With Means For Supplying An Additive (e.g., Liquid Detergent) Patents (Class 134/99.2)
  • Patent number: 11185155
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for washing and sanitizing elongate rotary brushes used for cleaning fruit, produce, and other food products includes revolving the brushes along a travel path about a housing (14) and simultaneously spinning the rotary brushes about their individual longitudinal axis (18), applying a cleaning solution to the spinning rotary brushes in a cleaning zone of the housing, then applying a spray to the spinning rotary brushes in a spray zone of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: John Bean Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Robert R. Goetz
  • Patent number: 11103120
    Abstract: A detergent dispenser may be positioned to dispense detergent into a wash tub of a household appliance. The detergent dispenser may include a detergent cartridge. The detergent cartridge may include a detergent strip having a plurality of detergents. One or more ejection mechanisms may be used to expel the detergent from the detergent strip through an outlet of the detergent cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: MIDEA GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Bassam Fawaz, Robert M. Digman, Joel Boyer, Russell Dietrich
  • Patent number: 9850618
    Abstract: A household appliance for treating at least one item according to at least one cycle of operation includes a treating chemistry dispenser receiving a unit dose container and having a door moveable between an opened position and a closed position, a piercing mechanism located proximate to the treating chemistry dispenser and having a piercer that is moveable between a non-piercing position and a piercing position where the piercer is moved to perforate a unit dose container received within the treating chemistry dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Burger, Thomas A. Latack, Rachel A. Maghas
  • Patent number: 9016291
    Abstract: A system for storing and dispensing a liquid cleaning additive for a high-pressure cleaning appliance has a device for storing the cleaning additive and a device for dispensing the cleaning additive in a controlled manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Kelle, Michael Boehm, Ralph Seitter
  • Publication number: 20150059809
    Abstract: A washing appliance has a hydraulic circuit including a tank for storing a predetermined amount of liquid, and a heating element inside the tank. The heating element heats the liquid to a predetermined temperature. A water inlet receives water from a water supply network. A descaling apparatus includes a descaler chamber having a housing portion housing a descaler product container containing a descaling agent and a mixing portion containing a mix of water and a predetermined amount of the descaling agent. The housing portion is fluidly connected to the mixing portion and an inlet pipe fluidly connecting a water inlet to the descaler chamber. The descaling apparatus also includes an outlet pipe that drains the mix of water and descaling agent from the mixing portion and provides it to the tank and a spraying element in the mixing portion that sprays water from the inlet pipe towards the housing portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Biagio Petri, Franco Tassan Mangina, Antonio Asquini
  • Patent number: 8938996
    Abstract: A treatment agent metering information evaluator of a washing machine includes a reader that reads portion-wise metering information from an information carrier of a storage container that is in close proximity to the reader, a controller that receives the portion-wise metering information from the reader, a meter that meters portions of treatment agent from the storage container into a treatment process of a washing treatment program, and storage that stores empirical information about experiences of the use of the treatment agent during the treatment process for subsequent application of the treatment agent. The reader includes a transmitter for transmitting the empirical information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventors: Robby Reinholz, Ingo Schulze
  • Publication number: 20150013728
    Abstract: A dispenser for a dishwasher having a wash tub includes a fluid reservoir to hold a treating chemistry, a lid operatively mounted to the fluid reservoir, and configured to move between an open position and a closed position, and a hydraulic actuator fluidly coupled to a fluid source and configured to initiate movement of the lid between its closed and the open positions in response to fluid pressure applied to the actuator by the fluid source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: PAUL E. BESHEARS, JR., ELLIOTT V. STOWE
  • Patent number: 8932410
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dishwasher (1) wherein ozone water is applied to improve the washing performance and to provide hygiene. The ozone gas that is generated by an ozone generator (7) located in the dishwasher (1) is mixed to the wash water by the Venturi device (8) and by means of an ozone water line (9) extending into the tub (2), of branch pipes (10, 110, 210) and of spray nozzles (N), ozone wash water is sprayed to the lower dish rack (3) or the upper dish rack (103).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Arcelik Anonim Sirketi
