fixed work surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1998Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: Usher Oil CompanyInventor: Michael D. Usher
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Patent number: 5950643Abstract: A processing system for processing of wafers that are formed by slicing a cylindrical workpiece which is adhered to a support plate by an adhesive agent. The processing system includes a washing apparatus, a removing apparatus, a separating apparatus, and a transferring apparatus. The washing apparatus washes the wafers that are remained adhered to the support plate. The removing apparatus removes a group of the wafers from the support plate. The removed wafers are gathered in a cylindrical shape. The separating apparatus separates the wafers one by one. The separating apparatus includes a vessel for accommodating the wafers separated one from another. The transferring apparatus transfers the wafers from the washing apparatus to the removing apparatus and then to the separating apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1996Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventors: Takeshiro Miyazaki, Yoshikazu Tsubata, Akio Kawakita, Noboru Katsumata, Akihiro Nakayama, Toyokazu Harada, Mitsuo Takaku, Syunso Yoshida
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Patent number: 5950648Abstract: An application brush cleaning apparatus which prevents the handle of an application brush from contacting a bristle cleaning solution. Provided are an elongated container, a hollow pier situatable within the container and a resilient support washer having a brush seat characterized by a center hole and a plurality of radial slits communicating therewith. The container is preferably composed of clear glass. The pier is any structure which defines a rest and a central hollow, as for example a coil spring or an apertured pedestal. The pier is placed into the container and then the container is filled with a bristle cleaning solution to no more than the level of the rest of the pier. The handle is thrust into the brush seat of the support washer until the ferrule is frictionally held thereat. The washer and application brush combination is placed into the container, bristles first, wherein the bristles pass into the central hollow of the pier and into the bristle cleaning solution.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1998Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventors: Renee' M. Skrocki, Rose M. Kerekes, Michael A. Kerekes
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Patent number: 5947135Abstract: When tableware is washed and rinsed in a dishwasher using a plurality of washing steps, the tableware is washed within 10 minutes using acid ionized water having a pH value of at most 6.0 and a temperature of at least 40.degree. C. in a first washing step, whereby dirt is made to form cohesion and is prevented from being reattached to the tableware, so that a washing load in the following washing steps is reduced. Furthermore, the tableware is washed for at least 15 minutes with alkaline ionized water having a pH value of at least 8.5 and a temperature of at least 55.degree. C. in at least one of the washing steps, whereby the washing effects on fats and oils, protein and starch are improved.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 1996Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshitake Sumida, Tetsuo Moriyama, Yoko Fukushima, Takeo Abe
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Patent number: 5947137Abstract: A draw-tube solvent retaining and draining cover is disclosed, comprised of a main body, of a generally linearly elongated, cylindrical, hollow configuration. The main body is of sufficient length to allow a conventional pick-up tube to pass through the main body and into a paint can. Grooves to improve gripping are located on the exterior circumferential surface of the main body. The main body is comprised of an upper portion and a lower portion, which connect via mated threads on the bottom of the upper portion and the top of the lower portion. An upper cap is located on the top of the upper portion, releasable secured to the top portion of the main body via mated threads. The upper cap is releasably secured to the packing cylinder of the majority of airless sprayers via a universal attachment means. The upper cap has a pick-up tube hole and a return hose hole. O-rings are located between the various components.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1998Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Inventor: Tim Sheafer
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Patent number: 5944035Abstract: An improved detergent recycling apparatus for parts washing machines includes a detergent recycling apparatus additionally provided with a control box, a manifold, a first control valve, an extension tube, a spray gun, a second control valve, a third air duct and a secondary serpentine hose. The control box is mounted on one side of the detergent recycling apparatus, and the manifold, first control valve, silencer, extension tube and second control valve are assembled thereto. The manifold is internally provided with an air vent and has a high pressure air inlet at one end thereof. The manifold includes front, intermediate and rear threaded holes. The first control valve is screwably secured to the rear threaded hole and communicates with an extraction pump via a first air duct. The extension tube is screwably locked to the front threaded hole at one end and connected to the spray gun at the other.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1998Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventor: I-Lung Chen
