With Means To Adjust Casing Porosity Or Openings Patents (Class 239/58)
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Patent number: 7273184Abstract: A disposable air treatment device that can be hung on the rim of a garbage bin which comprises a hanger component adapted to secure the air treatment device to a garbage bin, and a volatile material dispenser adapted to dispense a volatile material to the interior.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Givaudan SAInventors: Colin Brown, Kishen Gohil, Guy Edward Naish
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Patent number: 7204870Abstract: A diffuser device (1) for volatile substances comprises a motor unit (2) and a refill unit (3) which can be assembled with each other. The motor unit (2) comprises a fan (6) for sucking in air comprising a body (60) and an electric motor (M1) which drives a plurality of blades (62) in rotation, electrical power supply means (4, 5) for the motor (M1) and a structure (20, 21) to support the fan (6) and the power supply means (4, 5). The refill unit comprises a refill of volatile substances (9), air filtering means (90) and a support structure (30) for the refill (9) and the filtering means (90). The filtering means (90) are situated upstream of the fan (6) to filter all the air sucked in by the fan (6). A laminar air flow generated in the fan body (60) strikes the refill (90) to favour diffusion of the volatile substances.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Zobele Holding SpAInventors: Franco Zobele, Fabio Marchetti
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Patent number: 7140553Abstract: A device for diffusing volatile substances, particularly deodorants for vehicle interiors. The device comprises a container designed to contain a liquid volatile substance to be diffused, a wick disposed partially in the container and a lid applied to the container around one end of the wick. The lid comprises a cap provided with slots and mounted revolving with respect to the axis of the wick. Between the cap and the wick there is interposed an intermediate element integral with the lid. The intermediate element has a U-bolt structure and is provided with slots.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2004Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Zobele Holding SpAInventor: Franco Zobele
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Patent number: 7093773Abstract: An improved fragrance dispenser, domestic appliance, such as a vacuum cleaner, including such a fragrance dispenser, and cartridge for such a fragrance dispenser is provided in which the dispenser includes a housing portion through which an air discharge passage interconnecting an upstream side of the housing portion and a downstream side of the housing portion extends, and a cartridge carrying a fragrant substance and having vents for allowing air to pass for entraining fragrance from said cartridge, wherein the cartridge is removably mounted and rotatably adjustable about an axis of rotation between at least a first position and a second position, at least a portion of at least one of the vents being obstructed by a housing portion if the cartridge is in the first position and being open if the cartridge is in the second position.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2003Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Bernardus Lubbertus Kuiper
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Patent number: 6994270Abstract: A dispenser of actives having a linear release rate may be achieved by providing a volatile containing gel system wherein the gel system is proportioned in specified dimensional ratios, so that the sum of the rate of volatile release from directly exposed areas of the surface of the gel system and the rate of volatile release from areas of the surface of the gel system which are not in direct exposure to the atmosphere remains essentially constant through out the life of the dispensing device.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Anita Wongosari, Michael C. Liptrot, Padma Prabodh Varanasi
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Patent number: 6966500Abstract: A remote controlled scent dispensing device includes a housing that has a first wall, a second wall and a peripheral wall that extends between and is attached to the first and second walls. The peripheral wall has a peripheral break therein such that the housing is divided into a first portion and a second portion. A moving assembly is mounted in the housing and is adapted for selectively moving the first portion abutting against or positioned away from the second portion. An actuator apparatus is adapted for remotely turning on the moving assembly and selectively moving the first portion with respect to the second portion. A coupler is attached to the housing for selectively coupling the housing to a tree limb. A scent dispensing member is positioned within the housing at a juncture of the first and second portions.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Inventor: Richard D. Kelley
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Patent number: 6899280Abstract: A wick-based delivery system includes a container for holding a liquid, and a porous wick, having a first section of a material with a pore size of a predetermined size and a second section of a material of a predetermined pore size that is greater than that of the material of the first section. The porous wick extends through an opening in the container so that when the liquid is added to the container, a lower region of the porous wick is in contact with the liquid, and an upper region of the porous wick is exposed to the ambient air. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first section and at least a portion of the second section are exposed to the ambient air. In another embodiment, only the second section is exposed to the ambient air.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2002Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Kara L. Kotary, Padma Prabodh Varanasi
