Extensible Patents (Class 239/281)
  • Patent number: 11968922
    Abstract: A soil apparatus (e.g., seed firmer) having a locking system is described herein. In one embodiment, the soil apparatus includes a lower base portion for engaging in soil of an agricultural field, an upper base portion, and a neck portion having protrusions to insert into the lower base portion of a base and then lock when a region of the upper base portion is inserted into the lower base portion and this region of the upper base portion presses the protrusions to lock the neck portion to the upper base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2024
    Assignee: Precision Planting LLC
    Inventors: Michael Strnad, Timothy Kater, Dale M. Koch, Nicholas Minarich, Riley Litwiller
  • Patent number: 11957326
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a variable length applicator system for delivery of at least one medically useful liquid, comprising an elongated, telescopically extendable, variable length cannula having a liquid pump containing said liquid connected to said cannula at a proximal end, and a spray nozzle mounted on said cannula at a distal end; a coiled and extendable tubular conduit connected to and in fluid communication with, both said liquid pump and said spray nozzle; wherein an axial extension of said cannula is configured to cause a matching axial extension of said coiled tubular conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Jianxin Guo, Sridevi N. Dhanaraj, Leo Kriksunov
  • Patent number: 10379025
    Abstract: Apparatus for testing of the water permeability of samples of building facades comprising a frame (3) on one side of which a sample of the facade to be tested (2) is fixed, and a grid (5) on which nozzles (1) which spray water on the sample of the facade to be tested (2) are arranged, characterized in that said apparatus is equipped with a movement system (4) of the grid (5) from a working position positioned in front of the facade sample to be tested (2) to a rest position positioned behind the frame (3) on the opposite side to that on which is located the sample (2) and that the grid (5) on which nozzles (1) are set up slides on elements of the frame placed at a predetermined distance from the sample to be tested (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: UNIVERSITÀ DEGLI STUDI “MEDITERRANEA” DI REGGIO CALABRIA
    Inventors: Corrado Trombetta, Martino Milardi, Massimo Rossetti
  • Patent number: 9446501
    Abstract: An abrasive stream perforation (ASP) system and method for forming a plurality of perforations through a composite part. The ASP system may include a compressed air source, a particulate source, a valve, nozzles, and a positioning device. The valve is actuatable between an open state and a closed state. The compressed air and particulate are simultaneously forced through the valve in its open state and then forced through the nozzles and against the surface of the composite part, forming the perforations through the composite part. The support frame maintains the nozzles in a spaced relationship to each other and a selected distance away from the composite part. The positioning device is fixed to the support frame and actuates the support frame relative to the surface of the composite part for proper positioning of the nozzles and the resulting perforations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Lyle Obrachta, Mark Anthony Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 9267393
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide an apparatus for cleaning airfoils inside a gas turbine compressor. In one embodiment, an apparatus for cleaning at least one airfoil within a turbine compressor, includes: a hose for applying cleaning material to the at least one airfoil; and an articulation assembly for articulating a nozzle of the hose, the articulation assembly including: a main shaft attached to the hose at a first end; and an articulating trigger for rotating the first end of the main shaft. The apparatus may further include a borescope attached to the articulation assembly and a borescope monitor for viewing the at least one airfoil via the borescope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Pablo de Jesus Diaz, Rebecca Evelyn Hefner
  • Patent number: 9186531
    Abstract: A fire-fighting monitor includes a body that has a fluid passageway and an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is adapted to mount to a base on a fire truck, and the body is configured so that the outlet is rotatable about a vertical axis over a 360 degree range of motion. In addition, the body is configured such that the outlet is rotatable about a horizontal axis over one range of motion of about 195 degrees in one form and about 270 degrees in another form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Nathaniel Combs, Don E. Sjolin, Todd Brian Lozier
  • 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: 8757213
    Abstract: A flexible hose having an inner tube member made from a thermoplastic elastomer material and an outer tube member made from a non-elastic polyester material. The inner tube member is secured to the outer tube member only at an inlet coupler and an outlet coupler. The inlet coupler is constructed to secure to a water supply provided from a conventional household water spigot. The outlet coupler incorporates a flow restrictor allowing the inner tube member to equalize in pressure with pressurized water received from the water supply. Pressurized water expands the elongated inner tube member longitudinally along a length of the inner tube member and laterally across a width of the inner tube member thereby substantially increasing the length of the hose to an expanded condition wherein the hose contracts to a substantially decreased length when there is a decrease in pressurized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Blue Gentian, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Berardi
