Fountains Or Drinking Tubes And Straws Patents (Class 239/16)
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Patent number: 11835975Abstract: A multi-stage water effect system includes a plurality of water ride vehicles. A water ride vehicle of the plurality of water ride vehicles has one or more water effect devices. The multi-stage water effect system also includes a control system communicatively coupled to the one or more water effect devices of the plurality of water ride vehicles. The control system activates the one or more water effect devices of the water ride vehicle to provide a first fluid flow at a first time. The control system also activates the one or more water effect devices of the water ride vehicle to provide a second fluid flow at a second time.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2021Date of Patent: December 5, 2023Assignee: Univesal City Studios LLCInventors: Sean Michael Lowry, Gregory Shellman Hall
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Patent number: 11498009Abstract: A system for waterparks or other uses wherein the system combines an electric pump system that can draw water from a lake, a pool or the sea, and pump it through a hose system and sprinklers that can wet objects on or in the water such as a waterpark. It can be connected to floating platforms or other structures that can elevate the sprinklers off the water. The system features an inflatable platform that has an inflatable tower that allows a hose to extend from underwater, through the center of the tower, to a spray nozzle atop the tower that sprays water in any direction. The system can also be attached to any other waterpark structure with various fittings. This will allow a slow drip of water on some items so as to keep them slippery and wet.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2018Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: Connelly Skis, LLCInventor: David C. Johnson
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Patent number: 11253428Abstract: An emergency wash system includes a basin, a fluid dispenser disposed at least partially over the basin, and a push plate coupled to the fluid dispenser. The push plate is positioned behind the fluid dispenser. The fluid dispenser includes: a fluid inlet portion defining a drainage aperture; a first fluid riser fluidly coupled to the fluid inlet portion, the first fluid riser extending upward from the fluid inlet portion; and a second fluid riser fluidly coupled to the fluid inlet portion, the second fluid riser extending upward from the fluid inlet portion on a substantially opposite side of the fluid inlet portion relative to the first fluid riser.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2019Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Assignee: Bradley Fixtures CorporationInventors: Timothy E. Perrin, Theodore E. Dhein, Scott M. Kluck
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Patent number: 10517796Abstract: An emergency wash system configured to dispense a fluid is disclosed. The system comprises a receptacle and a dispenser assembly disposed at least partially over the receptacle. The dispenser assembly comprises a fluid inlet portion configured to extend in a substantially horizontal direction when in use and configured to be in fluid communication with a fluid supply. The dispenser assembly also comprises a first outlet portion defining at least one first discharge opening, a second outlet portion defining at least one second discharge opening, a first fluid riser extending upwardly and outwardly from the inlet portion towards the at least one first discharge opening and a second fluid riser extending upwardly and outwardly from the inlet the first fluid riser towards the at least one second discharge opening on a side of the fluid inlet portion opposite the first fluid riser.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2017Date of Patent: December 31, 2019Assignee: Bradley Fixtures CorporationInventors: Timothy E. Perrin, Theodore E. Dhein, Scott M. Kluck
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Patent number: 9744501Abstract: A decorative humidifier is provided that utilizes the structural features of common houseplants in a new and advantageous ways by providing stalks or stems to form hollow water vapor conduits for humidifying vapor. A planter conceals a water source for the humidifier. Flowers at the end of the stems may serve as water vapor exits. Particular plants may be chosen for advantageous features, such as long and numerous stems and flowers that may serve as an inconspicuous vapor exits. A drying unit may be connected to the vapor tube in order to force dry air through vapor channels to prevent growth of microbes and accumulation of deposits. The natural features of a chosen plant are utilized to create a synergy between aesthetics and function in a decorative humidifier.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2017Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Inventor: Michael Pingitore
