Abstract: A nozzle for an irrigation sprinkler is provided, where the nozzle includes a sealing pad for reducing the distance relative to a seal of an irrigation device when the nozzle is in a retracted position to restrict the entry of grit and other debris into the irrigation device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a nozzle 1 for generating a water shield, the nozzle comprises a nozzle body 2 being hollow and having a substantially circular circumference, said nozzle body comprises a first and second end 3,4 and an inner 7 and an outer 6 surface, the first end 3 is open and has a construction suited for coupling to a source of pressurized water, and the second end 4 is closed, the nozzle body further comprises multiple holes 5 extending from the inner to the outer surface, the holes arranged in at least one row extending around at least parts of the substantially circular circumference, the holes having a cross-section at the inner and outer surface of the nozzle body, wherein the cross-section of the holes 5 has a larger area at the inner surface 7 of the nozzle body than at the outer surface 6.

Abstract: An agricultural sprayer (1) with a pump (20), a plurality of nozzles, a valve arrangement (28) associated with the nozzles and a feed conduit (25). The valve arrangement (28) selectively connects the feed conduit (25) to a bypass conduit (26) or to the nozzles. A return conduit (32) branches off from the feed conduit (25). A regulation valve (30) applies a variable degree of throttling to the fluid flowing through the return conduit. A pressure sensor (41) provides a signal for fluid delivered to the valve arrangement. A flow sensor (42) provides a signal representing the flow in the feed conduit (25). A controller (50) is in receipt of the sensor signals, receives instructions from an operator and controls the regulation valve (30) using the instructions from the operator and available measured signals using feedback control loops combined with a feed forward signal.

Abstract: A foreign object damage protection system comprises a sensor for detecting a foreign object, a fluid in a reservoir, a means for dispensing the fluid, the means for dispensing the fluid in communication with the reservoir, and a control unit, whereby when the sensor detects a foreign object, the control unit causes fluid to be dispensed from the reservoir through the means for dispensing and towards the foreign object. The sensor is attachable to one or more locations on an aircraft, such as a wing, nose, windshield, fuselage or tail. The sensor can be a radar sensor, weather radar sensor, weather radar sensor modified to detect objects at short ranges, infra-red sensor, forward-looking infrared sensor, a light detection and ranging sensor, motion sensor, thermal sensor, or video sensor. The system provides a way to protect an aircraft from striking foreign objects, such as birds, in the path of the aircraft.

Abstract: A personal protection apparatus includes a glove; a reservoir supported on the glove, and housing a sprayable repellant therein; a valve electrically operable to control the flow of fluid from the reservoir into a delivery tube; and a switch for actuating the valve. The switch includes contacts on thumb and index finger portions of the glove so as to close the switch and activate the spray of repellant when the thumb is positioned between the index finger and middle finger.

Abstract: An agricultural sprayer (1) with a pump (20), a plurality of nozzles, a valve arrangement (28) associated with the nozzles and a feed conduit (25). The valve arrangement (28) selectively connects the feed conduit (25) to a bypass conduit (26) or to the nozzles. A return conduit (32) branches off from the feed conduit (25). A regulation valve (30) applies a variable degree of throttling to the fluid flowing through the return conduit. A pressure sensor (41) provides a signal for fluid delivered to the valve arrangement. A flow sensor (42) provides a signal representing the flow in the feed conduit (25). A controller (50) is in receipt of the sensor signals, receives instructions from an operator and controls the regulation valve (30) using the instructions from the operator and available measured signals using feedback control loops combined with a feed forward signal.

Abstract: According to the present invention, an arbitrary active constituent is sprayed stably so as to treat a target space. A method of the present invention, for treating a target space, includes the step of spraying, in the target space, a composition in an effective amount, the composition containing (i) a solvent and (ii) an electrolyte having a pK of not less than ?10 but not more than 7, which pK is a dissociation constant with respect to water, the composition being sprayed as liquid particles in a mist form, which liquid particle have (I) an average particle diameter of not less than 100 nm but not more than 10 ?m and (II) an average charge number of not less than +40 but not more than +40000.

Abstract: Systems and methods for influencing thrust of a gas turbine engine are disclosed. A system includes a plurality of pipes positioned at an exhaust nozzle of the gas turbine engine. Each one of the plurality of pipes includes: an inlet inside the exhaust nozzle; an outlet inside the exhaust nozzle; and an intermediate portion outside the exhaust nozzle.

