Heating Only Patents (Class 222/146.2)
  • Patent number: 11938505
    Abstract: A melt system that includes a melt unit. The melt unit includes a reservoir and a melter. The melter is configured to expose solid adhesive to a temperature sufficient to form a molten adhesive, which is deposited into the reservoir. The melt unit includes a hopper disposed above the melter and for holding a supply of the solid adhesive. The hopper has an access door disposed on a wall of the hopper that is movable between a closed position where the hopper is closed and an open position where an internal chamber of the hopper is accessible to receive the solid adhesive. The hopper and the solid adhesive in the hopper are thermally isolated from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Charles P. Ganzer, Leslie J. Varga
  • Patent number: 11924930
    Abstract: Disclosed is an article for use with apparatus for heating smokable material to volatilize at least one component of the smokable material. The article includes smokable material and a cover around the smokable material. The cover defines an outer surface of the article that may contact the apparatus in use, and includes heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. A method of manufacturing such an article also is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: NICOVENTURES TRADING LIMITED
    Inventors: Andrew P. Wilke, Duane A. Kaufman, Raymond J. Robey
  • Patent number: 11821183
    Abstract: A faucet assembly for rapid assembly of dual water sources includes a main body, a socket, a positioning member and a water pipe, wherein the main body includes a base and an extending pipe. The socket is arranged inside the base, the positioning member restricts the axial displacement of the socket, and the water pipe enters the extending pipe through the socket and the base. The water pipe includes an outer pipe, an inner pipe, and a water inlet structure, wherein the inner pipe is arranged inside the outer pipe, the outer pipe and the inner pipe are respectively connected to the water inlet structure, and the water inlet structure is laterally embedded in the water inlet structure. Water from different water sources enters the outer and inner pipes through the water inlet structure respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Inventors: Jui-Chien Chen, Jui-Ching Chen
  • Patent number: 11805818
    Abstract: Disclosed is an article for use with apparatus for heating smokable material to volatilize at least one component of the smokable material. The article includes smokable material, and a film defining a closed circuit (10a-10f) of heating material. The heating material is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field to heat the smokable material. Also disclosed is apparatus for heating smokable material to volatilize at least one component of the smokable material. The apparatus includes a magnetic field generator for generating a varying magnetic field for use in heating the smokable material. The magnetic field generator includes a film defining a coil of electrically conductive material, and a device for passing a varying electrical current through the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: NICOVENTURES TRADING LIMITED
    Inventors: Thomas P. Blandino, Andrew P. Wilke, James J. Frater
  • Patent number: 11801203
    Abstract: A baby bottle, an insert for a baby bottle, a baby bottle including an insert, and a method of feeding an infant that serves to pace the infant's feeding rhythm. Generally, these devices and methods will be of use for a preterm infant who lacks coordination of the suck-swallow-breathe synchrony, but can also be used with full term infants who can benefit from rigid control of the flow of milk from a bottle, this includes, but is not limited to, infants with gastroesophageal reflux who can require pacing of feeds to allow for gastric emptying. The device generally cues the infant to swallow and breathe after each 1-4 sucks by stopping the flow of the fluid from the bottle after the infant has sucked sufficiently or a predetermined period of time has passed. Once the baby breathes or a period of time passes, the bottle resets for the next repetition. The device also serves to consistently slow the flow of milk during oral feeding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Assignee: Preemie-Pacer, LLC
    Inventors: Roberta Pineda, Jeffrey Macler
  • Patent number: 11794203
    Abstract: An attachment element for a static mixer and an attachment system with such an attachment element, the static mixer, and a pressure sensor. The attachment element has a flow channel with an inlet opening and an outlet opening arranged opposite the inlet opening in a longitudinal direction of the flow channel and designed as an injection nozzle. The attachment element is designed to be fastened at an inlet side having the inlet opening by a fastening unit of the attachment element on top of an injection tip of the static mixer. Furthermore, the attachment element has a receiving opening for the pressure sensor. The receiving opening extends from an exterior side of the attachment element to an opening in a subsection of a channel wall of the flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventors: Marc Gormanns, Erich Lehner