    Inventors: Zehra Ulger, Erman Tutkak, Murat Elgun, Mehmet Kaya, Gokhan Ozgurel
  • Patent number: 8881748
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a hydraulically actuated dispenser for dispensing an additive into a treating chamber of the dishwasher. The dispenser includes a storage chamber, a lid, and a hydraulic cylinder that is fluidly connected to a water source external to the dishwasher. The hydraulic cylinder opens the dispenser lid at a predetermined point in a washing operation such that the additive is released into the treating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Paul E. Beshears, Jr., Elliott V. Stowe
  • Publication number: 20140290705
    Abstract: A washing system provides multiple layers of jet nozzles strategically oriented in an enclosed system for washing container accessories and containers. A fluid source, such as a sink provides a hot, high pressure fluid. A timer regulates the duration of the washing. At least two accessory nozzles discharge the fluid in a whirlpool form to clean the container accessories. An outer nozzle up to 120 degrees to clean a container outer surface. An inner nozzle extends through a container aperture to clean a container inner surface. The nozzles are configured to orient and position around the container and the container accessory to optimize the washing process in the outer surface, and the often difficult to access inner surface. The container is held in place while being washed through an adjustable upper holder and a threadably engaged lower holder while being washed under heavy pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Lester Acosta Quimpo
  • Publication number: 20140251390
    Abstract: A pressure washing system that includes a pump configured to generate a pressurized fluid stream and a wand that is connectable to the pressurized discharge of the pump. The wand includes a trigger and a nozzle that are exposed to the pressurized fluid path. The wand includes a treatment fluid path that is isolated from the pump pressurized fluid path. A reservoir configured to receive a treatment agent is disposed in the treatment fluid path and is connected between the water source and an outlet proximate the nozzle. A control is connected to the wand proximate the trigger to allow selective introduction of treatment agent contained in the reservoir to be introduced into the pressurized fluid flow downstream of the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: Generac Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mir Khan, Greg Wischstadt, David Serdynski
  • Publication number: 20140202498
    Abstract: Blockages of turbomachine cooling circuit cooling holes resulting from coating processes can be removed by introducing a cleaning agent into the cooling circuit. The cooling circuit can be connected to a cleaning agent supply under pressure, adding force on the blockage to chemical action by the cleaning agent. The cleaning agent is chemically reactive with the coating material and substantially chemically non-reactive with the underlying material of the cooling circuit and other parts of the turbomachine. A neutralization agent can also be introduced to reduce toxicity and/or action of the cleaning agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Carmine Bellino, Mark Lawrence Hunt
  • Publication number: 20140166057
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a hydraulically actuated dispenser for dispensing an additive into a treating chamber of the dishwasher. The dispenser includes a storage chamber, a lid, and a hydraulic cylinder that is fluidly connected to a water source external to the dishwasher. The hydraulic cylinder opens the dispenser lid at a predetermined point in a washing operation such that the additive is released into the treating chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: PAUL E. BESHEARS, JR., ELLIOTT V. STOWE
  • Patent number: 8651336
    Abstract: A long-life substance dispensing device for a washing machine, particularly a dishwasher, comprises: —a body (20?, 30?) designed to be sealingly fixed to a structure of the washing machine, —a support means (40) adapted to contain a total amount of a substance sufficient for performing a plurality of washing cycles, —an actuation system (47?, 50?, 61?) which is electrically controllable for causing delivery of at least one dose of the substance contained in the support means (40). The actuation system (47?, 50?, 61?) comprises at least one drive element and one driven element (47?) capable of cooperating to obtain the delivery. The actuation system (47?, 50?, 61?) is arranged for being able to take on an operative condition, wherein the drive element (61?) is operatively coupled with the driven element (47?), and an inoperative condition, wherein the drive element (61?) is decoupled from the driven element (47?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Eltek S.p.A.
