Extensible And Retractable Conduit Patents (Class 15/315)
  • Publication number: 20020174508
    Abstract: A vacuum cord and hose holder has a base with a pair of oppositely disposed wings protruding upwardly therefrom to support the vacuum hose. Adjacent to each of the wings is an arcuate slot, providing a pair of arcuate slots adapted to receive the vacuum hose. On one wing is the cord hook, in which the vacuum cord may be received for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventor: Edward P. Iversen
  • Publication number: 20020157207
    Abstract: A spray boom assembly adapted for mounting on a vehicle, includes a pair of spray booms mounted for movement between a horizontally extended rigged-out position and an elevated rigged-in position. A single power cylinder moves the booms between the rigged-out and rigged-in positions and a lift link assembly is pivotally attached to the boom to effect elevation of the boom automatically upon rigging-in and depression of the boom automatically to its horizontally extended rigged-out position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Bradley Zazula, R. Shawn Mooney
  • Patent number: 6438792
    Abstract: An apparatus for unwinding/rewinding a suction hose for draining or purging cesspools, septic tanks, sewers or the like which includes, on a truck, a reel with which, in a peripheral region, a radial hose guide is associated, the hose guide including a composite am with guiding elements for the hose, wherein the arm is peripherally articulated to the reel so as to pitch, in an adjustable manner actuated by actuation elements, about an axis which is parallel to a tangent to the reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Cappellotto S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luigi Cappellotto
  • Publication number: 20020112313
    Abstract: A method and a device for decontaminating interior spaces are proposed. It is provided here that a base station and at least one mobile subunit are provided, the base station comprising a supply of decontamination agent and fuel and the subunit comprising decontamination equipment and a tank for ready-to-use decontamination agent, that the subunit is supplied with decontamination agent and with fuel at the base station and then transported to the item requiring decontamination of its interior space, the decontamination of the interior space is carried out and subsequently the subunit is returned to the base station to be re-supplied there with decontamination agent and fuel. Also proposed is a device with an off-road, automotive undercarriage with a drive motor, a storage tank for a decontamination liquid and a receiving tank for used decontamination liquid as well as a spray-extraction device for decontaminating the interior surface and with a generator for supplying power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Toepfer, Roland Kurz, Ruediger Hellstern, Ulli Reinhardt, Dimitri Dratchnev
  • Patent number: 6430772
    Abstract: A duct cleaning apparatus having one or more suction hose racks for storing straight lengths of suction tubing. Because the suction hose racks allow suction hose to be stored efficiently within the duct cleaning apparatus, the apparatus may include sufficient storage space for simultaneously storing multiple straight lengths of suction hose, a portable duct cleaning unit, a boroscope, and other tools. The duct cleaning apparatus may also have a plurality of air hoses which may be operated simultaneously to allow users to perform two or more air sweeps simultaneously on a duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: IAQ, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Stricklin
  • Patent number: 6427284
    Abstract: A vacuum hose storage unit for insertion within a wall is described that includes a housing with a nozzle/retractor compartment and a hose storage compartment. An opening in the hose storage compartment is in communication with an external conduit leading to a remote vacuum source. Initially, the housing can be used to connect a separately stored hose to the vacuum source by positioning an inlet connector in the nozzle/retractor compartment, and connecting an internal conduit from the inlet connector to the opening in the hose compartment. Subsequently, the internal conduit can be replaced with a hose that is stored in the hose storage compartment and a retractor to extend the hose through the nozzle/retractor compartment. One part of the nozzle/retractor compartment can be covered with a wall covering, with the retractor being inserted into another part of the nozzle/retractor compartment and then moved behind the wall covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Vacs America, Inc.
