With Holder For Solid, Flaky Or Pulverized Material To Be Dissolved Or Entrained Patents (Class 137/268)
  • Patent number: 7419589
    Abstract: A water purification apparatus connected to a water system includes a hopper for holding chemical tablets on a perforated bed and an underlying basin. A spray head is detachably connected to the perforated bed and sprays water onto the tablets and parallel to the perforated bed. The basin receives the water through the perforated bed. Because the hopper allows for the use of different spray head designs, the rate at which water is introduced to the tablets, and thus the chemical output, may be modified by replacing one spray head for another having a different number of spray nozzles or having spray nozzles of a different size or shape. Consequently, the hopper of the present invention may be used for delivering the proper concentration of a variety of water treatment chemicals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Bio-Lab, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Eserkaln, Cuahutemoc H. Acevedo
  • Publication number: 20080178940
    Abstract: A cartridge for an admixing arrangement of a manually operable arrangement for spraying a solvent, in particular water, into which an additive in the form of a liquid concentrate, such as a plant or crop protection agent, has been mixed, includes an outer cartridge housing; a pressure-sensitive inner container for accommodating the liquid concentrate; a mixing chamber, the mixing chamber having a device with a first outlet opening, for the concentrate or plant spray, an inlet opening, designed as a throttle, for the solvent or water, and a second outlet opening for the concentrate/solvent mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Werner Kress
  • Patent number: 7393450
    Abstract: A system automatically maintains at least one of a pH level and a sanitizing agent level of water in a water feature. The system includes a sensor assembly responsive to at least one of a pH level of the water and a sanitizing agent level of the water. The system further includes a controller which generates control signals in response to signals from the sensor assembly. The system further includes at least one of a first source containing an sanitizing agent material and a second source containing a pH-modifying material. The system further includes a third source comprising a valve assembly and a third container containing a liquid calibrant material. The valve assembly is responsive to at least a portion of the control signals from the controller by selectively allowing the calibrant material to flow from the third container through the sensor assembly to the water feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Michael A. Silveri
  • Patent number: 7381279
    Abstract: An article of manufacture, a system, and a method for at least partially deionizing water, including but not limited to converting tap water into essentially deionized water that can be used for numerous purposes including, but not limited to cleaning and/or treating surfaces, including surfaces such as ceramic, steel, plastic, glass and/or painted surfaces such as the exterior surface of a vehicle, is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Bruce Barger, Carlos Antonio Barea, Alan Scott Goldstein, Phillip Kyle Vinson
  • Patent number: 7347935
    Abstract: An inline dispenser and purification device combination comprising an inline dispenser having fluid ports directly mateable to the ports of a fitted cartridge and a universal cartridge having no ports for connection with the fluid ports of the inline dispenser and a method of replacing a fitted cartridge located within a inline dispenser with a universal cartridge having no ports for connection with the fluid ports of the inline dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: King Technology, Inc
    Inventor: Joseph A. King
  • Patent number: 7329345
    Abstract: A cartridge holder and a floating dispenser system for dispensing materials into a fluid with the floating dispenser system including a cartridge holder with receptacles for removably attaching or detaching at least two cartridge dispensers therein to allow one to simultaneously dispense materials into a fluid system by placing the floating dispensing system in a body of fluids and to replenish the system by merely removing and replacing a cartridge in the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: KWG Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. King, Jeffery Johnson, Michael Pontius
  • Patent number: 7311114
    Abstract: A method of providing access to the interior of a cross-line that intersects with a primary pipeline of equal or greater diameter, including the steps of attaching a branch fitting to the exterior of the primary pipeline on the side thereof opposite the point of intersection of the cross-line, affixing a full opening valve to the branch fitting, securing a hot tap machine to the valve, by use of the hot tap machine, cutting an opening in the primary pipeline diametrically opposite of the cross-line and of a diameter at least equal to the internal diameter of the cross-line, and removing the hot tap machine leaving an access through the valve and diametrically through the primary pipeline into the interior of the cross-line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip K. Morrison, Eric N. Freeman, Mark A. Morgan, Tony R. Garrison
  • Patent number: 7297257
    Abstract: A mechanical release system and method for eliminating scale conditions in water are described. The mechanical release system may include a pressure vessel comprising a head that has a through hole extending from an inlet to an outlet on opposite sides of the head, the through hole divided by at least a circumferential partial rib into an inlet section and an outlet section. Implementations may work without restricting water flow or “water-starving” equipment and control water before it enters equipment and create a scale-eliminating environment within water for extended periods of time (e.g., up to six months or more).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Terry, LLC
    Inventor: LeRoy Henery Terry
  • Patent number: 7297256
    Abstract: A pressure gradient dosing system is provided for a fluid supply system. A flow passage has first and second pressure zones having a pressure gradient therebetween. An additive reservoir in an additive delivery system responds to the pressure gradient to release additive to the flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Fleet Guard, Inc.
