Branching Flow And Recombining In Terminal Member Patents (Class 239/317)
  • Patent number: 12103025
    Abstract: A spray wand for use with a chemical or chemical formulation in solid form. The spray wand has a spray wand body having a hollow tube with an angled wand spray end, a spray end selector attached to the angled wand spray end, a wand hose end screen inserted into or otherwise attached to the hollow tube of the spray wand body, and a wand hose end connected to the spray wand body. The wand hose end has a wand hose end valve for control of water flow from a hose. A refill cartridge having a swirl chamber may be attached to the hollow tube. The refill cartridge has external channels or grooves on its external surface as a water rinse feature for the spray wand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Assignee: W.M. Barr & Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Andrew Kavchok, Matthew Michael Petkus, Alana Byrd, Rachel Ann Farmer
  • Patent number: 11542698
    Abstract: A toilet that includes a tank configured to hold water from a water supply; a reservoir fluidly connected to the tank and configured to hold a cleaning compound comprising a chemical compound and water from the water supply; and an actuator configured to control a flush cycle of the toilet upon a first activation, the actuator including at least one nozzle fluidly connected to the reservoir and configured to discharge an amount of the cleaning compound external to the tank upon at least one of the first activation or a second activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Michael Luettgen, William Kuru, Clayton Garrels, Peter W. Denzin
  • Patent number: 10870135
    Abstract: A pressure washer includes a pump for pressurizing a primary fluid flow, the pump including a pump inlet for receiving fluid from a common fluid source and a pump outlet for supplying a pressurized primary fluid and a jet pump including a primary fluid inlet fluidly coupled to the pump outlet, a secondary fluid inlet configured to receive fluid from the common fluid source, and a fluid outlet. In a high pressure operating mode, all of the pressurized primary fluid flows through the jet pump and exits through the fluid outlet of the jet pump. In a high flow operating mode, all the pressurized primary fluid flows through the jet pump and entrains a secondary fluid supplied through the secondary fluid inlet from the common fluid source so that the secondary fluid also flows through the jet pump, resulting in a combined fluid flow of the primary fluid and the secondary fluid that exits through the fluid outlet of the jet pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton, LLC
    Inventors: Jason J. Raasch, Joseph Giacalone
  • Patent number: 10207686
    Abstract: A device for emitting bubbles in a vehicle wash facility includes a plenum supported with respect to the ground. The plenum includes an air inlet with a first area and an air outlet with a second area. The plenum air outlet is in communication with at least one foaming chamber. The foaming chamber includes a generally planar media element disposed therein. The foaming chamber includes a spray jet located therein, which is in communication with a source of chemical. The spray jet configured to emit a chemical onto the generally planar media element. The device also includes a plurality of nozzle portions in communication with the foaming chamber for emitting bubbles therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: WashMe Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. Belanger, Barry S. Turner, David L. Tognetti, Mark D. Morin
  • Patent number: 9545642
    Abstract: A chemical dispensing apparatus to deliver a treatment solution includes a housing configured to be mounted to a wall surface and main fluid passage fitted with an inlet hose coupling at one end and an outlet hose coupling at an opposite end. A control valve is disposed across the main fluid passage at an upstream location and a flap valve is disposed across the main fluid passage at a downstream location of the control valve. A chemical mixing fluid passage is connected at one end to the first control valve and connected at an opposite end to the flap valve. A siphon tube connects a fluid accumulator and the chemical mixing fluid passage such that a flow of fluid through the chemical mixing passage results in liquid chemical contained in the fluid accumulator being drawn through the siphon tube into the flow of fluid through chemical mixing fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Lawrence Orubor
  • Patent number: 9173538
    Abstract: A paint preparation tool (10) having a distal brush head (18) with a mode valve to switch between continuous spraying under low pressure and pulsed spraying under higher pressure' connected by a hollow tube to a proximal remote control element (14) capable of switching off liquid to the brush head (18), or supplying liquid cleaner solution to the brush head (18) at low pressure or supplying liquid under the higher pressure to the brush head (18) using a rotary spool valve in the control element to actuate the mode valve in the brush head (18). The brush head (18) has bristles for cleaning and a pair of rotating rotors to provide the pulsed spraying under higher pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: WAGNER SPRAY TECH CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Sandahl