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Patent number: 6877674Abstract: The invention relates to a fitting for a motor vehicle, in particular a dashboard. The permitting the circulation of at least one stream of air, along a given path, behind at least one thickness of material defining a face of the fitting. The fitting further includes means for diffusing an active compound into the at least one stream of air. The diffusing means are capable of being introduced, wholly or in part, through at least one orifice, or passing through the thicknesses of material. The loading orifices being orientated transversely to the path of the stream. The diffusing means are held in the area of the thickness or thicknesses of material.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2001Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Alain Choquet
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Patent number: 6852278Abstract: A dispenser for controlling the release of volatile materials within a contained environment such as an automobile, a home, an office, a factory, or the like, comprises a housing having an opening therein, a volatile material positioned within the housing, and a temperature responsive component in operable association with the opening to regulate said opening in order to contain or release the volatile material. The temperature responsive component automatically controls the release of the volatile material in the contained environment in response to a change in the ambient temperature by uncovering or covering the opening of the housing. A method for controlling the release of volatile materials within a contained environment is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: International Fragrance & Technology, Inc.Inventor: Randall Richards
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Publication number: 20040188535Abstract: A gel air-freshener device comprising a container defining a cavity for receiving a fragrance-containing gel matrix (7), the container having an aperture (4) for permitting ingress of air into the cavity and egress of fragrance from the cavity, and having first (1) and second ends (3), which ends abut the gel-matrix (7) and move freely relative to each other as the gel matrix (7) shrinks upon evaporation of the fragrance. The device exploits the shrinkage of the gel-matrix (7) and translates this into movement of the device thereby providing a visual cue as to the condition of the gel matrix and in particular when it is exhausted.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2004Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventors: Gerald Leslie Hart, Colin William Brown, Guy Edward Naish, Simone Anderson
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Publication number: 20030066901Abstract: A deer scent emitter including a housing, a scent container in the housing, at least one first opening in the housing, at least one second opening in the scent container, a timer in the housing, and a linkage coupling the timer to the scent container for periodically effecting communication between the first and second openings.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Inventor: Paul L. Tuttobene
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Patent number: 6502762Abstract: A deer scent emitter including a housing, a scent container in the housing, at least one first opening in the housing, at least one second opening in the scent container, a timer in the housing, and a linkage coupling the timer to the scent container for periodically effecting communication between the first and second openings.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2001Date of Patent: January 7, 2003Inventor: Paul L. Tuttobene, Jr.
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Patent number: 6481639Abstract: The invention concerns a volatile substance diffuser (102) comprising a body (104) with an aperture (111), and a reservoir (120) of product, comprising a volatile substance, the reservoir (102) being mounted mobile in the body (104) between a diffusing position enabling a gas to circulate through the product, then through the aperture (111) and a closed position wherein the product is isolated from the aperture (111), the reservoir and the body having respective surfaces (122,116) extending opposite each other. One of the surfaces (122) is spherical.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Ateliers de Conceptions et d'Innovations IndustriellesInventor: Michel Pozzo
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Patent number: 6419163Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 28, 2000Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: Ceramatech, Inc.Inventors: Ashok V. Joshi, Truman Christian Wold, II, John Joseph McEvoy
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Publication number: 20020074421Abstract: The invention relates to a fitting for a motor vehicle, in particular a dashboard. The permitting the circulation of at least one stream of air, along a given path, behind at least one thickness of material defining a face of the fitting. The fitting further includes means for diffusing an active compound into the at least one stream of air. The diffusing means are capable of being introduced, wholly or in part, through at least one orifice, or passing through the thicknesses of material. The loading orifices being orientated transversely to the path of the stream. The diffusing means are held in the area of the thickness or thicknesses of material.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2001Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventor: Alain Choquet
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Patent number: 6244518Abstract: A snake repellent system for use in repelling snakes so as to prevent the human user from being bitten. The snake repellent system consists of a receptacle into which is placed a quantity of garlic or onion, the aroma of which is believed to be effective in repelling snakes. The receptacle is provided with a lid having a plurality of openings for facilitating the dispersal of the garlic or onion aroma. The receptacle may be provided with a mincing rack used to mince a clove of garlic, thereby more fully releasing its aroma. The receptacle may also be provided with a means to both limit child access to the repellent substance within the receptacle and prevent removal of the repellent substance from the lid openings. An adjustable band is provided for attaching the receptacle to the arm or leg of the user.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Inventor: Thelma F. Pogue