    Inventors: Ted S. Loftis, David L. Brisk, Barry M. Verdegan, Harold R. Martin, Jr., Peter K. Herman, Ismail C. Bagci, Abby True-Dahl
  • Patent number: 7275552
    Abstract: A dishwasher comprises a bulk wash aid dispenser than can store both solid and liquid bulk wash aids and dispense controllable amounts therefrom during dishwashing cycles. The controllable amounts are typically single charges, the amount required during a selected dishwashing cycle. The single charges can be dispensed individually or simultaneously and all at once or at various intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Brent A. DeWeerd, Thomas Haft, Jeff M. Borah
  • Patent number: 7274016
    Abstract: A liquid sample (104) introduced in a main flow passage (101) is held in a dam portion (105), and a trigger liquid (106) is filled in a trigger flow passage (102). In this state, the trigger liquid (106) is further introduced at desired timing into the trigger flow passage (102) so that the front end portion of the level of the trigger liquid (106) is advanced and the front end portion is brought to be into contact with the dam portion (105). This causes the liquid sample (104) to move to the right (downstream side) in the figure, resulting in the liquid sample (104) flowing out to the downstream side of the main flow passage (101). This means that the trigger liquid (106) provides priming to realize a liquid switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Iida, Masakazu Baba, Hisao Kawaura, Toru Sano, Noriyuki Iguchi, Hiroko Someya, Wataru Hattori, Minoru Asogawa
  • Patent number: 7261118
    Abstract: Vessel and method for the production and delivery of a precursor-containing fluid stream comprising the gaseous phase of a precursor material are disclosed herein. In one aspect, there is provided an vessel comprising: an interior volume wherein the interior volume is segmented into an upper volume and a lower volume wherein the upper volume and the lower volume are in fluid communication; a lid comprising a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, an optional fill port, and an internal recess wherein at least a portion of the upper volume resides within the internal recess; a sidewall interposed between the lid and a base; and at least one protrusion that extends into the lower volume wherein the precursor is in contact with the at least one protrusion and wherein at least one protrusion extends from at least one selected from the lid, the sidewall, the base, and combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Michael Birtcher, Richard J. Dunning, Robert Daniel Clark, Arthur Kenneth Hochberg, Thomas Andrew Steidl
  • Patent number: 7143778
    Abstract: A feeder device for introducing treatment chemicals into a recirculating water stream from a swimming pool. The feeder device includes a housing having a top and bottom portions. A funnel-like hopper having sidewalls and an open bottom forms the inside of the top portion. A grid at least partially closes the open bottom of the hopper. The grid includes a top surface and a bottom surface. One or more chemicals such as chlorine are contained within the sidewalls of the hopper and supported by the top surface of the grid. A dissolving cup having a bottom surface and sidewalls is positioned within the bottom portion. The sidewalls include an opening or notch of a predetermined cross-sectional area formed therein. The bottom surface includes a center nozzle oriented vertically toward the bottom surface of the grid and an off-center nozzle adapted to direct the fluid horizontally in the dissolving cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Arch Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Blanchette, Christopher M. Zetena, Michael Paloian, Anthony R. Orchard
  • Patent number: 7112276
    Abstract: A medium having a support structure configured for circulation of a fluid therein, such as a replaceable filter cartridge, including a sanitizing agent which contains one or more reactants that are chemically configured for delivering chlorine dioxide or other sanitizing agents in a controlled dose to sanitize, deodorize, and disinfect upon being wetted by the fluid and positioned in the medium support structure to be exposed to the fluid circulating therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Thomas D. Holler
  • Patent number: 7097771
    Abstract: The invention provides a device containing an ion-exchange resin to which is chemically bound a fuel additive material which will gradually be released from the resin into a fuel in which the device is placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Afton Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: William J. Colucci
  • Patent number: 7093606
    Abstract: A liquid fertilizer injector system attached to a water source by a water source has an inlet line to input the water from the water source line into the liquid fertilizer injector system. The system's components include a holding tank to receive the water from the inlet line, a collapsible impermeable bag that is filled with liquid fertilizer and is placed in the holding tank, the water from the inlet line collecting in the holding tank and exerting pressure on the collapsible impermeable bag as it collects in the holding tank, an outlet line to disperse the liquid fertilizer back to the water source line, a port position indicator valve on the outlet line, to incrementally control the flow of liquid fertilizer from the outlet line back to the water source line, and a drainage valve to drain any input water in the holding tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7083717
