Supply Passage Configuration Forms Stand Patents (Class 239/279)
  • Patent number: 10976030
    Abstract: A system for lighting a volleyball court has four corner light assemblies, two side center light assemblies, and four mid-court light assemblies. Each corner light assembly has an upper light fixture adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level and a lower light element mounted in a manner to emit light outwards and upwards. Each side center light assembly has two lower light fixtures adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level and an upper light assembly adapted to emit light outwards and upwards at a level generally above a player's eye level. Each mid-court light assembly has a light fixture adapted to emit light outward and downward at a level generally below a player's eye level. By ensuring that no light is emitted at a player's eye level, glare is significantly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Inventor: Francis J. Henkel
  • Patent number: 10427651
    Abstract: An undercarriage sprayer includes a plurality of nozzle blocks aligned side-by-side, where each of the nozzle blocks includes a lateral channel therethrough and an upward-facing nozzle cap. A conduit extends between each of the lateral channels in fluid communication with each of the nozzle caps. The nozzle blocks prevent the water supply from being crushed when driving a vehicle over the undercarriage sprayer. Additionally, the nozzle blocks may be connected such that the undercarriage sprayer can be folded or rolled on itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Inventors: Steven Goff, Todd Martens
  • Patent number: 9125520
    Abstract: Beverage preparation device provided with a liquid reservoir, a dispensing line connected to the reservoir and a pump for displacing liquid from the liquid reservoir to the dispensing line, wherein the pump is connected to a control unit and is configured to supply liquid to the dispensing line at a first flow rate and at a second flow rate which is greater than the first flow rate, characterized in that the dispensing line comprises an outlet passage with a peripheral wall provided with at least one deformable wall section, which peripheral wall surrounds a relatively small dispensing opening at the first flow rate and surrounds a larger dispensing opening at a second flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Bravilor Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Menno Alexander Verduin, Maximiliaan Noordanus
  • Patent number: 8881998
    Abstract: A portable misting trailer system for preventing bodies from overheating and regulating body temperature, having a trailer frame with a first and second side bar secured to a portable trailer base, a plurality of arched tubes having a first and second end, the first end of each tube attaches to the first side bar, the second end of each tube attaches to the second side bar, a plurality of misting heads on the arched tubes fluidly connected thereto, a water system within the trailer frame having a storage tank fluidly connected to a water pump that is operatively connected to a power source which is operatively connected to an on-off switch, whereupon turning on the on-off switch activates the pump to pump water from the water tank into the plurality of the arched tubes, whereupon water would exit the arched tubes via the misting heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventors: Joseph Sinkfield, C. Brian Hart
  • Patent number: 8387897
    Abstract: A vaporization water distribution assembly in particular for the feeding of gas turbines consisting of at least one feeding collector with nozzle-holder ramps (15) equipped with a series of nozzles (14), in which there are tighteners (18,24) both for the assembly and blockage of the nozzle-holder ramps (15) with respect to at least one collector and also of the nozzles (14) to the nozzle-holder ramps (15), both blockages being effected with the interposition of washers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Edoardo Lossa S.p.A.
