Aspirating Discharge Nozzle Patents (Class 239/318)
  • Patent number: 6883732
    Abstract: Described herein is an apparatus for applying fluids to a surface. The apparatus includes a nozzle coupled to a pressurized gas supply source and a fluid supply source. The nozzle includes outer conduit and an inner conduit ¥positioned such that a gap is formed between the inner and outer conduits. The outer conduit is coupled to the pressurized gas supply source. The inner conduit is coupled to the fluid supply source. Gas passed through the gap between the inner and outer conduits pulls fluid from the fluid supply source and into the gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Need Brain Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kaga Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 6859955
    Abstract: A device for attachment to an existing shower water supply to provide a primary shower head for normal delivery of water during a shower and a secondary shower head for delivering an adjustable mixture of water and moisturizing lotion to the body of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas E. Hudson
  • Patent number: 6837447
    Abstract: An apparatus for adapting a blower system to the dispersing of liquid material is partially housed within an extension tube of a portable blower and includes a pressurizing tub with an inlet for accepting airflow discharged by the blower. The pressurizing tube discharges into a liquid container thus increasing pressure within the container. An extraction tube exits the container and meets a Venturi tube that also accepts airflow discharge by the blower. A vacuum is created in the extraction tube through first and second apertures that allow fluid communication between the Venturi tube and the extraction tube. The vacuum created in the extraction tube extracts liquid from the liquid container and the liquid is drawn out of the extraction tube through the Venturi hole into the Venturi tube mixing with air flowing there through and discharging into airflow by-passing the spray adapter apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Lacey Booth Clark
  • Publication number: 20040222316
    Abstract: An entraining device in the nature of a paint gun receives pressurized air, which entrains a hair treatment formulation into the stream of pressurized air. This mixture is fed to an applicator such as a brush. Once the mixture is fed onto the bristles of the brush, an operator can apply it to color, highlight, or tint hair. The hair treatment formulation may be supplied by a storage chamber which is part of or connected to the entraining device. The system could also be used for applying various treatments to the skin or to other mammals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventor: Steve Scholz
  • Patent number: 6805307
    Abstract: The invention includes a spraying device (10) for producing a precise degree of liquid droplet generation on a repeatable basis by combining a specified rate of regulated flow of liquid material with a regulated flow of high-pressure air. The spraying device (10) includes an electric or engine driven direct drive compressor (12.) Coupled to the compressor (12) is an air storage tank (14) providing air pulsation reduction to the regulated air and serves as a reservoir for excess airflow generation. A Venturi nozzle (18) is connected to the compressor (12.) A liquid supply tube (24) uses a fixed or variable restriction to regulate the liquid flow to the nozzle (18.) The vacuum in the liquid supply line (24) draws this liquid flow and mixes the liquid externally with the regulated air in exacting proportions forming specified liquid droplet sizes. The device (10) uses air and liquid regulation combined with a Venturi nozzle (18) and is able to generate extremely consistent liquid droplet sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: RD, Incv
    Inventors: Bruce Dorendorf, Verlyn Ripley
  • Patent number: 6796514
    Abstract: A material supply assembly for use with a spraying device, which material supply assembly includes a housing of stiff material comprising a side wall having a top end defining an opening into a recess defined by the housing; and a pre-filled container comprising a stiff annular lip adapted to be positioned along the top end of the side wall, and a flexible portion fixed to the annular lip and adapted to extend into the cavity in the housing when the annular lip is positioned along the top end of the side wall. The flexible portion has an inner surface defining a cavity, and a quantity of material is within the cavity in the flexible portion. A polymeric membrane extends across and is sealed to the annular lip to retain the material in the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Thomas W. Schwartz
  • Patent number: 6772966
    Abstract: An adjustable nozzle is attachable to the end of a garden hose and is also attachable to a separate product container, for example, a bottle containing a garden fertilizer or a bottle containing a cleaning soap concentrate. The adjustable nozzle receives a flow of water from the garden hose and dispenses a product from the container attached to the nozzle. The nozzle has a simplified construction with a reduced number of component parts and the operation of the nozzle is simplified yet enables a user to selectively discharge a flow of water or a mixture of water and product from the nozzle, to control the ratio of water to product when the nozzle is employed in dispensing the mixture of water and product, and to direct the discharge as a stream or disperse the discharge in an upwardly or downwardly directed fanned spray pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Continental AFA Dispensing Company
    Inventors: Donald D. Foster, Philip L. Nelson, Jeffrey P. Stark
  • Publication number: 20040140372