    Abstract: A chlorinator connected to a water system includes a hopper for holding chemical tablets on a perforated bed and an underlying basin. A spray head is supported by the perforated bed and sprays water onto the tablets and parallel to the perforated bed. The basin receives the water through the perforated bed. Rinse nozzles in the basin are connected to the re-circulation system, and a float valve controls the flow of water to the rinse nozzles. A discharge pump draws water from the basin and discharges it to the water system at a rate faster than water is added to the basin by the spray head, but at the same rate as the overall incoming water makeup water is added to the basin through the rinse nozzles and the float valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: BioLab, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald L. Hustelll, Jason M. Crain, Stephen D. Clark, Acevedo H. Cuahutemoc
  • Patent number: 7060190
    Abstract: A cartridge holder and a floating dispenser system for dispensing materials into a fluid with the floating dispenser system including a cartridge holder with receptacles for removably attaching or detaching at least two cartridge dispensers therein to allow one to simultaneously dispense materials into a fluid system by placing the floating dispensing system in a body of fluids and to replenish the system by merely removing and replacing a cartridge in the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventors: Joseph A. King, Jeffery Johnson, Micheal Pontius
  • Patent number: 6969011
    Abstract: Disclosed is a chemical additive dispensing device for use with a station of a sprinkler-based irrigation system that includes a fluid diversion housing and a container for storing a chemical additive. The fluid diversion housing includes an in-flow channel formed therein that is in fluid communication with an input port and the container. An out-flow channel is also formed within the fluid diversion housing and is in fluid communication with an output port and the container. In operation, the container fills with fluid from the in-flow channel such that the fluid mixes with the chemical additive. Once the container is filled with fluid, the mixture of fluid and chemical additive is diverted through the out-flow channel of the fluid diversion housing to the outlet port such that the fluid chemical additive mixture is distributed to the rest of the irrigation system and particularly through sprinklers onto a lawn and/or plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Michael B. Palmer
  • Patent number: 6948510
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for delivering both quick dispensing water treatment materials and slow dispensing water treatment materials from the same dispensing unit by dispensing the slow dispensing water treatment materials over an extended period of time and the quick dispensing water treatment materials in a matter of minutes to allow the container for the quick dispensing water treatment materials to be removed and replaced with either a container containing a different quick dispensing water treatment materials or a container containing a slow dispensing water treatment material and a closed container for holding a quick dispensing water treatment materials therein and for dispensing the quick dispensing water treatment material therefrom through a process of cross circulation between a fluid stream of waster and the quick dispensing water treatment material in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: King Technology
    Inventor: Joseph A. King
  • Patent number: 6948663
    Abstract: A chemical distribution apparatus contains at least one, and preferably multiple chambers which house magazines which accept solid lawn treatment chemicals such as fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, lime treatments, pre-emergents, post-emergents, and the like. As water is passed into the chemical distribution apparatus, it is preferably selectively controlled by a controller to a particular chamber for distribution of a particular chemical in accordance with a pre-set schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: William C. Graham, Jr., Annette Michelle Graham
  • Patent number: 6925671
    Abstract: The ability to pig a pipeline is considered necessary and vital to most pipeline operations. The present invention provides a pig inserting apparatus and method designed to satisfy the need to Insert pigs for large diameter gasoline pipelines that are made of concrete and weigh in excess of 400 pounds. In the past, the industry has used ineffectively manpower or motorized vehicles to insert the pigs. This pig launcher uses a means for propelling the pig that includes: a spool rotatably mounted. The pair of cables is connected to the spool and engage the ends of the cantilevered arms for propelling the pig a pair of cantilevered arms, and a pair of cables of sufficient strength to firmly fasten onto the end of a pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC
    Inventor: Kevin J. Mouton
  • Patent number: 6924257
