To Porous Distributor Exposed To Atmosphere Patents (Class 239/43)
  • Patent number: 6779740
    Abstract: A product dispenser and carrier (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610) for attachment to a surface such as a dryer fin includes a plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511) and a product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521). The plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511) attaches to the surface and the product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521) releasably attaches to the plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511). Product (31, 131, 431, 531) is operatively connected to the product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Steven E. Lentsch, Gregory G. Griese, Stephan M. Hubig, John E. Thomas, Terry J. Klos, Brian A. Chute, Kathryn A. Netschke, Jamie W. Lerbs
  • Publication number: 20040159718
    Abstract: A product dispenser and carrier (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510) for attachment to a surface such as a dryer fin includes a plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511) and a product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521). The plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511) attaches to the surface and the product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521) releasably attaches to the plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511). Product (31, 131, 431, 531) is operatively connected to the product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory G. Griese, Stephan M. Hubig, Terry J. Klos
  • Publication number: 20040159717
    Abstract: A product dispenser and carrier (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510) for attachment to a surface such as a dryer fin includes a plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511) and a product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521). The plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511) attaches to the surface and the product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521) releasably attaches to the plate member (11, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511). Product (31, 131, 431, 531) is operatively connected to the product carrier (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory G. Griese, John E. Thomas, Brian A. Chute, Stephan M. Hubig, Terry J. Klos, Jamie W. Lerbs, Trevor J. Wihelmson, Scott T. Russell
  • Publication number: 20040135000
    Abstract: The invention relates to improvements in or relating to containers and in particular to an air freshening or purifying device utilising a gel fragrance or other composition suitable for use in a vehicle. The air freshening or purifying device comprising a gel holder having at least one recess for receiving a gel, wherein a plurality of prongs project from a base of the recess, said prongs being inclined in at least two different directions to an axis perpendicular to the recess base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Bruno Buthier
  • Publication number: 20040089731
    Abstract: A product dispenser (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 720, 730, 740, 750, 760, 780, 800, 810, 820, 830, 840, 850, and 860) for attachment to a surface such as an inner surface of a dryer releasably attaches a product (31, 131, 431, 531, 713, 733, 743, 753, 763, 787, 804, 815, 825, 834, 844, 854, 862) to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory G. Griese, Eric R. Balz, Steven E. Lentsch, Stephan M. Hubig, John E. Thomas, Terry J. Klos, Ronald B. Howes
  • Patent number: 6712286
    Abstract: A system for dispersing a scent and marking a trail useful in hunting and other outdoor endeavors is provided, the system providing for easily positioning a self-fastening scent dispenser and marker to a preselected structure as well as the person and apparel of a user. The apparatus includes a camouflage cover so that the apparatus can easily be concealed when in use. A reflector can also be included, however, so that the apparatus can be located in the dark using a generated light beam, while also protecting the user by identifying the user to other hunters in the area. Methods are also provided to permit a hunter or hiker to readily attach the self-fastening scent dispenser and trail marker as the user moves along a trail during a hunt, hike, or other outdoor excursion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventors: Doug Baxter, Frank Sloan
  • Patent number: 6708897
    Abstract: A unit (1) for the transfer and distribution of the liquid (27) using capillary action has an elongated shaft (2) and a screen (3). The shaft (2) includes a first capillary medium (4) suitable for drawing the liquid (27) from a reservoir (26) into the shaft (2) when a bottom portion (20) of the shaft (2) is disposed in the liquid. The screen (3) is connected to the shaft (2) and includes a second capillary medium (5) suitable for receiving the liquid (27) drawn by the first capillary medium (4) and distributing it over at least a major part of the screen (3) where it evaporates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Givaudan SA.