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Patent number: 5941259Abstract: A new shoe washing and drying device for washing and drying shoes. The inventive device includes a housing dimensioned for receiving a pair of shoes therein. The housing holds a predetermined quantity of water therein. A shoe support rack is secured within the housing for supporting the pair of shoes thereof. A pump mechanism is disposed interiorly of the housing on a closed lower end thereof. The pump mechanism is disposed below the water within the housing. The pump mechanism has openings in a lower end for receiving the water therein. A water conduit extends outwardly from the pump mechanism along an interior surface of the closed lower end of the housing. The water conduit has an upper portion extending upwardly along an interior surface of a front wall of the housing. A manifold is secured to and is in communication with an upper end of the upper portion of the water conduit. The manifold has a plurality of nozzles extending outwardly therefrom directed inwardly with respect to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1998Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Inventor: Gregory A. Cleveland
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Patent number: 5942007Abstract: A dry cleaning system and method, in which specially designed or modified machinery is used in conjunction with a specific solvent which is derived from an organic/inorganic hybrid (organo silicone). In this class of organo silicones is a group known as cyclic siloxanes. The cyclic siloxanes present the basis for material composition of the solvent chemistry which allows this dry cleaning system to be highly effective. The cyclic-siloxane-based solvent allows the system to result in an environmentally friendly process which is, also, more effective in cleaning fabrics and the like than any known prior system. The siloxane composition is employed in a dry cleaning machine to carry out the method of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 1998Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: GreenEarth Cleaning, LLPInventors: Dieter R. Berndt, John McLeod Griffiss
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Patent number: 5934298Abstract: The present invention provides a combination sink and dishwashing apparatus having a sink sharing a common side wall with a cabinet which defines a closed space. The cabinet has a wire basket for holding and washing a plurality of dishes within the cabinet. The common side wall is a part of the cabinet that defines the closed space and is positioned to form one side of the sink. The common side wall can be opened to allow the wire basket to slide from within the cabinet and into the sink, for loading and unloading the dishes. Within the cabinet, the invention contains a pump powered by a motor, the pump spraying water through a rotatably mounted spray arm onto the dishes to wash them, as with traditional dishwashing machines. The invention preferably includes a garbage disposal which is also powered by the motor. In an alternative embodiment, this invention can include two cabinets as described above, each located on opposing sides of the sink.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1997Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Baljit Singh
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Patent number: 5927616Abstract: A rinse arm spray system for directing multiple streams of water supplied under pressure from a source of water, the system comprising: a water supply conduit for supplying the water; a rinse arm having an exterior surface, an interior volume, a first open end, and a second end, the arm being releasably connected to the water supply conduit wherein the first open end is in communication with the water supply conduit; a plurality of spray nozzles spaced apart along the exterior surface of the arm, the nozzles communicating with the interior volume of the arm for providing directed streams of water supplied to the arm under pressure; an actuating mechanism releasably connected to a second end of the rinse arm, the actuating mechanism comprising a rod adapted to cooperate with the second end of the rinse arm, a guide tube for supporting the rod, a helical spring enclosing the rod, and a pressure actuating means for exerting pressure to compress the spring wherein the rinse arm is disengaged from the system, andType: GrantFiled: September 4, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Premark FEG L.L.C.Inventors: Ronald Eugene Grise, William David Schrand
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Patent number: 5924433Abstract: A dishwasher construction having a molded one piece tub with integrally molded reinforcing ribs on an outside surface of the tub, the reinforcing ribs being hollow members formed by gas injection molding. At least one of the reinforcing ribs can be fashioned as a hollow conduit for transferring water from a bottom mounted pump to a top mounted wash arm of the dishwasher, or from a drain pump to a drain outlet. By using hollow reinforcing members molded integrally with the tub, an external upper wash arm conduit is avoided which can have external leakage, and an internal upper wash arm conduit is avoided which tends to restrict the working space within the dishwasher and can trap food and be otherwise functional and unappealing to the consumer.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Edward L. Thies, Roger J. Bertsch, John P. Vance, Roger D. Jewell
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Patent number: 5915398Abstract: A cleaning station for cleaning parts from apparatus that itself uses a water spray to clean a toxic gas. The cleaning station has a tray and a sink for holding a part to be spray cleaned and the sink is connected to drain the spray water into the drain system of the gas cleaning apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.Inventors: Ying-Hsiang Chen, Chwan-Der Lee
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Patent number: 5914017Abstract: An electrical field between a positive anode and a negative target in a cavity and a magnetic field in the cavity produce electron flow from the target in a convoluted path for ionizing a gas such as oxygen flowing through the cavity. The ionized oxygen forms positive and negative oxygen ions which flow from the cavity to an aluminum oxide surface on a substrate. The aluminum oxide surface may contain hydrocarbon molecules which prevent a thin magnetizable layer from adhering uniformly on the aluminum oxide surface. The ionized oxygen molecules and atoms flow through the cavity at a reduced rate and react chemically with the hydrocarbon molecules to form water vapor and carbon monoxide and/or carbon dioxide gases. By removing the hydrocarbons from the aluminum oxide surface, the layer of the magnetizable material is deposited adheringly on the aluminum oxide surface. A neutral gas (e.g.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1996Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Assignee: Sputtered Films, Inc.Inventor: Peter J. Clarke