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Patent number: 6241161Abstract: A compact, extensible scent dispensing device adapted for being placed in a closed position, in an extended position, and in a disassembled position. The device is preferably used by a hunter for attracting a game animal. The device comprises an elongated housing, an inner tube, a string, and a clip. The housing is dimensioned and configured for receiving the inner tube. The housing is adapted for receiving a predetermined volume of scented fluid and for being partially inserted into the ground. The inner tube is dimensioned and configured to fit within the housing and to receive a wick member. The inner tube has a hollow body with elongated slots and a cap. The string is attached to the cap and can be configured to form a loop so that the device can be hung from an upright structure and permit the scent to be more easily dispensed to the atmosphere. The clip is attached to the string, and is adapted for attaching to the upright structure and to a clothing member being worn by the user.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Inventor: Timothy W. Corbett
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Patent number: 6132841Abstract: The wiping device of the present invention comprises a thermoplastic sheet coupled with an optional absorbent core and an optional liquid impervious backsheet. The thermoplastic sheet defines a plurality of cavities including outwardly extending capillaries. Contained within the absorbent core for release upon demand is one or more fluids which facilitate and enhance the cleaning provided by the wiping device. As the cavities of the thermoplastic sheet are contacted with and wiped across a surface to be cleansed, the cavities collect and remove undesired material such as dirt, feces or blood. The selective release of the one or more fluids onto the surface to be cleansed further facilitates the cleaning and/or provides fragrance and/or medicaments, or the like, to the surface to be cleansed.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Tredegar CorporationInventors: Lee F. Guthrie, Paul E. Thomas
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Patent number: 6109537Abstract: A release rate modulator for use with membrane-based formulations systems to control the release of a substance. The release rate modulator is formed from perforated polypropylene containing approximately 36 holes/cm.sup.2. Each hole is approximately 1 mm.sup.2 in size. The flow of substance passes through the holes and the membrane before reaching the surrounding environment. The use of the modulator improves the duration of substance release and provides a more constant release of the substance compared to unpredictable release rates obtained when the formulations systems did not contain the modulator.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1999Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventor: Robert R. Heath
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Patent number: 6050551Abstract: A portable apparatus for dispensing of vapor from a volatile insect repelling or animal attracting/repelling substance into the surrounding environment, which includes a body having an inlet and outlet means, a sealing means for selectively closing and opening the vent means, a substance containing means for containing the volatile, a motorized fan, and an electrical power source. The apparatus includes a sealing means to seal the volatile substance within the body of the apparatus when the device is not in use. An important feature is also the ability to transmit volatile insect repelling or animal attracting/repelling substance over a great area.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1998Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Inventor: Brent Gary Anderson
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Patent number: 6029900Abstract: A bomb shaped air freshener device 10 including a hollow spherical housing member 20 dimensioned to receive a scent dispensing unit 12. The upper portion 21 of the housing member 20 is provided with at least one scent dispensing aperture 25 and operatively associated with an adjustable closure unit 13 wherein at least a portion 65 of the adjustable closure unit 13 is dimensioned and configured to resemble the fuse of a bomb.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Jorge A. Quinones
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Patent number: 6027187Abstract: A humidifier for use in humidors includes a fill chamber, an emission chamber having at least one absorbent body therein, at least one opening in the top of the emission chamber for diffusing water vapor therethrough, and an adjustment apparatus for adjusting and controlling the amount of water vapor entering the humidor through the opening. Absorbent bodies are preferably separated by at least one channel. The channel extends along the lengths of the absorbent bodies to increase the rate at which the absorbent bodies absorb water. The channel separates the absorbent bodies into separate elements. The humidifier comprises a housing defining a receptacle having an internal void volume for receiving material. The volume of the absorbent bodies, in combination, preferably comprises from about 35% to about 70%, and most preferably from about 40% to about 50% of the internal void volume of the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1997Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Assignee: Victoria Lynn SiepmannInventor: James Patrick Siepmann