  • Patent number: 8720544
    Abstract: A fracturing jet nozzle assembly has nested telescoping sections that each have nozzles in them. The outermost stage makes for a large perforation as it and the adjacent stages begin extension. As the stage adjacent the outermost stage continues to extend into the perforation and reaches maximum extension the nozzles in the outermost stage are cut off from fracturing fluid flow and that flow is in turn redirected to the remaining stages that have not yet fully extended. The innermost stage preferably does not get cut off from jet fluid flow even at its full extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard Yingqing Xu
  • Patent number: 8579216
    Abstract: A connection arm (31) of an injection nozzle (22) has an adhesive passage (36). A nozzle outer cylinder (32) is supported by the connection arm (31) and has an intermediate passage (48) in communication with the adhesive passage (36) and a sealing member (44). A nozzle inner cylinder (33) is elongated through the sealing member (44), is slidably supported inside the nozzle outer cylinder (32), and has a communication opening (64) communicating with the intermediate passage (48) as well as an adhesive discharge port (63). An operation member (34) moves the nozzle inner cylinder (33) between an advanced position where the adhesive discharge port (63) lies deep inside a charging hole (8) and a receded position where the adhesive discharge port (63) lies shallow inside the charging hole (8) bored into a framework (2) to a predetermined depth through a finishing material (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: FS Technical Corporation
    Inventor: Shogo Fujita
  • Patent number: 8534370
    Abstract: The roof-mounted remotely controlled firefighting tower is disposed on the top of the roof of a building and is controlled by a wireless, remote control device. Atop the tower there is a receiver that receives command signals from the remote control device. The firefighting apparatus includes a control set that has electrical and electronic circuits inside and is in operable communication with a motor and gear train engaging a telescoping mast to raise and lower the mast according to wirelessly transmitted commands from a user. A high pressure pump extracts water and foam from a tank and sends it to a distribution vessel on top of the mast. An inverted sprinkler dish distributes the foam and water under pressure to top and sides of the building via the connected sprinklers and water booms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Wasmeyyah M. A. S. Al Azemi
  • Patent number: 8479776
    Abstract: A flexible garden hose having an inner tube member made from elastic material and an outer tube member made from a non-elastic material. The inner tube member is secured to the outer tube member only at an inlet coupler and an outlet coupler. The inlet coupler is constructed to secure to a water supply provided from a conventional household water spigot. The outlet coupler is coupled to a flow restrictor allowing the inner tube member to equalize in pressure with pressurized water received from the water supply. Pressurized water expands the elongated inner tube member longitudinally along a length of the inner tube member and laterally across a width of the inner tube member thereby substantially increasing the length of the hose to an expanded condition wherein the hose contracts to a substantially decreased length when there is a decrease in pressurized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Blue Gentian, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Berardi
  • Patent number: 8453948
    Abstract: An adjustable inverted-sprinkler system for irrigation. The system includes a sprinkler support base fashioned to accept and retain plurality of sprinklers in a generally inverted orientation. The sprinkler support base is supported by a frame having adjustable vertical, horizontal and slanted support members to allow precise direct, efficient and uniform watering from above. The frame is coupled to a base which allows it to be securely grounded during use and quickly moved as needed by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Karim Altaii
  • Patent number: 8376248
    Abstract: The disclosure provides faucets, faucet assemblies and methods for delivering liquid through a faucet. The faucet includes a faucet body having a first open end configured for connection with a faucet base, a second open end for receiving a faucet handle, and a faucet body portion having an opening therein. The faucet body has an inner wall defining a passage extending therethrough. The faucet also includes a faucet handle and a spray handle having a first end section and a sprayer end section. The first end section is configured to be detachably connected to the faucet body portion, and the spray handle has an inner wall and a passage extending therethrough which is in open communication with the passage through the faucet body. The faucet also has a hose connection that can receive a hose for delivering liquid to the spray handle. The hose connection may be in the sprayer end section of the spray handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: AS IP Holdco, L.L.C.