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Patent number: 9700484Abstract: An emergency wash system configured to dispense a fluid is disclosed. The system comprises a receptacle and a dispenser assembly disposed at least partially over the receptacle. The dispenser assembly comprises a fluid inlet portion configured to extend in a substantially horizontal direction when in use and configured to be in fluid communication with a fluid supply. The dispenser assembly also comprises a first outlet portion defining at least one first discharge opening, a second outlet portion defining at least one second discharge opening, a first fluid riser extending upwardly and outwardly from the inlet portion towards the at least one first discharge opening and a second fluid riser extending upwardly and outwardly from the inlet the first fluid riser towards the at least one second discharge opening on a side of the fluid inlet portion opposite the first fluid riser.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2016Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: Bradley Fixtures CorporationInventors: Timothy E. Perrin, Theodore E. Dhein, Scott M. Kluck
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Patent number: 9662674Abstract: A fountain system and method of providing same is provided. This involves a plurality of communication nodes, each communication node being configured to operate when submerged in a liquid; and a plurality of fountain components for providing a plurality of fountain jets of liquid, each fountain component being linked to a communication node in the plurality of communication nodes and being operable to provide a fountain jet of liquid in the plurality of fountain jets of liquid. The plurality of communication nodes are operable to receive a plurality of fountain control signals transmitted through the liquid. The plurality of communication nodes are operable to control the plurality of fountain jets by communicating to each communication node in the plurality of communication nodes an associated fountain control signal for controlling the fountain component linked to that communication node. The plurality of fountain control signals are transmitted at a frequency in the range of 100 MHz to 1.2 GH.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2015Date of Patent: May 30, 2017Assignee: CRYSTAL FOUNTAINS HOLDINGS INC.Inventors: George Ayer, Kifah Al-Ansari, David Barratt
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Patent number: 9492758Abstract: The present disclosure provides a gesture capture hardware to visually receive position and/or gestures and translate visual signals to actuates of a water play feature in a water play structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2015Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: Skyturtle Technologies Ltd.Inventor: Lance C. Fisher
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Patent number: 8915454Abstract: A drinking straw includes a tube having an upper end including a first opening, a lower end including a second opening, and an outer wall extending between the upper and lower ends. A wrapper covers the tube and a securing element permanently attaches the wrapper to the outer wall of the tube. The wrapper is adapted to be opened for exposing the first and second openings of the tube while the securing element maintains the attachment of the wrapper to the tube. The outer wall of the tube has an inner surface, whereby at least two opposing sections of the inner surface of the outer wall are joined together for forming a bifurcated opening adjacent an end of the tube. The bifurcated opening defines a total area that is smaller than the area of the opening at the opposite end of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2011Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Inventor: Scott E. Churchill
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Publication number: 20140263714Abstract: A water play apparatus that includes a tank body where water is collected, a manual pump that allows the water to be circulated through the water play apparatus where the manual pump is located within the tank body, a deck unit which is located within the tank body which the manual pump is mounted upon, a filter unit which is connected to the manual pump by pipe and is located within the tank body underneath the deck unit, and a spout where the water from the manual pump directs water through the filter where water is exerted.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventors: Aileen Chase, David Chase
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Patent number: 8789767Abstract: An indoor water fixture comprising a basin to hold a pool of water, a pair of back walls rising vertically from a back portion of the basin, where the pair of back walls fit against a corner of a room, a plurality of falls arranged against the pair of back walls to release water, a plurality of reservoirs positioned beneath the plurality of falls, where the plurality of reservoirs catch the water, a plurality of shelves positioned beneath the plurality of reservoirs to enable the water to fall into the pool, and a water pump built within the basin wherein the water pump circulates the water from the basin, behind the pair of back walls and into the falls.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2010Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Inventor: Scott Serwacki
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Publication number: 20140203101Abstract: A device to shoot water into the air for a water display is described. The configuration of the shooter allows a stream of water to be shot out that contains reduced or no air exiting the device with the water, which provides a non-frothy appearance. The device may control the velocity of the water being shot by the device so that unique visual effects may be achieved, including an effect where a volume of water is suspended in the air.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2013Publication date: July 24, 2014Inventors: Mark Fuller, Jim Doyle, Eric Galpin, Don Lariviere