    Abstract: A device for generating a liquid detergent concentrate from a solid detergent is provided. The device includes a solid detergent reservoir for holding solid detergent, a stock solution reservoir for holding stock solution, and a hot water heater for controlling the temperature of water used to generate the stock solution from the solid detergent. A method for generating a liquid detergent concentrate from a solid detergent and a method for washing a vehicle are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Terry James Klos, Scott A. Johansen, Paul J. Mattia
  • Patent number: 6915811
    Abstract: A feeder that uses a local elevation or stationary wave of a body of water to facilitate the dissolving of a chlorine-containing water treatment chemical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Arch Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Blanchette, Christopher M. Zetena, Michael Paloian, Anthony R. Orchard
  • Patent number: 6915814
    Abstract: A transparent pipe trap with means of enhancing the biodegradation of sink effluents in a household sink uses a screen located “downstream” from the trap to deflect valuable items into the trap. The trap is easily drained and easily removed, for convenient retrieval of valuable items, such as rings, which are lost down a sink or other drain. The invention also promotes the biodegradation of sink effluents through time-release biodegradation substances in the cup and/or coated upon the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Dara Cheng
  • Patent number: 6913691
    Abstract: A medium having a support structure configured for circulation of a fluid therein, such as a replaceable filter cartridge, including a sanitizing agent which contains one or more reactants that are chemically configured for delivering chlorine dioxide or other sanitizing agents in a controlled dose to sanitize, deodorize, and disinfect upon being wetted by the fluid and positioned in the medium support structure to be exposed to the fluid circulating therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: CUNO Incorporated
    Inventor: Thomas D. Holler
  • Patent number: 6901945
    Abstract: A system of equipment allowing addition of solid materials to a pressurized pipeline wherein said solid material is conveyed in such a way as to be readily dissolved by the liquid in said pipeline. The system includes a solid material transfer device that is used to transfer solid material to the point of intake in a pressurized pipeline, without allowing liquid from the process pipeline to access the solid material in the solid material feeder. The system of equipment has been found to be particularly useful in feeding pellets containing resazurin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Robert R. Adams, Rodney H. Banks, Mita Chattoraj, Joe L. Schwartz
  • Patent number: 6886592
    Abstract: A sewer relief valve assembly comprises a cylindrical sleeve dimensioned for insertion into a clean out which has an interior surface formed as a conduit and exterior threads adapted for mated engagement with the interior threads of the clean out. A valve means is disposed in the cylindrical sleeve which is displaceable from a closed position to an open position by pressurized fluid in the clean out. At least one perforated compartment is disposed inside the cylindrical sleeve which contains a water-soluble disinfectant composition. The valve means is displaceable by fluid pressure to the open position permitting discharge of the effluent through the clean out and the simultaneous release of the water-soluble disinfectant composition from the perforated compartment into the effluent. A water-soluble dye composition can also be included in the perforated compartment so that sewage overflow from the clean out is readily visible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: James R. Hart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6869529
    Abstract: There is disclosed an automatic chemical feed system for retro-fitting to any existing fluid circulating system of the type having an inlet pipe which feeds water to a fluid reservoir and an outlet pipe for feeding fluid to the circulating system, the present system including an inlet pipe adapter for inner connection with the inlet pipe, a fluid diverter connected to the adapter for diverting a portion of the flow, a chemical chamber containing a supply of fluid purification chemicals in solid particulate format, the chamber being in fluid communication with the diverter, and the chamber having an inlet opening for allowing fluid to enter the chamber, and an outlet opening for passing treated fluid out of the chamber back to the fluid reservoir for circulation in the circulating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventors: Dennis Cerny, Garrett Garcia
  • Patent number: 6855252
    Abstract: A device for delivering chemical solutions into a liquid flow, where the chemical solution is created by dissolving solid chemical contained within a chemical dispenser cartridge, the dispenser cartridge having an intake aperture located on the upper portion of its side wall and a dispensing aperture on its removable cap member, such that a saturated chemical solution is formed in the cartridge and passes into the liquid flow through the dispensing aperture due to the pressure differential of the liquid flowing through a tubular filter, the dispenser cartridge being mounted within the tubular filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: John B. Brandreth, III