    Inventors: David J. Meisner, Walter Pitsch, Jianglin Yan
  • Patent number: 8342426
    Abstract: A method for adjusting telescopic water pipe and its structure comprise assembling an internal pipe and an external pipe to form a first water passage and a second external water passage, and an independent second internal water passage. A water passage control switch is disposed to an end of the external pipe and has a channel seal cap that divided into a first channel and a first through hole to connect the first water passage. A water stop plug ring is fit to the first through hole. A second and third through holes corresponding to a second and third channels can be connected to the second internal water passage. A rotary switch is connected to the channel seal cap. A penetration hole is disposed to a partition attached to the channel seal cap. An interconnection groove and an arc plane are disposed to the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Yuan-Mei Corp.
    Inventor: Shun-Nan Lo
  • Patent number: 8313049
    Abstract: A shower faucet includes a housing having a press bar axially connected; a tube member installed in the housing and including a seat having a second room to distributing water and a displace room; a distributing valve core pushed to move between a higher and a lower positions of the second room to generate a first and a second waterings; a button element biased against by the press bar to actuate a rotary positioning member to engage with the distributing valve core to generate the second watering, wherein the positioning member is retained on ratchet members of the displace so that the second watering is kept without pressing the press bar continuously, a resilient element used to push the distributing valve core so that the positioning member is rotated and pushed to disengage from the ratchet members, such that watering levels are switched by pressing the press bar easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Feng Xu
  • Patent number: 8291942
    Abstract: A hose which automatically expands longitudinally and automatically expands laterally upon the application of a fluid pressure is disclosed. The hose can automatically expand longitudinally up to six times its unexpanded or contracted length. Upon release of the fluid pressure within the hose, the hose will automatically contract to a contracted condition. The hose includes an inner tube made from an elastic material and an outer tube made from a non-elastic material. The inner tube is positioned concentrically within the outer tube in both a contracted condition and an expanded condition. The outer tube is secured to the inner tube only at a first end of the inner and outer tubes and at a second end of the inner and outer tubes. The outer tube moves laterally and longitudinally with respect to the inner tube when the tubes are transitioning between a contracted condition and an expanded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Blue Gentian, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Berardi
  • Patent number: 8291941
    Abstract: A hose which automatically expands longitudinally and automatically expands laterally upon the application of a fluid pressure is disclosed. The hose can automatically expand longitudinally up to six times its unexpanded or contracted length. Upon release of the fluid pressure within the hose, the hose will automatically contract to a contracted condition. The hose includes an inner tube made from an elastic material and an outer tube made from a non-elastic material. The inner tube is positioned concentrically within the outer tube in both a contracted condition and an expanded condition. The outer tube is secured to the inner tube only at a first end of the inner and outer tubes and at a second end of the inner and outer tubes. The outer tube moves laterally and longitudinally with respect to the inner tube when the tubes are transitioning between a contracted condition and an expanded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Blue Gentian, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Berardi
  • Patent number: 8286892
    Abstract: A hose holder assembly comprising a hose holder member being attached to an elongated hose holder support member. The hose holder member includes a tubular body having a passage therethrough for receiving a garden hose. The length of the body is sufficient to maintain the garden hose in a fixed position when subjected to forces resulting from a discharging flow of water. A body coupler section is provided for assembling the body to the support member. The coupler can be a male or female form factor. A utility hook can be included as a feature of the hose holder member for temporarily holding tools or other items. The body can be segmented into a fixed portion, which is attached to the support member and a removable portion, which removably engages with the fixed portion. A sizing sleeve can be offered to reduce a passage diameter for receiving hoses having smaller diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Glen Schwanebek
  • Patent number: 8230882