Abstract: A nozzle for producing a liquid jet or a single-file stream of droplets of a fluid, methods using the nozzle, and an injector comprising the nozzle of the invention for providing the liquid jet or single-file stream of a fluid to a vacuum system are described.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing a build up of snow or dust. The apparatus includes a plurality of air nozzles positioned around a periphery of a target area to be kept clear of snow or dust. Each of the nozzles directs a stream of air away from the target area. A deflector is positioned around a periphery of the target area. The deflector deflects the stream of air from each nozzle across the target area, wherein an air curtain is formed preventing snow or dust from landing on the target area.

Abstract: The invention relates to an inlet for a tank which is intended for a liquid food product. The inlet is placed in the side wall of the tank and at the upper end of the tank. The inlet is further designed so that the inflowing product is distributed in fan-shape along the inside of the tank. The application also includes a method of supplying liquid food product to a tank.

Abstract: An ejector (38) has ports (40, 42, 44) for receiving a motive flow and a suction flow and discharging a combined flow. The ejector has a motive flow inlet, a suction flow inlet (42), and an outlet (44). A suction flow flowpath extends from the suction flow inlet. A motive flow flowpath extends from the motive flow inlet to join the suction flow flowpath and form a combined flowpath exiting the outlet. The ejector comprises a plurality of motive flow nozzles (100, 302, 402, 602, 702, 802) along the motive flow flowpath. The motive flow nozzles are oriented to impart a tangential velocity component to the motive flow. A plurality of diffusers (130, 304, 404, 604, 704, 804) are along the combined flowpath and are oriented to recover the tangential velocity from the combined flow.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agricultural machine for spraying a phytosanitary liquid over cultivated land, said machine comprising means for moving the machine, a spray boom having at least one arm, a mechanism for inclining the boom and/or at least one of the arms in relation to a frame of the machine and vertically when the machine is on a flat and horizontal surface, and a mechanism for raising/lowering the boom along an axis fixed in relation to the frame of the machine. At least one of the arms is provided with at least one sensor, each sensor measuring a distance between the surface of the land and said sensor or, if necessary, between the crop and the sensor. The control unit is connected to each sensor, provided with a memory for storing information provided by each sensor, and able to control the raising/lowering mechanism according to information stored in the memory.

Abstract: A particulate dispersing apparatus is provided that includes a vessel configured to contain particulate material, an insert disposed inside the vessel and having a first hole pattern and adapted to be removed from the vessel, and at least one fastener having a cylindrical body and a pair of projections extending in opposite directions from a bottom of the cylindrical body. The pair of projections are substantially perpendicular to the cylindrical body and secures the insert to the vessel.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a fluid ejection device and a method for ejection of fluid into a marine environment. The device includes at least one foldable ejection arm with at least one fluid ejection nozzle, the arm(s) being mounted on a transport vessel in one or several mounting points. Furthermore, the ejection arm is foldable, where the folded position of the arm(s) is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the transport vessel.

Abstract: The invention relates to an agricultural machine (1) for spraying a phytosanitary liquid over a crop planted in a section of land, comprising a spray boom (2) having at least one am1 (2a), a mechanism for raising/lowering the boom (2) and, for each arm (2a), a mechanism (3) for inclining the arm (2a), a manual system (38) for controlling each inclining body (3), and a receiver (4) for communicating with a geolocalisation system and a control unit (5). Each arm (2a) is provided with at least one sensor (6) measuring a distance (d) between said sensor and the surface (S) of the land or vegetation planted in the land, and an element (7, 70, 103) for measuring a datum relating to the incline of the arm (2a).

Abstract: Described is an atomizing nozzle having a relatively small frontal area permitting insertion of a nozzle into small diameter medical conduit(s). A body of a preferred nozzle has a characteristic size (e.g., cross-section diameter) of less than about 0.2 inch (0.5 cm). The nozzle body is typically carried on an extension member, which can be transversely flexible to permit passage of a nozzle body through a tube and along a nonlinear path. The nozzle body is typically connected to an extension member by way of a lap joint associated with the nozzle body. Preferred embodiments have a De/O ratio of less than 12.0, a Db/O ratio of less than about 18, and a Db/De ratio of less than about 1.1. Certain embodiments include a swirling chamber disposed upstream of the ejection orifice and having a proximal wall with a portion configured to at least approximate a portion of a dome, or other curved surface.

