Choice Of Any One Material Only Patents (Class 239/305)
  • Patent number: 7399363
    Abstract: A painting robot outer arm includes a non-conductive housing mounting a color changer on the outside and a paint canister on the inside connected by an isolating paint transfer line. The paint canister is releasably attached to a piston ram and drive motor by a quick disconnect coupling. The paint supply is isolated from the applied high voltage by cleaning and drying the transfer line. The rate of filling of the canister can be controlled in response to sensed torque applied by a drive motor moving a piston in the paint canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Fanuc Robotics America, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott J. Clifford, Paul D. Copioli, Mike G. Beem, Robert C. Foti, Stan H. McClosky, Matt Zimmerer, Brad O. Niederquell, W. Daniel Mantz
  • Patent number: 7389943
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a volatile substance includes an electromechanical dispenser attached to a pivot arm, and a cartridge for holding a plurality of reservoirs each containing a volatile substance. The cartridge is rotatable such that any one of the reservoirs can be positioned in an engagement position, in which the volatile substance can be dispensed. The cartridge has a cam feature consisting of a contoured circumferential surface that alternately rises and falls. The pivot arm operates in tandem with the cam feature such that, when the cartridge is rotated, the dispenser alternately engages and disengages from successive reservoirs, and remains out of the path of motion traversed by the reservoirs as the cartridge rotates from one engagement position to a subsequent engagement position. The electromechanical dispenser may be a piezoelectrically actuated vibratory type liquid atomization apparatus, and the volatile substance may be a fragrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Jaworski
  • Patent number: 7387265
    Abstract: An apparatus for freshening air, comprising: a base unit having a recess for engaging at least one cartridge; a power supply operably connected to the base unit; an active portion of a nebulizer that includes a piezoelectric element connected to be driven by a driving and switching circuit connected to the power supply, wherein the active portion is incorporated with the base unit; a detachable autonomous liquid droplet dispensing cartridge detachably engagable with the recess of the base unit, wherein the cartridge comprises a first airless bag for storing a first nebulizable liquid, a second airless bag for storing a second nebulizable liquid, a passive portion of the nebulizer, wherein the passive portion includes an interface; a casing enclosing the first and second bags, and housing the passive portion; wherein when the dispensing cartridge engages the recess of the base unit, the passive portion is connected to the active portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Microwflow Engineering SA
    Inventors: Joseph Hess, Myriam Muller
  • Patent number: 7337857
    Abstract: In order to refine an admixing system (100) for admixing at least one extinguishing agent additive (32) to at least one extinguishing agent (22), having at least one extinguishing agent additive pump (34p1, 34p2, 34p3), particularly implemented as a component of or in the form of at least one dosing unit or at least one admixer (34), which mixes the extinguishing agent additive (32) into at least two extinguishing agent lines (26) using overpressure and which is connected to at least two watering or sprinkler units (10), in such a way that directly after the admixing system (100) is put into operation, without greater outlay, all watering or sprinkler units (10) have a mixture made of extinguishing agent (22) and extinguishing agent additive (32) available, it is suggested, that the extinguishing agent additive pump (34p1, 34p2, 34p3) be connected to each of the watering or sprinkler units (10) via at least one extinguishing agent additive line (36) in each case and that the particular extinguishing agen
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Bernd-Dietrich Rassek
    Inventors: Alexander Vonhof, Stefan Rassek, Matthias Dietrich, Andreas Waetzoldt
  • Patent number: 7320438
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an inlet conduit that has a threaded coupling removably attachable to the water supply source. A housing is connected to the inlet conduit and includes spaced compartments for storing bathing gels. Each compartment includes an inlet port that is provided with an end cap positional thereon. Each compartment further includes a plurality of seals attached therein for limiting leakage of the bathing gels. An outlet conduit is attached to a lower portion of the housing and is pliable. The outlet conduit receives a mixed solution of water and bathing gels. The apparatus further includes a mechanism for regulating a quantity of the bathing gels that is dispensed and a mechanism for displaying a remaining quantity of the bathing gels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventors: Rendall H. Latin, Rama Germilus
  • Patent number: 7303155
    Abstract: A hand trigger (16) is pivotally mounted on the handlebar (12) of the striper (14). A pair of selectors (26) are pivotally mounted at the trigger pivot points. The selectors (26) are made from a spring or spring-like steel, which allows the selectors (26) to springingly deform for gun selection and adjustment yet return to their original position and shape. This allows delayed gun activation, disabling of one or both guns from the trigger (16) and functioning as a one-handed gun selector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Kesti, Christopher A. Lins, Jon M. Knutson