    Abstract: A telescoping water outlet includes an inner pipe, at least a longitudinal portion of which is enclosed by an outlet pipe, forming an annular space between the two pipes. An inner pipe head is mounted to and closes the end of the inner pipe that is nearest the outlet opening, and includes an annular flange that bears displaceably against an inner wall of the outlet pipe. A blocking device that is slidably mounted between the inner pipe and the outlet pipe delimits a longitudinal end of the annular space, and a braking element delays or prevents a telescoping movement of the water outlet, in response to either a pressure change in the annular space, or a relative movement between the inner pipe and the outlet pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Neoperl GmbH
    Inventor: Wolf-Dieter Lacher
  • Patent number: 8136744
    Abstract: An extendable sprinkler device comprises a base cylinder having a first end fluidly communicable with a second end via a through passageway. A primary extension assembly is coupled within the through passageway of the base cylinder and is positionable between collapsed and extended positions. The primary extension assembly comprises a primary extension cylinder having a first end fluidly communicable with a second end via a through passageway. A stop is coupled to the first end of the primary extension cylinder. An actuator cylinder is coupled within the primary extension cylinder. The actuator cylinder comprises a first end fluidly communicable with a second end via a through passageway. The second end of the actuator cylinder is coupled with the second end of the primary extension cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventors: Herb Gerard, William Cole
  • 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: 8051883
    Abstract: The industrial container filling lance is an elongate pipe having a hose connector allowing connection of a hose from a fluid source to the lance, a ball valve for regulating flow of fluid through the pipe, and a fill spout for delivery of the fluid to an industrial container. The lance is disposed atop a hinged slide clamp attached to a telescoping lance support assembly, which extends vertically from a pedestal base. The elongate locking handle, rotated in the open position, allows the lance to be swung upward away from a fill container, and alternatively allows the lance to be longitudinally positioned precisely over a container to be filled. The elongate locking handle can be rotated over the lance to prevent movement of the lance during the container filling procedure. A rotating lock collar on the support stand assembly secures the support height while allowing angular rotation of the lance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Glenn J. Gibisch
  • Patent number: 7988072
    Abstract: A sprinkler apparatus comprises a water wheel that is configured to be alternatively driven in a first wheel direction by a first fluid flow and a second wheel direction by a second fluid flow. The water wheel drives a water tube having at least one fluid outlet. The water tube is moveable in a first tube direction in response to the water wheel being driven in the first wheel direction, and is further moveable in a second tube direction in response to the water wheel being driven in the second wheel direction. The sprinkler apparatus further comprises a switch wheel positioned to receive an initial fluid flow and generate the first and second fluid flows therefrom. In particular, when the switch wheel is in a first position, the first fluid flow is generated. When the switch wheel is in a second position, the second fluid flow is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: David W. Miller, Doug Shaulis
  • Patent number: 7984863
    Abstract: This invention greatly simplifies problem fires above the reach of the longest ladder trucks by using a telescoping, portable shaft extending out of the closest window opening below the fire. Normally, a safe place for firemen. On the outer end of the shaft is a servo-mechanically controlled fire hose nozzle with a miniature television camera, which then both connect along the shaft to the room the shaft extends from. From where firemen can direct water using a console containing a television screen and battery power for the system. Stored in sections aboard its own truck in areas with high buildings, sections which are each, separately, carried up using the stairs by individual firemen, ordinarily the three man crew of a companion ladder fire truck. This invention now allows serious fires in high-rise buildings to be safely and effectively controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Alan Eugene Berberick
  • Patent number: 7963462
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle toilet tank cleaning assembly includes a tube that has a terminal end. A nozzle is removably coupled to the terminal end. The nozzle has a first end, a second end and a perimeter wall extending between the first and second ends. The first end is open and is threadably coupled to the terminal end of the tube. The nozzle has a plurality of apertures therein. The apertures include a primary aperture extending through the second end that is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the nozzle. The perimeter wall has a break therein and the nozzle includes a first portion rotatably coupled to a second portion. The second portion includes the plurality of apertures. The tube is fluidly couplable to a water source and the nozzle placed in a recreational vehicle toilet tank to eject water outwardly of the plurality of apertures and clean the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: John C. Ramos, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7891581