    Abstract: A sprayer head assembly comprises a chemical passage, a carrier fluid passage, and a housing that has an outer surface and an inner surface, which defines a valve chamber configured to be in communication with the chemical and carrier fluid passages. A valve is moveably positioned within the valve chamber between at least a first position, a second position and a third position. The valve defines a first passage, a second passage and a chemical inlet passage that is in communication with the second passage. The valve is configured such that, in the first position, the valve blocks the chemical and carrier fluid passages, in the second position, the first passage is configured to be in communication with the carrier fluid passage while the valve blocks the chemical fluid passage, and in the third position, the second passage is configured to be in communication with the carrier fluid passage and the chemical inlet passage is configured to be in communication with the chemical passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Ronald F. Englhard, Donald J. Shanklin
  • Publication number: 20040124253
    Abstract: An irrigation system provides fertilization by distributing a chemical additive onto a soil such as a golf course. The irrigation commences with a flowline carrying water, and a pump pumps a chemical additive directly into the flowline. The chemical additive mixes with the water, and the mixture ultimately reaches a sprinkler head where it is sprayed onto the soil for treatment. A reservoir, pump, motor, and control system are enclosed within a housing. The reservoir holds an additive and is connected to the pump, allowing the additive to flow from the reservoir to the pump. The motor operates the pump, which pumps the additive into the flowline. At least one sensor monitors at least one characteristic of the additive. The feedback control system reads the feedback data from the sensors, controlling the flow rate of the additive through the pump into the flowline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory A. Bergwin, Corby A. Davis
  • Patent number: 6752297
    Abstract: A container to be used with a spraying apparatus which aspirates a second liquid into a first liquid transported by a hose, or with a spraying apparatus which aspirates a liquid into a gas stream such as air. The container includes a downwardly sloped bottom surface to a low point which may include an attached well. A suction tube is used to aspirate the second liquid or liquid from the container. The distal end of the suction tube is located near the low point of the bottom surface to remove most of the liquid from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth William Ische
  • Patent number: 6749131
    Abstract: Spray apparatus comprising a spray carrier or liquid reservoir (1), a loop circuit, a first pump (2) for feeding spray liquid from the liquid reservoir (1) to the loop circuit (A, B, C, D), a spray chemical reservoir (5), chemical injection means for injecting spray chemical from the spray chemical reservoir (5) into the loop circuit (A, B, C, D), a spray nozzle (6), a valve (20) selectively connecting the spray nozzle (6) to the loop circuit (A, B, C, D), and a second pump (4) in the loop circuit (A, B, C, D) for continuously circulating spray liquid and spray chemical in the loop circuit (A, B, C, D).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Brian George Knight
  • Patent number: 6749133
    Abstract: A substance delivery apparatus, such as a spraying apparatus, that includes an adjustment element for regulating the flow of at least one substance between at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The adjustment element is displaceable between a first position, corresponding to a first delivery condition of the at least one substance, and a second position, corresponding to a second delivery condition of the at least one substance, and the adjustment element comprises at least one sealing element for facilitating airtight fluid communication in association with at least one of the first and second delivery conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Green Garden Products Company
    Inventors: Craig S. Ketcham, Mark MacLean-Blevins
  • Patent number: 6725940
    Abstract: A system for supplying a pre-determined ratio of liquid foam concentrate and water to a mixing device immediately upstream from a fire fighting nozzle. The system is electronically balanced by measuring pressure from a plurality of pressure signal sensors and transmitting said pressure signals to a controller unit. A foam additive pump is powered by a fixed displacement piston motor which in turn is electronically modulated independently of the level of operation of the water pump by a control system that is responsive both to the water pressure developed by the water pump and to the foam liquid concentrate pressure developed by the additive pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Pierce Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew P. Klein, Thomas A. High, Kenneth A. Bolen, Jr., Brian D. Piller, Clarence A. Grady
  • Patent number: 6726123
    Abstract: Operating/controlling structure of detergent-mixable sprinkling gun, including a gun body, a sprinkling head, a connecting body connected between the gun body and the sprinkling head, a valve seat, an operating/controlling member, a locking bolt and a detergent barrel. The water flows into the gun body and then flows out from the sprinkling head. The connecting body has a seat body formed with a seat tube and a seat sink connected therewith by a stop board. A spring pin is fitted in the seat sink. The seat tube communicates with an outlet and an inlet. The outlet and inlet respectively communicate with two communicating holes. The valve seat has a circular boss. A valve shaft upward extends from the circular boss. The center of the top of the valve shaft is formed with a through hole. A semicircle of the top of the valve shaft is formed with several engaging cuts. A gate body is disposed between the valve shaft and the circular boss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Yuan Mei Corp.