    Inventors: Clyde W. Harrelson, II, Clyde W. Harrelson, III, William R. Jones, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6370453
    Abstract: A self-moving device and method for the complete and full automatic examination of floor surfaces of all kind as well as for a particularly efficient suction of dust therefrom. In each case, the robot is controlled so as to explore the adjacent area and to detect the potential obstacles using special sensors before storing them in a data field. The displacement towards a new location is then carried out using the stored data until the whole accessible surface has been covered. One of the main constituent members of the robot includes an extensible arm that rests on the robot and on which contact and range sensors are arranged. When the robot is used as an automatic vacuum cleaner, an air flow is forced into the robot arm and the cleaning effect can further be enhanced by providing one or more circular rotary brushes at the front end of the arm. This device can essentially be used for domestic or industrial cleaning purposes with a view to replace traditional vacuum cleaners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Volker Sommer
  • Patent number: 6360786
    Abstract: A system is used for removing catalyst from a tubular reactor vessel. A power box with a 110 volt to a 12 volt DC transformer is mounted outside the vessel and connected to a 110 volt power supply. An air manifold, also mounted outside the vessel, is connected to a high-pressure air supply and connects to several valves with a separate connection to the power box. Several workstations are placed on the tube sheet within the vessel. The workstation has a frame, a drum and reel assembly mounted on the frame along with a 12 volt DC motor. An air lance hose passes into the drum and reel assembly and, at the other end, connects to an air lance and vacuum assembly. A high pressure air hose connects the drum and reel assembly to one of the valves located outside of the vessel. A controller connects to the 12 volt DC motor to power the drum and reel assembly. The controller is also connected to the power box located outside the vessel and to a foot control. A seat is mounted on the drum and reel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Catalyst Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Fry
  • Publication number: 20020013974
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner hose has a helical reinforcement and a compressible channel extending along the hose between the reinforcement. The channel is formed between two overlapping layers of flexible material bonded together where they extend over the reinforcement and unbonded where they extend between the reinforcement. Passages containing valves connect one end of the channel to the outlet of a vacuum cleaner pump and to its inlet so that air can be either supplied to the channel to extend the hose or withdrawn from the channel to retract the hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventors: Diane Gibson, Derek Robert Harkness McGaw
  • Publication number: 20010022009
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner installation has a unit with an outer housing installed within the thickness of an outside wall of a room. The housing contains a blower, a bag for waste material and a hose. The blower is connected to draw waste material along the hose and into the bag, the exhaust air venting externally of the room through a grille on the outside wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Donald Aldo Spearman
  • Patent number: 6182327
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for storing and dispensing a vacuum hose of a central vacuum system. The apparatus comprises a base frame, a basket pivotally mounted on a thrust bearing affixed to the base frame, and a conduit rigidly held above the basket relative to the base frame and extending along the pivotal axis of the basket. When a vacuum hose is inserted downward inside the conduit and into the basket, the weight and resiliency of the hose causes the basket to rotate for coiling the hose therein without twisting it. The hose is thereby neatly stowable between uses. In another aspect, the base frame and the basket are installed beneath the floor of a house and the conduit extends upwardly into a wall cabinet above the main floor of the house and near a vacuum inlet socket of the central vacuum system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: Tilmon Joseph Paul Gosselin
  • Patent number: 6182716
    Abstract: An electric motor is operatively connected to a reel for selectively storing, paying out, and rewinding an air lance of a device for unloading catalyst from tubular reactors. The electric motor powered reel provides improved on/off control of the air lance mounted on the reel, a braking force during withdrawal of the air lance from the reel, constant speed operation during rotation of the reel, and avoids the problem of lubricant contamination of the catalyst and reactor tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Philip ST, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Fry
  • Patent number: 6120615
    Abstract: A central vacuum system is provided that has a permanently installed vacuum unit, which is preferably installed in a garage of a structure. A flexible hose is attached to a vacuum inlet on the vacuum unit and extends from the vacuum unit into an attic space in a structure. The flexible hose passes into a living space of a structure through a ceiling orifice. A retractor mechanism proximate the ceiling orifice is used to retrieve a length of the flexible hose from the living space and to deliver the flexible hose into the attic space for storage. A vertical hose guide is installed in the attic space. The vertical hose guide has a U-shaped bend on an upper end of the vertical hose guide to receive the flexible hose from the retractor mechanism and to deliver the flexible hose downwards onto a floor of the attic from a height above the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: D. Chris Fletcher