    Abstract: A cover of a headlight cleaning system, which cover covers an opening in a vehicle front-end part and at the same time bears the headlight cleaning system, can be positioned precisely via latching mounts on the vehicle front-end part and latching lugs on the opposite cover. The effect achieved by this is that the cover, when retracted from an operative position into an inoperative position in a stamped formation, is arranged in a precise gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Markus Keller, Adrian Beer, Heinz-Arno Kruschhausen
  • Patent number: 7866570
    Abstract: A sprinkler stand for holding an oscillating sprinkler in an elevated and generally vertical orientation to provide a desired sprinkler coverage pattern, wherein a sprinkler holder holds a sprinkler, a frame elevates and supports the sprinkler holder, and a base supports the frame. Preferably, the sprinkler holder includes two tracks for engaging base members of a sprinkler, wherein the tracks allow for the repositioning of the sprinkler so as to vary the sprinkler elevation, the height of the sprinkler holder is adjustable by moving the holder along the frame, or by adding a frame extender to the frame, and the sprinkler holder may be rotated, or the frame rotatably or angularly adjusted to achieve a desired sprinkler orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Randall Griffin
  • Patent number: 7861947
    Abstract: A wall-mounted lawn sprinkler system disposed along an exterior wall of a building for watering a lawn or garden area adjacent to the building. The system includes at least one sprinkler water supply conduit connected with the existing pressurized water supply line associated with the building, at least one housing mounted on the exterior wall of the building, and a water sprinkler device housed within each housing. The sprinkler device has a body with an interior chamber connected with the water supply conduit, a retractable member slidably mounted at a first end in the chamber having a sprinkler head at a second end exterior of the chamber, and a spring engaged with the retractable member to bias it into a normally retracted position. The retractable member and sprinkler head are extended outwardly of the housing when water under pressure is supplied to the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Ricardo Watson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7770822
    Abstract: A handheld shower assembly is provided. The handheld shower assembly includes a water conduit, a handle, and a showerhead. The water conduit is adapted to attach to the showerhead at one end and to a water source extending from a wall of a shower stall at another end to receive water flow. The handle includes a first portion and a second portion adapted to accept the water conduit within an interior portion of the handle. The first portion is adjustably coupled to the second portion. This allows the first portion to telescope with respect to the second portion, thereby the first portion extends from a first retracted position to a second extended position. The showerhead is coupled to the water conduit and the handle. The showerhead may receive the water flow from the water conduit as well as expelling the water flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Water Pik, Inc.
    Inventor: Leland C. Leber
  • Patent number: 7708210
    Abstract: A sprinkler stand for holding an oscillating sprinkler in an elevated and generally vertical orientation to provide a desired sprinkler coverage pattern, wherein a sprinkler holder holds a sprinkler, a frame elevates and supports the sprinkler holder, and a base supports the frame. Preferably, the sprinkler holder includes two tracks for engaging base members of a sprinkler, wherein the tracks allow for the repositioning of the sprinkler so as to vary the sprinkler elevation, the height of the sprinkler holder is adjustable by moving the holder along the frame, or by adding a frame extender to the frame, and the sprinkler holder may be rotated, or the frame rotatably or angularly adjusted to achieve a desired sprinkler orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventor: Randall Griffen
  • Publication number: 20090230206
    Abstract: A watering device for watering bushes, grass, etc., which has a base unit connected to a substantially vertical riser which is connected to a sprinkler head, wherein the base unit can also have a receiving unit which holds a substantially vertical riser and a plurality stabilizing units, wherein the plurality of stabilizing units are adapted to be inserted in the ground, and wherein the stabilizing units are removable from the receiving unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: MELNOR, INC.