    Inventors: Gerald Leslie Hart, Guy Edward Naish, Kishen Gohil
  • Patent number: 6698665
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fragrance emitting apparatus comprising: a container body containing an aqueous solution of a perfume composition; a sucking wick held at an opening part of a top of the container body and for sucking the aqueous solution; and a vaporizing part disposed on a top of the sucking wick and for volatizing the aqueous solution sucked through the sucking wick, wherein a part or all of the vaporizing part is covered with an artificial flower that is made of a fabric, a plastic or a combination thereof and that has an apparent volume of 200 to 1500 cm3. The apparatus is excellent in volatizing capability of perfume composition and usability and has also high interior decorating performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Dainihon Jochugiku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Minamite, Chie Nakano
  • Patent number: 6610254
    Abstract: Dual functional dispensers, wherein the dispensers comprise dispensing units independently capable of dispensing an actively dispersed spray or an evaporative long term dispersible material, comprise active dispensers in combination with passive dispensers of volatile materials. The passive dispenser may comprise the external shell of said dual function dispenser, and may be fashioned of a porous ceramic, plastic, or paper material impregnated with an evaporative passively dispersible material selected from the group consisting of fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor eliminators, malodor counteractants, insecticides, insect repellants, medicinal substances, disinfectants, sanitizers, mood enhancers, and aroma therapy compositions. The actively dispersed material may be the same or different. Refill units for such dispensers may comprise a spray can and associated control means, and an evaporative dispenser of dispersible material, provided either separately or as an integral unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Heidi J. Uick, John P. Connelly
  • Patent number: 6569387
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are dispensers for dual functional use, wherein the dispensers are independently capable of dispensing a spray or an evaporative long term dispersible material. Also disclosed are refill units for such dispensers, which refill units comprise a spray can and associated control means, and an evaporative dispenser which may be activated by removal of a covering membrane which is impermeable to a volatile dispersible material. The spray and the evaporative volatile dispersible may or may not be the same material, permitting the consumer greater flexibility and choice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Heidi J. Uick
  • Publication number: 20030094504
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a refill for a liquid air freshener or insecticidal device. The refill comprises a cartridge containing a volatile liquid composition to be evaporated and a porous pad positioned, in use, beneath a lower face of the cartridge to receive the liquid composition as it is slowly released from the cartridge. The porous pad is a part of a sheet of material which is folded to at least partially surround the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Shaun Patrick Rymer, Clare Louise Robinson, Andrew Robert McLeish
  • Publication number: 20030094506
    Abstract: A refill for a liquid air freshener or insecticidal device comprising a cartridge containing a volatile liquid composition to be evaporated and a porous pad positioned, in use, beneath a lower face of the cartridge to receive the liquid composition as it is slowly released from the cartridge; wherein the porous pad is a part of a sheet of material which is folded to at least partially surround the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Shaun Patrick Rymer, Clare Louise Robinson, Andrew Robert McLeish
  • Publication number: 20030047618
    Abstract: Aromatic liquids substances such as deodorizers, room freshener compositions, perfumes, fragrances and the like are dispensed in vapor phase from a container holding the substance in liquid phase. In the best mode, the container is in conical form, having a controlled opening or openings through which the liquid volatile substance is dripped downwardly onto a conical substrate, from which it is dispensed in vapor phase into the atmosphere. The dispenser is configured such that it may stand, as on a counter or any flat surface, or may be hung, as in a closet, in an automobile, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Simon L. Dobyns
  • Patent number: 6513725
    Abstract: A dispenser for a volatile liquid is intended to be used in a vehicle. It comprises a substantially closed conical container (2) for the liquid, and a pair of plates (14, 28) closing the top of the container form between them a capillary interface (88) leading to a disseminating porous element (42). While the vehicle is in movement, liquid is thrown upwards and outwards by accelerations of the vehicle to the plates and so to drawn through the capillary passages at the interface to reach the porous element. The container is pivoted at its lower region to be tiltable through a similar angle to tilt of the liquid surface, so that all the liquid can reach the plates and so be dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Brian Slade
  • Patent number: 6474564
    Abstract: A targeting, small wildland fire extinguisher dropping system comprising: a droppable extinguisher package, adapted for filling and handling, for containing fire suppressant solution, and bursting when it hits a target on the ground full of said fire suppressant solution and dropped from a height; a quantity of fire suppressant solution inside said droppable extinguisher package; and a package dispenser, adapted for suspending, for holding said droppable extinguisher package and dropping said droppable extinguisher package upon command. A stirrer adapted to be inserted into said droppable extinguisher package for stirring said fire suppressant solution may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventors: Irving Doshay, Max N. Alper
  • Publication number: 20020109013
