Timer Means Patents (Class 239/70)
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Patent number: 8091734Abstract: A power source is provided to a dispensing unit that includes a housing having an aerosol container disposed therein. A sleep period interval between spray operations is selected and a motion sensor is activated to detect motion within a sensory path of the sensor after completion of the sleep period interval. If no motion is detected by the motion sensor a fluid is automatically discharged from the aerosol container and the sleep interval is reset and if motion is detected by the motion sensor a delay time interval is initiated and fluid is not discharged from the aerosol container. The dispensing unit alternates between activating the sensor to detect motion and resetting the delay time interval until no motion is detected by the motion sensor at the expiration of the delay time interval, which results in the automatic discharge of fluid and a resetting of the sleep period interval.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2010Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Thomas P. Gasper, Chris A. Kubicek, Leon M. Lemon, Brent D. Madsen, Nathan R. Westphal, Kenneth W. Michaels, Cory J. Nelson, M. Scott Carpenter, Michael E. Short
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Patent number: 8061562Abstract: An automatic discharge device includes a housing having a top portion and a base portion, wherein surfaces defining a recess are provided therebetween for securely holding a container. At least one gear is disposed substantially between the recess and a rear panel of the housing. A drive motor is in association with the at least one gear. An actuator arm is also provided. Activation of the drive motor and the at least one gear provides for movement of the actuator arm between at least one of a pre-actuation position and a discharge position along a path that has a directional component parallel to a longitudinal axis of the recess.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: M. Scott Carpenter, Paul E. Furner, Thomas P. Gasper, Chris A. Kubicek, Leon M. Lemon, Brent D. Madsen, Kenneth W. Michaels, Cory J. Nelson, Michael E. Short, Gene Sipinski, Nathan R. Westphal
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Publication number: 20110259974Abstract: A system for controlling a hand held skin treatment sprayer includes a base unit that is operable to control an air source. The base unit is also operable to control a heating unit that is associated with the hand held skin treatment sprayer. The air source is coupled to a nozzle of the hand held skin treatment sprayer by an air conduit, and the heating unit is disposed within that air conduit. Air flowing through the air conduit is heated by the heating unit. This heated air may be applied while spray is emitted from the nozzle to increase the spray cloud temperature, or may be applied before or after the spray application, with the spray turned off, to warm or dry the skin.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2011Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: MT Industries, Inc.Inventors: Steven C. Cooper, Scott Thomason, Louis J. Monaco
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Publication number: 20110226867Abstract: A water sprinkler includes a base, a timer mechanism having a timer inlet and a timer outlet, the timer mechanism being configured to operate in (i) a first mode in which fluid is allowed to pass between the timer inlet and the timer outlet, and (ii) a second mode in which fluid is prevented from passing between the timer inlet and the timer outlet, a motor having a motor inlet, a motor outlet, and a drive member, the motor configured to move the drive member in response to fluid passing from the motor inlet to the motor outlet, and a spray member coupled to the motor outlet, the spray member configured to move in response to movement of the drive member, wherein the base includes a first base retention structure and a second base retention structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicants: GILMOUR, INC., ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventor: Joseph E. Mayher
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Publication number: 20110215168Abstract: A water sprinkler includes a base defining a first cavity and an outflow opening, a conduit assembly positioned in said first cavity and defining a first channel and a second channel, and said first channel defining a first channel inlet and a first channel outlet, and further said second channel defining a second channel inlet and a second channel outlet, and a timer mechanism having a timer inlet and a timer outlet, said timer mechanism being configured to operate in (i) a first mode in which fluid is allowed to pass between said timer inlet and said timer outlet, and (ii) a second mode in which fluid is prevented from passing between said timer inlet and said timer outlet, wherein said first channel outlet is positioned in fluid communication with said timer inlet, wherein said second channel inlet is positioned in fluid communication with said timer outlet, and wherein said base and said conduit assembly are configured so that fluid advancing through the water sprinkler must pass through both (i) said secType: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2010Publication date: September 8, 2011Applicants: GILMOUR, INC., ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventor: Joseph E. Mayher
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Patent number: 8011599Abstract: A method of controlling evaporation of droplet cloud resulting from nebulization of a liquid expelled from a liquid droplet spray device is disclosed, wherein the liquid droplet spray device comprises a reservoir containing liquid, a perforate membrane plate, a fluid interface for feeding liquid from the reservoir to the membrane plate, an ultrasound generating mechanism for acting on the supplied liquid to cause it to be expelled as a spray of droplets through orifices of the membrane plate, and an electronic control device for controlling activation of the ultrasound generating mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: EP Systems SA Microflow DivisionInventors: Amir Feriani, Joseph Hess