  • Patent number: 11655134
    Abstract: A modular beverage dispenser and method of use to provide an all in one solution to dispense beer, wine, liquor, mixers, cocktails and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic ingredients in a controlled, safe, and measured manner. The machines are manufactured to be modular and scalable to allow for any combination of beverage q ingredients; a machine can have any single ingredient or all of them included at once. They are designed to give customers the ability to select functions that they desire to configure a system that meets their needs and specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Assignee: TendedBar LLC
    Inventor: Jay Perkins
  • Patent number: 11649154
    Abstract: A water dispenser and a method of controlling a water dispenser are provided. The water dispenser may control power output of an induction heater having a hot water module based on changes in flow rate of water supplied or a temperature of water discharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Yonghyun Kim, Siyeon An
  • Patent number: 11535200
    Abstract: A vehicle surface cleaning device comprising a vehicle integrated housing including a nozzle carrier extendable from and retractable into the bodywork of a vehicle, said nozzle carrier being provided with at least one fluid nozzle, and comprising means for contactlessly heating the fluid nozzle while being in a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignee: KAUTEX TEXTRON GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Alexander Lomer
  • Patent number: 11478576
    Abstract: Methods and breast pump devices for simultaneous pumping and feeding breastmilk in the nursing position and quantification of breastmilk consumption are provided. A breast pump device includes a nipple shield for receiving a nipple, a housing having a throughput aperture and a fluid path, the fluid path extending from the nipple shield to the throughput aperture, and a negative pressure source. In some embodiments, the housing further includes a gate to control the quantity of breastmilk displaced to a baby. In some embodiments, the gate operates to respond to the amount of breastmilk displaced to the baby, and thereby allows for quantification. In some embodiments, the quantity of breastmilk displaced is also recorded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Avira Health Incorporated
    Inventors: Tina John, Brian Bowman, Clayton Alderson, Aidan J. Fay, Henry Warder, Conner Magnuson, Brandon Duquesnel, Benjamin Arnold, Ian Fried
  • Patent number: 11426748
    Abstract: A refillable sprayer with explosion-proof effect has a first shell, a second shell, and a retaining ring. The first shell has a first body and a first mesh body. The first body is made of plastic. The first mesh body is made of metal, is covered by the first body, and has multiple first through holes. The second shell is detachably connected to the first shell and has a second body and a second mesh body. The second body is made of plastic. The second mesh body is made of metal, is covered by the second body, and has multiple second through holes. The retaining ring is made of metal and is sleeved on a connecting position where the second shell is connected to the first shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Inventor: Bo-Lang Chu
  • Patent number: 10974473
    Abstract: A method for dispensing temperature-automotive body sealant includes providing a dispensing system having a pump operable to pump the sealant and a manifold receiving the sealant and operable to temperature-adjust the sealant has an elongated central body and elongated passages extending from the first end to the second end. First and second end caps are detachably connected to ends of the central body. A thermal unit is in thermal communication with the elongated central body and operable to heat or cool the elongated central body. A dispenser is in fluid communication with the manifold and operable to dispense the temperature-adjusted sealant. Sealant is pumped through the manifold and heated or cooled so as to provide a temperature-adjusted sealant. The temperature-adjusted sealant is dispensed from the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: IEC Fabrication
    Inventor: Bradley Robert Salutes
  • Patent number: 10661294
    Abstract: A method for pumping, tracking, and controlling a fluid includes the steps of producing a drive signal for driving a motor of a pump using a controller, driving the motor to pump a fluid based on the drive signal, sending a dispense signal from the controller to a sprayer for dispensing the fluid, determining a work piece count as a function of a work piece signal provided to the controller from the work piece sensor, detecting the position of a rod connected to the motor and the pump using a position sensor, creating a position signal as a function of the position of the rod using the position sensor, sending the position signal to the controller, and determining a volume usage as a function of the position of the rod using the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Brudevold, Benjamin R. Godding, Joseph E. Tix, Daniel P. Ross