  • Patent number: 7296756
    Abstract: A voltage block comprises first and second reservoirs and a switching device including an inlet port, an outlet port, a first reservoir port and a second reservoir port. The switching device is mounted in a third reservoir for movement between a first position and a second position. The third reservoir includes an electrically non-conductive fluid medium in which at least a portion of the switching device is immersed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Scharfenberger
  • Patent number: 7275699
    Abstract: A method and a self-contained, mobile dispensing system, wherein the material to be dispensed is formed by mixing several reactants. A generator provides power to the overall system. Storage tanks are provided for storing the reactants. A chiller unit chills the reactants, and a heating unit heats the reactants. The reactants flow separately through the system until they reach a mix head nozzle operative to combine the reactants. The mix head nozzle has an elongated straight cylindrical shape and includes a plurality of orifices oriented to allow mixing of the reactants in a dispense mode of operation. A metering pump controls and supplies the reactants to the mix head nozzle, in stoichiometric proportions and at predetermined temperature and pressure. A hose connects the mixing tank to the mix head nozzle for dispensing the foam in situ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Thermal Science Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Alex Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7264177
    Abstract: An automated irrigation and chemical treatment system comprising a user input device adapted to communicate with a control unit; a mixing chamber adapted to communicate with the control unit and connected to a water supply and chemical canisters, wherein each canister has a sensor to monitor fluid level therein, and control valves for connecting the mixing chamber to a network of pipes. Sprinkler heads connected to the network of pipes each include, a control valve adapted to control fluid flow to a water delivery nozzle by an electro magnet controlled rubber coated ferric ball closure member. The sprinkler heads include water and chemical saturation sensors and the sprinkler heads also communicate with the control unit via wireless transceivers. Multiple zones covered by the system may be treated according to predetermined schedules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Intelligent Lawn Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: David Aaron Buck, Thomas Daniel Storey, Richard David Buck
  • Patent number: 7216816
    Abstract: An airless application system. The system includes a primary product container, a secondary product container, and a sprayer in fluid communication with the primary product container and the secondary product container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Hammarth, Stephen J. Lacivita, Kevin J. May, Christopher Molina, John S. Piwnica, Jr., Paul A. Raymond, Johnathan C. Waters, Timothy Oberg, John Ekpenyong
  • Patent number: 7201331
    Abstract: The present invention is a shower device which simplifies the showering process by allocating soap, moisturizers, fragrances, and other detergent-type fluids through a shower head using the venturi concept so as to integrate the substance with the regularly dispensed water flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventor: Steven Bertrand
  • Patent number: 7191960
    Abstract: A shower head for dispensing a plurality of liquids into a continuous shower stream comprising a main shower head consisting of a divergently outwardly extending conical chamber bordered by a conical shell and a perforated arcuate member opposite from an apex of the conical chamber and through which water is sprayed onto the operator of the shower, a plurality of liquid dispensers arranged circumferentially around the main shower head, the main shower head having a main button moveable to an “off” position and an “on” position, each separate liquid dispensing member having its own chamber for containing a quantity of liquid therein to be dispensed into the main shower stream, passageways in each separate compartment communicating between the liquid contained in that compartment and the main shower head, a separate compartment button for each compartment and having an “on” and an “off” position, each compartment button in its “off” position preventing communication between the liquid in that compartment and th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventors: Ray V. Schrock, Keith A. Holman, Jason L. Parrish
  • Patent number: 7156795
    Abstract: A plurality of atomizers or other tools are disposed in a mounting plate (10) in storage places (12), respectively. The mounting plate (10) is rotatable relative a paint robot of a coating installation and has a pneumatic lock or a tool holder (19) that can only be released automatically during storage of the atomizers by an external control device of the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Dürr Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans J. Nolte, Rainer Melcher, Michael Baumann, Stefano Giuliano
  • Patent number: 7097121
    Abstract: Valve assemblies for the color change valve arrangement of a coating plant, for example for the production coating of vehicle bodies, wherein various measures are proposed to miniaturize the needle valves forming the valve body of the color changer based on the principle of optimizing the drive device acting on the valve needles to open the valve against the force of a pressure spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Behr Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Stefano Giulano