    Inventors: Juergen NIES, Ha Van DUONG, Vicky Ann MICHAEL
  • Patent number: 7549448
    Abstract: A linearly self-actuated hose for use in transporting fluids (liquids, gases, solid particles, and combinations of these three). Hose (30) has a biasing spring (36) that extends along its full length, and can comprise single or multiple springs and/or multiple diameter spring coils. Spring (36) is covered with hose cover material (32) on the outside and hose cover material (34) on the inside to form a sealed hose and are bowed inward or outward radially between the individual spring coils depending on the intended use of hose (30) to give the cover materials room to move out of the way when the hose retracts and the coils of spring (36) are forced close together. The Linearly Retractable Hose is operated by changing internal pressure within the hose relative to the ambient pressure on the exterior of the hose. Control of fluid pressure within hose (30) is what allows the hose to operate as an automatically extendable and retractable hose. The biasing of spring (36) depends on the type of use for the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Gary Dean Ragner
  • Patent number: 7510132
    Abstract: A linear water feed apparatus for use in agricultural irrigation includes a linear-move machine with a mobile truss assembly supporting a plurality of individual sprinklers and adapted for movement in a specified direction across a field to be irrigated. The truss assembly is oriented transverse to the specified direction, and a supply pipe is arranged in the specified direction along or within the field to be irrigated. The supply pipe mounts a plurality of water supply hydrants at spaced locations along the pipe, each of the hydrants enclosing a water supply valve. A docking station is supported at one end of the truss assembly closest to the supply pipe, and is adapted to engage and open successive ones of the water supply valves in the plurality of hydrants. The docking station assembly includes a docking station that is suspended from a frame for floating movement about at least three mutually perpendicular axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Nelson Irrigation Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph D. Sinden, Rex D. Ness, Chad D. Leinweber, Richard J. Berrier, Craig Nelson, Robert Rupar
  • Publication number: 20080203186
    Abstract: A misting device capable of selectively spraying a fluid mist to cool an area or an individual(s) and/or promote health and wellness of the individual(s). The misting device includes a body, a pump and one or more fluid reservoirs disposed in the body, a spray arm extending from the body, and one or more misting nozzles supported by the spray arm. The body is adapted to support the device on a surface and the spray arm and nozzles are movable to adjust the direction of the mist exiting the nozzles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: FOARA INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventor: Ursula GROCKE
  • Patent number: 7407116
    Abstract: A spray washer structure used for attaching to an aircraft and washing insulators on high-voltage transmission lines includes a pivot seat, a core tube, an inner tube, and a nozzle. The pivot seat is supported by a plurality of legs and a rear leg that are attached at the aircraft. The mid-section of the core tube is pivotally connected to the pivot seat by the use of a pivot, and an end portion of the core tube is connected to at least an inclined resilient buffer link at another end portion of the pivot. The innertube is passed through and pivoting within the core tube. The nozzle is secured at the front end of the inner tube by an adjustable joint. Moreover, the nozzle is also connected to a hose connected to a water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Emerald Pacific Airlines
    Inventor: James Lee
  • Publication number: 20080083839
    Abstract: An adjustable inverted-sprinkler system for irrigation. The system includes a sprinkler support base fashioned to accept and retain plurality of sprinklers in a generally inverted orientation. The sprinkler support base is supported by a frame having adjustable vertical, horizontal and slanted support members to allow precise direct, efficient and uniform watering from above. The frame is coupled to a base which allows it to be securely grounded during use and quickly moved as needed by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: Karim Altaii
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7182275
    Abstract: A sprinkler structure comprises a support unit, a spray unit, and at least one fastening unit. A water pipe of the spray unit is uprightly supported by the support unit along with the fastening unit comprising a tubular seat, a press block, and a control lever. The tubular seat is provided with a center through hole to accommodate the water pipe, and a through slot in which the press block is pivoted. The control lever is provided at a pivoting end with an eccentric press surface and is fastened pivotally with two pivoting lugs of the tubular seat such that the eccentric press surface pushes the press block to arrest the water pipe at the time when the control lever is swiveled in one direction. The press block releases the water pipe at the time when the control lever is swiveled in other direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Hsin-Fa Wang