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Patent number: 8010238Abstract: Several embodiments provide wireless extensions to an irrigation controller system and related methods of use, as well as other improvements to irrigation control equipment. In one implementation, an irrigation control system includes a transmitter unit including a controller and having a connector to be coupled to an irrigation controller having station actuation output connectors. The controller is configured to receive an indication that the irrigation controller has activated an irrigation station, and is also configured to cause the transmitter unit to transmit a wireless activation signal responsive to the indication. A receiver unit is coupled to an actuator coupled to an actuatable device, such as an irrigation valve, the actuator configured to actuate the irrigation valve to control the flow of water therethrough. The receiver unit receives the wireless activation signal and in response, causes the actuator to actuate the actuatable device.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Mark M. Ensworth, Barbara E. Booth, Dean C. Thornton, Randall A. Hern, Malcolm N. Napier
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Publication number: 20110163172Abstract: A method and system of providing a mist in a grocery display that injects biocidal solution into a misting line of water during a phase of the misting cycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2011Publication date: July 7, 2011Applicant: PURICORE, INC.Inventors: Gerald N. DiBello, Noel J. Pixley, Roger D. Hall, Geoffrey Richard Koontz
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Patent number: 7954667Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing unit includes the step of providing a power source to a dispensing unit that includes a housing having an aerosol container disposed therein and an actuator arm. Other steps include activating the dispensing unit in response to a minimum threshold of light being sensed by a light sensor and selecting a sleep period interval between spray operations. Yet another step includes moving the actuator arm after completion of a startup delay period from a pre-actuation position to a discharge position along a path substantially parallel to an axial length of the container to actuate a nozzle of the container to discharge a fluid from the container. The method also includes the step of alternating automatically between the sleep period having a duration commensurate with the selected sleep period interval and a discharge period during which the fluid is dispensed from the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2010Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Thomas P. Gasper, Chris A. Kubicek, Leon M. Lemon, Brent D. Madsen, Nathan R. Westphal, Kenneth W. Michaels, Cory J. Nelson, M. Scott Carpenter, Michael E. Short
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Publication number: 20110114747Abstract: Spraying unit for the biological treatment of an HVAC unit to control unwanted odours, consisting of a dispenser with an internal pressure medium and at least one nozzle for the manual or automatic atomisation of non-pathogenic bacteria and whereby the dispenser is entirely contained in a space of the HVAC unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2009Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventor: Rudiger Cruysberghs
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Publication number: 20110114748Abstract: The system includes a water source, tubing sections, sprinkler heads and a drainage system that collects excess water from the sprinklers and provides a gravity-fed path to a collection point at a sump below the collection point. A sump pump is located within the sump and supplies pressurized water to the sprinkler system. A water line is controlled by a level shutoff switch, and provides water to the sump, filling it prior to operation of the sump pump and the sprinkler system. A timer controls the level shutoff switch, causing the sump to be filled at a predetermined time. The timer controls the pump providing water to the sprinkler system after the predetermined time for a predetermined duration. A pressure sensor is fluidly connected to the system between the sump pump and the sprinkler head and electrically connected to the timer and the pump, cutting power when system pressure drops.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2009Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventor: Marc Boyajian
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Patent number: 7883029Abstract: An irrigation system includes a radio transmitter station that transmits weather prediction information to a geographic region that includes multiple geographic sub-regions. The weather prediction information includes a respective geographic sub-region code for each of the geographic sub-regions for which a weather forecast predicts rain within a predetermined time period. An irrigation apparatus in a particular sub-region activates to water a watering zone at a schedule time. However, if the irrigation apparatus receives the sub-region code for the particular sub-region where the irrigation apparatus is located, the irrigation apparatus does not immediately activate to water the watering zone in one embodiment. The transmitter station may transmit both program content and data content on a common radio frequency signal wherein the data content includes the weather prediction information.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Glen Edmond Chalemin, Indran Naick, Clifford Jay Spinac, Calvin Lui Sze
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Patent number: 7854394Abstract: A timed aerosol fragrance dispenser includes a housing containing a programmable microprocessor, a low-voltage DC power source, a piezoelectric assembly for spraying timed bursts of fragrance, and circuitry for activating the piezoelectric assembly, and a magnetic reed switch air flow detector. A fragrance-containing reservoir attaches to the housing, which incorporates a clip which allows the dispenser to be secured to a heating and air conditioning vent register. When the air flow detector senses air flow from the vent register, the microcontroller in combination with other circuitry generates current pulses having a voltage sufficiently high to activate the piezoelectric assembly. Intervals between pulses are switch selectable. In addition, the normal programming can be overridden to spray fragrance for a set period even in the absence of air flow from the vent register.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2009Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventors: Michael Mac Powell, Aaron M. Best, David J. Havell