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Patent number: 6012643Abstract: A device for the controlled release of vapour and a method of dispensing a volatile medium into the air. The device includes a carrier impregnated with a volatile medium and a wrapper of flexible material surrounding said carrier for retaining the volatile medium on the carrier. Said wrapper has a plurality of contiguous tear strips arranged in longitudinal sequence disposed over the carrier that may be successively removed to expose a portion of the carrier of increasing size without any need to provide for relative movement of the wrapper and carrier. The method of dispensing a volatile medium into the air includes providing such a device, removing a first tear strip to expose a portion of the carrier, and subsequently removing an additional tear strip to expose a fresh area of carrier to maintain the concentration of volatile medium at a desired level.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Ian John Barlow, Keith J. Greatbatch
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Patent number: 5845847Abstract: This invention provides an air freshener dispenser device in the form of a semi-rigid thermoplastic strip, which has the central area of both flat surfaces covered with a coextensive laminate of an inner vapor-permeable membrane and an outer peelable vapor-impermeable membrane. The respective membrane laminates enclose the central area of the strip which has at least one aperture accessing between the two laminate films. Preferably there are multiple apertures which serves as a reservoir for a volatile air freshener ingredient. Partial or complete removal of one or both peelablevapor-impermeable membranes allows delivery of the air freshener ingredient as vapor into the environment at a controlled rate over an extended time period.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1996Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: John Martin, Joseph M. Rosplock
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Patent number: 5810253Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 29, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Inventor: Nissim Ohayon
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Patent number: 5782409Abstract: By securely sealing odor absorbing material and fragrance producing compositions separately in a flexible container, preferably formed from multi-layered sheet material, a unique and highly desirable air freshening and deodorizing system is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the odor absorbing material is retained by at least one microporous or permeable membrane to prevent unwanted dispersion of the odor absorbing material into the ambient surroundings, while also controlling the rate of transfer of the ambient air into contact with the odor absorbing material. In addition, fragrance producing compositions are incorporated into the container to provide the desired fragrance simultaneously with the absorption of odors from the ambient surroundings.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1996Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Inventor: Leonard Paul
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Patent number: 5611486Abstract: By securely sealing odor absorbing material in a flexible container formed from a multi-layered sheet material, a unique and highly advantageous air freshening and/or deodorizing system is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the odor absorbing material is retained by at least one microporous or permeable membrane to prevent unwanted dispersion of the odor absorbing material into the ambient surroundings, while also controlling the rate of transfer of the ambient air into contact with the odor absorbing material. In addition, in the preferred embodiment, the air freshening and/or deodorizing system of this invention employs a small, compact and flexibly moldable container or housing which enables the system to be easily positioned in any desired location, regardless of the size constraints imposed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1995Date of Patent: March 18, 1997Inventor: Leonard Paul
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Patent number: 5611165Abstract: A holder for holding an absorbent material carrying an animal attractant scent includes top and bottom portions that are movable relative to each other between enclosed positions and use positions. In the enclosed position, the interior of the pod containing the absorbent material is sealed. In the use position, ambient air can reach the interior such that the scent can escape. The pod is provided with an O-ring to seal the two members in the enclosed position. In addition, a stand is associated with the bottom portion to be inserted into the ground and position the pod above the ground. In a preferred embodiment, there are two stands with a first stand being used for positioning the pod at a first relatively high distance above the ground and a second stand for positioning the pod at a relatively lower distance above the ground. Both of the stands preferably pivot relative to the pod.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1995Date of Patent: March 18, 1997Inventor: Roger N. Blaha
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Patent number: 5556030Abstract: By providing a unique fragrance composition which incorporates a fixative for controlling the rate of dispersion of the fragrance and associating the fragrance composition with cotton-based wicking member which is securely sealed in a flexible container formed from a multi-layered sheet material, a unique and highly advantageous air freshener and/or deodorizer dispensing system is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the multi-layered flexible container is constructed for cooperating association with all conventional heating systems which enables the temperature of the fragrance composition to be raised, causing its dispersion throughout the desired area to be substantially enhanced. In addition, in the preferred embodiment, the dispensing system of this invention employs a small, compact and flexibly moldable container or housing which enables the dispensing system to be easily positioned in any desired location, regardless of the size constraints imposed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1994Date of Patent: September 17, 1996Inventor: Leonard Paul