    Inventors: Leopoldo Bevilacqua, Roberto Gasparetto, Aldo Di Rienzo
  • Patent number: 8215412
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for extinguishing industrial tank fires of flammable/combustible liquid including achieving flame collapse, and subsequent to flame collapse achieving collapse of a remaining “smiley face”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Willfire HC, LLC
    Inventors: Dwight P. Williams, Douglas A. Daspit
  • Patent number: 8210449
    Abstract: A hand-held apparatus for spraying texture material includes a body having a handle, a texture material hopper mounted on the body, and a nozzle extending from the body for spraying texture material. The apparatus also includes an air source connection component operable to connect and disconnect a source of air to and from the body. The air source connection component comprises a first connection structure on the body that is configured to receive a corresponding second connection structure associated with the air source and secure the second connection structure to the body by rotating the second connection structure with respect to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Craig L. Peterson, Anthony J. Torntore, Ross D. Rossner
  • Patent number: 8070076
    Abstract: Articulating faucets have segments connected by a plurality of movable joints. Each joint includes a pair of ceramic mating disks arranged in face to face contact, but able to rotate relative to each other when sufficient force is applied. A wave spring helps keep the disks in constant contact, and rubber spheres press against opposing surfaces of the ceramic disks to produce shear forces to keep the joint stable. In the faucet water passes through the joint by means of a tube or a hollow banjo bolt sealed from the joint. The faucet can therefore direct water to a wide variety of positions, without the need for a side spray, and while reducing the risk of joint leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Perry D. Erickson, Christopher M. Shay
  • Patent number: 7950406
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to a covering system for athletic courses. A movable framework straddles the athletic course and serves as a support for a cover. Inside, lighting and climate may be controlled. Also, possibly as a training aid or to facilitate competitive events, a timing system and/or PA system may be incorporated. Among the possible athletic courses suitable for covering are running courses, in-line skating courses, cycling courses, etc. The invention also includes a method of operating an outdoor exercise course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: First Principles, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith A. Raniere
  • Patent number: 7740195
    Abstract: A wheeled lawn sprinkler assembly for easily moving a lawn sprinkler around a large or small size yard which assembly contains a shut off valve, a collapsible wheel assembly and a collapsible support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Grant Daniels
  • Patent number: 7731104
    Abstract: A hand-held apparatus for spraying texture material including a body, a pressurized air source mounted on the body, a texture material hopper mounted on the body, and a texture delivery nozzle for selectively spraying texture material from the hopper onto a surface to be coated by propelling the texture material using pressurized air from the pressurized air source wherein each of the air source and the hopper can be disconnected from the body without the use of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Wagner Spray Tech Corporation
    Inventors: Craig Peterson, Anthony J. Torntore, Ross Rossner
  • Publication number: 20080011878
    Abstract: A portable misting system comprises a plurality of base members which may be coupled to a plurality of vertical support members, which, in turn, may be coupled to a plurality of horizontal frame members. A tubing apparatus including a plurality of mist nozzles runs through the horizontal frame members and at least one vertical support member and one base member. The tubing apparatus may be connected to a water supply and may include a water pump. Water flows through the tubing apparatus of the portable misting system and is dispersed from the mist nozzles to provide cooling benefit to a desired area. Light fixtures may be coupled to the portable misting system. The configuration of the portable misting system may be adjusted as desired to accommodate various spaces in which it may be installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: Marc Maples
  • Publication number: 20070290071
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved structure of a sprinkler. The invention has a water storage space inside the sprinkler base, so that the water flows into the sprinkler base through water pipe connector. The water fills up the water storage space first and then flows into the sprinkler unit. The sprinkler base is weighed down with water without having other blocks to secure it. The invention not only saves cost but also secures the base as well, which makes it more practical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Applicant: Hsin-Fa WANG
    Inventors: Hsin-Fa Wang, Mei-Ying Wu
  • Patent number: 7303148
    Abstract: The lawn sprinkler system utilizes a single impulse type sprinkler head and at least one (preferably a series of) ground anchor receptacle(s) for the single sprinkler head. The ground anchors are permanently placed as desired, with the single sprinkler head and water supply hose being moved from one ground anchor to another to complete the watering task. Each ground anchor is provided with indicators to indicate the stop settings for the impulse sprinkler head when installed at that location. The user installs the sprinkler head with its attached hose in the selected ground anchor, and sets the sprinkler head stops in accordance with the indicators on the ground anchor. When the watering has been accomplished at that location, the water is turned off, the sprinkler head moved to another anchor, its stops are adjusted, and the water turned on to continue the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: Tracy L Campbell, Shannon Campbell
  • Patent number: 7210637
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispersing mist in a predetermined area includes means for obtaining water from a water source and means for dispersing the water as mist. A connecting means connects the obtaining means to the dispersing means. Upon the obtaining means obtaining water, water is provided through the connecting means for dispersing by the dispersing means thereby providing a cooling mist therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: James Johnson
  • Patent number: 7203979
    Abstract: An improved combination security and decontamination gate to be used at various venues and areas which entertain large numbers of people. The gates may be set up at entrance and exit areas of the venue or area for security purposes, as well as to facilitate quick and thorough decontamination of as many people and objects as possible in the event of an emergency. The gate contains a plurality of liquid conduits and spray heads and can be mounted on a variety of surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Inventor: T. Darren O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7114575
    Abstract: An fire-fighting system for arresting a fire in a flammable or combustible liquid storage vessel comprising a portable discharging apparatus and a portable installation apparatus. The portable discharging apparatus receives a fire-fighting agent from a supply hose and applies the fire-fighting agent to arrest a fire in a storage vessel. The portable discharging apparatus can be attached to a distal end of the portable installation apparatus so that the portable discharging apparatus can be mounted on a storage vessel. Furthermore, a plurality of portable discharging apparatuses can be mounted on a single storage vessel, using the same portable installation apparatus, to provide a large amount or a variety of fire-fighting agents or to provide fire-fighting agents at a specific location on the storage vessel. The portable installation apparatus can be extended to a variety of lengths so that it can mount a portable discharging apparatus on a variety differently sized storage vessels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Viasa Incorporated, S.A. DE C.V.
