Abstract: An apparatus for chemical separations includes a microfluidic substrate having an outlet aperture for outputting an eluent of a sample, a spray unit having an inlet to receive the eluent and an outlet to emit a spray of the eluent, and a force-applying unit. The spray unit has a deformable portion defining the inlet and having an elastic modulus that is lower than an elastic modulus of the microfluidic substrate. The force-applying unit, such as a spring, is disposed to urge the deformable portion in contact with the substrate to form a substantially fluid-tight seal.

Abstract: Showerhead electrode assemblies are disclosed, which include a showerhead electrode adapted to be mounted in an interior of a vacuum chamber; an optional backing plate attached to the showerhead electrode; a thermal control plate attached to the backing plate or to the showerhead electrode at multiple contact regions across the backing plate; and at least one interface member separating the backing plate and the thermal control plate, or the thermal control plate and showerhead electrode, at the contact regions, the interface member having a thermally and electrically conductive gasket portion and a particle mitigating seal portion. Methods of processing semiconductor substrates using the showerhead electrode assemblies are also disclosed.

Abstract: A rotation restricting mechanism is provided between a mounting shaft section of a rotational shaft and a mounting tube section of a rotary atomizing head. The rotation restricting mechanism includes a male spline member provided on the outer peripheral side of the mounting shaft section, and a female spline member provided on the inner peripheral side of the mounting tube section. By meshing engagement of the male spline member with the female spline member, the rotation restricting mechanism restricts rotational displacements of the rotary atomizing head relative to the rotational shaft.

Abstract: A method of assembling an injection device for use in a reactor injector feed assembly includes coupling a plurality of substantially concentric conduits to a modular tip. The method also includes coupling a first conduit of the reactor injector feed assembly to a modular tip and coupling a second conduit of the reactor injector feed assembly to the modular tip. The modular tip includes a first substantially annular nozzle and a second substantially annular nozzle defined therein. The first conduit and the first substantially annular nozzle are centered about an injection device centerline.

Abstract: An adjustable shelf assembly includes an elongated tension-mounted rod, an elongated frame, and at least one shelf attached to the frame. The elongated tension-mounted rod has a first end and a second end and generally extends in a first plane. The elongated frame has a first end attached to the tension-mounted rod and an opposing second end. The frame generally extends in a second plane which is perpendicular to the first plane of the tension-mounted rod. The at least one shelf has a base wall configured to support objects placed thereon. The base wall generally extends in a third plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane of the tension mounted-rod.

Abstract: A volatile material dispenser includes a housing and a dispensing mechanism disposed within the housing for emitting a volatile material. A faceplate is attached to the housing and provides an aesthetically pleasing look to the volatile material dispenser.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide a bicycle misting system or apparatus. Example embodiments include a manual (e.g., trigger-activated) or automated (e.g., valve-activated) system that is sell-contained, small, and light-weight. Various embodiments improve safety, allow convenient interchangeability of the fluid reservoir, and enable easy installation on a bicycle with or without a mounting system on the bicycle itself. Embodiments also allow the rider to select a variety of spray types, stream, spray, or mist depending on the intended use or amount of fluid desired for each release. The various embodiments provide for an improved cooling fluid delivery system of design simplicity, ease of use, and interchangeability that allows a cyclist an evaporative cooling concept safely, efficiently and conveniently, while riding in conditions of elevated or extreme temperatures.

Abstract: A spray gun is provided, which comprises a twin fluid atomizing nozzle which atomises a process fluid by interaction with a driving fluid. The nozzle including a driving fluid passage having a driving fluid inlet, a driving fluid outlet, and a throat portion intermediate the driving fluid inlet and driving fluid outlet. The throat portion has a cross sectional area which is less than that of both the driving fluid inlet and the driving fluid outlet. The nozzle also includes a process fluid outlet located at, or downstream of, the driving fluid throat. The spray gun further comprises a flow adjustment device connectable to supplies of the driving and process fluids. The flow adjustment device is adapted to selectively vary the ratio of the process fluid to driving fluid supplied to the nozzle. A mist-generating apparatus incorporates this spray gun is also provided.