  • Patent number: 6108861
    Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner includes a housing having a suction motor and a filter chamber. A floor nozzle is connected to the housing. A hose, which communicates with the filter chamber, includes a first end, an intermediate portion and a second end. A wand, which has a first end and a second end, is selectively mounted on the housing. At least a part of the hose intermediate portion extends longitudinally through the wand from the first end to the second end. The hose first end is secured to the wand first end. A connector assembly is secured on the hose second end. When the wand is selectively mounted on the housing, a section of the hose intermediate portion is stowed in the wand. When the wand is spaced from the housing, the section of the hose intermediate portion is pulled out of the wand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Royal Appliance Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: Robert A. Vystrcil, Mark E. Cipolla, Charles J. Thur, Jeffrey M. Kalman, Michael F. Wright, Robert A. Salo
  • Patent number: 6092261
    Abstract: A vacuum trash collection vehicle includes a vehicle mounted debris container and a hose connected at one end to the debris container. There is a source of vacuum on the vehicle and it is applied to the hose. The hose is open at one end to form a collection nozzle. The hose is boom supported by the vehicle and there are driver accessible controls for moving the hose and nozzle for debris collection. There is a debris collection wand assembly mounted on the vehicle which includes a flexible collapsible hose connected at one end to the debris container and having a source of vacuum applied thereto. There is a valve for controlling the application of vacuum to the collapsible hose. A tubular portable wand is mounted on the vehicle and removable for debris collection. The collapsible hose extends into the tubular wand for connection thereto, with the collapsible hose collapsing into the tubular wand for storage on the vehicle when not in use for debris collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Tennant Company
    Inventor: Steven L. Boomgaarden
  • Patent number: 6082382
    Abstract: An cleaning mechanism especially well suited for agricultural products in which the agricultural products are moved by a flow of water through a channel in which the water is agitated by vibration of the channel. The agitation of the water, together with contact with other products, dislodges dirt, rocks, and other debris from the products. The dislodged debris settles into troughs at the bottom of the channel. The washed agricultural products fall over a baffle at the end of the channel and are ready for packaging. In one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning system is conveyed through the agricultural field to clean the product immediately after harvest so that the agriculture product leaves the field in a wrapped or packaged state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventors: Eric Buksa, Paul DeGrandpre, John Wylie
  • Patent number: 6032311
    Abstract: A warm water supply spot is located near a top end of an egg conveyance device and the degree of slope for the device is increased in the region from the water supply spot to the top end, so that the water dammed by the egg moving up the egg conveyance device does not overflow at the top end. The water is used efficiently without waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Nambu Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kunio Nambu
  • Patent number: 6021543
    Abstract: A retrieval system including a single tank for placement in communication with an underground storage tank in which waste or sludge is stored, the tank having equipment for lowering a remote controlled sludge removal apparatus into the underground storage tank to dislodge and remove sludge or waste from the underground storage tank and convey the sludge or waste to a storage area remote from the underground storage tank. The system can also be utilized to lower other tools into an underground storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Henry W. Allen
  • Patent number: 6006399
    Abstract: A tubular extension, particularly for electric household appliances and cleaning machines in general, comprising at least two tubular elements telescopically associated with each other, a first one of these tubular elements being associated coaxially with a second one having a smaller cross-section and being slideable inside the first tubular element, one of these first and second tubular elements having at least one sliding portion whereat the outer or inner lateral surface is shaped so as to form at least one step, wherefrom the cross-section gradually increases radially and along a given peripheral arc, a longitudinal cavity being formed at the peripheral arc, and a tooth having a similar shape fitting snugly and reversibly in the cavity after sliding over a portion of the surface relative to the peripheral arc, the tooth being formed at the inner or outer surface of the other one of the first and second tubular elements on the side where mutual coupling occurs upon assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Lindhaus S.r.l.