    Inventors: Victor Manuel De Anda-Uribe, Ignacio Luis Ayala, Nikhll S. Nagaswami, Leopoldo Cardenas-Siller, Manuel Gerardo Balderas-Ayala, Fernando Serna-Garza, Gerardo Gutierrez-Ortega
  • Patent number: 7114668
    Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for treating water in a landscape pond so as to enhance the water clarity, where the water to be treated is delivered to a treatment pond to reduce the particulate matter and nutrient level of the water. The treatment pond includes a nutrient level reducing vegetation, facultative bacteria, substrate material for the bacteria (usually gravel) and a treatment apparatus. The treatment apparatus includes a generally vertically disposed hollow and cylindrical stack formation which extends between the treatment pond bottom and surface and defines at least one (1) coupling construction. At least one (1) elongated and generally horizontally disposed water disbursing module is positioned on the pond bottom and coupled to the stack formation. The disbursing module includes a flat bottom, an arcuate upper surface having a plurality of exit apertures therein and a pair of end formations, all of which define a passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Aquascape Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Edgar Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 6736339
    Abstract: A device for cleaning a shoe sole includes a substantially H-shaped base frame formed of hollow tubes having a vertical water inlet line upwardly extending therefrom. The water inlet line terminates at an upper end with a valve and hose coupling mounted thereon. The H-shaped base frame includes a transverse member having a plurality of aligned apertures oriented at a predetermined angle relative to a horizontal plane for delivering multiple pressurized streams of water at said predetermined angle to effectively clean a user's shoe sole while minimizing splashing of a user or a user's shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Val Kenneth Mayers
  • Publication number: 20030168523
    Abstract: A sprinkling device includes a tube coupled to a water reservoir, a sprayer head rotatably attached to the tube with a housing and rotatable relative to the tube by the water from the tube and flowing out through the sprayer head to form a sprinkling water. A light device is disposed in the housing for lighting the sprinkling water and for generating a lighted water screen and for decorative purposes. The lighted sprinkling water may be used for warning people nearby and for preventing the people from being wetted by the sprinkling water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Huai Yao Lin
  • Patent number: 6604691
    Abstract: A irrigation device which has a sprinkler head and a wind driven device is disclosed. The device has a support frame which provides water to the sprinkler head. The support frame may include a number of pipes which supply water to the sprinkler head. The sprinkler head may have a rotating bearing and arms which are allow water to be sprayed out in various patterns. The force of the water also rotates the sprinkler head around the bearing. The support frame or sprinkler head also supports a wind driven device which may be audio, visual or both. For example, the support frame may suspend wind driven chimes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: L. R. Nelson Corporation
    Inventors: Joyce Thomas, Linda J. McMahill
  • Patent number: 6601779
    Abstract: A rotating bearing assembly for a sprinkler coupled to a pipe segment is disclosed. The bearing assembly has a stem which permits fluid flow. The stem has a bottom open end with a collar and a top open end which is connected to a cap. The cap allows connection to a sprinkler head which rotates from water pressure through the pipe segment. The stem conduit rotates in relation to a sleeve which is frictionally fitted within the pipe segment. A plurality of washers is located between the collar and the bottom of the sleeve to provide a water seal under high pressure conditions. Another group of washers is located between the top of the sleeve and the cap to provide additional sealing under low pressure conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventors: Lawrence P. Heren, Scott Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6592055
    Abstract: A free standing sprinkler device having an inflatable hoop-shaped manifold for children to utilize as a recreational fun toy. The inflatable manifold is mechanically removably connected by fluid transmitting coupling components to a base manifold and accordingly expands into a hoop-shape component, responsive to the fluid pressure within, of sufficient size so as to permit persons to step or jump through the hoop-shape component which appropriately sprinkles water therefrom on such persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Joseph Marino
  • Patent number: 6591433
    Abstract: A combination simulated palm tree and shower device comprises a base, a support structure positioned within the base, the support structure having an opening, a post having a lower end and an upper end, the lower end being positioned within the opening of the support structure, a hose having a first end and a second end, the hose being inserted into the post with the first end extending out of the upper end of the post and the second end extending out of the lower end of the post and out of the base, an outer casing adapted to be placed over the post, the outer casing having an opening through which the first end of the hose is inserted, a shower head being connected to the first end of the hose, and an umbrella adapted to being inserted into the upper end of the post, the umbrella and outer casing forming the simulated palm tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Caleco Creatives, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Sager