Abstract: Various apparatus and methods involve a showerhead that directs a stream of fluid through a portion of a cavity in a direct heat transfer relationship with a reflective surface prior to directing a stream out of the cavity and through a plurality of apertures toward a user. In an illustrative example, the user may view an image on the reflective surface while being sprayed with the plurality of streams in a steam filled environment. In some examples, the showerhead may include an inlet configured to direct the fluid toward the reflective surface as it enters the cavity. In some examples, the showerhead may operate to substantially reduce or prevent condensation from forming on the reflective surface by promoting heat transfer from the fluid to the reflective surface.

Abstract: An improved fluidic spray device that includes: (a) a base having boundary surfaces including top, bottom and side edge surfaces, (b) a plurality of projections extending from a base boundary surface chosen from the group consisting of its top and bottom surfaces, wherein these projections are configured and spaced so as to provide the interior geometry of the flow passages for a fluidic circuit having a power nozzle and an interaction region located downstream of the power nozzle, and (c) wherein the flow passages that are proximate the base edges having no sidewalls to form edge boundaries for these flow passages.

Abstract: A personal defense device is provided that includes an irritant. The personal defense device may have an irritant dispensing member that is carried on the back of a user. The irritant dispensing member may be configured for dispensing the irritant such that the irritant is dispensed behind the user.

Abstract: An improved misting bottle and fan apparatus capable of both convective cooling and evaporative cooling independent of either other. The operator can select to have the convective cooling effects of air being blown over the operator. The operator can select to have the evaporative cooling effects of pressurized fluid forced through a small orifice showered down at the operator. In the alternative, the operator is able to select both style of cooling using this device. The positioning and shape of the atomizing device in relation to the forced air is unique as well as the shaping of the air flow optimizes the cooling effects. Location of the atomizing device is proscribed as to prevent the occurrence of drips and runs commonly associated with misting fans.

Abstract: A scent sampler has a sponge-like wafer infused with a fragrance liquid within a chamber between two printable panels. A window to the chamber is covered with a thin, flexible, nonresilient film which may be pressed against the wafer for spraying a mist of the fragrance liquid through an opening in the chamber to the ambient environment. The surfaces of the printable panels are covered with a liquid-impervious barrier web to prevent leakage of the fragrance liquid from, and damage to, the printed surfaces within and outside of the chamber.

Abstract: A programmable, mechanical scrape making device that is battery operated and that can be fastened to the ground. When activated, the device comes in contact with the ground to create a scrape through a sweeping and/or linear motion that is the same as or similar to that of an actual scrape that is performed by deer during the Rut or breeding season. The device also has a scent spraying mechanism that operates as the scrape is made. The device can be enclosed and operate from a weatherproof case which may be designed to look like a tree log. The design of the case can vary in appearance as to create a look that is indigenous to the end users' geographic area. The device is portable and may include a carrying case with a shoulder strap allowing the end user to transport the device from one location to another. The device may include power ports accessible for other devices such as motion detecting digital cameras and mock licking branches.

Abstract: An ergonomic adapter for an aerosol spray can. The ergonomic adapter has an elastomeric collar that fits around a body of an aerosol spray paint can such that a front portion of the collar is facing in front of the can just below the interface between the body and the domed top of the spray can. The front of the adapter includes a compartment that houses a polychromatic light source for lighting the surface and/or a light beam arrangement for targeting and positioning the spray can with respect to the surface.

Abstract: A device for calibrating a spray gun and an associated method are provided. The spray gun has a nozzle that is opened and closed by moving an internal needle out of and into sealing engagement with the nozzle. A virtual position of the needle is tracked and recorded by the control system. The control system is recalibrated when the virtual position and the actual position of the needle do not correspond. The device includes a sensor structured to detect characteristics of the current used to power the solenoid, and to identify an anomaly in solenoid current characteristics associated with an actuator member seating against said solenoid. During calibration, the solenoid is placed in a calibration configuration and the identifiable anomaly is detected. When the identifiable anomaly is detected, the spray gun is returned to an initial configuration and the virtual needle position is reset.