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Patent number: 8763926Abstract: An oil lamp-type apparatus or a Kukui pot candle device for achieving the illumination and the appearance of an ignited oil lamp. This is achieved by illuminating water flowing upward (e.g., substantially vertically to provide a flame-shaped element or small fountain of water above the pool surface) using a light source directing its light output upward through the water. The flame-shaped element has kinetic and dynamic movement similar to a flame on an oil lamp or candle wick due to the combination of the water flowing upward and the water falling nearly straight down back into a pool about the water outlet. Further, the effect is achieve by only illuminating the liquid in the flame-shaped element with the vertically upward-direct light stream and not by shining light from the side, from above, or even from an adjacent location.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Gary Powell, Joe M. Rohde
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Patent number: 8747374Abstract: An emergency eyewash unit includes a pair of water discharge ports oriented to produce a pair of upwardly directed, diverging water streams for inside-out flush flow of contaminants from a person's eyes. These eyewash streams can be combined with a plurality of smaller upwardly directed facewash streams for flushing contaminants from a person's face. The eyewash and/or facewash streams are produced by an eyewash body adapted for rotatable mounting onto a water supply conduit, with a locking clip normally preventing undesired rotational disassembly. The eyewash body may be used in combination with an overhead emergency shower which, in one preferred form, includes a shower spray head carrying multiple flow control and flow shaper elements to produce a substantially uniformly dispersed shower spray pattern.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2013Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Haws CorporationInventors: Victor C. Strandberg, Ian T. Roberts, Joshua D. Linn
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Patent number: 8689473Abstract: A dioramic apparatus includes a vessel having an inferior portion and a superior portion. The vessel includes a shell and defines an interior space. The interior space is partially filled by a liquid medium. At least one dioramic scene is disposed in the interior space. A reservoir is in fluid communication with the interior space. The reservoir includes a flow plate defining at least one liquid intake and at least one liquid output port. The at least one liquid intake is configured and arranged for receiving at least a portion of the liquid medium from the interior space when the dioramic apparatus is at least partially inverted. The at least one liquid output port is configured and arranged to output at least a portion of the liquid medium from the reservoir when the vessel is placed in an upright position.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2013Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: RainGlobes, LLCInventors: Joshua James, Frederick Bowen Northup, Jr., Lawrence Scott Larson, Jeremy Kolenbrander, James Ladtkow
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Patent number: 8596190Abstract: A liquid food fountain comprises a center barrel having a top opening and a bottom opening and a plurality of stackable modules (16, 14, 12, 10) adapted for a slip fit on the center barrel (20). Each module has a tier (16) extending around the center barrel (10). A liquid collector (24) is adapted to be placed below the modules. An auger (34) assembly is adapted to fit inside the center barrel to carry liquid entering the center barrel at the bottom opening to the top opening. A drive module is connectable to the auger assembly. The described parts can be assembled for use and disassembled for cleaning and storage.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: World-Wide Foods, a CA Corp.Inventors: Scott M. Roysner, Howard F. Wilkinson, Bernard Strong, Peter E. Karaiskos
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Patent number: 8544765Abstract: A solid stream nozzle providing an extend throw-distance achieved by reducing boundary layer effects within the nozzle bore and/or by accelerating peripheral regions of the ejected stream in order to help maintain cohesion of a free liquid stream without appreciable dispersion. The method includes generating a high-pressure fluid source, supplying the nozzle with high pressure; reducing boundary layer effect within the nozzle bore, and optionally, accelerating and/or inwardly re-directing the peripheral boundary of the ejected stream with a secondary higher pressure, higher speed fluid source. The apparatus includes a high pressure fluid source, a nozzle bore, a bleed ring within the nozzle bore to strip off a boundary layer, and optionally, a secondary higher pressure fluid source at the nozzle tip to accelerate and/or inwardly re-direct the ejected fluid stream.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2011Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Inventors: Donald E. Cornell, William M. Farrell