  • Patent number: 6827292
    Abstract: A fertilizer dispenser with an inlet compartment and an outlet compartment with an inlet into the top of the inlet compartment. The inlet is connected to an inlet sub-line directed into the inlet compartment and an outlet sub-line directed into the outlet compartment. An outlet is located in the bottom of the outlet compartment. The inlet compartment and the outlet compartment are separated by a baffle which permits flow over the baffle from the inlet compartment to the outlet compartment. The fertilizer dispenser is used with a System for watering with a supply hoses connected in series with seep hoses. The seep hoses are located about the vegetation to be watered while the supply hoses are connected in series to the seep hoses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Kelly
  • Patent number: 6814306
    Abstract: A feed device is provided which can release a mixing solution in a suitable amount in correspondence with a flow rate of running water to thereby use the mixing solution efficiently so that the service life and exchange period of a cartridge can be prolonged. The feed device includes a body having a supply channel and a cartridge provided in the body. The cartridge includes a holding chamber for holding a mixing solution and a dilution chamber. The dilution chamber communicates with the supply channel through a sustained release outlet, and is supplied with the mixing solution from the holding chamber. When water passes through the supply channel, the mixing solution supplied to the dilution chamber is diluted with from the sustained release outlet. The mixing solution diluted to a uniform low concentration is sustainedly released from the dilution chamber through the sustained release outlet to the supply channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Takayasu Okubo
  • Patent number: 6814095
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for delivering both quick dispensing water treatment materials and slow dispensing water treatment materials from the same dispensing unit by dispensing the slow dispensing water treatment materials over an extended period of time and the quick dispensing water treatment materials in a matter of minutes to allow the container for the quick dispensing water treatment materials to be removed and replaced with either a container containing a different quick dispensing water treatment materials or a container containing a slow dispensing water treatment material and a closed container for holding a quick dispensing water treatment materials therein and for dispensing the quick dispensing water treatment material therefrom through a process of cross circulation between a fluid stream of waster and the quick dispensing water treatment material in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph A. King
  • Patent number: 6807980
    Abstract: A hydraulic giant, with an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe in its body, which are connected through an axle hole; at the terminal of inlet pipe, there is a blocking cove, which leans upward with a water-distribution hole on the bottom side for downward water distribution from the inlet pipe. There is a guiding hole beneath the intersection of outlet pipe and inlet pipe, on top of which is a regulating valve for flow control. A globe valve switch for controlling water input being installed in the head end portion of the inlet pipe, where will be followed by the connection of a water hose or a further appliance. A tubular cleaning solution container, which is removed freely and is set below the water-distribution hole and guiding hole on the body of hydraulic giant for containing cleaning solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Yu Chung Liao
  • Patent number: 6805149
    Abstract: A chemical delivery system having a body defining a main fluid flow passage through which a fluid passes and a storage tank for holding a chemical. An inlet nozzle delivers a quantity of the fluid in the main fluid flow passage to the storage tank to be mixed with the chemical and an outlet nozzle returns a quantity of the mixed fluid to the main fluid flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: E-Z Flo Injection Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan Gilmore
  • Publication number: 20040163708
    Abstract: An apparatus to dispense water soluble compositions into a process stream involves recirculating water through the water soluble chemical held in a tank. The recirculating water is heated to establish a defined temperature and repeatedly recirculated through the bed of chemical to achieve relative saturation concentration of the recirculating water. The water is dispensed from the recirculating unit thereby achieving a consistent concentration of chemical in the dispensed water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventors: John F. Schwamberger, Edward R. Bowden
  • Publication number: 20040163675