Abstract: A descaling nozzle that can efficiently remove scale from a steel sheet. A spray section at an end of the descaling nozzle includes a taper portion continuous with a large diameter portion that forms a cylindrical channel, a first orifice formed on an outlet side of the taper portion, a resonant chamber continuous with an outlet side of the first orifice and that has a dimension in a radial direction that is greater than a major axis of the first orifice, and a second orifice formed on an outlet side of the resonant chamber.

Abstract: A vegetation control system for use with chemically-based treatments includes at least one distribution apparatus and at least one reservoir mounted onto a mobile unit. Routed within a passageway or passageways in the distribution apparatus are one or more conduits. These conduits are configured to route the chemically-based treatment from the reservoir through the passageway(s) to an end of the distribution apparatus, having one or more nozzles. The vegetation control system may be used by an operator to target specific branches and other specified areas of vegetation for treatment. The distribution apparatus is mounted onto the mobile unit for application of the treatment in various areas.

Abstract: Apparatus (1) for injecting a liquid in an area of a thermal spray gun (100). The apparatus (1) includes an injector cleaning device (10) having an inlet connectable (19) to at least one feedstock supply line (18), an inlet connectable (17) to at least one gas supply line (16), and an inlet connectable (21) to at least one liquid medium supply line (20). An injector (30) orifice is coupled to the injector cleaning device (10) and is adapted to at least one of inject a liquid jet into a hot stream created in the area of the thermal spray gun (100) and receive feedstock, gas and liquid passing into the inlets.

Abstract: The wedge insert for a powder tube extension of a powder spray gun operable at high voltage comprises a sleeve, wherein the sleeve has a radial web, which is wedge-shaped on the upstream side. In addition, an axially running channel, into which a guide tube, which guides an electrode with a high voltage, can be inserted, is provided in the web.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An epitaxial deposition apparatus comprises a deposition chamber with at least one gas injector having a gas injection surface and a substrate support having a deposition surface; and at least one vacuum pump having a gas aperture in fluid communication with the deposition chamber and facing the gas injection surface of the at least one gas injector, the substrate support being inter-posed between the at least one gas injector and the gas aperture of the at least one vacuum pump. The invention also relates to an epitaxial deposition gas injector and a nozzle for an epitaxial deposition gas injector. Furthermore, the invention relates to a gas supply and handling system for an epitaxial deposition apparatus.

Abstract: A device discharges fragrance during the dispensing of toilet seat covers generally includes a retainer for holding the toilet seat covers and at least one scent reservoir. The scent reservoir is disposed in the inside of the retainer and in contact with the toilet seat covers. At least one opening is also disposed in the retainer and defines an opening for dispensing the seat covers and discharging fragrance. In the process of usage of the seat cover, a user removes the seat cover from the retainer by pulling the seat cover through the opening. The pulling of the seat cover creates friction on the scent reservoir and enables the fragrance particles to be released. The fragrance air flows out from the opening with the seat cover and disburses scented air into the ambient air.

Abstract: A portable vegetation treatment system includes a primary pump, a secondary pump, an intake-port assembly, a distribution assembly, and a control assembly. The primary pump is configured to couple with a diluent source while the secondary pump is configured to couple with a reservoir, containing a chemically-based fluid. The chemically-based fluid may be a concentrate, pre-mixed concentrate or other fluid(s), requiring dilution or combination with another fluid before application. The secondary pump includes components that meter one or more chemically-based fluids, during active operation. These components also substantially restrict migration or inappropriate flow of the chemically-based fluid when the system is inactive or in a passive state.

Abstract: The present invention provides, inter alia, an apparatus for generating a mist.

Abstract: A method and system has been developed to individually control the flow of liquid products from any nozzle within a plurality of nozzles using pulse width modulated solenoid actuated valves. The method and system simultaneously controls multiple flow and shutoff related inputs including but not limited to turn radius, nozzle overlap, swath reduction, nozzle spacing, fence row rates, wheel track rates, etc. The method and system will also simultaneously accept one or more external inputs from commercially available application rate control devices where other rate and shutoff inputs may be used, for example, variable rates per boom section based on GIS maps or multiple in-field sensors along the boom. The method and system further incorporates the artificial manipulation of commercial rate controller inputs and outputs to facilitate these individual nozzle control features and benefits without compromising the overall system flow control performed by the commercial rate controller.