  • Patent number: 10426862
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a diffusing apparatus for diffusing essential oils into the air. The apparatus includes a reservoir configured to hold essential oils in an internal cavity, and a controller assembly removably coupled to the reservoir, the controller assembly including an air inlet port, a first controller, and a piezo micro air pump unit. The apparatus further includes a base removably coupled to the controller assembly, the base including a second controller, wherein the second controller is connected to the first controller. The apparatus further includes a tube in fluid connection at a first end with the micro air pump unit and extending into the reservoir, the tube providing a path for pressurized air from the micro air pump unit into the reservoir through a plurality of orifices at a second end of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: SPDI Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen N. Pitcher
  • Patent number: 9944174
    Abstract: A self-propelled construction machine, comprises a machine frame, on which a working unit is arranged, and comprises a drive unit for driving the working unit. An additive, in particular a urea solution for operating an exhaust gas treatment system, is provided in an operating material tank which is integrated in the fuel tank or water tank of the construction machine. The integration of the operating material tank in the fuel tank or water tank does not necessitate any modifications to the machine frame. The dimensions of the construction machine can also remain unchanged, since the fuel tank does not take up any extra space on the machine frame if the dimensions of the fuel tank or water tank are maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Busley, Olaf Gaertner, Cyrus Barimani
  • Patent number: 9884475
    Abstract: An adhesive application valve comprising an applicator, a Z-axis actuator operably connected to the applicator, wherein the Z-axis actuator and the rotation device are each capable of moving independently of each other to position the applicator in a position to apply an amount of adhesive to a top substrate prior to bonding with a bottom substrate is provided. Furthermore, a machine comprising an end effector, and an adhesive application valve configured to apply an amount of adhesive onto the top substrate, the end effector configured to place the top substrate into a position of engagement with the adhesive application valve, and place the top substrate onto the bottom substrate to facilitate initial contact between the adhesive applied to the top substrate and a fill material applied to the bottom substrate is also provided. A method of optical bonding is further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: PRECISION VALVE & AUTOMATION, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew John Nally, Jonathan Neal Urquhart, Jeffrey James VanNorden, William Edward Berkheiser, III
  • Patent number: 9789510
    Abstract: An adhesive dispensing device includes a dispensing tube, a dispensing needle fixed to a bottom end portion of the dispensing tube and configured to dispense adhesive received in the dispensing tube, a heating sleeve surrounding the dispensing needle and configured to slide along a length of the dispensing needle and heat the dispensing needle, and a driving assembly. The driving assembly drives the heating sleeve to slide along a length of the dispensing needle to reveal an end portion of the dispensing needle or cover the end portion of the dispensing needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun Feng, Wei Wu
  • Patent number: 9732280
    Abstract: A burner system for heating the material product, i.e., asphalt, includes a burner kettle designed with a thicker bottom heat transfer plate, added heat transfer oil (HTO) circulation pumps, a spiral circulation ring and heat restriction rings. The spiral circulation ring spirals up the burner kettle to move the HTO around the entire circumference of the burner kettle to eliminate hotspots. An HTO pump moves cooler oil from the top of the kettle directly across the hottest part of the bottom of the kettle, i.e., across the heat transfer plate. Keeping this zone cool will eliminate heat stress of the material. Heat restriction rings direct the heat back and forth throughout the burner kettle for increased efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: FABWORKS & SERVICES, LLC
    Inventor: Casey D. Hollar
  • Patent number: 9521921