    Inventors: Costanzo Gadini, Renato Gaj, Marco Moro, Chris Efstathios Housmekerides
  • Patent number: 8631972
    Abstract: A dispensing system for the interior of a dishwashing machine includes a component carrier on which components are detachably or nondetachably arranged, including at least a dispensing chamber, an actuator, and a closing element as well as an energy source and/or a control unit and/or a sensor unit. The closing element is coupled with the actuator such that movement of the actuator displaces the closing element into a closure or a release position. The at least one dispensing chamber is connected in communicating manner with at least one cartridge chamber and includes an inlet for inflow of washing or cleaning agent from a cartridge chamber and an outlet for outflow of washing or cleaning agent from the dispensing chamber into its surrounding environment. The outlet of the dispensing chamber is closable or openable by the closing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Arnd Kessler, Salvatore Fileccia, Hans-Georg Mühlhausen, Gerold Jans, Roland Schmalz, Ba Loc Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8608866
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are related to a detergent dispenser configured to attach to an interior surface of a dishwasher door. The detergent dispenser may comprise a reservoir configured to hold detergent, wherein a portion of the upper wall of the reservoir has been removed to reduce a cross-sectional length thereof such that water flowing down the dishwasher door is encouraged into the reservoir. The detergent dispenser may also comprise a dispenser door comprising a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the dispenser door is configured to cover the reservoir in the closed configuration. The detergent dispenser may be configured to encourage water flowing down the interior surface of the dishwasher door to enter the reservoir when the dispenser door is in the open or closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Virgil J. Francisco, Mark D. Montgomery, Jason M. Patterson, Michael Bryan Pike, Ramon Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8578950
    Abstract: A dishwasher includes a device for adding detergent that can be sealed with a flap-type lid and which is set back in the inside door of the dishwasher and is arranged at an angle on an inclined plane in relation to the plane of the inner side of the door. During the cleaning process, the detergent falls into a dissolving chamber, which is arranged underneath the device for adding detergent, according to the program, wherein the bottom of the dissolving chamber consists of a fine-mesh grid whereat the detergent can be dissolved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Rosenbauer, Bernd Schessl
  • Publication number: 20130276839
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydrodynamic multipurpose washing device including a detergent, wherein the spray pressure is increased by even a small flux to maximize cleaning power using only the hydraulic pressure of tap water without a separate pressurization device such as a pressure pump, a detergent is combined and is diluted with water to be sprayed to facilitate the washing of an oil components and protein components which are difficult to be washed off with pure water, and a brush for removing solidified foreign matter and reducing washing time is provided to facilitate washing selections according to a need.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Wan Ki Yoo
  • Publication number: 20130213443
    Abstract: An infant container cleaning apparatus is disclosed, comprising a stabilizer for holding one or more infant containers. The infant container cleaning apparatus also comprises a water application assembly for applying water, one or more cleaning agents, or a combination thereof to the one or more infant containers. Still further, the cleaning apparatus comprises at least one motion controller for varying the position, movement, speed, or a combination thereof of the stabilizer during the applying of the water, the one or more cleaning agents, or a combination thereof to the respective one or more infant containers by the water application assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Jorge Garcia, Fernando Ramirez
  • Patent number: 8505559
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus in which a cleaning process is simplified, a time required for the cleaning process is reduced and which has an excellent cleaning effect, and a high pressure cleaner for use therein are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Industry-University Cooperation Foundation Sogang University
    Inventors: Gap Su Han, Ki Pung Yoo, Jong Sung Lim, Young Hoon Kwon
  • Patent number: 8381744
    Abstract: A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, the water-conducting domestic appliance including a washing compartment for receiving items therein that are to be subjected to a handling process by the water-conducting domestic appliance; and a detergent dosing system, the detergent dosing system having a detergent dispenser with a receiving compartment, the receiving compartment for receiving at least one cartridge that is configured to hold at least one detergent. The detergent dosing system is formed from a plurality of housing walls and at least one portion of at least one housing wall of the detergent dosing system has thermal insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Egbert Classen, Helmut Jerg