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Patent number: 5549247Abstract: An air nebulizer to be attached to a bottle containing scented liquid with a housing structure to receive air under pressure to cause the scented liquid to come out of the bottle under pressure and pass through a mesh in the housing to create a fine mist to be dispersed through an adjustable opening in the housing, the size of which opening controls the amount of such mist dispersed into the ambient atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1994Date of Patent: August 27, 1996Assignee: Leyden House LimitedInventors: Jon R. Rossman, Bryan Hotaling
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Patent number: 5544812Abstract: A table-top air freshener has a tubular cylinder containing perfume-impregnated cellulose strips. The cylinder press-fits into a cylindrical cavity formed in a decorative housing with the bottom of the cylinder exposed for attachment to a stand. A selected length of the cylinder can be withdrawn from the cavity to provide a desired perfuming effect.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1993Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Inventor: David F. Torres
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Patent number: 5477640Abstract: A fragrance emitting plant watering system having a bottom vase providing a reservoir for water supply for a potted plant, an air freshener cartridge supported on the vase, a cap adapted to overlie the cartridge and having a central section for supporting a plant, and wherein the cap is adjustable relative to the vase for movement between a first position in which the cap is raised to variably expose the cartridge to emit fragrance, and a second position in which the cap substantially covers the cartridge to seal said cartridge and inhibit fragrance emission.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1994Date of Patent: December 26, 1995Assignee: International Plant Breeding AGInventor: Reinhold Holtkamp, Jr.
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Patent number: 5437410Abstract: A passive aromatic substance dispenser is described. A highly absorbent rod shaped wick, held within a hermetically sealed tube, serves as a fragrance dispensing reservoir in contact with an efficient fragrance diffuser, and also serves as a convenient means for suspending the diffuser in a selected area to be fragranced. When fragrancing an area is not desired, closing the housing for the diffuser seals the diffuser from ambient air currents, protecting the aromatic substance from evaporating from the diffuser. The vacuum that develops within the tube due to the absorption of aromatic substance from the rod and into the diffuser prevents draining of the fragrance material from the rod and into the diffuser when not required, thus providing self regulation of the fragrance material by the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1994Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: ISC, Inc.Inventor: Wolfgang Babasade
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Patent number: 5388714Abstract: A container wherein a top member and a base member are formed as identical units, e.g., from a common mold, and have interactive shapes that permit the top to be laid upon the bottom in a nesting, closed configuration, and rotated relative to the bottom to at least one open configuration with at least three pinpoints of engagement to allow for positive seating of the top member on the bottom in the open configuration and movement of ambient air therebetween. The top cover and base are divided into sections about their circumferential length. The number of sections is determined by the shape of each of the various sections. There can be any number of sections where each section is constructed so as to be able to mate with an exact inverted mirror image of itself. For each first section not so constructed, i.e.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1993Date of Patent: February 14, 1995Assignee: Marketing Congress, Inc.Inventor: Michael B. Zutler
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Patent number: 5372303Abstract: By providing a unique fragrance composition which incorporates a fixative for controlling the rate of dispersion of the fragrance and associating the fragrance composition with a cotton-based wicking member which is securely sealed in a flexible container formed from a multi-layered sheet material, a unique and highly advantageous air freshener and/or deodorizer dispensing system is attained. In the preferred embodiment, the multi-layered flexible container is constructed for cooperating association with all conventional heating systems which enables the temperature of the fragrance composition to be raised, causing its dispersion throughout the desired area to be substantially enhanced. In addition, in the preferred embodiment, the dispensing system of this invention employs a small, compact and flexibly moldable container or housing which enables the dispensing system to be easily positioned in any desired location, regardless of the size constraints imposed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1993Date of Patent: December 13, 1994Inventor: Leonard Paul
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Patent number: 5368822Abstract: A scent device including a housing having a front face with vents therein and a support on a backside for securing the housing to a vent of a blower system. A fragrance block that has passages therethrough is inserted into the housing so that air from the blower system passes through the fragrance block and out through the vents in the housing.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1993Date of Patent: November 29, 1994Inventor: William S. McNeil