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of beverage dispensers. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus capable of dispensing water and other beverages through single serving or similar brewing containers. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are configured to be integrated within, on, upon an existing sink or water basin and operate in conjunction with an existing pressurized water source, such as municipal water source, well water source or other residential or commercial pressurized water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Inventor: Steven W. Joseph
  • Patent number: 9457653
    Abstract: A self-propelled construction machine comprises a machine frame, on which a working unit is arranged, and comprises a drive unit for driving the working unit. An additive, in particular a urea solution for operating an exhaust gas treatment system, is provided in an operating material tank which is integrated in the fuel tank or water tank of the construction machine. The integration of the operating material tank in the fuel tank or water tank does not necessitate any modifications to the machine frame. The dimensions of the construction machine can also remain unchanged, since the fuel tank does not take up any extra space on the machine frame if the dimensions of the fuel tank or water tank are maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Busley, Olaf Gaertner, Cyrus Barimani, Günter Hähn
  • Patent number: 9394104
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of discharging dry bulk material from a container. The method comprises the steps of applying vibration to the container in accordance with a predetermined vibration application routine. A resultant amplitude of vibration of the container resulting from the applied vibration is then monitored to facilitate the determination of a level of dry bulk material present in the container. In the event that the determined level of dry bulk material is above a predetermined level, the application of vibration to the container is ceased for a predetermined time interval. In the event that the determined level of dry bulk material is at or below a predetermined level, the application of vibration to the container is maintained in accordance with the predetermined vibration application routine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: Vibration Technology Solutions Pty. Limited
    Inventors: Mike Hamilton, James Francis McDiarmid
  • Patent number: 9278371
    Abstract: A hot melt apparatus includes main body, exhaust pin, stopping and resilient members. The main body has hot melt surface, first and second exhaust openings. The first exhaust opening is located on hot melt surface. The main body has channel and chamber. The chamber has abutting surface. The channel is communicated with first exhaust opening and abutting surface. The chamber is communicated with second exhaust opening. The exhaust pin is disposed in channel, and has a pinhead protruding from first exhaust opening and a pintail protruding into chamber. Stopping member is accommodated in chamber and connected to pintail. When the stopping member abuts against the abutting surface, the pinhead open the first exhaust opening. When the pinhead closes the first exhaust opening, the stopping member leaves the abutting surface. The resilient member is accommodated in the chamber for pushing the stopping member toward the abutting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: WISTRON CORP.
    Inventor: Jia Yuan
  • Patent number: 9216895
    Abstract: A refrigerator is provided, including a cabinet formed with at least one refrigerated compartment, and a door pivotally mounted to the cabinet. A vented exhaust conduit is provided at least partially within an interior of the door and defines a pathway in fluid communication with an environment exterior of the cabinet. A water heater includes a heating element located at least partially within the vented exhaust conduit and configured to heat water supplied from the refrigerator, wherein heat generated by the heating element can escape through the pathway of the vented exhaust to the environment exterior of the cabinet. A hot water dispenser is positioned on the door that is configured to dispense hot water supplied from the water heater into a receiver vessel. A method of dispensing hot water is also provided. The method utilizes at least two distinct, user-initiated steps to permit the dispensing of hot water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Nilton Carlos Bertolini, Jorge Sanchez, David L. Hall
  • Publication number: 20150144651
    Abstract: Refrigerator appliances for use with single serve dispensers, and methods for operating refrigerator appliances, are provided. A refrigerator appliance includes a dispensing assembly. The dispensing assembly includes an outlet conduit configured for flowing a liquid therefrom, the outlet conduit disposed in the dispenser recess, a housing for supporting the single serve dispenser, the housing disposed in the dispenser recess, and a flow control device upstream of and in fluid communication with the outlet conduit, the flow control device outputting liquid at a generally constant pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Justin Daniel Berger, Bradley Nicholas Gilkey, Christopher Francis Bird, Robert Lee Lewis, JR.