    Inventor: Michele Massaro
  • Patent number: 5946767
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile pipe cleaning vehicle and a process for cleaning pipes with a mobile pipe cleaning vehicle. The vehicle can be used to clean pipes, e.g., wastewater or storm drainage pipes. The vehicle includes a tank housing divided into three tanks: a sludge tank for holding water with a high degree of sludge and debris, a water supply tank for supplying water to a high pressure pump for high pressure spraying of a pipe to be cleaned, and a water-in-use tank disposed between the water supply tank and the sludge tank. Water used from the water-in-use tank is used for helping to create a seal in a liquid ring vacuum pump, enabling the sludge tank to be placed in a vacuum. Cooler water in the sludge tank and the water supply tank cool the water in the water-in-use tank to prolong the life and increase the efficiency in the liquid ring vacuum pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Gapvax, Inc.
    Inventor: Helmut Sinz
  • Patent number: 5946768
    Abstract: A workstation on wheels comprising a housing having a shelf dividing the housing interior into an upper and lower chamber. The shelf supports a vacuum unit that draws air from the lower chamber and exhausts it into the upper chamber. The lower chamber is provided with a vacuum outlet to which is connected an inelastic ductwork. The ductwork includes a nozzle for receiving air and solid materials from a floor surface. The air and solid materials flow through the ductwork and into a bag or bin in the lower chamber where the solid materials are accumulated. The ductwork is rotatable about the vacuum inlet and may be a one-piece L-shaped structure. Alternatively, it may be longitudinally adjustable by multiple interconnecting duct parts or by telescoping segments. The ductwork includes an housing duct to which is connected a valved flexible conduit for providing an auxiliary vacuum source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Michael D. Kelly
  • Patent number: 5937877
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for washing foodstuffs is provided. The invented apparatus utilizes hydro-energy to sufficiently clean a number of different types of foodstuffs processed thereby, while effectively using water circulating therethrough. The apparatus is configured to clean various types of foodstuffs ranging from different plant products to fish, such as sardines. The apparatus comprises a product loading assembly coupled to a cleansing flume, that is coupled to an overflow assembly. The loading assembly comprises a conical receiving section having a plurality of spray nozzles positioned about its inner periphery to form a turbulent water flow therethrough, that completely submerges product as it passes through the assembly. The conical receiving section ensures that a maximum product-water mixture is achieved to form a slurry that optimizes water usage and quickly cleans the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 5918610
    Abstract: A water system for a fruit washer has a low pressure pre-rinse section for removal of heavy debris and a high pressure wash section to remove organic material. Water is collected from the high pressure section. A filter removes the organic material from the collected water. The filtered water is stored and includes a reservoir and a make-up water supply line for receiving water from a make-up water supply to maintain a predetermined water level in the reservoir. A first low pressure pump is connected to draw collected water from the reservoir. A portion of the output from the first pump is directed to the pre-rinse section. A second high pressure pump receives the other portion of the output from the first pump and directs filtered water to the high pressure section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel A. Tate, Bernard A. Mullinaux
  • Patent number: 5797162
    Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner includes a housing having a suction motor and a filter chamber. A floor nozzle is connected to the housing. A hose includes a first end, secured to the housing and in communication with the filter chamber, an intermediate portion and a second end. A wand is selectively mounted on the housing. The wand has a first end and a second end wherein the hose intermediate portion extends longitudinally through the wand from the first end to the second end and wherein the hose second end is secured to the wand second end. A clip is secured on the hose intermediate portion such that when the clip is selectively secured to the wand first end, a substantial portion of the hose intermediate portion is stowed in the wand. When the clip is spaced from the wand first end, the substantial portion of the hose intermediate portion is pulled out of the wand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Royal Appliance Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: Robert A. Vystrcil, Mark E. Cipolla, Charles J. Thur, Jeffrey M. Kalman, Michael F. Wright
  • Patent number: 5742976
    Abstract: A vacuum apparatus with a suction hose. The hose has a first end connected to a suction inlet of the apparatus and an opposite second end removably connected to a docking section on a housing of the apparatus. The docking station has an aperture for receiving the second end. Located in the aperture is a latch with a ring shaped section and an integral ejecting spring. The latch also has a button section that extends through the housing and is adapted to be depressed by a user. Pressing the button section spreads the ring shaped section and allows the ejecting spring to eject the second end of the hose from the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard L. Bensussen, Joseph Gelb, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5740582
    Abstract: A central vacuum hose storage unit to be positioned between the studs of a wall having upper and lower storage chambers and a reversible hose drive assembly positioned to deploy a vacuum hose from a stored position in the lower chamber outwardly through the upper chamber. The drive assembly includes a pair of spaced drive rollers each including a toothed gear with a central shaft opening, and a hose engaging member secured to the gear, the periphery of the roller members having opposed concave faces together defining a hose receiving nip, and radially extending, equally spaced, flexible hose engaging segments extending transversely across the concave faces, and a reversible drive means operatively connected to both roller gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Vacs America, Inc.