  • Patent number: 7032840
    Abstract: A bathing system is disclosed. The system includes a water supply line, an injectant supply line for supplying an injectant such as shampoo and conditioner, and an injector for combining the water and injectant and homogenizing the mixture. The system also includes a sprayer, which is connected to the outlet of the injector and is capable of producing a pulsating spray. Additional injectant supply line or lines can also be included. The injectant lines can be combined with a distribution manifold and in turn fed into the injector. In a preferred embodiment, the injector is of a differential pressure type. A bypass path and valve switch water directing to the sprayer for rinsing without mixing with injectant. The injector and sprayer are configured to produce a water-injectant mixture with a consistent mixing ratio over a wide range of water flow rates and pressures while providing pulsating action in either the wash or rinse cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Hair Patrol LLC
    Inventor: James E. Freidell
  • Patent number: 7014713
    Abstract: A coating machine in which a machine body formed with a coating material atomizing mechanism is detachably provided with a cartridge for filling a coating material wherein a cartridge attaching portion formed to the machine body is provided with a guide that slidably guides a new cartridge driven in from one end into a coupling position and drives a used cartridge pushed by the new cartridge from the coupling position to the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Trinity Industrial Corporation
    Inventor: Shinichi Nakane
  • Patent number: 7004407
    Abstract: A metering system includes a pumping device having one or more cylinders, each cylinder having a piston therein that is moved by an automated drive system to produce uniform or proportional flow to a single spray nozzle or a plurality of nozzles. The cylinders are mounted between a common base and a common metering plate. Movement of the metering plate relative to the base causes the pistons to slide within the cylinders to provide pulse-free fluid pumping. A rinsing cylinder or dual-action cylinder can also be included to provide delivery of a rinsing agent or multiple liquids to one or more of the spray nozzles simultaneously or in sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Mystic Tan, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven C. Cooper
  • Patent number: 6948663
    Abstract: A chemical distribution apparatus contains at least one, and preferably multiple chambers which house magazines which accept solid lawn treatment chemicals such as fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, lime treatments, pre-emergents, post-emergents, and the like. As water is passed into the chemical distribution apparatus, it is preferably selectively controlled by a controller to a particular chamber for distribution of a particular chemical in accordance with a pre-set schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: William C. Graham, Jr., Annette Michelle Graham
  • Patent number: 6942161
    Abstract: A painting machine includes a powder paint spray gun, a mixer for mixing a plurality of powder paints having different colors, and a control device controlling an amount of each powder paint supplied to the powder paint spray gun so that a mixing ratio of the powder paints is continuously changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Asahi Sunac Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuya Shimada
  • Patent number: 6935366
    Abstract: A powder paint color changer features a single cleaning fluid port at one end of the color changer manifold for direction of cleaning fluid, such as pressurized air, through the main output interior chamber of the color changer manifold thence through a supply hose which is adapted for coupling to a paint application device. Additionally, the powder paint color changer manifold includes a replaceable insert of impact fusion resistant material which defines the surface of the manifold's interior cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: ABB Inc.
    Inventors: Gary J. Ciarelli, Melissa L. Koster, Dragoslav K. Milojevic, Christopher M. Rennie
  • Patent number: 6913208
    Abstract: A liquid atomizer includes a main body and an ampoule holder detachably attached to the main body for holding ampoules in an annular formation. The main body has an atomizing part for atomizing the liquid discharged from outlets of the ampoules. The outlet of each of these ampoules can be disposed proximal to the atomizing part by moving the ampoules around the annular formation. Positioning devices are between the main body and the ampoule holder for positioning the ampoule holder properly with respect to the main body. The ampoule holder holds the ampoules such that each of the ampoules can move between an advanced position and a retracted position. The outlet of each ampoule moves into the atomizing part when the ampoule moves to the advanced position. The ampoule holder is able to undergo a rotary motion with respect to the main body when each of the ampoules is at the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: OMRON Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Tabata, Kei Asai, Shinichi Ito
  • Patent number: 6827289