  • Patent number: 8381745
    Abstract: A water-conducting domestic appliance including a line system, a detergent feed facility that supplies at least one detergent into the line system, wherein the detergent feed facility includes at least one reservoir configured to be filled with detergent, and a refill fitting having a connection to the at least one reservoir, the refill fitting being arranged on a door of the water-conducting domestic appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Egbert Classen, Helmut Jerg, Kai Paintner
  • Publication number: 20120291820
    Abstract: A method of warewashing for the removal of starch is described herein. The method includes applying an alkaline composition to a dish, then applying an acidic composition to a dish, and then applying a second alkaline composition to the dish. The method may include additional steps. Compositions for using with the method are also disclosed. Finally, dish machines that may be used in accordance with the method are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Werner Strothoff, Winfried Troll, Helmut Maier, John P. Furber, Bryan A. Maser, Michael E. Besse
  • Publication number: 20120276474
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of cleaning a substrate, comprising cleaning at least one surface of a substrate located in a liquid by injecting pressurized cleaning liquid containing bubbles or cleaning particles from a injection nozzle to at least one surface of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicants: HOYA CORPORATION, OSAKA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Kazuto YAMAUCHI, Tsutomu SHOKI, Takeyuki YAMADA
  • Publication number: 20120227767
    Abstract: A washing machine suitable to effect a washing treatment, thermo-disinfection and possible drying of objects, including a washing chamber in which the objects to be treated are disposed, and a washing circuit including a plurality of exit paths for a washing liquid to be distributed toward the objects to be treated. On the bottom of the washing chamber, in association with a corresponding discharge aperture, valve means to discharge the washing liquid are disposed, which are directly connected to a pipe that discharges directly into the sewerage system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: STEELCO SPA
    Inventor: Fabio ZARDINI
  • Patent number: 8210188
    Abstract: A dishwasher with both a single use dispenser and a bulk dispenser, where wash aid can be selectively dispensed into a wash chamber of the dishwasher directly from the single use dispenser or indirectly from the bulk dispenser through the single use dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Carl Wilcox, Brent Allen Deweerd
  • Publication number: 20120138105
    Abstract: Robotized cleaning device used on ferromagnetic structures that includes two symmetrical cleaning arms (100, 200) and a caterpillar type tractor (300) device that moves using magnetic soles over the bands of said caterpillar robot; and where said arms (100, 200) are jointly attached to the tractor device (300) by means of a structural profile and are essentially comprised of a cleaning roller (1), each of them operated by a reduction motor (4) coupled to said roller (1) and a plurality of nozzles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: ELIOT SYSTEMS, S.L.
    Inventor: Jordi Masia Perales
  • Publication number: 20120138101
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are related to a detergent dispenser configured to attach to an interior surface of a dishwasher door. The detergent dispenser may comprise a reservoir configured to hold detergent, wherein a portion of the upper wall of the reservoir has been removed to reduce a cross-sectional length thereof such that water flowing down the dishwasher door is encouraged into the reservoir. The detergent dispenser may also comprise a dispenser door comprising a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the dispenser door is configured to cover the reservoir in the closed configuration. The detergent dispenser may be configured to encourage water flowing down the interior surface of the dishwasher door to enter the reservoir when the dispenser door is in the open or closed configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Virgil J. Francisco, Mark D. Montgomery, Jason M. Patterson, Michael Bryan Pike, Ramon Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8166984
    Abstract: A dispenser of washing agents for a dishwasher has a body with a reservoir configured for containing a total amount of a liquid substance sufficient for performing a number of cycles of operation of the dishwasher. The reservoir has a charging passage that can be engaged by a removable plug, and the dispenser has a system for dosage of the liquid substance contained in the reservoir. The plug is configured for co-operating with an adjustment element belonging to the dosage system when the plug itself is at least partially inserted in the charging passage, particularly in such a way that a movement of rotation manually imparted on the plug will bring about a movement of rotation of the adjustment element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Eltek S.p.A.