  • Patent number: 8702018
    Abstract: An apparatus providing improved dispensing of liquid-additives such as soap, shampoo, or bodywash, into an existing waterline outlet in bathroom or kitchen, while optionally featuring a unique Bubblizer™-chamber enabling user to observe an eye-catching dynamic fluidic-admixture display via a 2-inch diameter preview-window, prior to emergence of the bubblized-admixture via a conventional showerhead. The SudsMix™ shower-unit version readily suspends from an existing wall-extending gooseneck-pipe where it fluidicly couples into the water-line without aid of tools. Introduction of the liquid-soap additive is initiated remotely via a pushbutton valve conveniently located at waist-level, while concealed conduit-lines feed selected additive upward from the reservoir-section to the Bubblizer™-chamber integrated into the upper portion of the wall-hugging housing. Other adaptations of the Bubblizer™-chamber are a hand-held wand-like bathing back-scrubber, and similar kitchen-sink dish-scrubber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Santiago Rivera
  • Patent number: 8677993
    Abstract: A humidification canister for humidifying a breathing gas, the humidification canister includes a fluid supply configured to supply a fluid and a first gas flow path in fluid communication with the fluid supply. A first gas flow path is configured to humidify the breathing gas with the fluid. A second gas flow path at least partially surrounds the first gas flow path. A method of insulating a breathing gas in a humidification canister using a gas is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Vapotherm, Inc.
    Inventors: Felino V. Cortez, Jr., William F. Niland, George McGarrity, Carl Buyer, Kenneth Miller, Peter Boyd
  • Patent number: 8622320
    Abstract: A sprayer system having a sprayer assembly adaptable to a variety of sizes and shapes of containers. The sprayer assembly includes a dual venturi in the flow conduit to provide even pressure and consistent flow in the spray volume. A metering device is coupled to the flow conduit for accurate and reliable regulation of mixture ratios. A dip tube, coupled to the fluid conduit, is adaptable to a variety of container orifices. In addition to acting as a conduit for passage of concentrate into the sprayer assembly, the dip tube may also be used as a cutting device to open the container into which it will be inserted. By adapting to a variety of container orifices, the dip tube allows the sprayer assembly to fit to a variety of containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: The Fountainhead Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Plantz, Mario Restive
  • Patent number: 8544495
    Abstract: A dispenser (10) for liquid and/or solid chemicals consisting of a reservoir (20), an inlet line (40) and an outlet line (44) both connected into the reservoir. A saddle (52) attaches to an external fluid supply line with inlet and the inlet lines interfacing with the reservoir. A press-in inlet nozzle (64) is disposed in the fluid inlet line and enters upstream into the fluid supply line and a press-in outlet nozzle (66) is attached into the fluid outlet line entering downstream into the fluid supply line. A saddle clamp (76) attaches the saddle enclosing the external fluid supply line, such that when a fluid flows downstream through the fluid supply line the inlet nozzle receives a portion of the flow through velocity ram induction and is introduced into the reservoir where it mixes with liquid and/or solid chemicals, forming a suspended solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventors: Ronald C. Weingart, Robert Gooch
  • Patent number: 8453950
    Abstract: Described is a fluid dispensing container having a bottle and fluid withdrawing assembly for liquids, such as liquid cleaners and the like. The bottle has an integral dip tube formed therein connecting at a landing below the top of the bottle neck, fluidly connecting the inside of the bottle with the top opening of the bottle. A fluid dispensing mechanism, such as a hose sprayer, is attached to the top of the bottle to take fluid up through the integral dip tube and dispense the fluid accordingly. The fluid dispensing mechanism may be aligned to allow a direct connection between integral dip tube and the fluid dispensing mechanism at a landing below the bottle opening. The fluid dispensing mechanism may be attached to the bottle with a snap-fit connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventor: Stephen R. Dennis
  • Patent number: 8353467