  • Patent number: 6439478
    Abstract: An adapter for rotatably connecting a sprinkler head to a water-transporting standpipe having a cylindrical upper end. The adapter includes three parts: a cup-like base adapted to rest on the upper end of the standpipe in sealed fashion, a male stem adapted to rotatably and scalingly seat in the cup-like base, and an oversleeve adapted to fit over the stem and the base and to be locked to the upper end of the standpipe by threaded connection such that a portion of the male stem protrudes from the oversleeve to be secured to the sprinkler head for rotation therewith. The adapter is sealed at several points internally to positively prevent water leaks, and is easily disassembled for replacement, repair, or cleaning, by hand or with simple hand tools, since no permanent connection is required between the adapter, the standpipe, and the sprinkler head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Bird Brain, Inc.
    Inventors: Courtney A. King, Keechang Han
  • Patent number: 6394368
    Abstract: A irrigation emitter device for delivering water to various points along a length of a hose. The irrigation emitter device includes a primary hose. The primary hose is elongate and has a first end and a second end. Each of a plurality of secondary hoses has a first end and a second end. Each of the first ends of the secondary hoses is fluidly coupled to the primary hose. Each of the secondary hoses is spaced from each other and has a length less than a length of the primary hose. A valve means selectively opens and closes the second end of the primary hose. The valve means is securely attached to the second end of the first hose. The valve means coupled to the second end of the primary hose has a threaded inner surface and defines a female coupler. A male coupling member is securely attached to the first end of the primary hose such that a plurality of primary hoses may selectively be fluidly coupled together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Coleen C. Hintz
  • Patent number: 6390391
    Abstract: A sprinkler apparatus for transferring water from a supply hose to a ground surface. The sprinkler apparatus includes a conical-shaped main body member with a plurality of apertures around the outer surface for watering close to the sprinkler, and a retractable spray nozzle on the top for covering the area surrounding the sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Joyce Ulin
  • Patent number: 6325303
    Abstract: A swivel lawn sprinkler includes a mounting rack for mounting, a water tube vertically connected to the mounting rack by a hose connector and adapted to receive water from a water source through the hose connector, a pipe connector fastened to the top end of the water tube, the pipe connector, a swivel sprinkler head coupled to the pipe connector and forced to rotate on the pipe connector by water pressure when sprinkling, and a slide coupled to swivel sprinkler head and forced to move two ornaments alternatively up and down and to oscillate symmetrical pairs of wings up and down upon rotary motion of the spray tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Sanmaonet Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mu Shui Kuo
  • Patent number: 6302335
    Abstract: A lawn sprinkler system is provided for receiving fluid from a fluid source and distributing the fluid over an area. The lawn sprinkler system includes multiple lawn sprinklers for distributing fluid over corresponding portions of the area. Stake assemblies are provided for supporting the lawn sprinklers above a supporting surface. Each stake assembly includes an input operatively connected to the fluid source, a first output for providing fluid to the corresponding sprinkler, and a second output. A conduit interconnects the second output of one of the stake assemblies to the input of an adjacent stake assembly to connect the adjacent stake assembly to the fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventors: Timothy G. Ormiston, Sharyn A. Ormiston
  • Patent number: 6250565
    Abstract: A toy sprinkler with the appearance of an amusing figure or creature with appendages that simulate movement of the appendages of the figure or creature. Liquid carrying conduits extending along appendages of the figure cause the appendages to move either in a planar path when liquid at low pressure passes through the conduits, or randomly when liquid at high pressure passes through the conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Sam Ogie, Kyle A. Houchens, David DuBois
  • Patent number: 6193114
    Abstract: A hygienic toothpaste dispenser comprises a main body member having a plurality of tubular spouts (27, 28, and 29), from which an individual can dispense toothpaste from his or her own personally assigned tubular spout permanently marked by indicia (30), thereby providing a sanitary delivery system. This dispenser has a main body with a base (23) for connection to a toothpaste container (20), either directly or via an adapter (FIG. 10), and tubular spouts with caps (31) for delivery of the paste. Additional dispenser embodiments (FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 9) are shown. Also additional adapter embodiments (FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17) show various means of connection between various types of toothpaste container tubular spouts and the various types of bases of the main body of the dispenser. Several dispensers may be connected together (FIG. 4), providing almost an unlimited number of assignable tubular spouts, limited only by a reasonable length and a reasonable width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Michael J. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 6095429