    Abstract: A liquid spraying system having a spray head and a recirculating liquid supply system for directing pressurized supply liquid to the spray head with a portion of the liquid being directed from the spray head as a discharging spray and a portion of the supply liquid exiting the spray head as a return liquid. The liquid supply system includes two separate selectively pressurizable liquid containable tanks each having a respective fluid conduit coupled to the spray head. The liquid supply system has (1) a first cycle of operation in which the first tank is pressurized and the second tank is depressurized so that pressurized liquid is supplied from the first tank to the spray head and return liquid is directed to the second tank, and (2) a second cycle of operation in which the second tank is pressurized and the first tank depressurized so that liquid is supplied to the spray head from the second tank and return liquid is directed to the first tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Spraying Systems Co.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Filicicchia, Michel R. Thenin, Robert L. Trottier
  • Patent number: 6783084
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering aromatic substances for olfactory stimulation, treatment and/or therapy which includes a delivery assembly including a chamber into which air is introduced and subsequently delivered under even pressure through a mixing venturi. A plurality of conveying conduits are selectively communicated with the venturi so that aromatic substances are entrained in the air passing through the venturi to a discharge mask or zone. The conduits communicate with a plurality of containers of aromatic liquids, solids, and semi-solids. The containers are subject to selective introduction of pressurized air by way of a plurality of valves. A system is provided for controlling the operation of the valves to thereby control the substances discharged from the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: R. Douglas Nelson
  • Patent number: 6755913
    Abstract: In a color changing apparatus for multiple color electrostatic coating of conductive coating material, a pipe joint (a) provided to be movable and an electrostatic spray gun connected to the pipe joint (a) through a pipeline are provided. A plurality of coating material supply circulation circuits, including a liquid tank, a pump and a pipe joint (b) disengageably engageable with the pipe joint (a) are provided. The liquid tank, the pump and the pipe joint (b) are connected through a pipeline. The pipe joint (a) and the pipe joint (b) in the plurality of coating material supply circulation circuits can be selectively engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeru Kobayashi, Hidetaka Tsukamoto, Nobuo Ikeda
  • Patent number: 6742722
    Abstract: A paint cartridge is provided with a wash fluid passage in communication with a paint chamber, along with a wash fluid valve adapted to open and close the wash fluid passage. Provided on the side of a replenishing stool are a replenishing valve which supplies or discharges paint to or from the paint chamber, an extruding thinner feed/discharge valve which supplies or discharges paint-extruding thinner to or from an extruding thinner chamber, and a wash fluid supply valve which supplies a wash fluid to the paint chamber through the wash fluid passage. Accordingly, upon opening the replenishing valve, wash fluid supply valve and wash fluid valve, a wash fluid from the wash fluid supply valve is allowed to flow into the paint chamber through the wash fluid passage and discharged through a feed tube to wash away deposited paint therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: ABB K.K.
    Inventors: Toshio Hosoda, Hidetsugu Matsuda, Osamu Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6715692
    Abstract: A dispensing system includes at least one source of pressurized air and reservoirs for multiple automobile finish products. A discrete spray gun is provided for each of the products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Peterson, Patrick Secord
  • Publication number: 20040060538
    Abstract: Between respective injection holes 107 on the face of a plate member 111 in a fuel passage, grooves 201 are provided which run along the circumferential direction of the respective injection holes 107, and at the positions of the grooves 201 overflows 502 are formed, and further contracted flow portions 602 are formed in the injection holes 107, thus, the maximum flow velocity of fuel is increased at the injection hole outlet portions, thereby, a fuel injection valve and an internal combustion engine of which atomization performance near the injection holes is effectively enhanced are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Shigenori Togashi, Yoshio Okamoto, Makoto Yamakado, Masahiro Souma, Hiromasa Kubo
  • Publication number: 20040060510
    Abstract: A powder paint color changer features a single cleaning fluid port at one end of the color changer manifold for direction of cleaning fluid, such as pressurized air, through the main output interior chamber of the color changer manifold thence through a supply hose which is adapted for coupling to a paint application device. Additionally, the powder paint color changer manifold includes a replaceable insert of impact fusion resistant material which defines the surface of the manifold's interior cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Gary J. Ciarelli, Melissa L. Koster, Dragoslav K. Milojevic, Christopher M. Rennie
  • Patent number: 6705545
    Abstract: A paint system including at least one spray gun located, a paint line changing assembly and a plurality of differently colored paint sources. The paint line changing assembly is configured to selectively connect the at least one spray gun with one of the plurality of differently colored paint sources. The paint system further includes a controller for maintaining at least one of the plurality of differently colored paint sources in a partially fluidized state when not connected to the at least one spray gun and for maintaining the one of the plurality of differently colored paint sources in an operative fluidized state when connected to the at least one spray gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jerome J. Sroka, Steven C. Martin, Patrick J. Fingleton, Eugene C. Jager, Robert W. Meyer