    Abstract: A fluid spraying gun of the present invention includes: a tube-shape guide, on which a brush extending forward is implanted; a nozzle, which is formed of a flexible pipe member with a front end thereof as a free end, and sprays one portion of gas, which is supplied from the flow separation portion and passes through the nozzle, toward the brush from the front end thereof, while the nozzle undergoes the gyrating motion guided by the tube-shape guide; an inner nozzle, which sprays gas which has passed through a flow rate adjustment portion from a tip portion thereof; and a liquid distribution pipe, which penetrates the tube-shape guide, links an inside of the tube-shape guide with a liquid supply source, has an intermediate portion into which the inner nozzle is inserted in a state where the inner nozzle is directed toward the tube-shape guide, and draws up liquid from the liquid supply source by a negative pressure arising from spraying of gas by the inner nozzle to cause spraying of liquid on the inside of th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: GA-REW Corporation
    Inventor: Kaga Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 8312806
    Abstract: A system for preparing a predetermined amount of beverage suitable for consumption, provided with an exchangeable holder and an apparatus provided with a fluid dispensing device which is detachably connected to the holder for dispensing at least one amount of at least a first fluid such as water under pressure to the exchangeable holder, while the exchangeable holder is provided with at least one storage space which is filled with a second fluid such as a concentrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V.
    Inventors: Gerbrand Kristiaan De Graaff, Hendrik Cornelis Koeling, Ka Cheung Tsang, Ralf Kamerbeek
  • Publication number: 20120223158
    Abstract: A chemical dispensing apparatus includes a housing that is connectable to a source of water, such as a standard garden house and a chemical dispenser configured to mix a chemical concentrate with the source of water as it flows through the housing and dispensed from the housing from either a sprinkler head or a misting nozzle. Various configurations of fluid passages and water flow are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Lawrence Orubor
  • Patent number: 8210451
    Abstract: A chemical dispenser 10 that is attached directly to a sprinkler system which includes a reservoir 20 with an open top spout 22, a cap 26, a water inlet opening 34, a solution outlet opening 36 and a basket 38 positioned between the spout and the cap. A saddle clamp member 44 is integrally formed with the reservoir attached to a mains utility water line 46. A reservoir water inlet line 74 interfaces with the mains utility water line 46 on one end the water inlet opening of the reservoir on the other end. A solution discharge line 76, having an outlet nozzle 78, extends into the mains water inlet line and is connected through the clamp and to the reservoir. Water enters the reservoir through water inlet line and leaches a solid chemical placed within the basket to form an aqueous solution. The solution is then drawn through the discharge line by the pressure differential in the mains utility water line flow created by the restriction of the nozzle in the mains utility water line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventors: Robert K. Gooch, Ronald C. Weingart
  • Patent number: 7905429
    Abstract: Dispensing systems for dispensing one or more materials into a fluid flow conduit, during the conveyance of fluid through the conduit are configured to connect to a fluid conduit, such as a standard pipe of a shower arm and dispense a material into the water flow in the shower arm. The system includes a first tube member having a restrictor flow passage to provide a pressure differential, as fluid flows through the tube member. The pressure differential created within the restrictor passage by the fluid flow is communicated to a flask, to provide a pressure differential between the interior and the exterior of a flexible container within the flask. The pressure differential causes material within the flexible container to be drawn out and conveyed to the fluid flowing through the tube member. The flask may be connected to the first tube member, through an extension portion that is rotatable around the first tube member for convenient positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Water Pik, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan David Somerfield, Thomas Jay Sandusky
  • Patent number: 7823805
    Abstract: A spray gun capable of mixing detergent includes a detergent tube having a water guiding tube passing through its upper cover, an interior tube fixedly connected to its bottom having a horizontal water inlet communicating with the detergent tube; a separate tube fixedly put between the interior tube and the adjustment tube for connection, an upper end of the separate tube connected to the water guiding tube, an inside of the separate tube partitioned by a partition wall to form an upper tube hole and a lower tube hole, an upper end of the upper tube hole having a detergent guiding inlet, a bottom of the upper tube hole having a water guiding inlet, the lower tube hole connected to a water source, an upper end of the lower tube hole having a water outlet; and an adjustment tube having an upper extension tube for putting the interior tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Shun-Nan Lo