    Inventor: King Yuan Wang
  • Patent number: 6722527
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fluid dispenser for dispensing landscape maintenance fluids or the like which contain products such as fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. The fluid dispenser injects the fluids directly into the mainstream of an irrigation system. The dispensing system operates by shunting a portion of the main irrigation water stream through a bypass to the dispenser containing the product to be dispensed. The water dilutes the product to be applied, and is injected back into the main irrigation stream by the back pressure of the irrigation system. When the irrigation is completed, the fluid flow in the main irrigation stream is reduced or terminated and the pressure drops. After the pressure drops, the fluid ceases to be diverted to the container, and the main irrigation stream drains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Krauss
  • Patent number: 6682002
    Abstract: An ejector is provided with an interior surface wetting device for introducing a cleaning liquid into a suction chamber of the ejector to form a thin wall of the cleaning liquid covering an interior surface of the ejector. The interior surface wetting device includes a cleaning liquid inlet opening to be fluidly connected to a source of cleaning liquid and a cleaning liquid outlet opening for introducing the cleaning liquid into a suction chamber. The wetting device may be in the form of a pipe which extends from the outside of the ejector into the suction chamber to supply a cleaning liquid to a desired portion in the suction chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Kyotani
  • Patent number: 6672520
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical sprayer that includes a sprayer head assembly and a container. The container defines a cavity for storing a chemical to be sprayed. The sprayer head assembly includes a chemical passage, a carrier fluid passage, a vent passage, a valve chamber and a valve. The chemical passage is communication with the cavity. The carrier fluid passage is in communication with a carrier fluid source. Both the carrier fluid and chemical passages are in communication with the valve chamber. The valve is moveably positioned within the valve chamber and defines at least partially a first passage and a second passage. The first passage is configured so as to be in communication with the chemical passage when the valve is in an open position. The second passage is configured so as to be in communication with the carrier fluid passage when the valve is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hayes Product, LLC.
    Inventors: Donald Shanklin, Ronald F. Englhard
  • Patent number: 6659187
    Abstract: A fire fighting fluid proportioning system and method including a fire fighting fluid conduit in fluid communication with a fire fighting fluid regulating valve and a venturi, the venturi in fluid communication with a valve source of fire fighting foam concentrate, and having a pilot valve connected directly or indirectly to the regulating valve and the concentrate source valve and adapted to adjust, directly or indirectly, the regulating valve and the source valve in response to a sensed indicia of fire fighting fluid pressure in the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Williams Fire & Hazard Control, Inc
    Inventors: Dennis W. Crabtree, Duane J. Brinkerhoff, Eric LaVergne
  • Patent number: 6637671
    Abstract: A dispenser for petroleum distillate based household products, such as furniture oil, baby oil, or the like, comprises a non-pressurized spray bottle comprising a reduced volume spray apparatus which dispenses less than about 0.8 ml per actuation, and a removal resistant neck closure which does not permit closure removal or easy opening of the container. Lower risk is also obtained by addition of a thixotropic thickener to the petroleum distillate based product, to provide a product having a viscosity of greater than 100 SUS at rest at 100° F., but which exhibits shear-thinning, so as to be capable of being dispensed as a spray or fine mist by a non-pressurized spray dispenser or pump. Still further risk lowering may be attained by the addition of an effective amount of a bittering or aversion agent so as to substantially discourage voluntary ingestion of the petroleum distillate based product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Judith E. Swanson, Timothy I. Moodycliffe, Benjamin T. White
  • 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: 6598802
    Abstract: An apparatus for creating a fine liquid mist includes a container capable of holding fluid; one of a perforated basket and a porous bag disposed in the container; a liquid supply connector connected to the container; a mixing chamber connected to the container; and at least one convergent/divergent nozzle connected to the mixing chamber. A method of forming an effervescent fine liquid mist includes mixing liquid and chemical reactant to form non-toxic, noncombustible gas bubbles; mixing the liquid and the gas bubbles to form a two-phase fluid flow; and directing the two-phase fluid flow through at least one convergent/divergent nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Joseph E. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 6595441