  • Publication number: 20040046051
    Abstract: A system that is used for control of various liquids, including storage, mixing and dispersing thereof, but more particularly pertains to an improved system that is suitable for use with substantially any type of liquid of user choice. The system is economical, simplified, environmentally friendly, and includes use of multipurpose container(s) that further include various components and/or attachments which allow for storage, mixing and dispensing there from.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Cathy D. Santa Cruz, William E. Adams, Steven M. Waldren, Timothy B. Waldren, Phillip B. Waldren, Sharon A. Waldren, Allan E. Schultz
  • Patent number: 6695220
    Abstract: A powder spray system comprises a plurality of supply hoppers, a purge air supply, a manifold operably connected to each of the plurality of supply hoppers, and a spray gun. The manifold comprises a plurality of outlets. The spray gun is operable in a plurality of spraying configurations and a purging configuration. The spray gun is selectively, removably connected to at least one of the outlets when in one of the plurality of the spraying configurations and is removably connected to the purge air supply when in the purging configuration. A method of operating a powder spray system also is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Vollmer
  • Patent number: 6682001
    Abstract: A coating material color changer includes multiple modules. Each module includes a body constructed from an electrically non-conductive material, such as an insulative resin or polymer, and a plate coupled to the body and constructed from, for example, stainless steel. Each plate includes at least one of a receptacle for receiving an electrically non-insulative contact and an electrically non-insulative contact oriented to be received in such a receptacle when multiple modules are coupled together in a coating material color changer to couple the plates of the modules of the coating material color changer together electrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Diana
  • Publication number: 20030234300
    Abstract: A coating material color changer includes multiple modules. Each module includes a body constructed from an electrically non-conductive material, such as an insulative resin or polymer, and a plate coupled to the body and constructed from, for example, stainless steel. Each plate includes at least one of a receptacle for receiving an electrically non-insulative contact and an electrically non-insulative contact oriented to be received in such a receptacle when multiple modules are coupled together in a coating material color changer to couple the plates of the modules of the coating material color changer together electrically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: Michael J. Diana
  • Patent number: 6651902
    Abstract: At least one spraying device (1) and several supply lines (8) for supplying the spraying device with a coating product, the lines being linked to a connecting assembly (3). Each downstream end (6) of a line is provided with a gate valve which can be controlled by an actuator (30) which is itself controlled and which is positioned at the entrance to a product supply pipe (2) for the spray device (1). The actuator (30) and the connecting assembly (3) can be displaced in relation to each other (F1-F4) in such a way that the actuator (30) can be positioned selectively facing a downstream end (6) of one of the supply lines (8) and can manoeuvre the valve of the line. The ends (6) of the lines are arranged in rows and columns and an assembly (30) composed of the actuator and connected to the supply pipe (2) is mobile parallel to a plane surface (5a) where these line ends (6) open out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Sames Technologies
    Inventors: Pierre Ehinger, Caryl Thome
  • Patent number: 6589342
    Abstract: A powder paint color changer features a single cleaning fluid port at one end of the color changer manifold for direction of cleaning fluid, such as pressurized air, through the main output interior chamber of the color changer manifold thence through a supply hose which is adapted for coupling to a paint application device. Additionally, the powder paint color changer manifold includes a replaceable insert of impact fusion resistant material which defines the surface of the manifold's interior cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: ABB Automation Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Attinoto, Gary J. Ciarelli, Melissa L. Koster, Dragoslav K. Milojevic, Christopher M. Rennie
  • Patent number: 6568604
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a liquid in a carrier fluid flow comprises a container (10) for the liquid, into which a pressure flow of carrier fluid is driven. A liquid conduit (20) within the container has an outlet (22) in the path of the carrier fluid flow into the container so that liquid is taken up and is carried with the flow, through an outlet (26) from the container. The container can be formed by a disposable capsule that is replaceably inserted into the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Quest International BV
    Inventors: John Martin Behan, Keith Douglas Perring
  • Patent number: 6550695