  • Publication number: 20100193606
    Abstract: An apparatus for spraying lawn products adapted for use with a fluid supply source and a reservoir includes a housing defining a mixing chamber therein and a reservoir coupled to the housing. A process for use of the apparatus is also disclosed. The housing includes a substantially cylindrically shaped cap portion having discontinuous internal threads forming flats therein, a lip portion, and an open end portion. The reservoir includes a generally cylindrically shaped neck portion having a partial exterior shoulder, external threads thereon, and an end portion. Internal threads of the neck portion of the reservoir interengage the discontinuous internal threads having flats therein of the cap portion. The partial exterior shoulder of the reservoir interengages the open end portion of the cap portion such that the end portion of the neck of the reservoir does not engage the lip portion of the cap portion aspirating of the reservoir and housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: DANIEL J. GAVIN
  • Patent number: 7717354
    Abstract: A cleaning system of the invention may include an operator wearable torso belt, a swivel hook fastened to the belt, and a holder releasably hung on the hook, with the holder sized to releasably hold a chemical container. The cleaning system further may include a chemical container, a spray gun, a chemical draw line connecting the chemical container to the spray gun, and a liquid supply line extending from a multi-functional cleaning machine to the spray gun. If desired, the chemical holder may include a first compartment, a second compartment, and a third compartment. The first compartment holds the spray gun when the spray gun is not in use, the second compartment holds the chemical container, and the third compartment is sized to hold a tool such as a squeegee or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Kaivac, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Robinson
  • Patent number: 7703703
    Abstract: An apparatus for spraying lawn products adapted for use with a fluid supply source and a reservoir includes a housing defining a mixing chamber therein and a reservoir coupled to the housing. A process for use of the apparatus is also disclosed. The housing includes a substantially cylindrically shaped cap portion having discontinuous internal threads forming flats therein, a lip portion, and an open end portion. The reservoir includes a generally cylindrically shaped neck portion having a partial exterior shoulder, external threads thereon, and an end portion. Internal threads of the neck portion of the reservoir interengage the discontinuous internal threads having flats therein of the cap portion. The partial exterior shoulder of the reservoir interengages the open end portion of the cap portion such that the end portion of the neck of the reservoir does not engage the lip portion of the cap portion aspirating of the reservoir and housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel J. Gavin
  • Patent number: 7677467
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for aerosolizing medicament to be inhaled by a user. A housing is provided with an aerosol generator contained within the housing. A medicament feed system supplies medicament to the aerosol generator. A mouthpiece has separate medicament and air flow passages. The medicament flow passage provides aerosolized medicament from the aerosol generator to an outlet of the medicament flow passage, and the air flow passage has an inlet in fluid communication with an ambient atmosphere. The outlets of the medicament and air flow passages are provided at an end of the mouthpiece to provide simultaneous flows of medicament and air that mix in the user's mouth upon inhalation by the user at the end of the mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Novartis Pharma AG
    Inventors: James B. Fink, Nicanor A. Domingo
  • Patent number: 7673813
    Abstract: A portable spray apparatus (1) is provided to selectively discharge liquid spray medium and solid dust medium with a blower airflow (7) generated by a blower (6). An adaptor (8) is provided which has at least a channel section (9) of a liquids channel (10) for the liquid spray medium and a channel section (11) of a solids channel (12) for the solid dust medium. The adaptor (8) is releasably connected to a supply vessel (4). The liquids channel (10) and the solids channel (12) open into the blower airflow (7). Various built-in positions of the supply vessel (4) and of the adaptor (8) are freely selectable relative to each other and to the blower unit (3) by the operator. In one built-in position, the liquids channel (10) is connected via its channel section (9) to an interior space (13) of the supply vessel (4) and, in another built-in position, the solids channel (12) is connected to this interior space (13) via the channel section (11) thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Raffenberg, Heiko Rosskamp, Thomas Stark, Markus Pfeifer, Heinz Hettmann, Markus Zeller, Klaus Langhans, Sebastian Hansen, Hans-Georg Wiedmann, Matthias Müller