    Abstract: An aroma dispenser designed to be worn or carried on the person is described, as is a procedure for using it. The dispenser is unique in that it vents scent to the atmosphere only when activated by the wearer—typically with only one hand—and is constructed to make resealing the vents extremely convenient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Jhon Desrosiers
  • Patent number: 6419163
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for releasing a volatile substance. The device includes a housing having an interior region, a volatile substance contained within the interior region, and the ability to controllably release the volatile substance from the housing. Such controllable release can be accomplished by the housing being substantially permeable to ambient air, yet substantially impermeable to the volatile substance contained within the interior region of the housing. Additionally, the invention contemplates the use of one or more porous plugs for diffusing the volatile substance therethrough and eventually into atmosphere in a vapor form. To assist such diffusion, the invention likewise contemplates the use of an electrochemical gas generating cell, a heating element and/or other features which allow air to controllably enter into the interior region of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Ceramatech, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashok V. Joshi, Truman Christian Wold, II, John Joseph McEvoy
  • Patent number: 6358577
    Abstract: A multilayer structure with improved permeation for atmospheric diffusion of aromatic products wherein the structure comprises: a permeable membrane wherein said permeable membrane comprises at least two polymeric layers wherein the polymer of each layer is independently selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, very low density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, ethylene methylacrylate copolymer; a release layer wherein said release layer comprises a nylon polymer or a ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer wherein the release layer is adhered to most inner polymeric layer of the permeable member which comprises the permeable membrane and wherein the adhesion between release layer and the adjacent layer of the polymeric permeable membrane is a relatively weak bond compared to the bond between the layers of the polymeric permeable membrane; and an impermeable membrane wherein said impermeable membrane comprises one or more layers wherein the materials which comprise the individual layers of the imper
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Pechiney Emballage Flexible Europe
    Inventors: William E. Bowen, Lee J. Murray, Patricia M. McCarry
  • Patent number: 6202938
    Abstract: Scent emitting blind operating apparatus including a hollow rod, defining an inner chamber, with a closed end and an open end, with the inner chamber of the rod being designed to receive and hold scented material. A blind engaging plug is removably positioned in the open end of the hollow rod for operative engagement with a blind so as to position the inner chamber generally vertically with the closed end directed downwardly. A sleeve of absorbent material is frictionally engaged over the closed end of the hollow rod and an opening is formed through the hollow rod and positioned to communicate the inner chamber with the absorbent material for directing scented material from the inner chamber into the absorbent material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Michael A. Collier
  • Patent number: 6149069
    Abstract: A humidifier bottle assembly and a method for operating a humidifier are presented. The humidifier bottle assembly includes a humidifier bottle adapted to hold water and a humidifier bottle receptacle adapted to receive the humidifier bottle. The receptacle includes a pivot point about which the bottle pivots and a biasing member adapted to situate the bottle in a given angular position in response to the amount of water contained in the bottle. In particular embodiments, the biasing member causes the bottle to assume the given angular position within the receptacle when the bottle is empty, and further, the biasing member is adapted such that the bottle pivots from the given angular position within the receptacle when the bottle contains water. The amount of angular displacement of the bottle from the given angular position is a function of the amount of water present within the bottle, and thus, may be used to communicate the amount of water contained in the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Terrence L. Stanek, Mark J. Tomasiak
  • Patent number: 6109539
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for releasing a volatile substance. The device includes a housing having an interior region, a volatile substance contained within the interior region, and the ability to controllably release the volatile substance from the housing. Such controllable release can be accomplished by the housing being substantially permeable to ambient air, yet substantially impermeable to the volatile substance contained within the interior region of the housing. Additionally, the invention contemplates the use of one or more porous plugs for diffusing the volatile substance therethrough and eventually into atmosphere in a vapor form. To assist such diffusion, the invention likewise contemplates the use of an electrochemical gas generating cell, a heating element and/or other features which allow air to controllably enter into the interior region of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Ceramatec, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashok V. Joshi, Truman Christian Wold, II, John Joseph McEvoy
  • Patent number: 6024295
    Abstract: The invention is a method ofmaking a fire retardant and a fire retardant including seeds for replanting a fire area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Inventors: John P. Sanchez, Jon DeLarentis
  • Patent number: 5839221
    Abstract: An insecticidal device is provided which has a panel of a color having insect attracting properties, preferably yellow, and a spherical body of another color, preferably red. The spherical body is capable of defusing a liquid which contains an insect attractant and is combined with the panel in a manner that they form together an essentially flat panel having hemispherical bulges formed by the spherical body. A specific panel, which can be used as a panel in the above device and can be used as an independent insecticidal device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Ronpal Ltd.