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Patent number: 5361522Abstract: A combination air freshener and picture frame includes a front frame to receive a picture and a removable back insert that can be attached to the frame to retain the picture against the front face of the picture frame. The front frame has a central opening for viewing the picture in the frame. An enclosure adjacent to the rear portion of the frame contains an air freshener material. The enclosure has openings to allow diffusion of the air freshener scent into the ambient atmosphere. A removable cap is attached to cover the openings in the enclosure. A number of props are pivotally connected to the back side of the rear portion of the frame and to the removable cap for selectively supporting the frame in any of a number of possible orientations.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1994Date of Patent: November 8, 1994Inventor: Dennis E. Green
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Patent number: 5342584Abstract: An air freshener device (200) has a cartridge (100). The cartridge (100) has a housing (101) having a tray (102). A first fragrance (105) is in a first cavity (103) and a second fragrance (106) is in a second cavity (104). A fragrance diffuser (130) is operatively connected to the tray (102) and positioned over the compartments of the tray. A removable cover is operatively connected to the tray to seal the open tops of the cavities. A battery cover (116) has a first side operatively connected to the housing and a second side connected to the housing after a battery is enclosed in the cover.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1993Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Assignee: Ecolab Inc.Inventors: Barbara L. Fritz, John T. Olson, Stephen A. Morganson, William E. Sullivan
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Patent number: 5314669Abstract: A new and improved method and apparatus are presented for freshening the air. The device comprises an inner cylindrical member with vents, with a retaining carriage which is capable of housing at least two separate and distinct scented media, and an outer cylindrical member with vents. The inner cylindrical member is concentrically retained within the outer cylindrical member and can be rotated to achieve different alignments of the vents in the inner and outer cylindrical members. The device enables two or more separate and distinct scented media to interface with the air and thereby disperse their scent either in the alternative, thereby enabling the dispersal of different scents without changing the media within the retaining carriage, or at the same time, thereby creating a new and distinct scent due to the multiple air interface of the scented media.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1992Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Inventor: Randy Hamilton
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Patent number: 5298248Abstract: An apparatus is provided for continuous and regular liberation of active constituents into domestic water supplies. The apparatus comprises a receptacle having a body portion which is impermeable to water and to the active constituent. The receptacle is provided with an aperture closed by a membrane which is permeable to water and to the active constituent. An operculum surrounds the membrane to secure the membrane to the receptacle. The active constituent is provided into the receptacle and is released through the membrane in a controlled manner over an extended period of time. Preferably, the membrane has a mean pore diameter greater than 0.05 microns.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1992Date of Patent: March 29, 1994Assignee: Rhone-Poulenc SanteInventors: Porte Hugues, Torres Ghislaine
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Patent number: 5265749Abstract: A container wherein a top member and a base member are formed as identical units, e.g., from a common mold, and have interactive shapes that permit the top to be laid upon the bottom in a nesting, closed configuration, and rotated relative to the bottom to one or more open configurations with at least three points of engagement whereby the size of the openings therebetween are varied in the different open positions and allow for movement of ambient air therebetween. The top cover and base, formed with identical common interfacing areas, can be subsequently modified, e.g., decorative or ornamental components can be added to the other, non-interfacing areas. Additionally, a handle could be added to the top cover. A pedestal could be added to the base. In a preferred embodiment, each member has a curvilinear outer periphery.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1993Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Assignee: Marketing Congress, Inc.Inventor: Michael B. Zutler
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Patent number: 5238657Abstract: Nozzles are provided for spraying a wetting medium into the gas flow in an activating reactor. The nozzle comprises a nozzle body having a plurality of nozzles The nozzle body is surrounded by a flexible and/or porous casing and a conduit introduces a gaseous medium into the casing. The gas can be introduced in either pulses or continuously. The gas introduced in pulses causes the casing to change its form and, where a perforated or porous casing is used, the continuous gas flow forms a protective gas film around the casing, thus removing the solid material accumulated on the casing.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1992Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Assignee: A. Ahlstrom CorporationInventor: Reijo Kuivalainen
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Patent number: 5234162Abstract: An air freshener device (10) having a cartridge (14) and a cartridge housing (16) is disclosed. The housing (16) has a sealed first cavity (18) and a sealed second cavity (20) having a first fragrance (22) and a second fragrance (24), respectively. First and second cavities (18) and (20) have first and second opening (34) and (54) respectively. The device (10) includes a housing (12) having air passage openings (70), (76), (78), a fan (82) and power means (80) and also supports cartridge (14).Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1991Date of Patent: August 10, 1993Assignee: Ecolab Inc.Inventor: William E. Sullivan