  • Patent number: 7650830
    Abstract: A system and method for the enhancement or fortification of a potable fluid. The system is adapted to fit on existing supplies of potable fluids, such as faucets, to permit the selective introduction of beneficiating materials into the liquid supply. The system includes interchangeable, replaceable cartridges. In one aspect of the invention, the system introduces a constant concentration of beneficiating material into the water supply. In another aspect, the system has the ability to permit discrete or continuously variable concentrations of the beneficiating material. The system may also include a water filtration device that may be operated either independently or cooperatively with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Miracle Spring LLC
    Inventor: Gary Lessis
  • Publication number: 20090200391
    Abstract: An irrigation device for introducing chemical into irrigation water, the irrigation device whereby a first stream of water flows from an input pipe connector, through a first container, through the gear-driven motor mounted in the first container, through a first pipe into a second container while the gear-driven motor rotates the second container; and a second stream of water flowing from the first container, through a second pipe into a third container containing the chemical, and through the a third pipe into the second container while the second container is moving.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: Gali Yehuda, Yehuda Einav
  • Patent number: 7494072
    Abstract: A fluid spraying device comprises a first supply flow path which guides a pressurized liquid, a second supply flow path which guides a pressurized gas, a gas-liquid mixing part which joins the first supply flow path and the second supply flow path and which mixes the liquid and the gas, and an ejection flow path which guides a fluid from the gas-liquid mixing part to the outside. A branching/joining part is provided at an intermediate part of the ejection flow path which, after branching the ejection flow path into a plurality of branch flow paths, rejoins these branch flow paths together. Moreover, a fluid spraying nozzle comprises a flexible spray tube, and a guide which surrounds the spray tube from the outside in the diametral direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Ga-Rew Corporation
    Inventor: Kaga Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 7195011
    Abstract: A feed system for an aerosolizer utilizes an ampoule containing a liquid and includes a housing having an ampoule region into which the ampoule is held, and a liquid receiving region that is adapted to receive liquid dispensed from the ampoule. An interface is used to couple the liquid receiving region to an aerosol generator, whereby liquid from the liquid receiving region is permitted to flow to the aerosol generator for aerosolization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Aerogen, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Loeffler, David Rapp, Victor Briones, Ralf Bitdinger, Michael Klimowicz
  • Patent number: 7083118
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for mixing a liquid such as fertilizer with water flow in a sprinkler pipeline where the liquid is timely dispensed over a period of time from a fertilizer chamber into a mixing chamber for mixing with the water before re-entering the pipeline. The device has a flexible diaphragm that sealingly separates a mixing chamber from a fertilizer chamber. A central disk is fixedly carried by the diaphragm and is biased by a first spring that applies a restoring force upon displacement of the central disk. A valve seat on an axial extension of the central disk extending into the mixing chamber is so dimensioned and proportioned to seat a pin holder fixed to an adjuster holder upon engagement by the pin holder. The adjuster holder is responsive to a second spring and the water pressure in the mixing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventors: C. Anthony Bowles, Dwight N. Johnson, Igancio Cano
  • Patent number: 7011254
    Abstract: A lawn chemical application system is disclosed. The system comprises a dispenser having a lower chamber, an upper chamber, an upstream opening, and a downstream opening. The dispenser may be formed by a tee connector and a cylinder secured to an upper opening of the tee connector. Powered valves are operably connected to the upstream and downstream openings of the dispenser. The powered valves may be wired to open and close simultaneously. A lower portion of the upper chamber may be disposed below an upper portion of the lower chamber and above a lower portion of the lower chamber, leaving the lower portion of the lower chamber unobstructed over substantially its entire length. The lower portion of the upper chamber may have a plurality of openings to provide for adequate mixing of water with the chemicals stored in the upper chamber. In operation, soluble matter or other chemicals are placed in the upper chamber of the dispenser, and the two valves are opened simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Brian Thornton