    Abstract: A shower head, including a container section partitioned into a plurality of containers for storing a plurality of respective products to be dispensed; a selection section rotatably mounted on the container section for selecting a product to be dispensed via an opening provided in the selection section; a mixing section coupled to the selection section for receiving a selected product from the selection section and mixing the selected product with a water stream; and an internal water spout passing through the container section and the selection section into the mixing section for introducing the stream of water into the mixing section for mixing with the selected product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Cecilio Trent
  • Publication number: 20030062427
    Abstract: A melter, mixer and applicator system for applying coating or sealing compositions is disclosed. An internal combustion engine, such as a diesel engine, is used to provide the motive force necessary to operate many or all of the components of the system. A tank surrounded by an internal heating system is provided for melting a first material, such as asphalt. An insulated cabinet is provided and heated from heat generated by the internal heating system. The plumbing configuration for the system is disposed within the heated cabinet for mixing the material heated within the tank with an additional material fed to the plumbing configuration by a proportioner pump. The output of this mixture serves, through a heated hose, as one of the inputs to the applicator, which is preferably a plural component spray gun. The other input to the applicator is another material fed directly from the proportioner pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Frank C. Bien
  • Patent number: 6533861
    Abstract: Mounted on a wrist portion (10) of a single coating robot (6) is a common main assembly body (11) to which a plural number of bell-shape heads (42, 81, 83) are replaceably connectible. Further, a head changer (61) is provided within a working area of the coating robot (6), the head changer (61) being provided with head gripping mechanisms (63) to hold a plural number of bell-shape heads (42, 81, 83) thereon. By the use of the coating robot (6), one of the bell-shape heads (42, 81, 83) on the head changer (61) is replaceably connected to the common main assembly body (11) to form a complete sprayer (55, 101). Accordingly, the coating robot (6) can perform various coating operations by selectively picking up a suitable bell-shape head (42, 81, 83) from the head changer (61) and connecting same to the common main assembly body (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: ABB K.K.
    Inventors: Hidetsugu Matsuda, Osamu Yoshida, Toshio Hosoda, Yoshiyuki Abe, Akihiko Arichi
  • Patent number: 6533192
    Abstract: A fluid transfer pump wash-out apparatus is provided to facilitate cleaning of fluid transfer pump system components. The wash-out apparatus is adapted for temporary or permanent insertion between at least one pump liquid source pick-up point and a pump intake. The body of the wash-out apparatus is preferably adapted for connection in a pick-up hose assembly. The wash-out apparatus body is joined to a flow valve that is coupled to an intake coupler. The flow valve is operable to control the flow of fluid from the first pick-up hose into the body. The intake coupler is in turn coupled to a first pick-up hose that transports fluid from the liquid source pick-up point to the wash-out apparatus. An output coupler joined to the output end of the body is coupled to a second pick-up hose for connection to the fluid transfer pump assembly. A wash-out hook-up is provided to couple the body of the wash-out apparatus to a source of cleaning fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Ronnie Joe Weiand
  • Patent number: 6530907
    Abstract: This channel switching apparatus comprises a first channel switching device (303) for switching a first main channel and a second main channel, a second channel switching device (305) for switching a third main channel and a fourth main channel, a third channel switching device (307) for switching a fifth main channel and a sixth main channel, and a fourth channel switching device (308) for switching a seventh main channel and an eighth main channel. Thus, a channel switching apparatus which can readily and correctly perform even by touch can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Sugan Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Sugahara, Tetsuya Yamamoto, Michihiko Matsushima
  • Publication number: 20030015607
    Abstract: The inventive device comprises at least one spraying device (1) and several supply lines (8) for supplying said spraying device with the coating product, said lines being linked to a connecting assembly (3). Each downstream end (6) of a line is provided with a gate valve which can be controlled by an actuator (30) which is itself controlled and which is positioned at the entrance to a product supply pipe (2) for the spray device (1). The actuator (30) and the connecting assembly (3) can be displaced in relation to each other (F1-F4) in such a way that the actuator (30) can be positioned selectively facing a downstream end (6) of one of the supply lines (8) and can manoeuvre the valve of said line. The ends (6) of the lines arc arranged in rows and columns and an assembly (30) comprising the actuator and connected to the supply pipe (2) is mobile parallel to a plane surface (5a) where these line ends (6) open out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Pierre Ehinger, Caryl Thome
  • Publication number: 20030000961
    Abstract: Rechargeable containers and dispensers, in particular a product dispenser, including at least one compartment for storing separately one or more products. Preferably, a container having multiple compartments for storing separately one or more products including a seal for sealing the multiple compartments and a lid connected to the container which can be removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: William L. Klima, Walter F. Klima