  • Publication number: 20150136803
    Abstract: A refrigerator is provided, including a cabinet formed with at least one refrigerated compartment, and a door pivotally mounted to the cabinet. A vented exhaust conduit is provided at least partially within an interior of the door and defines a pathway in fluid communication with an environment exterior of the cabinet. A water heater includes a heating element located at least partially within the vented exhaust conduit and configured to heat water supplied from the refrigerator, wherein heat generated by said heating element can escape through the pathway of the vented exhaust to said environment exterior of the cabinet. A hot water dispenser is positioned on the door that is configured to dispense hot water supplied from the water heater into a receiver vessel. A method of dispensing hot water is also provided. The method utilizes at least two distinct, user-initiated steps to permit the dispensing of hot water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Nilton Carlos Bertolini, Jorge Sanchez, David L. Hall
  • Patent number: 9016189
    Abstract: The apparatus for providing milk for a coffee maker comprises a milk container having a base container for receiving the milk and a lid disposed on the base container, and at least one tube element, wherein the respective tube element protrudes into the base container and has an inlet opening for the milk, said inlet opening being in fluid connection with an outlet opening for the milk disposed on an upper side of the lid. An elastic sealing collar surrounding the outlet opening is disposed at the outlet opening. A docking system for docking to the milk container comprises a docking piece, which can be brought into a top position and a bottom position, wherein the docking piece has at least one opening for receiving the milk on an underside. If the docking piece is in the top position, the docking piece has no contact with the sealing collar and the sealing collar is shaped such that at least one section of the sealing collar protrudes upward above the respective outlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Jura Elektroapparate AG
    Inventors: Erich Ullmann, Philipp Büttiker
  • Publication number: 20150097003
    Abstract: A beverages dispenser, particularly for carbonated beverages, comprises a cooled tank where beverage is stored, an inlet pipe to the tank, an inlet valve on the inlet pipe, a pump downstream the inlet valve for feeding a beverage to the tank in order to maintain a predetermined level wherein, an outlet pipe from the tank to a beverage dispensing nozzle, and an outlet valve on the outlet conduit. An auxiliary pipe is disposed between the inlet pipe downstream the inlet valve and the outlet pipe downstream the outlet valve and a control unit is adapted to close the inlet valve and to run the pump in order to empty the outlet pipe into the tank after the beverage is dispensed in order to prevent dripping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventor: STEFANO TAVOLAZZI
  • Patent number: 8985391
    Abstract: A hot melt dispensing system including a container for storing adhesive pellets, a feed system for transporting adhesive pellets from the container, and a blower. The blower is positioned with respect to an inlet of the feed system for applying a flow of air for agitating the adhesive pellets and moving the adhesive pellets toward the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel P. Ross, Paul R. Quam, Joseph E. Tix
  • Patent number: 8967432
    Abstract: A refrigerator is provided, including a cabinet formed with at least one refrigerated compartment, and a door pivotally mounted to the cabinet. A vented exhaust conduit is provided at least partially within an interior of the door and defines a pathway in fluid communication with an environment exterior of the cabinet. A water heater includes a heating element located at least partially within the vented exhaust conduit and configured to heat water supplied from the refrigerator, wherein heat generated by said heating element can escape through the pathway of the vented exhaust to said environment exterior of the cabinet. A hot water dispenser is positioned on the door that is configured to dispense hot water supplied from the water heater into a receiver vessel. A method of dispensing hot water is also provided. The method utilizes at least two distinct, user-initiated steps to permit the dispensing of hot water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Nilton Carlos Bertolini, Jorge Sanchez, David L. Hall
  • Publication number: 20150050012
    Abstract: A water feeding device of instantaneous heating type electrically connected an external power source includes a water tank, a transparent pipe, a heating module, a contactless sensing module, and a control module. The transparent pipe is connected between the water tank and the heating module. The heating module converts electrical energy of the external power source to thermal energy. The contactless sensing module disposed at an outside of the transparent pipe includes a lighting unit and a light sensing unit. The lighting unit produces a light beam toward the transparent pipe. The light sensing unit disposed opposite to the lighting unit detects intensity of the light beam propagating through the transparent pipe to generate a detection signal accordingly. The control module electrically connected to the heating module and the contactless sensing module controls the heating module whether to continuously produce the thermal energy according to the detection signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Yun-Shan Chang, David Lin