    Inventor: Clyde W. Harrelson, II
  • Patent number: 5740581
    Abstract: A central vacuum system mountable between adjacent studs of a wall formed of a cabinet having a top wall, side walls, a rear wall, an upper dividing wall extending beneath the side walls, a lower dividing wall extending between the side walls beneath the upper dividing wall, the walls together forming in enclosure with upper, center and lower compartments; a first hinged door covering the upper compartment, and a second hinged door covering the center and lower compartments; a hose extendable between a stored position in the center compartment, and an extended position extending from the upper compartment, the hose having an inner end and a distal end connected to a handle stored position in the upper compartment; a reversible drive means within the center compartment to move the hose between stored and extended positions; and a vacuum source mounted in the lower compartment, the inner end of the hose communicating with the vacuum source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: VACS America, Inc.
    Inventor: Clyde W. Harrelson, II
  • Patent number: 5657508
    Abstract: Apparatus for the extraction of objects (32) immobilized in sections (19) of a pneumatic transfer network (30). The apparatus includes a flexible pipe (12), a metal-clad or radiation-impervious container (10) and a blower (5). A flange (16) makes it possible to connect the pipe (12) to the upstream end of the section (19). A suction system then makes it possible to draw the jammed jug (32) to the bottom of the metal-clad container (8) by moving it back into the section (19). Advantageously, the blower (5) is reversible for propelling the jug (32) in the opposite direction to a scrapping installation, to which is connected the flexible pipe (12). Therefore, both the manipulations and the contamination risks are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Compagnie Generale Des Matieres Nucleaires
    Inventors: Michel Herbreteau, Robert Marchand
  • Patent number: 5577772
    Abstract: A tank truck including a horizontal support platform secured on the tank for supporting a suction hose, a boom secured to the support platform and supporting a free end of the suction hose, and a lead-in rotatably supported on the support platform and connecting the suction hose thereto, with the support platform being able to rotate about the rotational axis of the lead-in independently of the rotation of the lead-in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Kaiser Akteingesellschaft
    Inventor: Dietmar Kaiser
  • Patent number: 5413131
    Abstract: An elongated open top tank containing water, one end being a loading end, and the opposite end being an exit end. Positioned transversely across the tank, spaced generally along the full length above the water line, are water distribution lines each having multiple water outlet nozzles aiming downward and at an angle toward the exit end of the tank. The distribution lines are connected to an output side of a high volume water pump used to circulate the tank water. The water pump draws water from the exit end of the tank so that during pumping, a strong current is created in the tank as the nozzles re-apply the water. Positioned transversely within the tank is a plurality of solid baffles, some positioned high in the water, and some positioned low in the water in a staggered arrangement. Produce deposited at the loading end of the tank is sprayed by the nozzles and drawn by the strong current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: Harold G. Medlock
  • Patent number: 5402551
    Abstract: A vacuum hose storage and access apparatus for a central vacuum cleaning system is described, which includes a power unit. A 12 volt direct current retraction motor powered by the power unit is mounted on a base and has an output shaft. A gear reduction unit is provided having an input shaft and an output shaft. The input shaft is rotatably coupled to the output shaft of the motor. A clutch is disposed between the output shaft of the gear reduction unit and a vacuum hose reel. The clutch has an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the disengaged positioned the reel is freely rotatable thereby enabling vacuum hose to be freely pulled from the reel. In the engaged position the reel is indirectly coupled through the gear reduction unit to the output shaft of the motor such that upon rotation of the output shaft of the motor the output shaft of the gear reduction unit rotates the reel at a reduced rate of rotations per minute in a direction which retracts the vacuum hose back onto the reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventors: Garry Workhoven, Thel Dvernichuk
  • Patent number: 5367741