    Abstract: An assembly for feeding liquid to the inlet port of a gravity feed sprayer. The assembly includes (1) a mixing cup of a known type commonly used to mix paint with solvent that is of stiff polymeric material and bears indicia on its side wall indicating the levels to which a plurality of different liquids should be sequentially poured into the cup to achieve a predetermined ratio between the liquids; (2) a first adapter comprising a central portion having a through opening and a transverse portion including a peripheral part defining a groove along its inner surface adapted for sealing engagement with a top end of the mixing cup; and (3) a second adapter having a through opening, a first end portion of which second adapter is adapted to releasably engage the inlet port of a gravity feed paint sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Robert M. Petrie, Stephen C. P. Joseph, Keith C. Navis, David C. Roeker
  • Patent number: 6578776
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical sprayer that includes a chemical passage, a carrier fluid passage, a vent passage, a valve chamber and a valve. The valve is moveably positioned within the valve chamber and defines at least partially a first passage and a second passage that can be selectively placed in communication with the chemical and chemical fluid passages. The valve also includes one or more seal portions positioned on the valve so as to block [both] a vent passage, the chemical or the carrier fluid passages when said valve is in the closed position. The second passage also preferably forms at least in part an outlet of the sprayer head assembly. A suction generating surface is also preferably defined by the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Hayes Products, LLC.
    Inventors: Donald Shanklin, Ronald F. Englhard
  • Patent number: 6571989
    Abstract: A metering device for releasing water and detergent has a three-way connector, a water quantity adjustment device, a detergent quantity adjustment device, and a detergent bottle. The three-way connector has a three-way channel, a first end connected to the detergent quantity adjustment device, a second end connected to the water quantity adjustment device, and a third end connected to a water outlet hose. The water quantity adjustment device has a swivel ring and a water amount control ring engaging with the swivel ring. The detergent quantity adjustment device has a rotating ring and a detergent amount control ring engaging with the rotating ring. The detergent bottle engages with the detergent amount control ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Zhen-Yuan Jiang
  • 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: 6557785
    Abstract: The showerhead (10) includes a main housing (12) that forms the central supply inlet (16), a supply passage section (20) for the central inlet and a peripheral deflector (22). A disc (26) is applied to the main housing (12). The Venturi passages (40) are made up between housing (14) and the disc (26). A showerhead (10) is intended to deliver an aerated stream of water that has passed through and has been aerated by Venturi passages 40. The Venturi passages (40) radially extend from the supply inlet (16) toward the periphery (22) of the head (14). An air intake passage (44) communicates with the ambient exterior and also communicates with the Venturi passage between its nozzle (50) and diffuser (52). The deflector (22) is arranged to divert the aerated stream of water coming out of the individual Venturi passages in order to deliver them in substantially axial direction perpendicular to the plane (29) of the showerhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventor: Alfons Knapp
  • Patent number: 6550692
    Abstract: A self-contained finish spraying apparatus that allows a user to transport the apparatus to a job site and provides the tools to conduct finish spraying regardless of the lack of necessary components at the job site, such as water and electricity, is claimed and described herein. The apparatus includes a generator, a water tank, a dry material silo, a mixer, an air compressor, and a conventional viscous sprayer. The apparatus includes all or most of these materials within security walls so that the apparatus may be left at an exterior location at a job site without risk of damage to the machinery by vandalism or theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Mark W. Schacht
  • Patent number: 6547156
    Abstract: A heating system for use with an automatic vehicle wash system used to wash a car positioned within a wash bay. The heating system of the present invention includes a heating unit mounted directly to an overhead gantry used to wash the vehicle positioned within the wash bay. The heating unit receives the supply of water with the desired chemical agent already mixed with the water. Upon receiving the mixed supply of water, the heating unit elevates the temperature of the water to a desired temperature. The heating unit is positioned on the overhead gantry such that the heated water from the heating unit travels a short distance prior to its actual application to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation
    Inventor: Allen S. Jones
  • Patent number: 6540157