    Abstract: A wheeled fire hydrant diffuser has a wheeled frame having a trailering tongue for attachment to the rear of a towing vehicle. The housing is formed with walls and attached to the wheeled frame and has an inner chamber therein having an open bottom. An elongated walled passageway extends through the housing chamber and has an opening therein facing the top of the housing. A flexible fire hose is attached to a coupling in the walled passageway and has a removable fire hydrant coupling on the other end thereof so that the fire hose can be connected to the fire hydrant and the fire hydrant opened to direct water therefrom through the walled passageway into the housing inner chamber and out the bottom of the housing inner chamber. The housing has a storage compartment for storing the flexible fire hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventors: Jack G. Killgrove, John Kiley
  • Patent number: 6082633
    Abstract: A toy sprinkler (10) is disclosed comprising a hub assembly (12) having a water pressure activated spinning cap member (68) and a manifold member (64) connected to a pressurized water source. Multiple right angle arm assemblies (14, 16, and 18) are connected to the manifold (64) and direct water by a conduit (34) to wand members (22) mounted to remote ends of arm assemblies (14-16). The conduit (34) affords sufficient slack to allow removal of the wand members (22) from the arm assemblies (14-16) and the aiming of water ejected from the wand members (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: The Little Tikes Company
    Inventors: Richard C. Kephart, Peter C. McEachen, Thomas P. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 6050872
    Abstract: A toy carwash unit is comprised of a self-supporting, free-standing frame, a water-carrying conduit supported by the frame, and at least one water-spray head. The several pieces from which the frame is assembled form two inverted, generally U-shaped subassemblies, joined to one another by a crosspiece on which the spray head is mounted. The unit is devoid of any ground-level structure that would interfere substantially with the passage of a vehicle to a washing location within the frame, and it is readily disassembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventors: Douglas R. Cahill, John W. Anders
  • Patent number: 6015098
    Abstract: The invention provides a connector for a rotatable lawn sprinkler mounted on a cylindrical stand pipe, and comprises two cylindrical members arranged co-axially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the stand pipe. A cylindrical sleeve, as the female member of the connector, has an open-ended longitudinal bore and terminates at one end with an outwardly extending annular shoulder seated on the marginal wall of the stand pipe and is secured thereto. A cylindrical stem, as the male member of the connector, having an open-ended longitudinal bore and terminates near one end with an outwardly extending annular collar is co-axially disposed and slidably engagable with the sleeve so as to be freely rotatable in the bore of the sleeve. The annular collar of the stem is supportably engaged with the annular shoulder of the sleeve. The upper section of the stem is adaptable for secure engagement with the rotatable lawn sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: Gerald Krueger
  • Patent number: 5996142
    Abstract: A multipurpose water delivery system, and a method for its construction, which comprises an internal assembly consisting of water delivery conduit and a variety of connectors attached thereto; a hollow vertically oriented cylindrical external assembly which houses the internal assembly and through which a plurality of accessories such as shower heads, valves, and hose bibs may be connected to the internal assembly; and a non-threaded twist-resistant mounting base which can be quickly and easily installed onto hard surfaces or into soil, yet secures the external assembly in position even during gale force winds. In portable embodiments which are connected to positive pressure water supplies through a conventional garden hose, a simple twisting and lifting force applied to the external assembly can quickly separate it from the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Peter I. Colman
  • Patent number: 5967416
    Abstract: A new water activated pop-up sprinkler for allowing for low volume irrigation of lawns and gardens. The inventive device includes a cylindrical housing having an open upper end, a closed lower end, a cylindrical side wall therebetween, and a hollow interior. The closed lower end has a tapered pointed end extending downwardly therefrom for penetrating a ground surface. The cylindrical housing has diametrically opposed inlet and outlet connections disposed on the cylindrical side wall downwardly of the open upper end. The connections each have channels extending downwardly within the cylindrical side wall to the closed lower end and meeting centrally within the closed lower end wherein a short channel extending upwardly into communication with the hollow interior. An inner plastic pipe is provided having opposed open ends. A lower open end couples with the short channel of the cylindrical housing. The plastic pipe has a spring disposed therearound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Wayne W. Barbour