  • Patent number: 6969011
    Abstract: Disclosed is a chemical additive dispensing device for use with a station of a sprinkler-based irrigation system that includes a fluid diversion housing and a container for storing a chemical additive. The fluid diversion housing includes an in-flow channel formed therein that is in fluid communication with an input port and the container. An out-flow channel is also formed within the fluid diversion housing and is in fluid communication with an output port and the container. In operation, the container fills with fluid from the in-flow channel such that the fluid mixes with the chemical additive. Once the container is filled with fluid, the mixture of fluid and chemical additive is diverted through the out-flow channel of the fluid diversion housing to the outlet port such that the fluid chemical additive mixture is distributed to the rest of the irrigation system and particularly through sprinklers onto a lawn and/or plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Michael B. Palmer
  • Patent number: 6964380
    Abstract: A spraying gun includes a water inlet connector, a connecting member, an adjusting member, a detergent tube, a water conducting tube, and an extension pipe. Thus, the water flow rate of the spraying gun is adjusted by rotation of the adjusting member, thereby facilitating a user regulating the water flow rate of the spraying gun. In addition, the water is mixed with the detergent by rotation of the adjusting member to provide a cleaning effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Shin Tai Spurt Water of the Garden Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Yuan Chen
  • 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: 6902120
    Abstract: A sprinkler includes a handle, a barrel, a nozzle, and a detergent dispensing mechanism. The barrel is fastened at one end with the handle, and at the other end with the nozzle. The detergent dispensing mechanism is fastened to the periphery of the barrel and is contiguous to the handle. The mechanism has a detergent holder and a detergent control switch. The detergent holder is provided with a water hole and a detergent hole, which are in communication with a water duct of the barrel. The detergent control switch is used to open or close the water hole and the detergent hole of the detergent holder in the midst of operation of the sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Shin Tai Spurt Water of the Garden Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Yuan Chen
  • Patent number: 6827292
    Abstract: A fertilizer dispenser with an inlet compartment and an outlet compartment with an inlet into the top of the inlet compartment. The inlet is connected to an inlet sub-line directed into the inlet compartment and an outlet sub-line directed into the outlet compartment. An outlet is located in the bottom of the outlet compartment. The inlet compartment and the outlet compartment are separated by a baffle which permits flow over the baffle from the inlet compartment to the outlet compartment. The fertilizer dispenser is used with a System for watering with a supply hoses connected in series with seep hoses. The seep hoses are located about the vegetation to be watered while the supply hoses are connected in series to the seep hoses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Kelly
  • Publication number: 20040016826
    Abstract: A soap dispenser is disclosed which includes retaining means for supporting solid soap, the retaining means being provided with an aperture. The arrangement is such that, in use, when water is caused to flow into the retaining means, soap dissolves into the water, and the water and the dissolved soap is thereby dispensed through the aperture without physical contact between a user and the solid soap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: SUDSMASTER
    Inventors: Frederick John Rice, Philip Frederick Rice
  • Patent number: 6622942
    Abstract: An oil mist discharger (1) is disclosed. The oil mist discharger (1) utilizes a flow regulator (27) which comprises a main passage (28), sub-passages (29) and an agitation chamber (30). Differential pressure between air and oil is created and utilized in drawing oil into an oil feed chamber (39) to be mixed with air. The oil-containing air is sent to the flow regulator (27) and fed into the agitation chamber (30) via the main passage (28) and sub-passages (29) in jet streams to be transformed into a well blended oil mist, which is discharged from a discharge nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignees: K. K. Ueno Tekkojo, Tanaka Import Group, K. K.