    Abstract: A device for use in a dishwashing machine to dispense a water-soluble glass or ceramic composition into the machine over a plurality of dishwashing cycles comprising: a) a shaped body made of the water-soluble glass or ceramic composition; and b) a container for holding said shaped body with at least part of its walls having perforations allowing a controlled circulation of the washing liquor into and out of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventors: Karlheinz Hanh, Jurgen Schick, Tobias Schultheis
  • Patent number: 6779539
    Abstract: An apparatus to dispense water soluble compositions into a process stream involves recirculating water through the water soluble chemical held in a tank. The recirculating water is heated to establish a defined temperature and repeatedly recirculated through the bed of chemical to achieve relative saturation concentration of the recirculating water. The water is dispensed from the recirculating unit thereby achieving a consistent concentration of chemical in the dispensed water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Schwamberger, Edward R. Bowden
  • Patent number: 6773668
    Abstract: A solid detergent dispenser for use with a dishwashing machine includes a chamber and a lid. The chamber is configured and arranged to receive a solid detergent having a particular composition. A water inlet receives water from a water source, and the water flows through a tunnel into the bottom of the chamber. The chamber is flooded with water from the bottom to ensure relatively constant erosion of the solid detergent, which ensures that a relatively constant concentration of the solid detergent is used in the dishwashing machine. A water outlet allows water to flow out of the chamber into the dishwashing machine. The water must flow into the chamber faster than it flows out of the chamber to ensure that the appropriate amount of dissolution of the solid detergent occurs. The only valve used in the preferred embodiment is a valve to control the amount of water flowing into the water inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Ecolab, Inc.
    Inventors: Terrence P. Everson, Lee M. Monsrud, Michael P. Kremer, Edward D. Sowle
  • Publication number: 20040103940
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention, a dissolvable product feed apparatus for dissolving a feeding dissolvable product includes a dissolvable product holding vessel and an automatic flow control device fluidly connected to the holding vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventors: David E. Rosser, William J. Beer
  • Patent number: 6739351
    Abstract: According to one embodiment of the present invention, a dissolvable product feed apparatus for dissolving a feeding dissolvable product includes a dissolvable product holding vessel and an automatic flow control device fluidly connected to the holding vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: GE Betz, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Rosser, William J. Beer
  • Patent number: 6732757
    Abstract: An improved water-treatment canister configuration of the chemical-dispensing bypass type, employing a screw-cap for periodic replenishment of an active chemical-feed ingredient; —featuring a special EZ-PURGE™ push-button bleed-valve device, enabling more convenient means by which to quickly and reliably release air otherwise remaining debilitatingly-captive within the canister upon replacement of the screw-cap during routine-maintance. An collar like security/cap-lock device employing a conventional padlock, serves as an antitamper-device, while an “Emergency Service”—label is also included, whereby an inexperienced person can simply deactivate the metering-system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Roger A. Benham
  • Publication number: 20040079413
    Abstract: A hydraulic giant, with an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe in its body, which are connected through an axle hole; at the terminal of inlet pipe, there is a blocking cove, which leans upward with a water-distribution hole on the bottom side for downward water distribution from the inlet pipe. There is a guiding hole beneath the intersection of outlet pipe and inlet pipe, on top of which is a regulating valve for flow control. A tubular cleaning solution container, which is removed freely and is set below the water-distribution hole and guiding hole on the body of hydraulic giant for containing cleaning solution. Through above combinations, the regulating valve is used to drive and control the axial direction flow of the guiding hole, thus to adjust the flow speed of downward distributed water flows, and thus the mixing proportion of cleaning solution with fresh water is more effectively regulated and controlled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Yu Chung Liao
  • Patent number: 6722527
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fluid dispenser for dispensing landscape maintenance fluids or the like which contain products such as fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. The fluid dispenser injects the fluids directly into the mainstream of an irrigation system. The dispensing system operates by shunting a portion of the main irrigation water stream through a bypass to the dispenser containing the product to be dispensed. The water dilutes the product to be applied, and is injected back into the main irrigation stream by the back pressure of the irrigation system. When the irrigation is completed, the fluid flow in the main irrigation stream is reduced or terminated and the pressure drops. After the pressure drops, the fluid ceases to be diverted to the container, and the main irrigation stream drains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Krauss