  • Publication number: 20020158149
    Abstract: This invention relates to a process for changing product in an installation for spraying coating product, comprising a step of bringing a first reservoir towards a suitable area of a cleaning/filling station and consisting in:
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Applicant: SAMES S.A. of Chemin Malacher
    Inventors: Caryl Thome, Philippe Provenaz, Louis Sentis
  • Publication number: 20020158148
    Abstract: A paint cartridge (31) is provided with a wash fluid passage (43) which is in communication with a paint chamber (36), along with a wash fluid valve (45) which is adapted to open and close the wash fluid passage (43). Provided on the side of a replenishing stool (52) are a replenishing valve (61) which supplies or discharges paint to or from the paint chamber (36), an extruding thinner feed/discharge valve (86) which supplies or discharges paint-extruding thinner to or from an extruding thinner chamber (37), and a wash fluid supply valve (101) which supplies a wash fluid to the paint chamber (36) through the wash fluid passage (43). Accordingly, upon opening the replenishing valve (61), wash fluid supply valve (101) and wash fluid valve (45), a wash fluid from the wash fluid supply valve (101) is allowed to flow into the paint chamber (36) through the wash fluid passage (43) and discharged through a feed tube (34) to wash away deposited paint therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Toshio Hosoda, Hidetsugu Matsuda, Osamu Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6455017
    Abstract: Detergent cleaning is combined with ozone disinfection in a single, preferably mobile sanitizing unit. A detergent cleaning solution, preferably under pressure, is directed onto a surface to be cleaned. Subsequently, an aqueous ozone rinse is applied to the surface following removal of soils by the detergent. Because the ozone rinse functions to sanitize the target and remove residual detergent, and works best when delivered without substantial pressure, construction and ozone generation are simplified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventors: John R. Kasting, Jr., Dwayne H. Joines, John V. Winings
  • Patent number: 6446881
    Abstract: A portable, battery powered spray applicator car wash device capable of holding and dispensing liquid cleansers and waxes for rubbing into the body and windows of a vehicle, thereby enabling complete and portable mobile washing and cleaning services and complete detailing of a vehicle without the use of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Jung You
  • Patent number: 6439480
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for the automatic spray application of paint. The device has a paint container and a spray nozzle arranged in close connection and adapted to provide paint from the container to the spray nozzle during the spray application. A dosing apparatus regulates the compression of an external surface against the inner volume of the paint container and thereby forces paint out of the container and into the spray nozzle through an opening of the container. A number of receiving members are adapted to receive and hold the paint container close to the spray nozzle, such that the paint container is detachable and removable from the device when replacing a paint container. The paint container has an elongated feeding tube, at its opening, that is held by the receiving members when the tube is inserted in the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: ABB Flexible Automation A/S
    Inventor: Terje Velde
  • Patent number: 6425534
    Abstract: A sprayer head is provided for attachment to a container containing a chemical product to be diluted by a carrier stream. The sprayer head includes a hose attachment member having structure for attaching the sprayer head to a source of the carrier stream. The sprayer head also includes a cap member, including structure for attaching the sprayer head to the container and a control mechanism movably connected to the cap member for controlling fluid communication between the cap member and the container. The control mechanism can be either reciprocated or rotated so that the sprayer head can be used either to spray a low viscosity liquid product in varying dilutions or to dilute and spray a mixture of high viscosity liquid, gelatinous or powdered product and carrier stream fluid. The control mechanism includes a seal member having product apertures of increasing sizes for controlling the varying dilutions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Green Garden Products Company
    Inventors: Craig S. Ketcham, Mark Maclean-Blevins
  • Patent number: 6402053
    Abstract: A multifunction car wash gun including a car wash gun body, a connector, an adjustment mount, a sleeve, a setting sleeve, and a nozzle. The connector is fastened to the car wash gun body and has a water passage formed that is in continuity with the water passage in the car wash gun body. A soap solution output hole of the water passage is situated in the lower receptacle. The adjustment mount is installed at the bottom end of the connector. The sleeve is filled with a soap solution and installed into the lower receptacle. A liquid wax chamber is attached between the connector and the car wash gun body. A user can directly rotate the adjustment mount to selectively control water flow stoppage, water-only output, a combination water and soap solution output, and a combination water and liquid wax output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Ti-An Chih