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Patent number: 8535052Abstract: A cap for a gas burner is disclosed. The cap includes a center portion including a top surface having a periphery; at least one extension extending outward from the center portion, the at least one extension defining a drain channel extending outward and downward from the top surface; and a ledge extending along the periphery. A spill resistant gas burner assembly incorporating such a cap is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Paul Bryan Cadima
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Patent number: 8500037Abstract: An adjustable water jet device that allows for the arc of the jet of water to be adjusted while the water is still flowing through the device. A multipurpose tool is disclosed which has a central hollow cavity surrounded by a grip. The multipurpose tool can be used to adjust the arc of the water jet, allowing the water to flow through the central hollow cavity of the tool. The multipurpose tool can also be used to adjust the flow rate of water through the device and to disassemble the device for maintenance purposes.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Custom Molded Products, Inc.Inventors: H. Charles Li, Bill Drury, Zachary Vogtner
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Patent number: 8485453Abstract: The straw designed for the intake of water based drink from a container. In the lower part of the flexible straw there are holes that are connected to the main tube of the straw. Above the holes and attached to the straw, there is a floating device which allows for the intake of the drink from the container only from fixed depth ranges, preferably from 5-15 mm from the surface of the water. The straw allows for the protection of the organism of the user from negative effects of the drink on the body's cells.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2011Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventors: Pavel V. Efremkin, Liudmila V. Gruzdeva
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Publication number: 20130119149Abstract: A nozzle positioning assembly includes a first support shaft, a second support shaft, a first position adjustment assembly, a second position adjustment assembly, and a hub. The first and second support shafts have respective bodies with a center aperture, a spherical first end, and a second end opposite the spherical first end. The first and second position adjustment assembly include first and second link mounting ears positioned circumferentially from one another. The first position adjustment assembly is adapted to be affixed to the second end of the first support shaft and the second position adjustment assembly is adapted to be affixed to the second end of the second support shaft. The hub has a first end configured to receive and rotatably retain the spherical first end of the first support shaft, and a second end configured to receive and rotatably retain the spherical first end of the second support shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2011Publication date: May 16, 2013Inventors: Kevin Thomas Brown, Cesar Javier Trejo, Tim O'Brien, David Olvera, Kenneth Lee Krauskopf
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Patent number: 8393099Abstract: A dioramic apparatus includes a vessel having an inferior portion and a superior portion. The vessel includes a shell and defines an interior space. The interior space is partially filled by a liquid medium. At least one dioramic scene is disposed in the interior space. A reservoir is in fluid communication with the interior space. The reservoir includes a flow plate defining at least one liquid intake and at least one liquid output port. The at least one liquid intake is configured and arranged for receiving at least a portion of the liquid medium from the interior space when the dioramic apparatus is at least partially inverted. The at least one liquid output port is configured and arranged to output at least a portion of the liquid medium from the reservoir when the vessel is placed in an upright position.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2011Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Rainglobes LLCInventors: Joshua James, Fred Northup, Lawrence Scott Larson, Jeremy Kolenbrander, James Ladtkow
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Patent number: 8376246Abstract: A reusable or confectionery drinking straw includes a second end portion mouthpiece having a single aperture or multiple apertures, the sensation of the liquid flowing through the aperture(s) capable of being modified by the user. The mouthpiece of the straw device is integral to the straw or it may be removably attached to the straw. The drinking straw device may be edible, partially edible, or inedible. The drinking straw device may be in the form of a bracelet, which may be edible, partially edible, or inedible.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Inventors: Francetta Jamese Estes White, David Lawrence White
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Patent number: 8366016Abstract: An adjustable water jet device so as to continuously regulate the velocity of water exiting the device without interrupting the water flow, the water jet device including a nozzle body, rotatable nozzle seat, a flow control plate, an inlet, and a nozzle eyeball configured to direct the water supply, and a water supply system including the adjustable water jet device, a plate for accommodating the water jet device in a pool deck or pool wall, and a cover that is mounted flush with the pool deck or pool wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Custom Molded Products, Inc.Inventor: Richard Simpson