Abstract: Provided is a water jet massage apparatus. The water jet massage apparatus includes a nozzle and a lamp. The nozzle sprays a mixed water jet including air and water. The lamp is disposed in the nozzle. Here, the mixed water jet is sprayed between the lamp and the nozzle while surrounding the lamp. The lamp emits light in a spray direction of the mixed water jet. The nozzle includes a first nozzle part and a second nozzle part. The first nozzle part has a cylindrical shape and has a plurality of air spray holes along an inner circumferential surface thereof. The second nozzle part is detachably disposed in the first nozzle part and having at least one water spray hole.

Abstract: A hopping play ball comprises a pair of elongated grips or handles adjacent to each other and extending radially outward from the surface of the ball. The ball may also comprise an array of mammillated protrusions on the lower surface, opposite the handles, to improve the stability during bouncing on a soft or elastic surface, such as a trampoline rebounding mat. In other embodiments, the ball has one or more water reservoirs in fluid communication with squirt nozzles disposed on either the surface of the ball or an outward facing portion of the handles. The squirt nozzles are activated by the player via the handle grips, and may pump or squirt water in response to each bounce or may be triggered independent of the players bouncing movement. The mammillated surface aids in preventing slippage of the balls during such types of wet play with multiple players.

Abstract: A sprayer attachment for a hand-supported power tool comprises a motion converting mechanism, a pumping mechanism, a spray assembly and a housing. The motion converting mechanism has an input shaft. The pumping mechanism is driven by the motion converting mechanism. The spray assembly is fluidly coupled to the pumping mechanism. The housing assembly couples the motion converting mechanism, the pumping mechanism and the spray assembly. The sprayer attachment may further comprise an anti-rotation bracket extending from the housing. The sprayer attachment may further be coupled to a handheld power tool, such as a cordless drill or a reciprocating saw, with the anti-rotation bracket.

Abstract: A spraying apparatus includes a nozzle connected to a pressurized liquid supply and dispensing a spray pattern from a discharge orifice of the nozzle A stroboscopic light source is mounted on one side of the nozzle and directs a pulsating light beam along the spray pattern such that the spray pattern is stroboscopically illuminated and visible to an operator on the opposite side of the nozzle. Continuous light can also be provided to illuminate the spraying apparatus for night operations.

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 rotary tool and method for spreading mulch outwardly from a mound of the same. The tool has an elongated shaft with a rotatable body mounted proximate a first end thereof. The body has a peripheral edge with a plurality of flexible fingers radiating outwardly and downwardly therefrom. The fingers may be individually securable to the body. In a second embodiment, a ring is detachably mounted to the body and the fingers are on the ring. When the tool is activated, the fingers engage the mulch mound and cause pieces of mulch to be flicked outwardly away from the body. The tool may also be used as a shovel-type device when the motor is not activated and the mulch can then be carried on the upper surface of the body.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing device includes an electrostatic discharge protection system. Accumulation and discharge of electrostatic energy created by operation of the device is reduced or prevented by the electrostatic discharge protection system without an earth ground connection. The electrostatic discharge protection system may include a number of features, such as a static wick, non-conductive components that electrically isolate the spray tip of the device, nonconductive isolation barriers, nonconductive fluid reservoir and suction tube components, a nonconductive coating of a control valve component, and a nonconductive spring retainer of the control valve.

Abstract: A water spraying system is configured for a variety of outdoor cleaning applications. In one embodiment, the water spraying system includes a water pump assembly having a water pump, a receiver configured to receive wireless communications, and an actuator coupled to the receiver and configured to change at least one of water pressure and flow rate provided by the water pump. A spray gun is configured to spray water provided by the water pump and includes an electronic display, circuitry configured to provide a graphical user interface via the electronic display, and a transmitter configured to wirelessly provide instructions to the actuator by way of the receiver based on input provided by the operator such that the operator may change at least one of the water pressure and the flow rate provided by the water pump via the graphical user interface of the spray gun.

Abstract: A dispensing pump including a pump mechanism and a pump bead is provided. The dispensing pump head includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion has a structure for attaching the dispensing pump to the container. The upper portion and the lower portion each has: (1) an internal area combining to form an enclosed space for containing a second product, and (2) a respective peripheral wall. The pump mechanism also includes a dispensing channel for the first product that extends between the upper and the lower portion. There is an aperture in either peripheral walls or a space between the respective peripheral walls. Upon the actuation of the dispensing pump, the upper portion passes into the lower portion to force air from the enclosed space and the second product is emitted through one of the apertures in either peripheral walls or the space therebetween.