  • Patent number: 8936178
    Abstract: An adhesive melter includes a melter support frame with a spring-loaded support and a manifold for receiving molten adhesive. The melter also includes a pump pack assembly having a rigid frame carrying a pump for directing flow of molten adhesive through the manifold, a motor, and a drive coupling operatively connecting the pump and motor. The pump pack assembly is collectively mounted as a unit on the melter support frame by positioning the rigid frame on the spring-loaded support, moving the pump into abutment with the manifold, and fastening the pump into fluid-tight engagement with the manifold, the support adjusting in position during fastening to assist with carrying the pump pack assembly as a cantilever load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventor: Charles P. Ganzer
  • Publication number: 20140352738
    Abstract: A liquid dispenser for a wafer processing system includes a supply tube with an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end. Attached to the supply tube at the outlet end is a liquid reservoir. The liquid reservoir has a dispensing plate that has an outlet for dispensing liquid onto a wafer. There is also a dispensing valve for controlling the dispensing of the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: BEIJING SEVENSTAR ELECTRONICS CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Don C. Burkman, Cary M. Ley, Kevin T. O'Dougherty, Charlie A. Peterson
  • Patent number: 8893930
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing valve comprises a module, a discharge orifice, a valve stem and a filter. The module has a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid passage connecting the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The discharge orifice is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. The valve stem extends into the fluid passage to close-off the discharger orifice. The filter is disposed within the fluid passage and surrounds the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Tix, Mark T. Weinberger, Daniel P. Ross, Paul R. Quam, John S. Lihwa
  • Patent number: 8870029
    Abstract: A heating and dispensing apparatus has a first portion defining a main, active reservoir for the molten material to be dispensed. A second portion has a heater and a seat for pre-heating a supply of replacement molten material. The main reservoir is pressurized, such that molten material therein is urged to flow out the outflow passageway when the valve is opened. The apparatus includes a heated receptacle support structure positioned to hold a disposable receptacle underneath the outflow. The outflow is mounted to the lid of the main reservoir, and can be cleaned when the lid is removed. The outflow outlet and the receptacle support structure are both located in exposed positions to facilitate cleaning. The pre-heat, main reservoir, outflow, and receptacle support structure are heated by a single heating system, by thermal conduction. The outside of the unit is kept substantially free of unnecessary obstructions to facilitate cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventors: Mileta Stanojlovic, Dragica Stanojlovic
  • Publication number: 20140312070
    Abstract: A hot melt adhesive system includes a melting unit configured to liquefy a bulk form of hot melt adhesive and deliver the liquefied hot melt adhesive to an application location. The melting unit includes a controller for establishing and/or verifying at least one system condition, such as temperatures associated with system operation. A machine reading unit is coupled with the controller and is capable of receiving information from a machine readable element and communicating the information to the controller for use in establishing and/or verifying the system condition. A method of operating the system includes scanning information on at least one system condition into the controller from a machine readable element, and using the scanned information during operation of the melting unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Rick Pallante, John M. Raterman
  • Patent number: 8851332
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides apparatuses for filtering hot adhesives. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a filter plate that is used in conjunction with a heater and a valve assembly. In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a filter screen that is located in a recess of the valve assembly housing, in addition to or in lieu of the use of a separate filter plate. Both embodiments utilize one or more ribs, which aid the flow of adhesive, facilitate the transfer of heat from the heater to the valve assembly, and optionally, physically support the filter screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Jeff L. Mercer
  • Publication number: 20140263451