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Patent number: 8251405Abstract: A pressurized water container for water fountains, ponds, swimming pools, and aquariums has at least two housing parts and at least one seal arranged between the at least two housing parts, wherein the at least two housing parts are connectable to one another in a lockable way. The at least two housing parts have projections and matching recesses, wherein the projections engage the recesses and, by a displacement of the at least two housing parts relative to one another in opposite directions, they are lockable on one another and releasable from one another when reversing the displacement.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2008Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: OASE GmbHInventor: Dominik Brune
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Patent number: 8100343Abstract: A water sprinkler toy includes a base having a water inlet and a nozzle adapted to spray water in the shape of a funnel. Additionally, the water sprinkler toy includes an object capable of being suspended in the air by the water.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Inventor: Jeff A. Michelsen
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Patent number: 8087191Abstract: An apparatus for the pixel-integrated return of fluid in the pixel of a fluidic display is characterized in that the fluid with which the desired information is to be displayed and/or the carrier fluid in which the fluid is optionally embedded can be returned in a particularly compact manner and in a manner which is invisible to an observer past the visible part of a pixel (image compartment) into a reservoir (reservoir compartment) through or out of the reservoir. The device comprises an image compartment, a reservoir compartment, a connecting duct and at least one return duct, whereby the at least one return duct is formed by the fact that the connecting duct has at least one area with an uninterruptedly enlarged cross section which transitions in a specified manner into the cross section of the original cross section.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2009Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: advanced display technology AGInventors: Frank Bartels, Andriy Bitman, Dieter Jerosch
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Patent number: 8070075Abstract: The description is given of a sanitary water-outflow fitting, in particular a tub-filling mixer unit, having a water-outflow housing (1) and a jet former for a wide-surface-area water-outlet jet (19), the jet former being arranged in the housing. The water-outflow housing (1) comprises an elongate supply channel (21) which runs essentially perpendicularly to the water-outlet jet (19), tapers in a funnel like manner in the throughflow direction and is bounded by an intermediate wall (37). The intermediate wall (37) has a multiplicity of throughflow holes (51), via which the supply channel (21) is connected to an elongate distributor chamber (11) essentially parallel to it. The distributor chamber (11) has at least one water-outlet channel (9) leading to the water outflow.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AGInventors: Heinz Schmidt, Werner Weinmann
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Patent number: 8056274Abstract: A dioramic apparatus includes a vessel having an inferior portion and a superior portion. The vessel includes a shell and defines an interior space. The interior space is partially filled by a liquid medium. At least one dioramic scene is disposed in the interior space. A reservoir is in fluid communication with the interior space. The reservoir includes a flow plate defining at least one liquid intake and at least one liquid output port. The at least one liquid intake is configured and arranged for receiving at least a portion of the liquid medium from the interior space when the dioramic apparatus is at least partially inverted. The at least one liquid output port is configured and arranged to output at least a portion of the liquid medium from the reservoir when the vessel is placed in an upright position.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Rain Globes LLCInventors: Joshua James, Fred Northup, Lawrence Scott Larson, Jeremy Kolenbrander, James Ladtkow
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Patent number: 8025242Abstract: The straw designed for the intake of water based drink from a container. In the lower part of the flexible straw there are holes that are connected to the main tube of the straw. Above the holes and attached to the straw, there is a floating device which allows for the intake of the drink from the container only from fixed depth ranges, preferably from 5-15 mm from the surface of the water. The straw allows for the protection of the organism of the user from negative effects of the drink on the body's cells.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2007Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Inventors: Pavel V. Efremkin, Liudmila V. Gruzdeva