    Inventors: Daniele Cerruti, Costanzo Gadini
  • Publication number: 20120090649
    Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus includes a substrate holding unit that horizontally holds a substrate in non-contact with a major surface of the substrate, a processing liquid supply unit that supplies a processing liquid to the major surface of the substrate held by the substrate holding unit, and a hydrophilic surface placing unit that places an annular hydrophilic surface along a peripheral portion of the major surface of the substrate held by the substrate holding unit such that the hydrophilic surface comes into contact with a liquid film of the processing liquid held on the major surface of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Hiroaki TAKAHASHI, Toru ENDO, Masahiro MIYAGI, Koji HASHIMOTO
  • Patent number: 8123149
    Abstract: A molded plastic mixing station housing for mixing water and chemical for car wash applications comprises a generally right hexahedron having a deep top recess which visually divides the housing into parallel spaced apart towers. A cylindrical mixing reservoir is recessed into the front of the housing such that a Hyrominder can be mounted in the top recess to overlie the open top of the mixing reservoir. A stand-off welt wraps around the entire housing just below the vertical center line to provide a stand-off feature for both wall mounting as well as the mounting of a control panel on one of the side surfaces of the housing. Mounting bracket slots are provided in the four upper corners of the housing for both wall mounting and control panel mounting. A deep recess runs down the back side to provide space for an overflow tube. The housing is preferably rotocast from high density polyethylene and may be color coded to match with the supply for a particular chemical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Belanger, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Tognetti, Mark D. Morin
  • Publication number: 20120000492
    Abstract: System for treating and/or processing liquid products, in particular beverages, having at least two system components, having a cleaning and rinsing system for cleaning and rinsing of at least product-carrying regions of the system components with at least one liquid cleaning and rinsing medium, and having at least one source for providing the cleaning and rinsing medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: KHS GMBH
    Inventors: Hans-Jürgen Katzenbächer, Anne Bidinger, Michael Breil
  • Patent number: 8069866
    Abstract: Conduit can connect a beverage line in fluid communication with a supply of first fluid. A pump operates to allow a second fluid to enter the conduit in a predetermined proportion relative to the first fluid. A primary first fluid control means and a secondary first fluid control means are selectively and independently movable between respective open positions in which the first fluid can flow into the conduit and respective closed positions in which flow of the first fluid into the conduit is substantially prevented. In use, the primary first fluid control means is in the open position, and the secondary first fluid control means selectively alternates between the open position and the closed position so as to create a pulsed secondary flow of the first fluid into the conduit for enhanced cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventors: Gregory Moore, Clint Donnellan
  • Patent number: 8056374
    Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering a first additive to an appliance are disclosed. The systems include a first storage container located in a pedestal, a first pump operatively connected to the first storage container and the appliance. A controller is configured to activate the first pump upon receiving an input. The first pump configured to deliver the first additive from the first storage container to the appliance. The methods include receiving a first input. The first input specifying an amount of the first additive to be delivered to the appliance. The first additive is delivered by activating a first pump in response to receiving the first input. Activating the first pump causes the first additive to be delivered to the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Christopher Gregory Hoppe
  • Patent number: 7931032
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing system for a residential dishwasher comprises a fluid reservoir that can hold liquid gel dish detergent in bulk quantities, preferably comprising the contents of at least one bottle of detergent as sold at retail, which is disposed inside a door of the dishwasher. The reservoir is filled with detergent from the inside of the door, to facilitate clean-up if any product is accidentally spilled. As a result, the dishwasher is made easier and more convenient to use, by reducing the repetitive step of loading detergent and allowing “peace of mind” delegation of the dishwashing task. Metered doses of the fluid may be dispensed. In addition to dish detergent, liquid rinse aids may also be dispensed using the disclosed system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Knight, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel J. Penkauskas, George J. Noa, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7871472
    Abstract: A household washing appliance having a wash chamber with a sump region at the bottom is disclosed. The sump region is in communication with a filter housed in a filter chamber is disclosed. The appliance further includes a biocide element in communication with the wash chamber. The wash chamber operatively receives wash liquid from a wash pump downstream of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Josef Arnold Buser
  • Patent number: 7845361