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 module for mounting on the end of a handle of a coating material dispensing device comprises at least a coating material fitting for coupling to a source of coating material. The module further includes a first fractional module component and a second fractional module component. The coating material fitting is captured between the first fractional module component and the second fractional module component when the first and second fractional module components are assembled together.

Abstract: A multifunctional Schumann wave machine of the present invention includes a shell, a luminous device, a rotary device, a rotary blade, a droplets straining device and an air blower. The present invention provides color therapy as its luminous bodies emit lights to outside of the shell and release Schumann waves. The rotary blade and droplets straining device can produce and spray fine droplets with anions. Additionally, the water contained in the present invention is added some aromatic essential oil. Bodies and minds of users are relaxed and happy in the fresh and clean environment which is full of sunlight, air and water.

Abstract: A metering unit for a reducing agent includes an injector for supplying the reducing agent to an exhaust gas treatment device. A temperature sensor is disposed at the injector. A method for metering reducing agent and a motor vehicle having a metering unit are also provided.

Abstract: An ergonomic adapter for an aerosol spray can helps to reduce finger pain and hand fatigue. The ergonomic adapter has a collar that fits around a body of an aerosol spray paint can such that a front portion of the collar is facing in front of the can just below the interface between the body and the domed top of the spray can. An arcuate finger strip extends upward from the rear side of the collar and over the push-button nozzle on the spray can when the adapter is fitted onto the body of the spray can. The collar and the arcuate finger strip are made of a resilient, flexible material such as butyl rubber. The arcuate finger strip preferably has a concave upper surface. The collar has enlarged traction pads positioned to facilitate gripping by the user. When the user grips the ergonomic adapter, the user's index finger rests in the concave, arcuate finger strip.

Abstract: A wind turbine tower cleaning or coating apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a frame which circumferentially extends at least partially around a wind turbine tower. A separator structure can be attached to the frame and extends between the frame and the wind turbine tower to position the frame at a predetermined distance away from the wind turbine tower. The separator structure can also include an attachment end which is attached to the frame and a slidabe end positionable near the wind turbine tower. A slider can be attached to the slidabe end of the separator structure and can slide on the surface of the wind turbine tower as the frame is raised and lowered on the wind turbine tower. A frame lift device can raise and lower the frame on the wind turbine tower. A plurality of sprayers can be positioned circumferentially along the frame and configured to selectively spray fluid onto the wind turbine tower.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing mist to a user, where the apparatus has multiple misting nozzles grouped into zones of one or more misting nozzles. The misting nozzles are supplied water from a supply line, and valves controlling the flow of water through the supply line and to the misting nozzles of each zone.

Abstract: The light assembly is designed for use with an integral steam emitter or as an add-on with a steamhead in a pre-existing steambath installation. The assembly includes a part for engaging the end of the steam outlet pipe of a steam generator. A ring-shaped fixture carrying multiple LEDs is mounted on the pipe engaging part. A light transmissive lens is aligned with the light source fixture and has a light emitting edge. The lens has a central opening through which steam from the steam outlet pipe can pass. When the assembly is not used with a pre-existing steamhead, a steam emitter is provided with a steam inlet adapted to extend through the lens opening. The steam emitter has a hemispherical front surface with a steam outlet port located in a recess. The light source can include LEDs of different colors.

Abstract: The invention discloses a vivid water bloom shower. An electric generator, a control circuit board and at least one electromagnetic valve are arranged in the seal area of the vivid water bloom shower, the electric generator and the electromagnetic valve are respectively electrically connected with the control circuit board; a water inlet passage, at least one normal water outlet passage and at least one rhythm water outlet passage are arranged in the water passage of the vivid water bloom shower, and the electromagnetic valve is arranged between one water inlet passage and one rhythm water outlet passage. Controlled by the control circuit board, the vivid water bloom shower can adjust water currents along with the music rhythm, thereby enabling a user to enjoy the simulated vivid scenery.