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Patent number: 7909113Abstract: The invention is a fire place extinguishing and cleaning system which includes a water spray pipe with a plurality of water spray outlets wherein the water spray pipe is connected to a conventional water main and a drain outlet connected to a sewer system. The water spray pipe can extinguish a fire as well as wash the ash from the fireplace and rinse the walls of the fireplace, and whereupon the drain will provide a means to wash away the watered-ash debris. The invention also features a flush control knob which adjusts the flow of water spraying inside the furnace and/or fireplace. An alternative embodiment of the present invention features an upper and lower mounted water spray pipe with a plurality of water spray outlets. Another variation includes an ashtray with a drain, and with or without a pump and tank to re-circulate the water.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Inventor: German Campos
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Patent number: 7861942Abstract: A waterfall assembly features a first, substantially hermetically sealed chamber adapted to contain a quantity of liquid. The first chamber includes at least one substantially vertical and transparent side having an internal surface, preferably with a plurality of protrusions. A pump or fluid transport device is in fluid communication with the first chamber and at least one nozzle/aperture disposed within the first chamber. The nozzle/aperture directs the liquid against at least a portion of the internal surface of the vertical side of the first chamber such that some of the liquid flows over the protrusions. A second chamber having a light source may be disposed beneath the first chamber for illuminating the first chamber.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Rock'n Crab AquaticsInventors: Peri Damon, Scott Neville
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Patent number: 7854080Abstract: System and methods for providing synchronized ornamental displays in a presentation zone that is at least partially containing a fluid, which include a support structure, a decorative object supported by the support structure, a light disposed on the object, a plurality of cables coupled to the support structure at their respective first ends; a plurality of cable tensioning devices, wherein one cable tensioning device is engaged with the second end of a respective cable of the plurality of cables, and the plurality of cable tensioning devices are positioned spatially about the periphery of the presentation zone, wherein the spatial arrangement defines a range of desired movement for the object, and a control device operatively associated with the tensioning devices and light.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Wynn Resorts Holdings, LLCInventor: Walter Conti
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Patent number: 7845580Abstract: A fountain base for supporting one or more statues on top of a disappearing water fountain. The fountain base includes a basin, a statue support located in the basin, and an access lid that permits maintenance access to the interior of the basin without having to remove the statue from the statue support. A pump located within the basin delivers water from the basin to the top of the statue where it is released to flow over the exterior of the surface of the statue, through the access lid, and back into the basin. The access lid, which may be supported by a statue stand or a system of pillars, includes one or more panels that can be removed without removing the statue from the statue support. The panels may include access doors to permit easy access to the interior of the basin.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Xianming Liao
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Patent number: 7823802Abstract: An extensible straw for incorporation as an integral component of a disposable or collapsible beverage container has telescoping tubes extensible from the container, a screw cap and multiple seals preventing inadvertent leakage from the container whether the container is maintained upright or not.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Inventors: Sharla D. Roche, Gary V. VanMeter
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Patent number: 7806347Abstract: A water pump with a housing that has a pump housing part provided with an intake opening and an outlet opening and a motor housing part. An impeller with a shaft is rotatably arranged in the pump housing part. An electric motor is received in the motor housing part. The electric motor is an electronically commutated motor with a rotor and coils. In the housing, control and governing electronics for the electric motor are arranged that have a speed detection, a processor, and a data storage device. The electronics are arranged in the motor housing part and potted therein in a water-tight way. An integrated BUS control module is provided. The control electronics and the governing electronics can be arranged separate from one another on different circuit boards.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: OASE GmbHInventors: Andreas Hanke, Herbert Lambers
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Patent number: 7789320Abstract: A safety drinking straw includes a beverage delivery tube having a tube first end for insertion into a quantity of beverage and a tube second end for placement between user lips; and a debris blocking structure substantially at the tube first end permitting a free flow of the beverage through the delivery tube while preventing entry of debris of a selected minimum target size into the delivery tube; so that the debris blocking structure prevents debris from entering the delivery tube and thus prevents debris from lodging and becoming an obstruction within the delivery tube. The debris blocking structure preferably includes at least one cord extending across the interior of the delivery tube substantially at the tube first end, and alternatively includes at least one tube partition or at least two tubular barrels fitted longitudinally and in tandem inside and secured within the delivery tube.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Inventor: Jason P. Schwartz