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing system for a dishwasher is disclosed, wherein the dishwasher comprises a housing, a wash chamber enclosed by the housing, and a door for accessing the wash chamber. The dispensing system, in particular, comprises a fluid reservoir for containing a wash aid (such as detergent or a rinse aid) which may be used to treat dishes in the dishwasher wash chamber during a dish cleaning cycle. The system further comprises a pump for dispensing a predetermined quantity of the wash aid from the reservoir into the dishwasher wash chamber and into the reservoir from a supply reservoir one or more times during the dish cleaning cycle. A dual purpose check valve is provided for controlling fluid flow in two opposing directions between the pump and the fluid reservoir. The dual purpose check valve comprises a duckbill valve portion for controlling fluid flow in a first direction, and an umbrella valve portion for controlling fluid flow in an opposing second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Knight, LLC
    Inventors: Rocklin Verespej, Daniel J. Penkauskas
  • Patent number: 7803230
    Abstract: In a substrate cleaning method and a substrate cleaning method according to the present invention, a brush 3 is brought into contact with a substrate W while rotating the same, and a cleaning position Sb of the brush 3 is moved relative to the substrate W from a center part of the substrate W toward a peripheral part thereof. A process fluid formed of liquid droplets and a gas is sprayed by a two-fluid nozzle 5 onto the substrate W, and a cleaning position Sn of the two-fluid nozzle 5 is moved relative to the substrate W from a center part of the substrate W toward a peripheral part thereof. During the movement of the cleaning position Sb of the brush 3 from the center part of the substrate W toward the peripheral part thereof, the cleaning position Sb of the two-fluid nozzle is positioned nearer to a center P0 than the cleaning position Sb of the brush 3. Since contaminations of the brush are prevented from adhering again to the wafer, it can be avoided that the wafer W is contaminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Masaru Amai, Kenji Sekiguchi, Takehiko Orii, Hiroki Ohno, Satoru Tanaka, Takuya Mori
  • Patent number: 7754025
    Abstract: A dishwasher having at least one door defining at least part of a washing area when the door is closed. The dishwasher has at least one supply housing supported by the door, and the supply housing is sized to hold an amount of liquid dish washing supply which is sufficient for a plurality of wash cycles. The dishwasher also has at least one dispenser supported by the door, and the dispenser has an outlet positioned on the door. Also, the dishwasher has an indicator operable to indicate how much of the liquid dish washing supply remains in the supply housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Beverage Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry Lee Crisp, III
  • Patent number: 7740709
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing a photoresist from a substrate which includes a stripping bath chamber, a conveying unit conveying a substrate containing a photoresist through the stripping bath chamber, a photoresist stripper material supplying unit positioned to dispense the photoresist stripper material to the substrate while the substrate is disposed in the stripping bath chamber, an antifoaming agent supplying unit disposed in the stripping bath chamber dispensing an antifoaming agent toward the photoresist stripper material in the stripping bath chamber, an antifoaming agent storing unit communicating with the antifoaming agent supplying unit supplying the antifoaming agent thereto, and a stripper storing unit operatively connected to the stripper supplying unit supplying stored photoresist stripper material thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: LG Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tae Woon Kim
  • Publication number: 20100095712
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a detergent supply apparatus for a drum laundry machine, and more particularly to, a fluid detergent and fabric softener box assembly which can be attached and detached to/from a detergent supply apparatus, and temporarily stores a fluid detergent and a fabric softener until they are selectively introduced into a washing room in water supply. A fluid detergent and fabric softener box assembly includes a cap which can prevent a fabric softener and a fluid detergent from being splashed into another section in a barrier portion between the fluid detergent and the fabric softener due to a fall head of water supplied from a water supply inlet of a dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventor: Bo Yeon KIM
  • Patent number: 7699063
    Abstract: A drawer-type dishwasher includes a dispenser mounted to one of front and opposing side walls of a basin. The basin is slidably supported in an outer body of the dishwasher. The dispenser includes a main body portion, first and second reservoirs and an actuator. Each of the first and second reservoirs includes upper and lower openings. The first reservoir includes a cover that selectively closes the upper opening, while the lower opening is opened by the actuator. The second reservoir is provided with first and second lids pivotally mounted to the main body portion. The first lid is opened to allow loading of wash aid, while the second lid is opened during a wash operation to release the wash aid. After the wash operation concludes, the second lid is closed, causing the first lid to open allowing detergent to again be loaded into the second reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel Hruby
  • Patent number: 7678199