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an upright vacuum cleaner having an improved assembly to optimize the assembly and operational characteristics of the vacuum cleaner. The floor engaging unit of the vacuum cleaner has a two-piece body including a base and a hood which are snap-fit together. A motor is rotatably mounted within the body at the end of a handle assembly. The handle assembly, which also functions as a conduit for dirty air to travel to a disposable filter bag, carries an electrical connector which connects the motor to power. The handle further provides a stop which engages a hose hook that slidably fits over the top of the handle, the stop being located such that the hose hook is properly positioned to support a hose during storage thereof. A filter bag, which is mounted to the handle at a location downwardly spaced from the top of the filter bag, is provided with a wire frame to help support the weight of the disposable filter bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard D. Hampton, Vincent L. Bobrosky, Paul J. Burress
  • Patent number: 5347677
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus as for inside surfaces in residential air ducts, employing a baffle that locally increases air velocity at the surface of the duct to the entrainment velocity that will remove dust and detritus with the help of reaction driven scouring elements for the mechanical dislodgement of dirt and dust. The dirt and dust can then be carried to a collection point by an induced flow of air through the duct. The invention also contemplates a method of cleaning a duct utilizing the above apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Inventor: William H. Prentice
  • Patent number: 5341539
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning waste collection systems of solid materials using normal and injected water flow to suspend the solids in a slurry, A submersible pump moves the slurry from a collection point up to a pressurized container where the water content of the slurry is decanted and reused as injection water while the particulate material settles to the bottom of the pressurized container. When the container is filled with solid material it may be removed for emptying at a waste dump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventors: Sheron R. Sheppard, Henry B. Polston
  • Patent number: 5331702
    Abstract: A golf ball washing apparatus and method includes a bin and a conveyor which takes rows of golf balls from the bin and conveys them up an inclined ramp. A plurality of reciprocating brush heads clean the balls and a fluid spray head sprays cleaning fluid onto the balls as they advance up the ramp. Golf balls which exit the top of the ramp reach a gate where they are alternatively recirculated through the washing apparatus or directed out to a storage bin. The entire wash operation is clearly visible to an operator so that he can readily determine when the balls have been cleaned sufficiently to warrant opening the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventors: Charles H. Willsey, Virgil S. Willsey
  • Patent number: 5255585
    Abstract: A vacuum system for removal of debris in the form of shavings, particles, or the like has been developed for use inside of a cryostat to evacuate and collect such material as it is generated during specimen preparation using a microtome, also inside of the cryostat. The system includes a vacuum assembly unit containing a vacuum collection nozzle having a suction duct. The cold assembly unit is moveably positioned adjacent to the microtome knife so that debris is suctioned away and removed concurrent with or immediately after its production during cryotomy, and is captured in a cold primary filter. The frozen debris does not melt, but remains rigid while it freeze-dries and is trapped on the filter as cold air flows over and through it, thereby maintaining the collected waste material in a very porous state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Instrumedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Abraham Gordon
  • Patent number: 5239727
    Abstract: A central vacuum system for workspaces such as auto body or wood shops. A vacuum generating unit is rotatably mounted at a level above the heads of the shop workers and integrated with a rigid boom having a flexible vacuum hose at its distal end such that the boom may be swung in an arc parallel to the floor space and thereby give access to the vacuum over a wide area. In a preferred embodiment, the boom is hinged at its center so as to facilitate access to the vacuum within the radius of the arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Inventor: Jerome R. Roestenberg
  • Patent number: 5228484
    Abstract: An air lance comprises a plastic tube supplied with air at high pressure and having an air outlet. The lance is inserted into catalyst tubes and supplies air for breaking up the catalyst for removal by vacuum means. An air-powered reel is used to dispense and retrieve the plastic lance when emptying the catalyst tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Catalyst Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kelly J. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5199996