Abstract: A dispensing head for emitting an atomized spray of liquid droplets includes an actuator and a nozzle insert. The actuator includes a gas duct and a liquid duct and may be attached to a container housing a propellant gas and a liquid product. The nozzle insert includes at least one modular structure that can be installed in an actuator socket on the actuator. The nozzle insert includes a pressure cap defining a pressure chamber having an exit orifice. A liquid conduit is disposed in the pressure chamber and defines a liquid supply channel having a liquid supply channel exit opening. The nozzle insert is configured to form a reflux cell in the liquid supply channel upstream of the liquid supply channel exit opening to achieve flow blurring interaction between the liquid product and the gas propellant.

Abstract: A sequential delivery valve provides sequential delivery of gas propellant and liquid product from a container to a dispensing head for ejecting an atomized spray from the dispensing head. When the dispensing head is depressed, a pusher in the valve passes from a closed position wherein no liquid and no gas is allowed to travel through the valve to a partially open position where only gas is allowed to travel through the valve and eventually to a fully open position wherein both gas and liquid are allowed to travel through the valve into the dispensing head. When the dispensing head is released, the pusher passes from the fully open position back to a partially open position allowing only gas to travel through the valve and eventually to the closed position wherein no gas and no liquid are allowed to travel through the valve into the dispensing head.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a reactor inlet distributor and a perforated deflector. In this apparatus the relationship between the diameter of the perforated deflector (DD), the height of the opening of the inlet distributor pipe of the reactor inlet distributor (HSLOT) and the outer diameter of the inlet distributor pipe (ODDP) is: DD=ODDP+2(xHSLOT) wherein x is at least ½.

Abstract: A template for feeding a processing solution to predetermined positions of a substrate has multiple opening portions formed in positions on a front surface corresponding to the predetermined positions, flow channels penetrating from the opening portions to a back surface in a thickness direction for flowing a processing solution, first hydrophilic regions set to be hydrophilic around the opening portions on the front surface, and second hydrophilic regions set to be hydrophilic on inner surfaces of flow channels. The first hydrophilic regions are formed in positions corresponding to hydrophilic patterns set to be hydrophilic around the predetermined positions on a substrate surface.

Abstract: A portable airless sprayer comprises a housing, a motor, a pump, a spray tip and a trigger. The motor is mounted to the housing. The pump is mounted to the housing and is driven by the motor. The spray tip assembly receives pressurized fluid from the pump. The trigger is configured to actuate the spray tip assembly and activate the motor. A method of operating a portable airless sprayer comprises moving a lever over a stroke, displacing a valve pin, and activating a motor. The valve pin is displaced with the lever to actuate a spray valve. The motor is activated with the lever to drive a pump that provides fluid to the spray valve.

Abstract: A sump sprinkler system for use with residential and commercial buildings. The sump sprinkler system comprises a system controller and a sprinkler pump in communication with the system controller. The sump sprinkler system also comprises an intake tube connected to the sprinkler pump, wherein the intake having an end arranged in a sump of a building. The sump sprinkler system also comprises a water level member in communication with the system controller, wherein the water level member is arranged in the sump. The sump sprinkler system may be modified to provide a sump water supply system or a sump geothermal field system.

Abstract: The invention includes a gas dispersion plate to provide reactant gases to a reaction chamber comprising: a plate body having a first surface and a second surface, the plate body having at least one injection passage that spans the plate from the first surface to the second surface, the distance along the passage from the first surface to the second surface defining the length of the passage, wherein the injection passage includes an ion trap chamber, through which gas flows from the first surface of the plate to the second surface of the plate. In an embodiment, the passage includes an inlet portion interposed between the first surface and the chamber and an outlet portion that is interposed between the ion trap chamber and the second surface.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for dispersing particles within a reaction field, the method comprising confining the particles to the reaction field using a standing wave. The invention also provides a system for coating particles, the system comprising a reaction zone; a means for producing fluidized particles within the reaction zone; a fluid to produce a standing wave within the reaction zone; and a means for introducing coating moieties to the reaction zone. The invention also provides a method for coating particles, the method comprising fluidizing the particles, subjecting the particles to a standing wave; and contacting the subjected particles with a coating moiety.