    Abstract: A method is provided for reducing the amount of film fragments discharged into a processing liquid circulation system during removal of films from wafers, thereby reducing the frequency of filter cleaning or filter replacement. The method includes exposing a wafer containing a film formed thereon in a process chamber of a substrate processing system to a processing liquid, where the wafer is not rotated or is rotated at a first speed and the processing liquid is discharged from the process chamber to a processing liquid circulation system. Subsequently, exposure of the wafer to the processing liquid is discontinued and the wafer is rotated at a second speed greater than the first speed to centrifugally remove fragments of the film from the wafer. Next, the wafer is exposed to the same or a different processing liquid and the processing liquid is discharged from the process chamber to a processing liquid drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Shogo Mizota, Minami Teruomi, Kenji Yokomizo, Taira Masaki
  • Publication number: 20100000581
    Abstract: An apparatus with water flow paths suitable for a household cleaning appliance having both a non-bulk dispensing system and a bulk dispensing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: COLLEEN M. DOYLE, JOEL ADAM LUCKMAN, MICHAEL S. HENDRICKSON
  • Patent number: 7615122
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provides for dispensing a liquid concentrate. The source pressure of a liquid diluent is changed by a boost pump (52) to bring the pressure of the diluent to an elevated pressure. The diluent then enters an aspirator assembly (10) wherein the concentrate and diluent are mixed to form a use solution. The dynamic pressure of the diluent entering the aspirator assembly (10) is sufficient so that the amount of concentrate delivered over time is more constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Mehus, Charles A. Hodge
  • Patent number: 7610922
    Abstract: A device for the metered delivery of a liquid washing or ringing agent for a washing machine and the like. The device includes a casing which is to be secured to the machine and which is provided with a refillable reservoir for the liquid agent in which is defined a delivery receptacle capable of holding an amount of liquid agent corresponding to a plurality of metered amounts, and an electrically controlled delivery valve device associated with the receptacle and capable of permitting a flow of liquid agent from the delivery receptacle towards the washing chamber of the machine, a level-indicator device associated with the delivery receptacle and capable of signalling the instantaneous level reached by the rinsing agent in the receptacle, and a control unit connected to the indicator and arranged to control the delivery valve device in accordance with predetermined modalities as a function of the signal provided by the level-indicator device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Elbi International S.p.A.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Marone, Paolo Da Pont
  • Publication number: 20090241987
    Abstract: An endoscope cleaner includes a cleaning chamber for containing an endoscope. A vibration plate is disposed in a lower portion of the cleaning chamber. A basket portion is disposed substantially at a center of the vibration plate, for containing small parts removed from the endoscope. A nozzle opening supplies cleaning fluid into the cleaning chamber through the basket portion. Plural ultrasonic vibrators include at least one disposed under the basket portion, for vibrating the vibration plate. Furthermore, a drain port drains the cleaning fluid. A circulation line circulates the cleaning fluid from the cleaning chamber by use of the nozzle opening and the drain port. A disinfectant nozzle ejects disinfectant to disinfect the endoscope and the small parts. The basket portion has an upwards open shape, and prevents the small parts from scattering in vibration. The small parts are plural button parts or cap parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsuhiko SERIZAWA, Takayuki IIDA
  • Publication number: 20090241998
    Abstract: An apparatus for foam-assisted cleaning comprising a closable container with a funnel-shaped working chamber formed between the surface of the semiconductor wafer and the tapered base plate. The apparatus is provided with a fluid supply unit that incorporates a foam generator in the form of conical body with a flat surface on a wider end face of the conical body. This flat surface functions as a deflector for jets of neutral gas ejected onto the deflector and reflected therefrom into the interior of the fluid supply body filled with a foamable liquid. The jets of neutral gas create a zone of reduced pressure that generates gas bubbles which form the foam. The latter is displaced from the foam generator into the working chamber through a Bernoulli nozzle formed by the tip of the conical body and the outlet opening of the foam generator. The foam is formed from de-ionized water, isopropyl alcohol, and, if necessary, a surfactant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Boris Kesil, Leonid Velikov
  • Publication number: 20090199881
    Abstract: A dishwasher with both a single use dispenser and a bulk dispenser, where wash aid can be selectively dispensed into a wash chamber of the dishwasher directly from the single use dispenser or indirectly from the bulk dispenser through the single use dispenser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: CHRISTOPHER CARL WILCOX, BRENT ALLEN DEWEERD
  • Patent number: 7571734
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing system for a dishwasher door assembly having an inner door panel and an outer door panel is provided. The fluid dispensing system includes a storage tank fixedly coupled within the door assembly between the inner door panel and the outer door panel. A pump is fixedly coupled within the door assembly. A dispenser extends at least partially through the door assembly. At least one conduit is in flow communication with the storage tank, the pump, and the dispenser. A control board is in electrical communication with the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jerrod Aaron Kappler, Joseph Duane Tobbe, Paul Douglas Mantle, Shelly Elizabeth Warms