  • Patent number: 7156323
    Abstract: A spray rack suitable for testing a window in a building includes a plurality of spray bars and at least one stand-off leg. The plurality of spray bars each include at least one nozzle for spraying fluid. The at least one stand-off leg is coupled with the plurality of spray bars and includes a plurality of pre-measured settings each corresponding to a distance between the at least one nozzle and the window. The at least one stand-off leg is configured to be set at one of the plurality of pre-measured settings to interface with the building and to position the plurality of spray bars a desired distance from the window for testing the window by spraying the fluid from the at least one nozzle of each of the plurality of spray bars toward the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: The RM Group LLC
    Inventor: Todd Mikkelson
  • Patent number: 7121484
    Abstract: A carriage designed for supporting a power washer wand and its nozzle a predetermined, though adjustable, distance from a surface which is to be cleaned by high velocity water exiting a discharge orifice of the nozzle. The carriage is defined by a one-piece body molded from substantially high strength synthetic polymeric/copolymeric plastic material. The carriage body includes a platform having a converging front end nose upwardly from which projects a wand support having a channel in which a power washer wand is located and adjustably clamped. The platform includes two wheels at a rear end thereof and a single wheel beneath the front end nose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Howard Daley
  • Patent number: 7086609
    Abstract: A swinging lawn sprinkler including a sprinkling control unit with a gear-operated transmission mechanism attached to one side of a sprinkler mount. A limiting connector having a water outlet connector engaged at one side is correspondingly matched to the gear-operated transmission mechanism and a spraying member. A main driving wheel, an adjusting seat, and a water inlet connector are sequentially coupled at the other end of the gear-operated transmission mechanism. The adjusting seat is equipped with a limiting cavity for a power switching device made up of a plurality of power units in linkage with a pivoting shaft and a pair of limiting zones with elastic pieces and pressure guide members adapted to be pivotally mounted to activate the shift of angles of a flow switch plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Aquastar Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Gary Wang
  • Patent number: 7070123
    Abstract: The water misting system includes a stationary member 3, 4 having a flow path therein for transmitting water, the rotary swivel 5 in fluid communication with the stationary member, and one or more conduits 6, 7 in communication with the stationary member and extending radially outward from the swivel. A misting nozzle 8, 9 is provided at an outer end of each respective conduit, and has a central nozzle axis angled with respect to a central axis of a respective conduit for discharging mist while producing a tangential thrust for rotating the one or more conduits and the misting nozzle about the stationary member. According to the method of the invention, angling of the central nozzle axis of each misting nozzle with respect to a central axis of the respective conduit produces the tangential thrust to rotate the conduits and thereby mist a large area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventor: Mark Naedler
  • Patent number: 6983899
    Abstract: A fluid spray apparatus with a controlled supply of pressurized fluid delivered through a network of tubes to a spray head having a plurality of stop flow valves and nozzles that will automatically shut off the flow of fluid out of the nozzles when the pressure of the fluid drops below a threshold level. The spray head preferably has a central chamber that is open to the stop flow valves and dampens any fluctuations in pressure and volume of fluid from the source of pressurized fluid. The nozzle is preferably mounted to the stop flow valve. The stop flow valve has a biased valve head that engages a seat until the pressure exerted on the valve head by the fluid exceeds a threshold level and the valve opens. One embodiment has a quick connect coupling with a base, seal and collar that will allow spray heads of various numbers of nozzles to be quickly exchanged. Another embodiment is adapted to couple with a conventional paint spray compressor and gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Henry D. Melendez
  • Patent number: 6948527