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning apparatus comprising a cleaning device placed on a first side of the apparatus to perform a cleaning apparatus perpendicular to the general direction of advance of the apparatus. The apparatus could also include a second lateral cleaning device located on a side opposite the first side of the apparatus, to perform, simultaneously with the first cleaning device, the desired cleaning operation perpendicular to the general direction of advance of the apparatus, so as to be able to complete the entire cleaning operation without it being necessary for the apparatus to proceed along a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Assignee: Azurtec
    Inventors: Andre Jonas, Bernard Jonas
  • Patent number: 5181294
    Abstract: An apparatus for the collection of leaves and debris by a vacuuming process is described which features an improved mechanism for supporting and manipulating an intake hose. A stationary support frame is mounted on a leaf collecting apparatus and a swing arm is pivotally attached to the support frame about a vertical axis. An intake hose cradle is fixed to the swing arm and supports the intake hose from underneath. The intake hose may be adjusted vertically by a hydraulic actuator (extensible piston) located on the swing arm which pivots about a horizontal axis in response to movement of the hydraulic actuator. Further, the intake hose may be manipulated from side-to-side by a handle attached to the intake end of the hose, the swing arm allowing lateral movement by utilizing bearings as pivot points along the vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Inventors: Richard J. Campbell, George G. Miller, Steven P. Venia
  • Patent number: 5159737
    Abstract: A dust collection apparatus comprising a base duct, an adapter duct rotatably mounted on the upper end of the base duct, a first duct arm pivotaly connected to the upper end of the adapter duct and made of steel plates, a first connecting mechanism for connecting the adapter duct and the first duct arm, and second drive means for swinging the first duct arm. The first connecting mechanism comprises cylindrical holders projecting from the adapter duct, two branches of substantially U-shape provided with openings in which the cylindrical holders are inserted rotatably, air tight seals positioned between the openings of the branches and the cylindrical holders, a shaft penetrating the two branches and the adapter duct for rotatably connecting the first duct arm to the adapter duct, and support means arranged in the adapter duct for supporting the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Nippon Metal Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyoshi Kimura, Shinroku Nishiyama
  • Patent number: 5148566
    Abstract: A continuous washing apparatus is provided which comprises an elongate washing vessel 1 having an inlet 2 for receiving objects to be washed at one end thereof. An outlet 3 is provided for discharging objects W to be washed at the other end thereof. The elongate washing vessel is arranged in an inclined manner so that the inlet is located downwardly and the outlet is located upwardly. A conveyor is disposed within the washing vessel for conveying the objects from the area adjacent to the inlet toward the area adjacent to the outlet. A washing structure 14 15 is provided for washing the objects. The conveyor includes a screw body 4 rotatably mounted on the washing vessel 1, and a drive mechanism for driving the screw body. The screw body includes a continuous length of fin 5 which extends helically around the longitudinal axis of the washing vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventor: Seitaro Nishibayashi
  • Patent number: 5114050
    Abstract: A garage forecourt installation is disclosed in which the fuel dispensing pump is linked to a vacuum cleaning device so that as the fuel pump is switched on suction is made available at a suction cleaning nozzle. The provision of suction ceases on the pump being switched off, or a predetermined time thereafter. The fuel pump can be linked (by a cable) to an electric motor of the vacuum cleaning device so that they are activated simultaneously. A time delay device can be incorporated so that the motor of the vacuum cleaner runs on after the fuel dispensing pump stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Vaccar Systems (Proprietary) Limited
    Inventor: Peter Morris
  • Patent number: 5113546
    Abstract: This invention relates to a computer servicing cart which includes a structural frame for use in defining a housing for the cart and for use in carrying and rollably supporting said housing. The frame includes a base, uprights, and angular struts connecting the uprights and base. A cross member and a handle are secured to the uprights. Rolling means are secured to the base. Rearward rolling means are provided and includes an angularly disposed mount system for positioning larger rear wheels rearwardly for ease of rolling. The housing is formed about the frame and includes a forward section and a rearward section. The forward section is provided for carrying servicing items and the rearward section carries a vacuum tank, gas cylinder and a hose reel. The rearward section includes a depressed well section in the center thereof for receiving the hose reel in a lowered position. The top of the cart includes a foldable top for opening onto the handle and providing a work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Alternative Resources Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Parent