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Patent number: 5911231Abstract: A drive-through vehicle wash of the type including a plurality of gantries defining a tunnel through which the vehicle passes and including a plurality of longitudinally spaced work stations along the tunnel for performing respective operations associated with the washing of the vehicle. A utility carrier is provided to facilitate delivery of the various utility lines (such as soapy water, clear water, electric power, hydraulic power, and hot air) to the various work stations. The utility carrier comprises a ladder structure positioned above the gantries and a plurality of U-shaped brackets positioned on top of the gantries. The ladder structure has a closed loop configuration overlying the gantries and includes an entry section.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: Belanger, Inc.Inventors: Barry S. Turner, Thomas E. Weyandt
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Patent number: 5909741Abstract: Method and apparatus for processing a workpiece in a chemical bath liquid contained in a liquid container. The liquid container is fabricated from a material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), poly-amide-imide (PAI) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). A vibration generator is positioned on each of one or more container walls to introduce vibrations with a selected frequency (20-750 kHz) through the container wall(s) and into the chemical bath liquid. Two or more vibration generators may introduce vibrations with different frequencies into the chemical bath liquid and at different angles. The chemical bath liquid may be an acid such as HCl, H.sub.2 SO.sub.4, HNO.sub.3, H.sub.2 PO.sub.3 and HF, or may be an oxidizer or base such as NH.sub.4 OH and H.sub.2 O.sub.2. The chemical bath may be used to process semiconductor wafers and circuits, printed circuit boards, optical components and similar workpieces.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1997Date of Patent: June 8, 1999Inventor: Gary W. Ferrell
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Patent number: 5904162Abstract: Disclosed is a warewashing assembly comprising a batch-loading warewashing machine and a movable tray or cart capable of holding a rack in a position that departs form the horizontal outside of the warewashing machine for convenient operations; said tray or cart comprising a flat tray of a size complementary to said rack, wherein the flat tray comprises side and rear fences capable of holding the ware rack against horizontal motion and wherein the tray is attached to a support structure in such a way that it is supported at the desired angle .alpha. and can be inserted into the machine when quiescent; wherein the support structure is of a height approximately equal to that of the warewashing machine and comprises means to move horizontally in relation to the warewashing machine.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1998Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Assignee: Ecolab Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Ferguson, Dwayne A. Becknell, Daniel F. Brady, Martin D. Schenk
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Patent number: 5904165Abstract: This invention is directed to a multipurpose repair and maintenance apparatus for aerial inspection, repair and cleaning, comprising a work platform for installation on the skids of an helicopter and sustaining a boom assembly and a fluid circuit such that the loads on the work platform are fully balanced. The work platform is made of electrically conductive material and all electrically conductive parts of the apparatus are connected to the electrically conductive parts of the helicopter to have same electrical potential. The boom assembly extends from the port side of the work platform and has an inboard section and an outboard section. A pumping assembly is mounted on a power drive mount at the starboard side of the platform, so as to balance the weight of the boom assembly. A boom actuator is provided at the onboard end of the boom assembly and controls the vertical and horizontal movement of the outboard end.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 1995Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Inventors: Ian McLean, deceased, by Raymond Jodoin, executor
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Patent number: 5899217Abstract: An engine wash recovery system is temporarily installed on an aircraft turbine engine to recover wash liquids and contaminants washed from the engine during engine cleaning operations. The apparatus basically comprises a collector, an engine exhaust duct, and a container. The collector is formed of a flexible, liquid proof material which is removably secured beneath the engine housing (fuselage, nacelle, cowling, etc.) of the aircraft, to capture wash liquids which spill from the housing. The duct is removably connected to the engine exhaust, to capture spray which has passed through the engine as the engine is turned over at a relatively low rpm to flush the fluid through the engine. Both the collector and the duct are connected to a container for recovering all liquids emanating from the engine and its housing during the wash process. The collector may include a forward extension to capture liquids which back up out of the engine intake or inlet, and a rearward extension which extends back to the exhaust.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1998Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Inventor: Frank L. Testman, Jr.