  • Patent number: 5950928
    Abstract: Disclosure is directed to two preferred embodiments for a multi-chamber dispensing apparatus, particularly useful for home owners, for dispensing one or more different water transmittable products. The apparatus, to work in conjunction with conventional hose sections, includes plural chambers, each with a metering valve to adjust the flow of product from the respective chambers. One or more of the metering valves may be opened to effect a mixing of product, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Quang Giang
    Inventors: Quang Giang, Everett B. James, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5934563
    Abstract: A device for dispensing water for play and amusement which can have the configuration thereof modified in order to spray many different types of patterns of water outwardly therefrom which includes a base member with a base conduit extending therethrough with optionally oppositely directed flow patterns for base stability and a rotatable coupling secured to the outlet of the base conduit for receiving water and for allowing rotation of a rotatable spray head assembly which is attached to said rotatable coupling. The rotatable spray head which is movable about an axis of rotation includes one or more spray section members having spray nozzle outlets which can have the outward direction of water dispensed therefrom to be controlled in such a manner as to vary the speed of rotation of the rotatable spray head assembly as well as to vary the pattern of water emitted therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Clifford E. Gapco
  • Patent number: 5913477
    Abstract: A plant support and irrigation system for domestic and commercial use is assembled without tools from two principal interlocking components, i.e., tubular members and hubs, to form modules. Modules are joined in mating relation vertically, horizontally and/or at varying angles to construct a variety of useful plant support structures including, for example, A-frames, trellises, arbors and fences and other forms of enclosures. The horizontal and/or vertical components of the modules are optionally perforated tubing making the structures capable of providing low-pressure drip or spray irrigation for the supported plants. The assembly can include connecting members of varying angles, plugs and valved hose connections configured to securely mate with one or both ends of the tubular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignees: Anthony A. Dean, Rebecca Whitney Dean
    Inventor: Frederic Max Dean
  • Patent number: 5797545
    Abstract: A self-righting rising sprinkler head comprising a sprinkler head housing that defines a buoyant body chamber therein; and at least one buoyant body disposed within the buoyant body chamber. The sprinkler head housing also includes a plurality of water discharge ports, each providing a fluid passageway between the buoyant body chamber and the exterior of the sprinkler head housing, and a connecting fitting adapted for securing the sprinkler head to a source of pressurized water in a manner to supply the buoyant body chamber with pressurized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Vladimir A. Asinovsky
  • Patent number: 5782407
    Abstract: A new Multiple-Person Water Drinking Fountain System for supplying water to a large number of people simultaneously from a single water hose. The inventive device includes a U-shaped tube secured to a base, where both ends of the U-shaped tube are closed, a water supply valve connected into a lower portion of the U-shaped tube for coupling to a garden hose, and a plurality of apertures into the U-shaped tube. In an alternative embodiment, a water conservation valve is positioned into the U-shaped tube concentrically for allowing selective termination of a portion of the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Tyre A. VanDegrift
  • Patent number: 5685488
    Abstract: A system for surrounding and watering garden plants. The inventive device includes a guarded spray assembly having a perimeter conduit for positioning about a plant. A water inlet permits coupling of the perimeter conduit to a water supply line, whereby pressurized water is sprayed through dispensing apertures onto the surrounded plant. A plurality of water outlets are mounted about the perimeter conduit and permit fluid coupling of a plurality of the guarded spray assemblies together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Evelyn E. Gwartney
  • Patent number: 5673856
    Abstract: A method of making a cleaning device and a cleaning device for removing residue from the underside of a lawn mower including a lateral extension having a mower alignment guide with the extension sufficient high so an operator can operate the controls from the seat of a riding lawn mower, with the lawn mower cleaning device including reinforced members that carry an elongated wash arm having stakes thereon that can be driven into the ground to secure the wash arm in position for driving over with a riding lawn mower, with the wash arm having a minimum of sufficiently small openings so that the area of the openings is smaller in relation to the size of the plenum so the wash arm functions as a plenum chamber to thereby generate high pressure jets of water for cleaning the underside of the lawn mower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventor: Tim Krohn