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Patent number: 7770815Abstract: Adjustable nozzles are disclosed. Nozzles of the present invention include an adjustable component for controlling the water flow through the nozzle. Instead of disassembling the nozzle, a tool may be used to adjust the adjustable component. For example, the adjustable component may be adjusted longitudinally with respect to the axis of the nozzle or rotationally using the tool, thereby increasing or decreasing the volume, velocity and distance of the water stream exiting the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2007Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Zodiac Pool Care, Inc.Inventors: Charles T. Green, Jeffrey A. Wichmann
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Patent number: 7754072Abstract: A water feature for use in landscaping applications. A water issuing device, such as a waterfall construction is provided for receiving water and discharging water onto a gravel bed. The bed is positioned below the waterfall and forms a path or surface along which the water can flow in a stream-like manner and through which the water can percolate downwardly into the bed. A perforated and tubularly shaped collection module having a plurality of openings for receiving water percolating downwardly through the bed. A cylindrically-shaped and generally vertically oriented stack is coupled to the module for receiving water therefrom. A pump in the stack receives water from the water collection member and directs water to the waterfall construction. It is noted that water from the waterfall appears to disappear into the gravel and only a shallow stream is formed.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Aquascape Designs, Inc.Inventors: David R. Kelly, Edgar Beaulieu
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Patent number: 7753284Abstract: A drinking straw having bladders of air formed in an integral manner disposed at its lower end, separately throughout the body or encompassing the entire periphery for different levels of buoyancy to be obtained so that if submerged into a container the straw will rise when uncapped to a desired level for use. Additionally the present invention has a bendable region for easier manipulation of the straws drinking end into one's mouth.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2008Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Inventor: Adar Raitses
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Patent number: 7748642Abstract: A machine for constructing modular water spray configurations with one or more flexible modules containing one or more conduits, communication between one or more modules and of one or more other modules, structure to interconnect modules, and communication between at least one module and a water source.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Inventor: Patrick Dean King
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Patent number: 7743698Abstract: A fountain for heating and/or cooling a beverage comprises one or more heating and/or cooling elements that are configured to adjust a temperature of a beverage that circulates through the fountain. In one embodiment, the beverage fountain includes one or more heating elements located proximate to a basin, a cylinder, and/or a top reservoir of the fountain. In another embodiment, the beverage fountain includes one or more cooling elements located proximate to a basin, a cylinder, and/or a reservoir of the fountain. Alternatively, the beverage fountain may include both heating and cooling elements located proximate to a basin, a cylinder, a reservoir, and/or other locations of the fountain, wherein a selection device, such as an electrical switch or control module, may be adjusted by a user in order to select heating or cooling of the beverage.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Sephra L.P.Inventors: Richard B. Muir, William F. Polley, Devan B. Muir, Wu C. Liang
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Publication number: 20100147970Abstract: A leakproof arrangement of a chocolate fountain includes a leakproof device tightly fastened within the through hole of the basin. The leakproof device has i) a base sealed to the periphery of the through hole of the basin; ii) a plurality of support frames disposed around the base; and iii) a shaft sleeve disposed at the center of the base, the joint between the shaft sleeve and the base being tightly sealed without any gaps, the height h2 of the shaft sleeve being greater than the maximal chocolate level h1, the connection end at the top of the shaft sleeve rising above the height h2 of the shaft sleeve. In this way, the melted chocolate will never flow over the shaft sleeve such that downward leakage may be avoided. As a result, the leakage of the melted chocolate is prevented, thereby ensuring a smooth operation of the transmission element as well as a prolonged service life.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2008Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventor: Mei-Hsiu Chang