    Inventors: Eyal Ron, Neriel Paglin, Yaron Reshef, Uri Alon
  • Patent number: 5810253
    Abstract: A device for the controlled dispensation and unattended evaporation of volatile liquids includes a housing that accommodates a reservoir charged with a volatile liquid. The reservoir has an outlet for releasing the volatile liquid from a lower end of the reservoir. A valve mounted on the reservoir controls the flow of the volatile liquid through the reservoir outlet. The valve allows a controlled quantity of the volatile liquid, in the form of discrete droplets, to be gravitationally delivered, on demand, to an absorbent matrix. A matrix housing supports the matrix below the reservoir outlet. The absorbent matrix absorbs volatile liquid that the outlet delivers and dispenses the volatile liquid as a vapor to an external environment. The absorbent matrix dispenses the vapor via a ventilator that may be either releasably or integrally mounted to either the matrix housing or the housing that accommodates the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Nissim Ohayon
  • Patent number: 5804264
    Abstract: A multilayer permeable membrane with a release layer for the packaging of aromatic condensation products. The permeable membrane has a first layer comprising low density polyethylene, a second layer comprising ultra low density polyethylene and a third layer comprising low density polyethylene. The release layer is adhered to the first layer and may be peeled away from the permeable membrane to expose the membrane and provide for the controlled release of vapors over a period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: American National Can Company
    Inventor: William Edmund Bowen
  • Patent number: 5755381
    Abstract: An aroma emission device for emitting aroma from an aromatic liquid such as a perfume and eau de Cologne for a certain period of time at a uniform level of aroma without using gas, heat, electricity or any other energy source. The vessel of the device is constructed of an upper compartment and a lower compartment with a partitioning plate therebetween. The upper and lower compartments have respective top and bottom cover portions through which respective air tubes are allowed to pass. Each air tube is open to the outside while its inner open end open deep inside each compartment. A perforation is provided in the partitioning plate to allow the upper compartment to communicate with the lower compartment. By simply alternating the vessel upside down and up, vaporized aromatic liquid is given off and spread out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Seiichi Yazaki
  • Patent number: 5746019
    Abstract: An improved scenting system having a frangible vial containing scented liquid disposed within a flexible, moisture-proof sheath member and a wick member having a first end disposed adjacent to the frangible vial and a second end extending from the sheath member, wherein the frangible vial may be broken and the scented liquid released for evaporation by the wick member without the hunter coming into contact with the scented liquid and wherein the scented liquid does not experience unwanted evaporation prior to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Synergy Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Fisher
  • Patent number: 5653920
    Abstract: The humidification device includes a tube formed of gas permeable material connected to a water source by a tube formed of material that is substantially impermeable to water. The gas permeable tube permits water to evaporate through the tube wall and is thus an evaporation tube. The evaporation tube is disposed in a chamber that is to be humidified. As water evaporates from the evaporation tube, the humidity in the chamber builds up to a maximum level. At the maximum humidity level evaporation of water from the evaporation tube ceases. When the humidity level in the chamber drops below the maximum level, evaporation of water from the evaporation tube resumes to restore the humidity in the chamber to its maximum level. Water flow from the water source replaces evaporated water from the evaporation tube. The humidification device is thus self-regulating and does not require any water flow regulating devices. One or more water flow tubes can be connected to the evaporation tube from a water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Bayer Corporation
    Inventor: Nicholas F. DiDomenico
  • Patent number: 5609296
    Abstract: There is provided a water feed device for humidification, comprising: an outflow reservoir that is disposed above a humidifier for feeding water into the humidifier by way of a permeation and that is provided with an overflow dam for maintaining a level of the water in the outflow reservoir substantially constant; an inflow reservoir that is disposed upwards of the outflow reservoir and that is provided with a flow inlet; a partition plate that is disposed between the inflow reservoir and the outflow reservoir; and a plurality of drip feed members which are provided in the partition plate for allowing the water in the inflow reservoir to drop by gravity in a form of droplets into the outflow reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Komatsu, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihide Imamura, Kanichi Kadotani, Bunji Hayakashi, Hisaakira Imaizumi, Tetsuo Shakushi, Toshihiko Matsumoto, Genichiro Watanabe
  • Patent number: 5542605
    Abstract: An automatic liquid dispensing apparatus including a container for holding a dispensable liquid, a flow regulator which permits liquid to flow out of the container at a controlled rate which is independent of the quantity of liquid within the container, and a timing and dispensing assembly. The timing and dispensing assembly accumulates a quantity of the liquid from the flow regulator, and periodically dispenses a constant volume of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Flow-Rite Controls, Ltd.