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Patent number: 5183259Abstract: An arrow includes a first shaft member, and a second shaft member. The second shaft member has an exterior surface and an interior surface defining a reservoir portion capable of containing a fluid. The arrow also includes a coupling member for coupling together the first and second shaft member. The coupling member includes a first and second cap member. The first cap member has an outer surface attachable to the first shaft member, and a threaded inner surface. The second cap member has an outer surface attachable to the interior surface of a second shaft member, a threaded inner surface, and an aperture in fluid communication with the reservoir portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 1992Date of Patent: February 2, 1993Inventor: Robert K. Lyon
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Patent number: 5180107Abstract: Described is a dispensing unit of a volatilizable substance capable of visible determination of its extent of use. The unit has a variably located centroid initially positioned proximate the geometric center point of the unit with the centroid moving downward when the unit is in use. As the volatilizable substance evaporates, a weight eccentrically located in the same place as the volatilizable substance angularly rotates about the "z" axis leaving its upper position and finally coming to rest at a lower position when the volatilizable material is used up. At least the final position is rendered visibly detectable by means of a simple sighting mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1991Date of Patent: January 19, 1993Assignee: International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.Inventor: Jerome I. Lindauer
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Patent number: 5148984Abstract: A device for dispensing a vaporizable material including a base adapted to support thereon an air freshener element and adapted to be supported on a pivotable door, a cover supported on the base and cooperating with the base to define an air passage communicating with the air freshener element, guide rails for affording selective movement of the cover relative to the base between a closed position wherein the air passage is substantially obstructed by a baffle and an open position wherein the device promotes passage of a flow of air through the passage during pivotal movement of the door, and detents on the base and cover which cooperate to retain the relative position of the cover and base during pivotal movement of the door.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 1991Date of Patent: September 22, 1992Assignee: Vaportek, Inc.Inventors: John D. Bryson, Jr., Robert G. Kopp
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Patent number: 5050798Abstract: An air freshener device (10) is disclosed. The air freshener device (10) includes a cartridge (12) having a housing (16). The housing (16) has a sealed first cavity (26) and a sealed second cavity (28). First fragrance (60) is located within the first cavity (26) and has a first volatility. Second fragrance (62) is located within the second cavity (28) and has a second volatility. First and second cavities (26) and (28) have first and second openings (64) and (66) respectively. First opening (64) is covered by a first removable cover (68) and second opening (66) is covered by a second removable cover (69). Alternatively, a single cover may be used for both openings. When the covers (68) and (69) are removed the fragrances (60) and (62) independently exit their respective cavities (26) and (28). The device (10) includes an outer housing (14) having a front member (70) which includes air passage openings (72). The outer housing (14) has a back member (74) adapted and configured to be mounted on a surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1989Date of Patent: September 24, 1991Assignee: Ecolab Inc.Inventor: William E. Sullivan
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Patent number: 5033674Abstract: A fragrance dispenser is provided comprising a container for storing a fragrance releasing substance. The container has a first and second end, and a side wall surface with one or more apertures formed therein. The fragrance dispenser also includes a flexible covering disposed over the side wall surface, having a plurality of slits formed therein. In general, the flexible covering is fixedly attached to a portion of a side wall surface and has a free portion which is slidable relative to the side wall surface. In the open configuration, the flexible covering distorts into a structure which envelops a substantial portion of the container and provides a plurality of passages through which fragrance vapor flows to the ambient environment.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1990Date of Patent: July 23, 1991Assignee: Avon Products, Inc.Inventor: Douglas B. Smith
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Patent number: 5014913Abstract: An air-freshening device including an air-freshening fluid container having a removable cap with a wick support. A fluid-absorbent medium has an exposed surface on the cap and a wick extends through the cap to the fluid-absorbent medium. An outer closure support for the container has a pair of adjustable closure half-shells. Each half-shell has an internal locking arm for engaging the flange of the cap for controlling the air freshener flow out of the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1990Date of Patent: May 14, 1991Assignee: Reckitt & Colman Inc.Inventors: Earl Hoyt, Manharbhai K. Patel
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Patent number: 4995555Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 14, 1988Date of Patent: February 26, 1991Assignee: American Cyanamid CompanyInventor: Keith F. Woodruff