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Patent number: 7735749Abstract: A fountain (50) comprises a supply of water under pressure, a primary fluidic diverter (10) having an input (12) for said supply, and first and second outputs (16a, b) diverging from said input. Two control ports (20a, b) are provided with control flow to direct input flow to one or other of the two outputs that lead to the two inputs of a vortex amplifier (40). This comprises a vortex chamber (54), a radial port (50), a vortex inducing port (60) and an axial output port (58). One (16a) of the diverter outputs is connected to the vortex inducing port, the other (16b) to the radial port, so that supply to said axial output port is modulated by formation of a vortex in the chamber when flow is to the vortex inducing port. The axial port leads to a nozzle whereby a vortex spray or axial jet is produced, depending on which diverter output (16a, b) is active. A wind detector (100) has a vertical jet (102) and a catcher (104) which fails to catch water from the jet in high wind conditions.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2003Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Inventor: John Tippetts
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Patent number: 7698754Abstract: A flat ribbon-shaped waterfall for a portable spa is caused to flow out of the top rim or top side of a spa. A narrow elongated spout forms the output end of a plenum chamber that has a water inlet. The plenum chamber is constructed to baffle surges in the inlet water flow. A light source is placed close to the mouth of the elongated spout to light the ribbon of water flowing from the spout in multi-color, if desired.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Richard K. Kunkel
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Patent number: 7690585Abstract: A volcano food fountain is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the volcano food fountain includes a fountain base having a bowl, a simulated volcano carried by the fountain base in the bowl, a pump provided in the simulated volcano and communicating with the bowl, a volcano opening provided in the simulated volcano and communicating with the pump and a tray carried by the fountain base.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Inventors: Jason W. Johns, Julie A. Johns
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Publication number: 20100024665Abstract: A liquid food fountain comprises a center barrel having a top opening and a bottom opening and a plurality of stackable modules (16, 14, 12, 10) adapted for a slip fit on the center barrel (20). Each module has a tier (16) extending around the center barrel (10). A liquid collector (24) is adapted to be placed below the modules. An auger (34) assembly is adapted to fit inside the center barrel to carry liquid entering the center barrel at the bottom opening to the top opening. A drive module is connectable to the auger assembly. The described parts can be assembled for use and disassembled for cleaning and storage.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2005Publication date: February 4, 2010Inventors: Scott M. Roysner, Howard F. Wilkinson, Bernard Strong, Peter E. Karaiskos
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Publication number: 20100016092Abstract: A water based entertainment device in accordance with an embodiment of the present application is connected to a garden hose to provide smooth walls of water that define an enclosed dry that is substantially free of water spray.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2008Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Alan Amron
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Patent number: 7575181Abstract: An echo chamber including a high-strength, structurally rigid receptacle and a weight bearing grate through which the water from an artificial outdoor waterfall may pass, which grate can support considerable weight loads exerted by materials such as rocks, stones, and the like. The receptacle functions as a substitute for a flexible artificial waterfall water sump liner and receives recirculating water of an artificial waterfall. When constructing a disappearing artificial waterfall using a chamber constructed according to the present invention, rocks or other material are placed on the chamber's grate. As water cascades through the material on the grate and falls into the chamber, an echo sound is generated. Differing configurations of the stones on the grate and changes in water level in the receptacle produce echoes of different pitch and intensity.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Meridienne International, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey G. Weemhoff
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Patent number: 7537173Abstract: A drinking straw for delivering a hot liquid in the form of a foam into a user's mouth that mimics the natural action of sucking in air for cooling the liquid. The straw has a tube wall with an expanded portion proximate an outlet. Air admitting orifices are provided in the tube wall below the expanded portion so that air is drawn into the straw through the orifices when a liquid is sucked through the straw. The straw may be used for cooling a hot liquid such as coffee, tea, soup or the like and may be used in connection with a container.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Inventor: Gennady S. Kogan