    Inventors: Koji Ueno, Motohiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6540156
    Abstract: A fertilizer and irrigation apparatus includes an inflow pipe, a shunt pipe connected to the inflow pipe, and a chemical additive assembly connected in parallel to the shunt pipe. An outflow pipe is also connected to the shunt pipe. A portion of the inflow pipe, the shunt pipe, the chemical additive assembly, and the outflow pipe are all above ground. The chemical additive assembly includes a quantity of a chemical additive. A manifold is connected to the outflow pipe. A plurality of in-ground distribution conduits are connected to the manifold, wherein each of the distribution conduits includes at least one above-ground sprinkler head. In addition, an auxiliary inflow assembly can be connected to the inflow pipe so that chemical additives can be supplied to the fertilizer and irrigation apparatus from an outside source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Paul E. Martin
  • Publication number: 20030006312
    Abstract: A forage preservative applicator system for efficiently and accurately providing forage preservatives to forage during harvesting. The forage preservative applicator system includes a support base, a reservoir positionable upon the support base for storing a volume of biological solution, a valve fluidly connected to the reservoir, a pump fluidly connected to the valve, and a dispensing tube fluidly connected to the pump for dispensing the biological solution into the forage being harvested. A flush container is preferably attached to the reservoir and fluidly connected to the valve for allowing flushing of the dispensing tube. At least one ice pack is preferably utilized within the reservoir for maintaining the temperature of a biological solution at the desired temperature for extending the useful life of the biological solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Roger W. Dohrmann, Dan R. Dohrmann
  • Publication number: 20020190134
    Abstract: A safe and convenient method of applying chemicals—i.e. fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides—to lawns through, and in conjunction with a central sprinkling system. Most basically, the water feed line to the underground sprinkling system is broken and a chemical dilution apparatus is inserted therein so that water feeding the underground sprinkling system will contain a solution of the chemical. The chemical dilution apparatus comprises a venturi having a high pressure outlet in the line upstream of the venturi, and a low pressure water inlet in the line downstream of the venturi so that a selected portion of the water in the feed line may be circulated around the venturi through a container having chemical therein. In one embodiment of the invention the container has an open top portion having a peripheral thread for screwed attachment. In an alternative embodiment the container comprises a pail which is attached to a housing around the venturi with a hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Michael W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6443369
    Abstract: A forage preservative applicator system for efficiently and accurately providing forage preservatives to forage during harvesting. The forage preservative applicator system includes a support base, a reservoir positionable upon the support base for storing a volume of biological solution, a valve fluidly connected to the reservoir, a pump fluidly connected to the valve, and a dispensing tube fluidly connected to the pump for dispensing the biological solution into the forage being harvested. A flush container is preferably attached to the reservoir and fluidly connected to the valve for allowing flushing of the dispensing tube. At least one ice pack is preferably utilized within the reservoir for maintaining the temperature of a biological solution at the desired temperature for extending the useful life of the biological solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Roger W. Dohrmann, Dan R. Dohrmann
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020092926
    Abstract: A lawn chemical application system is disclosed. The system comprises a dispenser having a lower chamber, an upper chamber, an upstream opening, and a downstream opening. The dispenser may be formed by a tee connector and a cylinder secured to an upper opening of the tee connector. Powered valves are operably connected to the upstream and downstream openings of the dispenser. The powered valves may be wired to open and close simultaneously. A lower portion of the upper chamber may be disposed below an upper portion of the lower chamber and above a lower portion of the lower chamber, leaving the lower portion of the lower chamber unobstructed over substantially its entire length. The lower portion of the upper chamber may have a plurality of openings to provide for adequate mixing of water with the chemicals stored in the upper chamber. In operation, soluble matter or other chemicals are placed in the upper chamber of the dispenser, and the two valves are opened simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Brian Thornton
  • Patent number: 6419166
    Abstract: A dispenser for introducing additive into a liquid stream comprises a housing unit having a flow-through passage forming a pathway for the liquid stream. A seating on the housing is provided for receiving a receptacle. The seating includes a reservoir for holding the additive. A conduit extends between the seating and the flow-through passage through which the additive can flow. A valve is also provided for selectively controlling the flow of the additive in the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventors: Stan F. Brzezinski, Elizabeth Brzezinski
  • Publication number: 20020070293