Abstract: A method of producing droplets from a nozzle provided on a material layer, the method comprising the steps of supplying liquid to an inner end of an array of nozzles, the nozzles being split into M groups of one or more nozzles, generating one or more firing signals, each firing signal causing sufficient movement of a group of nozzles relative to the liquid such that liquid is projected as droplets from the outer face of the respective nozzles, generating one or more sub-firing signals associated with each group of nozzles, the one or more sub-firing signals causing movement of the group of nozzles which is insufficient to project liquid from the nozzles, the sub-firing signals of adjacent groups having a non-zero phase relationship, wherein the sub-firing signal(s) of at least one group of nozzles is independent of the firing signal(s) associated with that group.

Abstract: A painting system for painting a plurality of colors and a method of using the system to coat articles. The painting system comprises a plurality of paint supply networks and a plurality of paint return networks, each network for a corresponding paint color. A number of paint delivery stations are also provided, each including a plurality of drop lines. Each drop line is in communication with a corresponding paint supply network. Each drop line includes a downstream end coupling. Each paint delivery station includes a plurality of paint return nodes, each in communication with a corresponding paint return network. A paint gun unit is provided with a paint gun supply coupling. The paint gun supply coupling is complementary with each of the downstream end couplings of a corresponding drop line. The downstream end coupling of each drop line is uniquely shaped to engage only with the correct paint return node.

Abstract: A sprinkler system for lawns and landscaping is custom-fitted to each particular lot or area to be irrigated. Each in-ground, pop-up, rotating sprinkler head has a pattern defining plate fitted therein having a central opening made therein, as by laser cutting, solid particle deposition, or the like, the opening being congruent with the area to be watered, as adjusted for any sloped portions of the area. A pattern sampling aperture aligned with spray nozzles of the sprinkler rotates about the opening in the defining plate, feeding an amount of water to each radial line of the area about the sprinkler sufficient to reach from the sprinkler position out to the periphery. A speed control comprising a spring-biased cam and an opposing turbine wheel in the water flow slows spray head rotation at arc portions of longer water throw and speeds rotation where the throw is shorter, thus to obtain substantially uniform water coverage over all parts of the area served by each sprinkler head.

Abstract: A nacelle is configured to be coupled to an underside of a wing and forms a clearance space between the nacelle and a leading edge slat of the wing. A portion of an outlet cowling moves longitudinally aft when a reverse thrust configuration is activated and the leading edge slat is deployed toward the nacelle. The outlet cowling also includes another portion located adjacent to the leading edge slat that does not move when the reverse thrust configuration is activated and thus maintains its clearance space from the leading edge slat.

Abstract: A cloud of small to medium-sized space debris is mitigated by releasing drag-reducing particles into the cloud from a dispenser vehicle, causing the particles to collide or otherwise interact with, and thereby exchange momentum with, the debris particles, reducing the orbiting velocity of the debris to a degree sufficient to cause the debris to de-orbit, or to accelerate the de-orbiting of the debris, to Earth. Certain embodiments also include a shepherd vehicle containing systems for identifying and tracking the debris cloud and for coalescing the debris cloud to increase the particles density in the cloud.

Abstract: A motorized vehicle comprises a vehicle frame with a forward and rearward end. A rotary degradation drum is connected to an underside of the frame. A moldboard is disposed rearward to the rotary degradation drum and forms part of a milling chamber. The moldboard comprises an end disposed opposite the underside. A plurality of nozzles are disposed proximate the end of the moldboard and are configured to direct a fluid into the milling chamber. A heating mechanism is configured to heat the fluid.

Abstract: A delivery device for thin-film material deposition has at least first, second, and third inlet ports for receiving a common supply for a first, a second and a third gaseous material, respectively. Each of the first, second, and third elongated emissive channels allow gaseous fluid communication with one of corresponding first, second, and third inlet ports. The delivery device can be formed from apertured plates, superposed to define a network of interconnecting supply chambers and directing channels for routing each of the gaseous materials from its corresponding inlet port to a corresponding plurality of elongated emissive channels. The delivery device comprises a diffusing channel formed by a relief pattern between facing plates. Also disclosed is a process for thin film deposition. Finally, more generally, a flow diffuser and a corresponding method of diffusing flow is disclosed.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a chemical liquid supply nozzle capable of suppressing the drying process of chemical liquid with a low cost. The chemical liquid supply nozzle is provided with a cutoff valve and a suction unit that sucks chemical liquid to a suction flow path at a nozzle main body connected to a front end of flow path member. Accordingly, the chemical liquid remaining at the downstream side of the cutoff valve after the chemical liquid is discharged, is sucked toward the upstream side of the cutoff valve and removed, to thereby suppress the drying and solidifying process of the chemical liquid at the chemical liquid flow path. Also, there is no need to block the chemical liquid flow path by sucking thinner at the downstream side of chemical liquid flow path, and the number of dummy dispense may be reduced, thereby reducing an overall operation cost of the process.