    Abstract: A pumping system comprises a pump, first and second channels, a valve, and an actuator. The pump pumps fluid according to a pumping cycle. The first channel has a first fluid flow orifice with a first diameter, while the second channel has a second fluid flow orifice with a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The valve is configured to direct fluid from the pump to the first channel in a first state, and to the second channel in a second state. The actuator is configured to switch the valve into the first state during a high pressure period of the pumping cycle, and into the second state during a low pressure period of the pumping cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventors: Daniel P. Ross, Paul R. Quam, Robert J. Lind, Douglas B. Farrow, John S. Lihwa, Joseph E. Tix, Mark J. Brudevold, Mark T. Weinberger, Mark W. Sheahan, Shaun M. Cook, Nicholas D. Long, Michael J. Sebion
  • Publication number: 20140263450
    Abstract: A hot melt dispensing system includes a melter, a feed system, a dispenser and a filter. The feed system delivers hot melt pellets to the melter. The dispenser dispenses liquefied hot melt adhesive from the melter. The filter is connected to the feed system and prevents contaminants from passing through the feed system. In one embodiment, the filter comprises a screen filter positioned near a bottom of a pellet hopper. In another embodiment, the filter comprises a series of baffles positioned along the pellet hopper. In yet another embodiment, the filter comprises an electro-static filter coupled to a feed hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventors: Daniel P. Ross, Paul R. Quam, Robert J. Lind, Douglas B. Farrow, John S. Lihwa, Joseph E. Tix, Mark J. Brudevold, Mark T. Weinberger, Mark W. Sheahan, Shaun M. Cook, Nicholas D. Long, Michael J. Sebion
  • Patent number: 8833610
    Abstract: A device is provided for successively melting a solid working material, such as a hot melt adhesive, packed in a packaging bag, and for pressing the molten working material out of the packaging bag. The device includes a cylindrical receiving chamber provided with at least one outlet opening at the end for receiving the packaging bag filled with the working material and having a front end and a back end. At least one heating element (30) is positioned in the region of the at least one outlet opening for melting the working material at the front-end of the packaging bag, which has a discharge opening for the molten working material. A pressing device with a pressing plunger can be displaced within the receiving chamber and acts on the back end of the packaging bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Rothen
  • Publication number: 20140242213
    Abstract: A feeding system for a neonate is provided that includes a fluid reservoir adapted to contain fluid to be provided to the neonate, a nipple in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir having at least one fluid outlet adapted to enable the neonate to take the fluid therefrom by mouth and a control system adapted to automatically maintain the pressure in the fluid reservoir substantially neutral relative to the pressure external to the fluid outlet as the fluid is taken by the neonate. The feeding system may also include a heating system adapted to warm the fluid and to automatically maintain the temperature of the fluid in the reservoir at a temperature near the body temperature of the neonate as the fluid is provided to the neonate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventors: Read McCarty, Charles H. Rogers, Jerome Issa, Vincent G. D'Agostino
  • Publication number: 20140239203
    Abstract: A target supply device 4 may include a tank 51, formed of a metal, that holds a target material, an insulating member 62 that makes contact with at least part of the periphery of the tank 51, and a heater 58 that is separated from the tank 51 and heats the tank 51 via the insulating member 62.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: GIGAPHOTON INC.
    Inventors: Hiroshi UMEDA, Toshiyuki HIRASHITA
  • Patent number: 8744251
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for delivering a heated fluid. The apparatus includes at least a preheat zone, an expansion zone, and an expanded zone comprising a plurality of trim heaters, at least one fluid flow-distribution sheet, and an outlet. The apparatus may be used for delivering the heated fluid onto a moving fluid-permeable substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Andrew W. Chen, Andrew R. Fox, Scott A. Jerde, William P. Klinzing, Bradley K. Kucera, Patrick J. Sager, James C. Breister
  • Publication number: 20140144929
    Abstract: A system for applying heated compositions includes a heated supply tank for receiving and supplying a composition at a first temperature, and a heated discharge chamber for receiving the composition from the supply tank, heating it further to a desired temperature, and discharging the composition for its end use. The system may be a bulk dispenser or a hand-held glue gun. In preferred embodiments, the compositions are hot melt adhesives, particularly hot melt adhesives of reduced density.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Adhesive Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Fitzmeyer, Richard A. Belanger, Peter S. Melendy
  • Publication number: 20140144942