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Patent number: 5899429Abstract: Disclosed is an artists' easel which has a pivotally adjustable frame which carries the artists' canvas. A bag retaining assembly attached to the easel frame is adapted for a bag, e.g., a plastic garbage bag, to fit thereover with a apertured splatter panel covering the mouth of the bag. A beater bar inside the bag frame permits the artist to beat the paintbrush on the beater bar while the bag traps the solvent inside. The easel also is adjustable in height, and has provision for a tray, a paper towel holder, and a container holder (e.g., for solvent). Provision for holding the bag in place is provided also.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Inventor: Jerry L. McCloud
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Patent number: 5896876Abstract: A method and apparatus is provides for decontamination of soil from contaminates such as polychlorinated biphenyls. The method involves (a) admixing a short chain alcohol and a long chain alcohol to provide a solvent composition, (b) admixing the solvent composition with the contaminated soil to extract the contaminant from the soil into the solvent to form contaminated solvent, (c) separating the soil from the contaminated solvent, (d) washing of the decontaminated soil with water to remove residual solvent from the soil, and (e) distillation of the contaminated solvent to separate the reusable short chain alcohol as a light fraction from a heavy fraction containing the long chain alcohol and the contaminant.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1998Date of Patent: April 27, 1999Inventor: Erle L. Plunkett
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Patent number: 5890503Abstract: A fully automatic eyeglass cleaning apparatus includes a vessel partially filled with a cleaning fluid, wherein a mechanism is included to accept and hold a pair of eyeglasses to be cleaned. The mechanism lowers the eyeglasses into the volume of fluid, and provides for a duration of vibratory cleaning activities (within the volume of fluid). Subsequently the eyeglasses are raised above the volume of fluid and are then dried by the application of directed streams of heated air that impinge upon the eyeglasses. After sufficient periods of time are provided for fluidic cleaning and drying, the eyeglasses are raised and may be removed from the mechanism by a user.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1998Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Inventor: Steven J. Bowen
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Patent number: 5884644Abstract: A quartz tank for wet semiconductor wafer processing includes one or more ports extending through the tank for the exchange of fluids with the tank. The openings may be aligned with a T-shaped quartz stem having an enlarged end retained on the interior side of said quartz tank in sealing abutment therewith. The lower end of the quartz stem may have external threads to abut with a suitable union. The union may include a nut having a reduced diameter lower end to engage an enlarged end of the tubing member connected to the bottom of the quartz stem. An o-ring seal may be sandwiched between the tubing and the lower end of the quartz stem. The nut may be formed of a carbon-fiber reinforced fluorocarbon material such as perfluoroalkoxy.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: L. Brian Dunn
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Patent number: 5882739Abstract: The present invention provides a method for improving the drying performance of a dishwasher and the resulting products thereof. The method involves chemically treating a dishwasher component to alter or modify the chemical properties of the surface, rendering such surface hydrophilic. The hydrophilic surface sufficiently attracts water molecules within the dishwasher to enhance the drying capabilities of the dishwasher.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Duane M. Kobos, Patrick J. MCCann
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Patent number: 5882096Abstract: In order to equip a dishwasher (1) with a machine base (10), on which a washing container (20) is arranged so as to be capable of being put down in position, in a simple way with a fastening for the washing container (20), said fastening being less complicated and therefore more cost-effective and having better stability, according to the invention the washing container (20) rests, on the rear side, on the upper edge (11) of the machine base (10).Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbHInventors: Johann Wilhelmstatter, Helmut Jerg, Bernd Schessl, Gerhard Fetzer, Michael Hartmann, Markus Hopfl, Karl-Heinz Rehm, Rudolf Schmidt
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Patent number: 5870787Abstract: There is disclosed door driving control equipment for a washing machine, which washing machine includes an outer casing, a door formed on a top portion of the outer casing, a door motor for generating force used for opening and closing the door, and a lamp for lighting the interior of the washing machine. Also included are: an opening/closing command input portion which is used to input a command to open or close the door to the washing machine; door opening and closing sensing portions that sense whether the door is opened or closed; and a microprocessor which controls operations of the door motor and the lamp according to a command signal to open or close the door and an input signal for the door opening and closing sensing portions, in order to actuate the door motor and the lamp in a prescribed sequence.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ssi Chol Choi
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Patent number: 5871022Abstract: Apparatus for grinding tapers and points on elongated needle workpieces having frame means and needle workpiece transport means associated with the frame means for transporting a plurality of the workpieces. The workpiece transport means has a predetermined curvature and workpiece feeder means is mounted adjacent the frame means for feeding workpieces to the workpiece transport means. The grinding means is preferably a grinding wheel disposed adjacent the workpiece transport means to engage workpieces while supported by workpiece supporting means and has a major diameter at a first end and a minor diameter at a second end, the major diameter being greater than the minor diameter. The diameters are connected by a curved grinding surface the diameter of which increases progressively therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1996Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: United States Surgical CorporationInventors: Marcelino P. Munoz, W. Scott Samsel, Eugene P. Cybart, Jr.