    Abstract: A nozzle for dispensing viscous fluid to avoid spraying and stringing, the nozzle including an inner tubular portion of a first cross-sectional area and an outer tubular portion of a second cross-sectional area, the inner tubular portion opening into the outer tubular portion and the outer tubular portion having an outlet, wherein fluid passes through the inner tubular portion into the outer tubular portion and subsequently out of the outer tubular portion via the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Heiner Ophardt
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6536687
    Abstract: An assembly for feeding liquid to the inlet port of a gravity feed sprayer. The assembly includes (1) a mixing cup of a known type commonly used to mix paint with solvent that is of stiff polymeric material and bears indicia on its side wall indicating the levels to which a plurality of different liquids should be sequentially poured into the cup to achieve a predetermined ratio between the liquids; (2) a first adapter comprising a central portion having a through opening and a transverse portion including a peripheral part defining a groove along its inner surface adapted for sealing engagement.with a top end of the mixing cup; and (3) a second adapter having a through opening, a first end portion of which second adapter is adapted to releasably engage the inlet port of a gravity feed paint sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Keith C. Navis, David C. Roeker
  • Publication number: 20030052193
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical sprayer that includes a sprayer head assembly and a container. The container defines a cavity for storing a chemical to be sprayed. The sprayer head assembly includes a chemical passage, a carrier fluid passage, a vent passage, a valve chamber and a valve. The chemical passage is communication with the cavity. The carrier fluid passage is in communication with a carrier fluid source. Both the carrier fluid and chemical passages are in communication with the valve chamber. The valve is moveably positioned within the valve chamber and defines at least partially a first passage and a second passage. The first passage is configured so as to be in communication with the chemical passage when the valve is in an open position. The second passage is configured so as to be in communication with the carrier fluid passage when the valve is in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Donald Shanklin, Ronald F. Englhard
  • Patent number: 6533193
    Abstract: A solution fertilizer introduction system for use with automatic lawn watering systems which include an attachment arrangement for introducing liquid fertilizers to underground lawn watering systems. The system may also be used with other chemicals such as weed killers, bug killers or the like that are available in a liquid state for application to lawns. The system includes a quick connect arrangement from the supplied material source to the watering system for removal and replacement of the same and a flow measurer for correlating the additive introduction or flow to water flow with metering and a timer for controlling the additive to produce a desired lawn. A microprocessor may be utilized for control of the additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Dan White
  • Publication number: 20030047327
    Abstract: A fire suppression apparatus including a variable aeration mixing rate nozzle and a method for generating a foam discharge at a variable aeration mixing rate nozzle. The fire suppression apparatus includes a motor driven pump for pressurizing a fluid flow and a variable aeration mixing nozzle. A mixing chamber is connected to a pump intake. A surfactant reservoir is connected to the mixing chamber via a siphon line. A variable aeration mixing rate nozzle includes a nozzle section including a venturi for increasing flow velocity. An adjustable stream flow disrupter is located within the nozzle section for increasing flow turbulence. The flow disrupter is adjustable so as to provide a variable aeration mixing rate. The amount of turbulence induced by the flow disrupter may be varied by advancing or withdrawing the flow disrupter into or out of the pressurized fluid flow. The nozzle also includes an air intake for inducing ambient air to the pressurized flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel A. Gilbert
  • Publication number: 20030038182
    Abstract: A method for sanitizing scuba diving equipment including aqua lungs, wet-suits, fins, caps and masks comprises exposing confined parts of the gear such as hoses, pressure regulators and mouthpieces to a pressurized flow of fluid using a fluid-conditioning spray gun adapted to mix a germicidal solution into a jet of water or other fluid carrier. The spray gun has a conical nozzle provided with a set of graduated, flexible, feather-edged disks or barbs that can hermetically mate with a number of scuba diving component apertures of different sizes and shapes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Peter Timmes, Daniel Timmes
  • Patent number: 6508386
    Abstract: A hydraulic cleaning unit comprising a high pressure pump (1) arranged to feed a service lance via a hose (10), the pump delivery conduit opening to the outside via a stub shaped as the male part of a usual rotatable quick connect coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Annovi Reyerberi S.p.A.