    Abstract: This invention is a shower filtration skin care device. Its main shell is composed of upper and lower portions that lock together to form a single piece. This locked piece is constructed so as to join the threaded tube at the bottom of an existing hand-held spray nozzle and the threaded orifice at the top of the nozzle hose, forming a suitable space within the main shell to contain the filter body or filter seat with a built-in filter body. In addition, this space may also contain a secondary shell holding a skin care product. When the above elements are so assembled, the quality of water exiting the hand-held spray nozzle will be improved. Furthermore, when the hand-held spray nozzle is used to wash one's body, one's skin will simultaneously receive the therapeutic benefits of the skin care products contacting it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Shih Ti Ti
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020008161
    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: Application
    Filed: February 4, 1999
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: CRAIG S. KETCHAM, MARK MACLEAN-BLEVINS
  • Patent number: 6264119
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for generating a small, maneuverable stream of filtered fluid without benefit of a pump or electrical power are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a spray nozzle apparatus for dispensing a maneuverable stream of fluid, that originates from a fluid source at a first pressure includes an adapter assembly, a nozzle subassembly, and a flexible tubing. The adapter assembly is mechanically coupled to the fluid source, and is arranged to allow the fluid to flow from the fluid source through the adapter assembly. The nozzle subassembly dispenses the fluid at a second pressure, and includes a fluid intake end and a fluid dispensing end. The fluid dispensing end allows the fluid to flow therethrough in a small, stream-like configuration at the second pressure, and is in fluid communication with the adapter assembly. The flexible tubing allows the fluid to flow through, and is coupled to the fluid intake end of the nozzle subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Technology Corporation
    Inventor: David Truong
  • Patent number: 6230987
    Abstract: An applicator for allowing a predetermined flow of a fluid for dissolving and distributing soluble substances comprises of a cap and a hollow cylindrical housing. The hollow cylindrical housing comprises of an enlarged chamber having a narrowed inlet port at its lower end. The narrowed inlet port has external threads connecting to a Tee pipe fitting of a pipeline of a fluid system and has a cylindrical flow channel extending to the enlarged chamber. The cylindrical flow channel has six equal V flow passages which are constructed by six vertical dividing walls locating at equal spaces around the wall of the cylindrical flow channel and extending inward to the axis of the cylindrical flow channel. The six equal V flow passages have six equal vertical openings which are constructed by the vertical dividing walls and disposed outside the cylindrical flow channel of the narrowed inlet port at a predetermined length. The six equal vertical openings comprises of three vertical inlets and three vertical outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Hai Quang Truong
  • Patent number: 6161779
    Abstract: An apparatus for dissolving and dispensing liquid dissolvable material includes a container having a mixing chamber defined therein. The apparatus also includes a body removably secured to an upper portion of the container. The body has a fluid inlet, a first fluid outlet, a second fluid outlet, and a central passage defined therein. The central passage is in fluid communication with each of the fluid inlet, the first fluid outlet, and the second fluid outlet. The central passage is also in fluid communication with the mixing chamber such that each of the fluid inlet, the first fluid outlet, and the second fluid outlet is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber. Moreover, the apparatus includes a cap secured to the first fluid outlet of the body so as to prevent fluid from advancing through the first fluid outlet. Yet further, the apparatus includes a sprinkler assembly secured to the second fluid outlet of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Gilmour, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Oyler, Douglas J. Burnworth
  • Patent number: 6142383
    Abstract: Waterless large scale dispersion method for essential oils which includes containing the liquid essential oil in a reservoir, simultaneously heating and blowing a gas over a surface of liquid essential oil in the reservoir to convert the oil to vapor, controlling the flow of gas by bypassing a portion of the gas around the reservoir, and distributing the vapor via one or more nozzles into a very large scale space. A constant speed regenerative blower is used to heat and blow air through the reservoir. A simple bypass valve controls the air flow through the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Hinsilblon Laboratories
    Inventor: Timothy W. Planker
  • Patent number: 6138926
    Abstract: A detersive foam producer and expeller pneumatic machine characterized by a main conduit formed by two sections coupled to both mouths of a flow regulator valve, each having a corresponding smaller shunt, of which the front section shunt connects up a pneumatic pressure regulator and the shunt corresponding to the rear section is connected to a diaphragm pneumatic pump by its outlet mouth, the pump being in connection with a suction hose coming from a container of detersive solution, and the final end of main conduit connected to the ejection hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Marsio Juan Russo