    Inventor: Daniel N. Campau
  • Patent number: 5299376
    Abstract: A buck lure dispensing device for dispensing a fluid animal scent is disclosed which includes a housing, a reservoir within the housing for containing the animal scent, a valve assembly for controlling flow of the animal scent out of the reservoir, and a timer. The device further includes a tubular member extending from the bottom of the reservoir and an absorbent wick mounted at the bottom of the tube. The device allows gradual and controlled emission of animal scent into the surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: Benton A. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5263274
    Abstract: A game luring scent diffusing device includes a supply container and a collection container suspended from the supply container by an elongated porous wick extending between the containers. A first end of the wick extends through an opening in a cap that is threaded to the supply container. A second end of the wick extends through an opening in a cap that is threaded to the collection container. The supply container is suspended in an inverted manner so that the game luring scent flows downwardly along the wick where the scent becomes airborne by air currents. Excess amounts of the scent which flow down the wick continue to flow into the collection container where it is collected and stored for later use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Speed
  • Patent number: 5238187
    Abstract: Apparatus including a liquid vaporizer having a first wick of linear shape, a bottle for holding the liquid to be vaporized and a gravity-flow metering device having a second wick. The bottle has a closing cap to which two tubes are connected. One tube discharges the liquid from the bottle and the other extends through the cap to the opposite end of the bottle for counteracting the vacuum which is produced when liquid is discharged. The end of the discharging tube extends outwardly of the cap further than the end of the other tube so that a pool is produced in the dispenser. The level of the pool is limited by the position of the end of the tube for counteracting the vacuum. The second wick is of J-shape; one end is immersed in the pool and the other end is suspended over the first wick so that liquid absorbed at the immersed end drips from the second wick on the first wick and is evaporated and diffused from the first wick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Assignee: Surco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Milton Zlotnik, Arnold Zlotnik, John A. Austin
  • Patent number: 5219121
    Abstract: A device for dispensing any one of a wide range of volatile liquids as vapours, comprises a reservoir with an open end closed by a vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable element. A flange surrounds the opening to the reservoir and the element is bondable to the flange in a multiplicity of different locations, each of which defines a respective area of the element bounded by the bond and wettable by the volatile liquid. Thus, a single device can be used to dispense any one of a wide range of volatile materials simply by determining the surface area within the bond to be wetted by the volatile liquid to give the desired rate of vapor release for the selected volatile material and bonding the element to the flange in a location to define the determined wettable area of the element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: Reckitt & Colman Products Limited
    Inventors: Rodney T. Fox, Geoffrey R. Hammond
  • Patent number: 5203505
    Abstract: A gravity fed humidifier has a reservoir for holding a liquid to be evaporated. The reservoir has openings in the bottom of the reservoir through which the liquid passes and two side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The reservoir is suspended over an absorbent material by at least one support leg to which is attached a circular support surface for supporting the absorbent material. A drip tray is provided beneath the absorbent material and the openings for catching liquid that is not evaporated by the surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Inventor: Pil M. Yum
  • Patent number: 5172859
    Abstract: A liquid diffuser device is disclosed that includes a liquid holding container having a neck portion that extends from the bottom wall thereof. A base portion is associated with the container, such that the liquid holding container and the base portion are slidably longitudinally movable relative to one another between an uppermost position and a lowermost position. The base portion is provided for tightly sealing the discharge opening of the neck portion. In the uppermost position, the discharge opening is engaged and tightly sealed, so that the flow of liquid from the container through the neck portion is prevented. In the lowermost position, the discharge opening is not sealed, so that the flow of fluid through the discharge opening is permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Inventors: Neriel Paglin, Eyal Ron
  • Patent number: 4995555
    Abstract: An air treating device including a liquid reservoir having a mouth opening, a base supporting and surrounding a liquid absorbent material, a piercing pin extending upwardly from the base and absorbent material, a mechanism for attaching the reservoir to the base such that the pin is in direct alignment with the mouth opening, and a liquid metering control mechanism surrounding the pin and between the mouth opening and the absorbent material, whereby the device provides a rate of dispersion which is substantially even over an extended period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 4917301
    Abstract: Volatile substances such as fragrances, perfumes, deodorizers, room freshener compositions and the like are dispensed in vapor phase from a container holding the substance in liquid phase at room temperature under atmospheric pressure. The container has a window covered with a microporous membrane with an active structure formed from a material having a critical surface tension that is below the surface tension of the liquid substance. The active membrane material has a critical surface tension that is below 22 dynes/cm and preferably below 20 dynes/cm while the surface tension of the liquid is at least 22 dynes/cm. One example is an ultraviolet irradiated polymer composition with 0.2 microns nominal pore size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Assignee: International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.