    Inventor: Maurizio Magri
  • Publication number: 20020195503
    Abstract: A system to track vehicle maintenance by removing service coupon data stored on a smart card. Identification and contract data are entered into a centralized database when a new vehicle is sold. A smart card is personalized and sent out when the database shows that a new vehicle owner has been added. The smart card is inserted into a remote terminal when the vehicle owner brings a vehicle in for service. The vehicle's current odometer reading and type of service is entered into a vehicle maintenance program. The appropriate service coupon is removed from the smart card and the current odometer reading and type of service for the vehicle is stored in the remote terminal. The remote terminal downloads the data back to the database the appropriate time. After data has been collected the system administrator can run reports and manipulate data for analysis and customer to dealer reimbursement purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Rodney F. Allen, William Daniel Norwood
  • Publication number: 20020175223
    Abstract: Switch of straight sprinkling gun, including an outer sleeve, a middle sleeve, a central tube, a detergent chamber, a main flow tube and a flow damper unit. The middle sleeve is fixedly disposed in the outer sleeve. The central tube is fitted in the middle sleeve. The outer and middle sleeves are synchronously rotatable about the central tube. The detergent chamber surrounds the main flow tube and communicates with one end of the outer sleeve. The flow damper unit includes a flow-guiding hole disposed on the detergent chamber and a communicating section disposed on the outer sleeve. The middle sleeve is formed with an outlet and a first inlet. The central tube is formed with a second inlet. A user can conveniently holds the outer sleeve to real-time adjust the water amount or conduct the detergent contained in the detergent chamber to discharge pure water or mixture of water and detergent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventor: Gordon Chih
  • Publication number: 20020170981
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable dilution cleaning system for applying any detergent and/or rinsing product directly onto surfaces being cleaned. The system connects very quickly to a faucet (145) using a quick disconnect assembly (99) and a dispensing and rinsing gun (200, 200′ or 300) sprays use solutions and rinse water directly onto the surfaces to be cleaned. The quick disconnect assembly (99) includes a quick disconnect with a back flow prevention (100) and a quick disconnect aerator (147). The quick disconnect aerator (147) connects to the faucet (145) and the quick disconnect with a back flow prevention (100) connects to the quick disconnect aerator (147). A hose (256) interconnects the quick disconnect assembly (99) and the dispensing and rinsing gun (200, 200′ or 300).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: James D. Decker, Richard J. Mehus, David L. Sordello
  • Patent number: 6471141
    Abstract: A hose sprayer assembly in accordance with the present invention includes a trigger body which is rotatably mounted within a housing. The housing is formed with an inlet orifice, an outlet aperture and an aspiration orifice, and further includes a deflector plate which is fixed to the outer surface of the housing proximate the outlet aperture. The trigger body includes a inlet port, an outlet port in fluid communication with the inlet port, and an aspiration port in fluid communication with the outlet port. Selective alignment of the trigger body places the inlet port and outlet port in fluid communication with the respective inlet orifice and outlet aperture of the housing. This yields a water only stream out the housing outlet aperture when water is forced through the assembly. Similarly, the body can be aligned to place the aspiration port in fluid communication with the aspiration orifice of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Dispensing Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Martin E. Smith, Stuart Daley, James J. Styne, Stephen R. Dennis
  • Publication number: 20020148912
    Abstract: A nozzle for dispensing viscous fluid to avoid spraying and stringing, the nozzle including an inner tubular portion of a first cross-sectional area and an outer tubular portion of a second cross-sectional area, the inner tubular portion opening into the outer tubular portion and the outer tubular portion having an outlet, wherein fluid passes through the inner tubular portion into the outer tubular portion and subsequently out of the outer tubular portion via the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Heiner Ophardt
  • Publication number: 20020139867
    Abstract: An inductor or eductor that includes two or more tanks or receptacles that have different volumetric sizes and correspondingly proportional graduate scales by which different incremental volumes of fluids, dry powders, granular materials, etc. can be accurately measured therein. The outlets of the tanks or receptacles are plumbed together so that material in each can be simultaneously evacuated out and into a fluid supply line. Use of the inductor or eductor together with one-way, dry-disconnect valves provides a closed system by which materials such as agricultural chemicals can be accurately, measured, dispensed and transferred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventors: Ron C. Bulloch, Timothy L. Miller, Todd C. Gehring