Abstract: A sprinkler assembly for use with existing irrigation systems adapted to be an integral component controlled and operated by the system. The sprinkler assembly includes at least one sprinkler head having a removable top coupled thereto by an attachment means. A female inlet removably couples the sprinkler head to a swing joint, which is buried below the sprinkler head and connects the sprinkler head to the irrigation feed. The removable top has a plurality of openings for exporting water from the irrigation feed outwardly therefrom. A top surface of the sprinkler head includes crushed stone for stabilizing the sprinkler assembly. Additional stabilizing means include pointed flanges driven into the ground.

Abstract: An outlet assembly for an aerosol assembly comprises a valve assembly and a metering member. The valve assembly comprises a valve housing, a valve stem defining a stem inlet and a stem outlet, a valve spring, and a valve seal. Movement of the valve stem from a first stem position to an intermediate stem position disengages the valve stem from the valve seal such that fluid is allowed to flow into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet. The valve stem displaces the metering member from a first metering position to a second metering position as the valve stem moves from the first stem position to the intermediate stem position. Movement of the valve stem causes the valve stem to move relative to the metering member such that the metering member covers the stem inlet to prevent flow of fluid into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for conveying a flow of oil-containing liquid into an oil separation skim tank, and a skim tank incorporating such apparatus and methods, are disclosed. One such apparatus includes at least one diffuser, the diffuser defining an intake opening configured to receive the flow of oil-containing liquid and an exhaust opening configured to convey the flow of oil-containing liquid into the skim tank. The diffuser is configured to cause the flow of oil-containing liquid to have a greater horizontal width at the exhaust opening than at the intake opening, while minimizing vertical divergence of the flow at the exhaust opening.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for setting an idle stroke of an actuating drive of an injection valve with respect to an actuating element actuated by the actuating drive. The actuating drive is arranged in an injector body and the actuating element is arranged in an actuating-element housing such that it is movable in an axial. An axial stressing force is applied to the injector body and the actuating-element housing such that part of the injector body or actuating-element housing arranged in a force flow path defined the axial stressing force is deformed permanently, until a value of a representative electric variable determined directly or indirectly for the idle stroke of the actuating drive lies in a predefined value range. Further, an injector assembly for an injection valve may include an injector body and/or an actuating-element housing having a contact section elevated in the axial direction.

Abstract: An irrigation system continuously monitors status of lawns or plants under its care and directs water to where it is needed when it is needed to maintain lawn or plant health. The system can significantly reduce water usage, unnecessary seepage, and runoff. A water nozzle with a pan and tilt capability can direct water where it is needed. An image sensor can continually take and analyze images of the lawns or plants to determine watering needs. The image sensor can also monitor where the water is landing while the irrigation system is delivering water to the lawns or plants. This information can be used to adjust the water delivery aim to ensure that the intended spots are accurately irrigated. A laminar flow nozzle with minimal flow dispersion can improve water deliver accuracy and detection of where the water lands.

Abstract: A method for preventing a plume from contaminating a surface of material that has been cut by a laser or focusing optic wherein the laser produces the plume, the method comprises providing a first airflow beneath the plume with the airflow redirecting the plume away from the surface of the material. A second airflow is provided to further lift the plume to an exhaust. Apparatus is configured to direct first and second air flows such that the plume is not deposited on the material being cut by the laser or on the focusing optic.

Abstract: A dispensing gun having a mix head for combining at least two fluid components, with a purge rod slidably positioned within the mix head. The purge rod has a forward position for preventing flow from the component inlets, and a rearward position allowing flow from the component inlets with an actuator for moving the purge rod. The dispensing gun further a lubrication chamber that provides lubricant to the purge rod with the lubricant originating from a lubricant cartridge.