    Inventor: Marina A. Munteanu
  • Patent number: 4840773
    Abstract: A liquid scent deodorant dispenser which has a structural body (20) defining a fill cavity (22) in which a threaded stem closure (24) is rotatably positioned. A fill chamber (30) is in communication with the cavity, as well as a dispensing reservoir (34) and a wick (48) lining an air chamber (38). Liquid scent deodorant is placed in the fill cavity and enters the fill chamber and reservoir where the wick is saturated, allowing accelerated evaporation into a conditioned forced airstream of an automobile or building. The dispenser is attached to a grille or register by the use of either a "U" clip (54), an "S" clip (60), or parallel brackets (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1989
    Inventor: Leonard Wade
  • Patent number: 4660763
    Abstract: A device for dispensing air-treating vapors having a frame, two relatively movable support members comprising the frame having facing, substantially parallel support surfaces and being relatively movable to adjust the spacing between the surfaces, and a flexible, generally flat dispensing pouch sandwiched between the support surfaces. The dispensing pouch, which will have a burstable inner storage container of flowable air-treating composition, will be of a size to extend beyond the outer border of grill units of the two support members with peripheral portions of the support members being in the form of reservoirs for any of the air-treating composition which may flow out of the periphery of the pouch beyond the outer border of the grill units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1987
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald R. Gutkowski, Edward J. Martens
  • Patent number: 4632310
    Abstract: This relates to an air freshener which is intended to be mounted on a swinging member, such as a door. The air freshener includes an upper reservoir and a lower liquid perfume distributor or generator pad. The reservoir will carry a dispensing valve, preferably in the bottom wall thereof. The dispensing valve includes an over center valve member which will tilt from one position to another when the air freshener is moved. When actuated, the valve member will swing from one tilted orifice closing position to a momentary on center dispensing position and then to its other off-center tilted position closing the valve orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1986
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventor: Tim R. Konicek
  • Patent number: 4615486
    Abstract: This relates to an air freshener which is intended to be mounted on a swinging member, such as a door. The air freshener includes an upper reservoir and a lower liquid perfume distributor or generator pad. The reservoir will carry a dispensing valve, preferably in the bottom wall thereof. The dispensing valve includes an over center valve member which will tilt from one position to another when the air freshener is moved. When actuated, the valve member will swing from one tilted orifice closing position to a momentary on center dispensing position and then to its other off-center tilted position closing the valve orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1986
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventor: Tim R. Konicek
  • Patent number: 4537351
    Abstract: A simplified vaporizing dispenser features snap attachment of a base cap to an inverted container, positive "ON" and "OFF" adjustments for the respective activation and deactivation of the dispenser, the use of an absorbent sheet shaped in the form of the frustum of a cone with the narrow end inserted in an annular well for isolating the wetting area of the absorbent material from the vaporizing area and thereby enabling waving of the dispenser about in the air without spilling liquid, and an outer decorative sleeve that enables adjustment in the emitted vapor level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1985
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventor: Daniel C. Wilson
  • Patent number: 4526320
    Abstract: Evaporator device for insecticides, perfumes and/or other volatile substances, having a housing containing ports, which has at least one receiving section in which a container for the active substances is inserted, and at least one opener associated with the container, while relative movement between the container and the opener can be performed for the opening of the container, and also, if desired, an element absorbing the active substances emerging from the container, an opening being provided in the casing (1,2) in the area of each receiving section (7), through which at least a portion of the wall (8) of the container (4) inserted in the receiving section (7) is exposed to the exterior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Assignee: Globol-Werk GmbH
    Inventors: Fritz von Philipp, Georg Schimanski
  • Patent number: 4477414