  • Patent number: 5095577
    Abstract: A mobile cleaning apparatus device automatically follows guides such as walls or other obstacles, by engaging the guides with element and controlling the steering of the apparatus in response to the level of forces sensed by the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: Azurtec
    Inventors: Andre Jonas, Bernard Jonas
  • Patent number: 5068940
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning sewers of solid materials using normal and injected water flow to suspend the solids in a slurry. A submersible pump moves the slurry from the bottom of the sewer up to a pressurized container where the water content of the slurry is decanted and reused as injection water while the particulate material settles to the bottom of the pressurized container. When the container is filled with solid material it may be removed for emptying at a waste dump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: Ray Harvey Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Sheron R. Sheppard, Henry B. Polston
  • Patent number: 5048148
    Abstract: A carpet cleaning apparatus consisting of a housing having a lower surface and an interior cavity. Wheels are secured adjacent to the lower surface of the housing. A conduit is secured to the housing. The conduit has a first end whereby the conduit may be coupled to a water supply and a second end with spray jets whereby fluids may be injected into a carpet. A discharge tank is secured within the interior cavity of the housing. The discharge tank has two suction ports, and two fluid inlets. Two suction conduits are provided. Each suction conduit has a first end communicating with one of the fluid inlets of the discharge tank and a second end disposed adjacent the lower surface of the housing. Two suction motors are secured in the interior cavity of the housing, each of the suction motors communicating with one of the suction inlets of the discharge tank such that a vacuum is created within the discharge tank and the suction conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Inventor: Robert Gleadall
  • Patent number: 4995138
    Abstract: A vacuum apparatus for debris collection comprises a motor vehicle having a vacuum tank collector and means for generating a vacuum. A horizontally and vertically extendible tube is connected to the vacuum tank collector, and extendible support linkage supports the tube along its length. Means are provided for extending and retracting the support linkage and the tube with respect to the vehicle and the ground while pivoting the tube and support linkage on a support base member pivotally mounted on the vehicle to provide a wide range of motion over the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Inventor: Lawrence H. Pullen
  • Patent number: 4989291
    Abstract: There is disclosed herein a cart for computer cleaning. The cart includes a wheeled housing which defines a housing and a work surface at the top end of the frame. The housing includes a rear compartment in which a compressed gas unit, a retractable hose reel, a vacuum, and a retractable power cord are mounted. In addition, the housing includes an openable front compartment in which various tools are carried at convenient locations. The top of the cart carries a foldable work surface which may be folded to an open position wherein the computer components can be laid on the work surface. The frame defines a bottom well within which the hose reel may be partially positioned so as to lower the center of gravity and afford the cart with enhanced stability and reduce tipping susceptibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Assignee: Alternative Resources Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Parent
  • Patent number: 4976002
    Abstract: The present invention overcomes the aforementioned difficulties by providing a vacuum device to clean the interior surface of particle tubes used in the manufacture of semiconductor wafers. The vacuum device consists of a head which is designed to closely fit with the interior surface of the particle tube to be cleaned. Guide wheels are provided to align the head with the particle tube and to allow the vacuum device to easily roll in and out of the particle tube. The wheels are made of material which does not scratch the interior surface of the particle tube. The head is attached to vacuum tubing by means of flexible bellows. The vacuum tubing and head may be rotated to allow the head to clean the entire interior surface of the particle tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Leonov, Roy de Groot