Abstract: A shower and speaker assembly. The assembly may include a shower device including a device housing defining an inlet communicating with an inlet chamber, an outlet and a waterway communicating between the inlet chamber and the outlet, the device housing further defining a receptacle having a closed end and an open end, the inlet chamber being behind the closed end, the waterway extending along the receptacle from the closed end toward the open end; and a speaker supportable in the receptacle. The outlet may define an outlet plane, and the speaker may include a speaker housing providing a speaker outlet, the speaker outlet being one of aligned with and positioned forwardly of the outlet plane when the speaker is supported in the receptacle. The assembly may further include a magnetic connecting structure operable to releasably connect the speaker and the shower device.

Abstract: An odor release system includes an odor releasing section (4) which is provided to a housing containing an odor source and releases an odor from the housing to the outside, a moving body detecting section (2) for detecting a moving body that approaches the housing, and a control section (3). The control section (3) includes (i) a moving speed calculating section (31) for calculating a moving speed of the moving body on the basis of a detection signal received from the moving body detecting section (2) and (ii) an odor release control section (32) for causing the odor releasing section (4) to release the odor in a case where the moving speed calculated by the moving speed calculating section (31) is not higher than a preset speed.

Abstract: In a fuel supply system with a fuel supply pipe for pumping fuel from a fuel tank via a fuel supply pipe to a fuel injection device of an internal combustion engine, wherein a fuel filter including a water separator is arranged in the fuel supply pipe for removing water collected in the water separator and injecting it into an exhaust gas system, a fuel/water discharge arrangement is provided which includes a main pipe connected to the fuel filter, a branch pipe connected to a water collection region of the fuel filter and a mixing device arranged in the main pipe for mixing water to a fuel flow in the main pipe for injection into the exhaust gas system

Abstract: A hand-held, electrostatically- and/or compressed gas-aided coating material dispensing device comprises a barrel and a handle extending downward from the barrel. The handle includes a module selected from modules having a number of different characteristics for coupling sources of coating material, compressed gas and/or electrical supply to the coating material dispensing device.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an integrated spray and wipe system and a method of using such a system. In one embodiment the system includes a fluid reservoir that extends through the center of a roll of cleaning material (e.g., paper towel roll). The tool houses cleaning fluid and cleaning wipes and, therefore, can be used to dispense liquid or cleaning wipes as needed.

Abstract: A spout cover for a spout having an outlet end includes a first member, having a deflector, mounted to a second member having a liquid soap reservoir and a dispenser for dispensing liquid soap from the liquid soap reservoir toward the deflector. A receiving area is defined between the first and second members for receiving the spout. The first member is movable relative to the second member between a first position permitting the spout to be received in the receiving area and a second position locating the deflector underneath the outlet end of the spout and preventing withdrawal of the spout from the receiving area.

Abstract: An assembly includes a fluid dispenser, an engagement feature on a portion of the fluid dispenser and a fragrance element with one or more surfaces that define an opening through the fragrance element, wherein the portion of the fluid dispenser with the engagement feature can extend through the opening in the fragrance element to engage a mounting base on an opposite side of the fragrance element.

Abstract: The present invention features a lawn sprinkling system, which comprises a gutter disposed along the side of a building structure, a sprinkler head disposed within the gutter, a water supply, and a water supply pipe. The water supply pipe is disposed within a recess alongside the down spout, and water supply pipe fluidly connects to the sprinkler head and to the water supply.

Abstract: There is disclosed a non-electric portable manually operated misting fan assembly which is formed by a handle for allowing the user to grasp and manipulate the fan assembly, the handle formed by a container adapted to function as a reservoir for a supply of fluid and having an upper end which includes a pump assembly including a pump head extending upwardly therefrom for pumping fluid from the handle container through a fluid nozzle located in the pump head. The fan means are fixedly mounted on the handle and positioned above the pump head, the fan means bounded by an upper end and a lower end, the lower end being accurately formed over the pump head in order to allow the user to position his finger on the pump head to manipulate the pump in order to eject a fluid from the fluid reservoir incident to the fanning procedure.