    Abstract: An apparatus for evaporating a solution in constant proportions of the ingredients, including:(a) a solution container having a neck that extends upward from the center;(b) an impregnation member to be impregnated with the solution which is made of a water-absorbing material;(c) an impregnation member support;(d) a cylindrical tubular member that is fitted over a cylindrical tube that projects upward from the center of said support to thereby define an enclosed space;(e) a feed pipe inserted through the hole made in the center of said support, the lower part of said pipe being immersed in the solution in the container and the upper part thereof being within said cylindrical tubular member; and(f) a hole or slit made in the container and the impregnation support member so as to provide a passage that communicates the atmosphere with the space formed in the container by mounting the impregnation member support on the container,the impregnation member support being in the form of a supporting plate from the cent
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: Fumakilla Limited
    Inventors: Takayoshi Muramoto, Shingi Nishino, Toshiyuki Sasaki, Takanori Sasaki
  • Patent number: 4347197
    Abstract: A water distributor is disposed above an air-liquid contact pad, and is supplied with water from a supply line. The water is received within an elongated enclosed chamber having at least one elongated corner in its lower portion. A floor portion of the chamber is formed of an imperferate slightly flexible wall disposed generally tangential to the corner. A screen is disposed on the inner surface of the floor portion and is manually adjusted to engage with the said corner in a line contact relationship to form a water flow restriction or gap. The chamber above the restriction is sealed. During each cycle of operation, as water initially flows into the chamber, a miniscus forms at the gap which prevents water discharge. As the chamber fills with water, the air thereabove is trapped and pressurized and, together with the pressure of the accumulating head of water, gradually increases the pressure on the miniscus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1982
    Assignee: Research Products Corporation
    Inventor: Randolph B. Cox
  • Patent number: 4339079
    Abstract: A device for producing a pleasant or fragrant scent in a room or automobile, for example. The device includes a housing that encloses a container of a fragrant liquid. At least part of the container is made of a substantially transparent material that can also be pierced by a needle or sharp pin. The container includes a reservoir part that is visible through an opening formed in the housing, so that a user may check the amount of liquid remaining in the container. The container further includes a chamber part that may be pierced so that the liquid seeps from it, and a pad or layer of material absorbs the seepage. An adjustable window formed on the housing controls the amount of the liquid that evaporates from the absorbent layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1982
    Inventors: Osamu Sato, Masahiro Shibagaki
  • Patent number: 4315599
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically watering vegetation whereby the water requirement of vegetation is constantly monitored and selectively condensing water vapor out of the atmosphere onto cooled condensation member and collecting the condensed moisture for application onto soil containing vegetation. Various accessories are provided to automatically feed the vegetation and distribute water to the soil containing the vegetation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1982
    Inventor: Robert P. Biancardi
  • Patent number: 4285160
    Abstract: A series of wick ropes are pressure fed with herbicide. They are moved along weeds to be killed at about a 35.degree. angle so that the ropes wipe along the weeds applying herbicide thereto. Each rather short section of rope is fed by a different reservoir so that if the applicator is on a slope as by a roadside, the head upon the ropes at one end is not much greater than upon the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1979
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1981
    Inventors: Joseph J. Barton, Bobby G. Boyd
  • Patent number: 4247042
    Abstract: A vaporizer for insecticides and other volatile active substances comprising a housing provided with openings and within which housing the active substances are hermetically enclosed. The vaporizer is preferably made of a plastic or other flexible material and may be carried out in various specific embodiments wherein the active substances, which may be toxic, are kept safely out of contact with humans and can be made available for their intended use in controlled and variable amounts. The active substances may be in a spherical or lenticular casing or housing and can be released from outside in a manner to be volatilized for insecticidal or other activity. There is a holder provided for absorption of the volatiles emerging from the casing after the latter is opened by a member actuable externally thereof for cutting the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1979
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1981
    Assignee: Globol-Werk GmbH
    Inventors: Georg Schimanski, Fritz von Philipp