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Patent number: 5871023Abstract: A fluid driven tank cleaning device is provided. The device includes an inlet that connects to a source of cleaning solution under pressure and a stem coupled to the inlet having a fluid receiving chamber. A hermetically sealed gear box is also provided which is coupled to the stem and has a secondary chamber separated from the receiving chamber by a common wall. A primary drive shaft rotatably mounted within the fluid receiving chamber is driven by an impeller which rotates in response to fluid entering the fluid receiving chamber. The primary drive shaft is magnetically coupled to a secondary drive shaft rotatably mounted within the secondary chamber. A gear train reduces the speed of the secondary shaft. A first output shaft rotatably mounted within the secondary chamber is connected to the secondary drive shaft via the gear train. The output shaft is magnetically coupled to a second output shaft which rotates a main housing relative to the stem about a first axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Butterworth Technology, Inc.Inventors: George L. Sherman, Jr., Daniel G. Elko
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Patent number: 5868150Abstract: A method (400) for cleaning a semiconductor wafer. The method includes immersing (420) a wafer in a liquid comprising water. The wafer has a front face, a back face, and an edge. The method also includes providing a substantially particle free environment adjacent to the front face and the back face as the liquid is being removed. A step of introducing a carrier gas comprising a cleaning enhancement substance during the providing step (450) also is included. The cleaning enhancement substance dopes the liquid which is attached to the front face and the back face to cause a concentration gradient of the cleaning enhancement substance in the attached liquid to accelerate fluid flow of the attached liquid off of the wafer.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1997Date of Patent: February 9, 1999Assignee: YieldUP InternationalInventors: Raj Mohindra, Abhay Bhushan, Rajiv Bhushan, Suraj Puri, John H. Anderson, Sr., Jeffrey Nowell
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Patent number: 5865903Abstract: A liquid treatment system for hollow articles having an open end facing downwardly upon a moving conveyor belt includes a vacuum stripper tube connected to a blower for generating a suction force withdrawing excess liquid from the hollow articles and the belts, and a pair of flow splitters for distributing the suction force applied to opposite ends of the vacuum stripper tube. The system is provided with a baffle disposed in the vacuum stripper tube for improving the distribution of suction force in the vacuum stripper tube. The system also includes an excess liquid collection arrangement constructed and arranged to establish a one-way flow of and collect excess liquid evacuated from the vacuum stripper tube. The system further contemplates a blow-off unit operably connected to the blower for supplying dry air to the hollow articles and conveyor belt.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Inventor: James W. Duncan
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Patent number: 5862819Abstract: A scrubbing tower mounted on a mobile frame is movable between a horizontal transport position and a vertical operating position. A means is provided for distributing gas upwardly through the scrubbing tower, and water downwardly through the scrubbing tower, when the tower is in the vertical operating position. The apparatus also includes a blower and a pump mounted on the mobile frame, the blower being connectable with a source of hazardous gases enclosed within a storage vessel, and the pump being connectable with a source of water. The apparatus is especially beneficial in removing water soluble hazardous compounds, such as ethylene dichloride and hydrogen sulfide, from gaseous atmospheres.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1996Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Inventor: Robert R. Cradeur
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Patent number: 5863350Abstract: A bearing cleaning method and accompanying kit is provided which allows for the cleaning of roller blade wheel bearings. By following a succession of steps in cooperation with a kit comprising a modular stacking unit and container and closely sized to receive the unit, a user can quickly and easily clean a plurality of roller blade wheel bearings agitating an organic solvent partially filling the container. A plurality of roller blade wheel bearings are stacked within a modular stacking unit comprising a multitude of cylindrical spacing elements, a pair of planar end caps, with each planar end cap including two integral spacing elements, and a resilient band member. The modular stacking unit, once assembled, is placed within the interior volume of a container, along with a small quantity of organic solvent.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1997Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Inventor: Carl Lekavich
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Patent number: 5860436Abstract: A washer having a pair of offset legs. In addition to the offset legs, the washer includes a tub, a front frame and a rear frame. The tub defines a wash chamber with a front opening and includes a bottom wall and opposing side walls. The front frame has a pair of legs respectively disposed adjacent to the opposing side walls of the tub toward the front opening. The rear frame has a pair of horizontal legs with outer ends and a pair of vertical supports. The vertical supports are disposed rearward from the legs of the front frame. The horizontal legs are secured to the vertical supports and extend forward therefrom to the outer ends. The offset legs each have a neck and an upright member. The necks are offset forward of the upright members and are respectively secured to the legs of the front frame. The upright members are respectively secured to the horizontal legs toward the outer ends.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1996Date of Patent: January 19, 1999Assignee: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.Inventor: Bradley B. Hobday