Abstract: A thermoformed container is provided for evaporating volatile substances, which is provided with means enabling such container to withstand high temperatures without experiencing deformations which deteriorate its functionality or appearance. The container has a reinforcing film having a deformation temperature exceeding the plastic material sheet with which the container is obtained. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing said container.

Abstract: An automated on-touch template bead preparation system is provided and includes a membrane-based emulsion generation subsystems, an emulsion PCR (ePCR) thermocycling plate and subsystem, and a continuous centrifugation emulsion breaking and templated bead collection subsystem. The emulsion generation subsystem provides uniformity in the preparation of an inverse emulsion and may be used to create large or small volume inverse emulsions rapidly and reproducibly. An emulsion-generating device is provided that can supply a continuous stream of an inverse emulsion to a thermocycling subsystem, in automated fashion. The ePCR subsystem can continuously thermocycle an inverse emulsion passed therethrough and includes static temperature zones and a consumable thermocycling plate. The continuous centrifugation subsystem can continuously break a thermally cycled inverse emulsion and collect template beads formed in the aqueous microreactor droplets of the inverse emulsion.

Abstract: A sprayer apparatus for applying treatment liquid to a landscaping material. The sprayer apparatus includes first and second spray outlets and an agitator therebetween. In use, the landscape material to be treated is first sprayed, the material is agitated (e.g., turned), and a second spray of treatment liquid is applied to the landscape material. Also described are methods for applying a treatment, such as colorant, to an installed landscaping material (such as wood chips or mulch), reducing the need to replace worn or weathered material. The methods include applying a pre-treatment to protect elements proximate the landscape material that are not to be treated, applying a treatment liquid to the landscaping material by spraying, and then rinsing any elements proximate the landscape material that may have be inadvertently and undesirably treated.

Abstract: A clamp and spike combination for use in conjunction with a flexible conduit, comprising a spike including an inlet rod with a sharpened tip for penetration into the conduit, an outlet rod connected to the inlet rod, the outlet rod having a barbed tip for attachment to a tube. The bore extends through the rods from the sharpened tip to the barbed tip, whereby the spike provides a channel for the passage of fluid. Further included, a clamp including two legs extending substantially parallel with each other and spaced apart from each other by a distance, an apex portion connecting the two legs to each other so that the clamp is shaped substantially in the form of an inverted “U”; and an opening in the apex portion, the opening being sized to receive the inlet rod of the spike.

Abstract: A method of operating a road spray system for distributing a liquid is provided. The method involves determining a degraded status of a road based on road condition information received from a road condition sensor. In response to determining the degraded status, a spray command is transmitted to valve control modules. The spray command is addressed to a selected one of the valve control modules and transmitted over electrical conductors which supply power to the valve control modules. The method also includes determining, at one of the valve control modules, that the one valve control module is the selected valve control module and activating a valve associated with the selected valve control module permitting flow of the liquid through the valve to a spray nozzle. Finally, the method also includes the step of receiving status information from the selected valve control module over the electrical conductors.

Abstract: A showerhead electrode is provided where backside inserts are positioned in backside recesses formed along the backside of the electrode. The backside inserts comprise a threaded outside diameter, a threaded inside diameter, and a tool engaging portion formed in the threaded inside diameter. The tool engaging portion is formed such that the backside insert further comprises one or more lateral shielding portions between the tool engaging portion and the threaded outside diameter to prevent a tool engaged with the tool engaging portion of the backside insert from extending beyond the threaded outside diameter of the insert. Further, the tool engaging portion of the backside insert comprises a plurality of torque-receiving slots arranged about the axis of rotation of the backside insert. The torque-receiving slots are arranged to avoid on-axis rotation of the backside insert via opposing pairs of torque-receiving slots.

Abstract: A particle sprayer includes a source of discrete particles, a spray outlet coupled to the particle source, and a conduit extending from a pressurized fluid inlet to the spray outlet and configured to constrain a flow of carrier fluid to flow along the conduit toward the spray outlet to propel particles from the particle source away from the spray outlet. The particles including discrete fastening bits having one or more projections, with each projection having an overhanging head for snagging fibers. The particle sprayer may be used to spray fastening bits onto a surface, to turn the surface into a touch fastener.