  • Publication number: 20020139543
    Abstract: A fire fighting apparatus comprising a container with two tanks therein, one holding a quantity of water and another holding a quantity of foaming agent, a pump operated by a gasoline engine, several hoses for directing a water/foam mixture at a fire and for refilling the water tank with water from a source, and a valve system for directing the water/foaming agent mixture through two different hoses at the fire while water from a source is used either directly on the fire or for replacing water taken from the tank. The apparatus is held within a container mounted on casters so that it can be conveniently wheeled about. The unit is adapted for use in areas remote from fire departments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Pamela M. Baughman
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020117558
    Abstract: An apparatus for sanitizing scuba diving equipment including aqua lungs, wet-suits, fins, caps and masks comprises a spray gun adapted to mix a germicidal solution into a jet of water or other fluid carrier. The spray gun has a conical nozzle provided with a set of graduated, flexible, feather-edged disks or barbs that can hermetically mate with a number of scuba diving component apertures of different sizes and shapes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Peter Timmes, Daniel Timmes
  • Patent number: 6421847
    Abstract: A household liquid dispensing system for dispensing a household liquid, such as soap, shampoo, dish washing detergent and bath oil through an outlet of a household water system. The liquid dispensing system comprises a household water system having an outlet, a storage unit for storing at least one liquid operatively connected to the household water system, and a control for connecting and disconnecting the storage unit to the household water system. In a first aspect of the invention the liquid is introduced into the household water system by a venturi. In a second aspect of the invention, the storage unit is positioned above an outlet of the household water system and is introduced by gravity. The control is normally biased to an “off” position. This invention can be utilized for showers, bathtubs, laundry tubs and sinks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph J. Berke, Charles T. Michael
  • Publication number: 20020079381
    Abstract: A hose sprayer assembly in accordance with the present invention includes a trigger body which is rotatably mounted within a housing. The housing is formed with an inlet orifice, an outlet aperture and an aspiration orifice, and further includes a deflector plate which is fixed to the outer surface of the housing proximate the outlet aperture. The trigger body includes a inlet port, an outlet port in fluid communication with the inlet port, and an aspiration port in fluid communication with the outlet port. Selective alignment of the trigger body places the inlet port and outlet port in fluid communication with the respective inlet orifice and outlet aperture of the housing. This yields a water only stream out the housing outlet aperture when water is forced through the assembly. Similarly, the body can be aligned to place the aspiration port in fluid communication with the aspiration orifice of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Martin E. Smith, Stuart Daley, James J. Styne, Stephen R. Dennis
  • Publication number: 20020070294
    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: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Steven Bertrand
  • Patent number: 6378785
    Abstract: An aspiration-type sprayer assembly adapted for being coupled to both the end of the hose and to a chemical container has a housing including a carrier liquid inlet passage, a chemical liquid inlet passage and a discharge passage. The cylindrical rotatable valve within the housing has a carrier liquid duct and a chemical liquid duct opening into the carrier duct for interconnecting the inlet passage in a first rotative position of the valve, and the valve is capable of closing the inlet passages in a second rotative position of the valve. The rotatable nozzle versus the discharge in selective directions, and the assembly is capable of being manipulated by the provision of a handle grip. An anti-siphon assembly is provided at the coupling between the sprayer housing and the water hose end to avoid pressure and back flow from the sprayer. And chemical/water mix can be exchanged substituting the various tube retainers having different size inlet ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Calmar Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph K. Dodd
  • Patent number: 6378789
    Abstract: A combination spray apparatus which allows for the selection of several different flowable materials to be sprayed from a single unit and at the site of the unit itself. In the preferred manner, the spray apparatus includes a trigger nozzle as well as the selection of two different materials to be sprayed through a second barrel portion. An eductor it utilized to draw selected materials into a spray stream. The combination spray apparatus is operable with water pressures which are customary to most cities and industries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson Commercial Markets, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles E. Seaman, Jr., Jeffrey Y. Chen, John A. Boticki, Carey W. Zimmerman