  • Patent number: 6722583
    Abstract: A lawn sprinkler accessory with a hollow body defining a chamber for holding lawn treatment material, such as fertilizer, herbicide or insecticide. The accessory body has a hollow water inlet arm on one side and a hollow water outlet arm on the opposite side of the chamber. An access opening with a removable closure in one end of the accessory body enables the insertion of lawn treatment material into the chamber and its removal from the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventors: Mariano Restaino, Jr., Patricia Controne Restaino
  • Patent number: 6705358
    Abstract: A solution to the problem of reducing the bulk and weight of detergents for delivery to users by providing in at least one embodiment an in situ, discrete, batch mixing method and system for a diluent and concentrated detergent at a point of dispense. While some systems are designed to mix diluents and detergents, those systems are typically designed for continuous flow, for example, in a manufacturing facility. The present invention provides for mixing the diluent and detergents in discrete batches sized for a user at the point of dispense, using a method and system that can be located even in remote areas without an external power supply. The system and method only needs diluent line pressure in at least one embodiment. Further, the method and system controls access to the batch quantity so that multiple batches are not unintentionally extracted. The method and system can be used with vending machines placed on site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Paul Lee Tortorici, Jr., Michael Joseph Doll, Stephen P. Giles, Kirk Herbert Raney, Kim Colson Millspaugh
  • Patent number: 6701944
    Abstract: A removable cartridge for a detergent dispensing system for a dishwasher comprising: a storage unit containing a plurality of cylindrical or spherical detergent tablets arranged in two or more rows with curved surfaces of adjacent tablets touching such that when the cartridge is upright the tablets will move under gravity towards a transfer station, a transfer station comprising ejection means to eject a tablet from the transfer station through a transfer port out of the cartridge, a transfer seal associated with the transfer port to prevent ingress of moisture into the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Paul McNabb, Willem Oldenburg, Kevin Roberts
  • Patent number: 6701953
    Abstract: A chemical mixing and metering apparatus is provided which can be easily incorporated into existing irrigation lines. The apparatus includes a venturi which is positioned along an irrigation supply line. The venturi is connected to a chemical supply container by a chemical conduit and by a bypass conduit. A valve is positioned in the bypass conduit to regulate the flow of irrigation fluid from the irrigation supply line into the chemical supply container. A check valve or vent is provided in the container to prevent formation of a vacuum. The chemical mixing and metering apparatus is operable in two modes of operation. Firstly, the apparatus may be operated as a vacuum system by closing the valve in the bypass conduit. Secondly, the system may be operated in a force feed/vacuum mode by opening the valve in the bypass conduit. Moreover, the apparatus may be used to inject solid and/or liquid chemicals into an irrigation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Stay Green, Inc.
    Inventor: Vito Agosta
  • Patent number: 6680026
    Abstract: “Plug-in” fluid flow diverters are disclosed. Additionally disclosed is water purification equipment adapted to communicate with the diverters. Such equipment is especially (although not solely) useful in connection with circulating streams of water present in systems associated with swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas, as the circulating nature of the water permits more of its volume ultimately to be diverted into the equipment for purification. The diverters, furthermore, may have entrances oriented to receive fluid travelling in only one direction through a conduit and be keyed to one or more components of the equipment for purposes of identification, inventory control, or otherwise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Zodiac Pool Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond P. Denkewicz, Jr., Alvin Costa, Daniel J. Nelsen, Michael C. Pereira, Justin W. Sirotin, Michael Vieira, Aidan J. Petrie
  • Patent number: RE39459
    Abstract: A fertilizer and insecticide capsule attaching to an in-ground sprinkler system allowing lawn and garden chemicals to be dispensed simultaneously to a lawn or garden while watering it. Lawn and garden chemicals in tablet or liquid form can be used interchangeably with ease. This method of chemically treating a lawn or garden greatly reduces or eliminates chemical exposure to a user while dispensing chemicals onto a lawn or garden. The present invention is easy to install and use, and saves a user time by combining process of watering a lawn or garden with process of chemically treating a lawn or garden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Norbert B. Kastner