    Abstract: A linearly self-actuated hose for use in transporting fluids (liquids, gases, solid particles, and combinations of these three). Hoses (30) and (30b) have a biasing spring (36) extends along the full length, and can comprise single or multiple springs and/or multiple diameter spring coils. Spring (36) is covered with hose cover material (32) on the outside and hose cover material (34) on the inside to form a sealed hose and are bowed inward or outward radially between the individual spring coils depending on the intended use of hose (30) or (30b), respectfully to give the cover materials room to move out of the way when the hose retracts and the coils of spring (36) are forced close together. Hose (30b) is designed with a source end (26) and a output end (68). A pressure control mechanism is used on output end (68) to control the extending and retracting of hose (30b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: Gary Dean Ragner, Robert Daniel deRochemont, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6929198
    Abstract: A surface cleaner for assemblies having a spray nozzle such as pressure washers, spray wands, spray lances, and the like. The surface cleaner includes a guide having wheels in line with the spray nozzle for substantially maintaining the distance from the spray nozzle to a surface through a variety of angles assumed by the spray wand or the like. In exemplary embodiments, the guide is capable of being moved up and down the spray lance or the like for control of the cleaning force, and a set of markings may be provided on the guide, the spray lance, or the like for indicating the appropriate distance for the spray nozzle from many different surfaces. Additionally, the guide allows for one handed operation of the spray wand assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: DeVilbiss Air Power Company
    Inventor: Shane Dexter
  • Patent number: 6913211
    Abstract: A sprinkler includes a handle, a nozzle, and a connection structure for connecting the nozzle to the handle. The connection structure has an extension pipe and a connection member. The extension pipe is formed of an outer tube fastened at a bottom end to the handle, and an inner tube fastened at a top end to the nozzle. The connection member is formed of a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is engaged with a top end of the outer tube and is engaged with the second connector. The inner tube is slidably fitted at a bottom end into the top end of the outer tube through the first connector such that the inner tube is intimately embraced by the first connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Chin-Yuan Chen
  • Patent number: 6905080
    Abstract: A pressure washer apparatus and method comprising a telescoping tube section which contains a hose. There is a forward outlet section having an outlet housing with a quick disconnect to the forward end of the hose in the telescoping tube section. A control section is located at the rear end of the telescoping tube section and makes a second quick disconnect connection to the hose. Releasable connectors are provided for the tube sections to lock the tube sections in place, and these comprise tapered threaded gripping fingers which combine with a locking nut with the threads of the two of the gripping fingers, and the locking nut having a taper end and thread configuration enabling the connection to be accomplished by only a very short rotation of the compression nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Tony Pohorecki
  • Patent number: 6874696
    Abstract: The adjustable sprinkler riser includes an outer and an inner telescoping member that telescopically interface with each other. A protrusion is spaced from a proximal end of the outer telescoping member. A first joint member slidably interfaces with the outer telescoping member, and a second joint member slidably interfaces with the inner telescoping member. The second joint member may be selectively secured to the first joint member to restrict movement of the inner telescoping member relative to the outer telescoping member. In such a condition, areas of vulnerability to breakage in the joint members and inner telescoping member are offset from each other to provide greater strength to the adjustable sprinkler riser. In addition, manufacturing the adjustable sprinkler riser is simple because the first and second joint members may be conveniently placed on the telescoping members, and there is no need to form threads or other intricate structures on the telescoping members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent C. Ericksen, Craig J. Madson
  • Patent number: 6845923
    Abstract: An ergonomic hopper holder for use with spray application equipment includes a vertical support member having a holster end, an opposite hopper end, and a hopper hanger proximate to the hopper end. The holder also includes an arm member having a support end, a spray gun end, and a spray gun support proximate to the spray gun end for supporting a spray gun. The arm member is pivotably joined to the vertical support member. The holder further includes a holster and belt combination capable of being worn by an artisan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Robert R. Slotsve