  • Patent number: 5651242
    Abstract: The lawn mower cleaning device includes a base portion having a front portion, a rear portion, and two opposing side portions extending between the front and rear portions. A spraying member extends between the front and rear portions. The spraying member has a plurality of spaced orifices arranged in three rows facing outward from the member. A hose coupler is in fluid connection to the front portion of the device so that fluid can flow from the front portion, through the side portions and rear portion, through the spraying member, and then out through the orifices. A handle is further provided within the front portion for easy handling of the device. The device is manufactured by laminating two sheets of plastic together, such that when coupled together, the sheets form a passageway therein whereby fluid can flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: John Kittridge
  • Patent number: 5556032
    Abstract: A device for uniformly distributing as well as conserving water is provided. A main water supply line carries water to a main discharge header that has a plurality of outlets. The header includes at least a pair of conduits spaced to form at least two legs of a triangular support, each conduit having a flow restraining device which is disposed above but adjacent to the ground. The main header has a central restraining device of smaller diameter spaced from the ground to provide water and reduce the water pressure at the pair of outlets. The header preferably contains mesh filters or multiple screen filters which operate to restrain flow as well as to provide a uniform flow of water therethrough. A support arm is connected to the main water supply line at a swivel joint to form a supporting triangle, and a water control valve is positioned in the main water supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Andy Varrichione
  • Patent number: 5505337
    Abstract: A hygienic toothpaste dispenser for selectively distributing toothpaste onto a toothbrush from one of a plurality tubes oriented so as to form a stand for a toothpaste container shaped as a cylinder, the tubes being capped with snap type covers. The tubes have indicia thereon to identify with a specific user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventors: Carrie W. Littman, Kenneth C. Wenzer
  • Patent number: 5480336
    Abstract: A water toy construction kit includes a plurality of elongate tubular elements and mating connectors, which elements and connectors provide for the flow of water therethrough. The kit may include rigid and/or flexible elements, and the elements may be opaque, translucent, and/or transparent. At least some of the elements may include radial passages therethrough, either in line or randomly spaced, to provide for the spray of water therethrough. Transparent or translucent tubes may include solid articles therein, which provide movement due to water flow through the tubes. The connectors may include shutoff valves therein to provide for the selective control of water flow through the individual tubes connected thereto. At least one separate element may be provided, which is actuated by free water flow from the remaining structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Cheri A. Blanchard
  • Patent number: 5469587
    Abstract: A portable shower comprises an upper polygon section, a base polygon section, a plurality of hollow supporting posts, and an inlet manifold. Each of the polygon sections includes a plurality of rigid hollow joints connected by flexible hoses. Each of the supporting posts includes at least one rigid pipe, and the supporting posts connect the joints of the base polygon section to the corresponding joints of the upper polygon section. A plurality of spray nozzles are mounted to the supporting posts. An output of the inlet manifold is preferably connected to one of the supporting posts, and an input of the inlet manifold is preferably connected to a water source. With a valve along the inlet manifold opened, turning on the water source causes water from the water source to flow into the upper polygon section, the base polygon section, and the supporting posts via the inlet manifold. The water exits the supporting posts via the spray nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Fendall Company
    Inventor: Rodney L. Demeny
  • Patent number: 5467827
    Abstract: A fire truck having a flat bed includes a conveyor system for loading a number of interchangeable firefighting modules onto the bed. The conveyor system comprises a frame carrying a number of rollers or casters which allow the units to be easily slid on and off the bed. A pneumatic, hydraulic, electric, or mechanical mechanism is provided for raising and lowering the roller frame to engage or disengage the flat bottoms of the firefighting modules. Among the various modules disclosed are a hose module having fold-down chutes which lay the hose out alongside the truck as the truck moves ahead, and a tank module, which is coupled by quick-connect hoses to the intake and discharge lines of a pump carried in the truck bed. The intake and discharge lines of the pump may double as chassis rails for the truck. Also disclosed is a ladder carrier device which pivots downwardly and rearwardly to let the ladder slide down under its own weight after a sufficient length of the ladder has been pulled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: John E. McLoughlin