    Abstract: An adhesive melter includes a melter support frame with a spring-loaded support and a manifold for receiving molten adhesive. The melter also includes a pump pack assembly having a rigid frame carrying a pump for directing flow of molten adhesive through the manifold, a motor, and a drive coupling operatively connecting the pump and motor. The pump pack assembly is collectively mounted as a unit on the melter support frame by positioning the rigid frame on the spring-loaded support, moving the pump into abutment with the manifold, and fastening the pump into fluid-tight engagement with the manifold, the support adjusting in position during fastening to assist with carrying the pump pack assembly as a cantilever load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: NORDSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Charles P. Ganzer
  • Patent number: 8733590
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser has a housing in which fluid flow control components are located and a fluid conduit completing a fluid flow path between a fluid storage tank and a nozzle coupled to the housing. The fluid dispenser further has a control system, at least one controllable valve and a fluid flow meter located along the fluid flow path. The fluid dispenser further has a fluid temperature conditioning subsystem located along the fluid flow path upstream of the flow meter. The control system selectively operates the fluid temperature conditioning subsystem upon detection of a predetermined temperature. At least one controllable recirculation valve may also be provided, and the control system may selectively actuate the controllable recirculation valve such that the fluid flows back to the fluid storage tank. A method of measuring the flow rate of a fluid in the fluid dispenser is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Gilbarco, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Francis Bartlett, Jonathan E. Deline, John E. Ingold, Michael Lawrence Jennings
  • Publication number: 20140117047
    Abstract: A hot melt system is described which includes a container of hot melt pellets, a melter, a feed system, a pump, and a dispensing system. A pressure relief system is built around the pump, which may redirect liquefied adhesive from the pump outlet to the pump inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventors: Daniel P. Ross, Joseph E. Tix, Matthew R. Theisen, Nicholas K. Studt
  • Publication number: 20140120254
    Abstract: A hot melt dispensing system includes a melter for heating adhesive pellets into liquefied adhesive pellets and a feed cap connected to the melter. The melter includes a collection surface defining a melter collection area. The feed cap has a feed inlet for receiving a supply of adhesive pellets and air. The feed cap also has a ventilation window system positioned with respect to the feed inlet so as to induce air flow out the ventilation window system and to induce the distribution of the adhesive pellets throughout the melter collection area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventors: Daniel P. Ross, Joseph E. Tix
  • Patent number: 8701553
    Abstract: A valve system for a container or vat, such as a food cooking vat. The valve system includes a valve body and stem having a valve head with a sealing member. The valve body has an outlet configured to be in fluid communication with the vat, and the sealing member is in fluid communication with the outlet and the chamber and is selectively operable between a discharge position, allowing the vat's contents to drain from the chamber, and a closed position, allowing the contents to remain in the chamber. The sealing member preferably is comprised of polymer and has an O-type sealing ring interposed between a first portion and a second portion, where the diameter of the second portion is smaller than the diameter of the first portion. Embodiments may also include a snap-fit connection of the sealing member to the valve head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: James H. McCarter
  • Publication number: 20140103075
    Abstract: Processes and devices for delivering a fluid by chemical reaction are disclosed. A chemical reaction is initiated in a reaction chamber to produce a gas, and the gas acts upon a piston to deliver the fluid. Preferred devices typically include an upper chamber, a lower chamber, a fluid chamber, a piston between the lower chamber and the fluid chamber, and a barrier between the upper chamber and the lower chamber. When the barrier is broken, reagents in the upper chamber and the lower chamber are mixed together to generate the gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Corrie Bennison, Chris Muenzer, Tim Blum, Chris McKenzie, Steve Madland, Jeff Ellis, Amy Heintz, Brian Kaseman
  • Publication number: 20140084025
    Abstract: A pumping system comprises an internal combustion engine, a generator, a pumping unit and a heat recovery system. The generator is driven by the internal combustion engine. The pumping unit is powered by the generator. The heat recovery system thermally couples the internal combustion engine with the pumping unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Tix, Mark T. Weinberger, Richard D. Anderson, Jeffrey N. Velgersdyk, Nicholas K. Studt, Gregory A. Regenscheid, Matthew R. Theisen, Kenneth C. Floer, Mark J. Brudevold, Arthur T. Graf