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Patent number: 7849851Abstract: A nebulizer having an insertable container and a monitoring device for counting actuations of the nebulizer is proposed. The monitoring device is mounted in a detachable housing part and directly detects movements of container during a nebulizing process, an air supply current in the region of a mouthpiece, and/or the production of aerosol, in order to detect this as the actual dispensing of fluid and actuation of the nebulizer, while preferably the time of actuation of the nebulizer is additionally detected and stored. This allows better monitoring and guidance for the user.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbHInventors: Bernd Zierenberg, Klaus Noehl, Johannes Geser, Gilbert Wuttke, Stefan Kaulmann, Hubert Kunze, Andreas Fiol
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Patent number: 7837063Abstract: A water dispensing device that is so small it fits on a kitchen countertop that provides very accurate measurements of water by using a pressure regulator on water coming in from a typical kitchen water faucet and then using a timer in order to better control the amount of fluid dispensed. In an alternative embodiment, the timer is eliminated and replaced with a flowmeter. The water dispensing device has an interactive panel to allow a user to input how much water to dispense, or to pre-set the device to dispense a specific amount of water at a specific time of day. It is contemplated that this system would be a convenient way to accurately dispense the exact amount of water to fill a particular user's favorite coffee mug, or to assist a small volume baker in quickly and accurately getting just the right of water for a baking recipe, where accuracy is critical.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2006Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Inventor: Bryan Stoddard
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Patent number: 7837065Abstract: An automatic discharge device comprises a housing adapted to receive a container therein. An actuator arm is attached to the housing and movable between first and second positions. The actuator arm includes a dispensing bore therein. A drive unit is provided for automatically moving the actuator arm into one of the first and second positions in response to a signal from at least one of a timer, a sensor, and a manual switch. The actuator arm is adapted to engage and actuate a nozzle of the container in the first position and allow a fluid disposed in an interior of the container to be dispensed through the nozzle and the dispensing bore of the actuator arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2005Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Thomas P. Gasper, Chris A. Kubicek, Leon M. Lemon, Brent D. Madsen, Nathan R. Westphal, Kenneth W. Michaels, Cory J. Nelson, M. Scott Carpenter, Michael E. Short
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Publication number: 20100288848Abstract: A head spray system of a reactor pressure vessel includes a head spray line, a check valve, a vent line, a vent line shut-off valve, and an interlock mechanism. The head spray line supplies cooling water into the reactor pressure vessel when shutting down a reactor. The check valve is set up on the head spray line. The vent line which is connected to the head spray line evacuates a noncondensable gas. The vent line shut-off valve is set up on the vent line, and is open during normal plant operation. The interlock mechanism closes the vent line shut-off valve when a certain period of time has passed from the time of detecting a supply of the cooling water to the head spray line.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventor: Kazuhiro KAMEI
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Patent number: 7832655Abstract: A delivery system and methods for generating droplets of liquid active materials, such as a perfume, air freshener, insecticide formulation, and volatile materials, to the atmosphere by means of a electromechanical transducer. The electromechanical transducer employs a first period of activation and a second period of deactivation to increase the distribution of volatile materials contained within the liquid active materials to the atmosphere and reduce the hedonic habituation of the user. The electromechanical transducer is configured to improve flow rate and decrease deposition of the droplets on to nearby surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Fernando Ray Tollens, Steven Louis Diersing, John Philip Hecht, Steven James Schroeck, William Paul Mahoney, III
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Patent number: 7832142Abstract: A nutrient dispensing system which connects to a pressurized water supply includes a gravity dispenser, a pressure dispenser, and a valve which selectively connects the pressurized water supply to one of the gravity dispenser and the pressure dispenser. In a first mode of operation, gravity dispenser only is used. In a second mode of operation, pressure dispenser only is used. And in a third mode of operation the gravity dispenser and the pressure dispenser are used simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2008Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Inventor: Perry Jon Olson
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Patent number: 7810515Abstract: A smart water timer which includes a water timer, a receiving unit connected to the water timer, and a moisture sensing unit which is in wireless communication with the receiving unit. The smart water timer can sense when the moisture level in the soil is too moist (based on a user setting) and turn off a water supply to a sprinkler as a result A soil moisture sensing unit is placed in the soil in the area to be watered. The soil moisture sensing unit uses a moisture sensing probe and wirelessly transmits a data signal to the receiver, which is connected to the water timer, indicating whether or not the water timer should be permitted to open a water valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Melnor, Inc.Inventors: Juergen Nies, Ha Van Duong, Vicky Ann Michael, Stephen Brass, Randy McDonald, David Drury
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Patent number: 7798424Abstract: An automatic air freshener spraying device includes a front cover, a base, two air freshener bottles and a press driving device, and a motor of the press driving device is pivotally coupled to the driving gear, such that when the driving gear rotates clockwise or anti-clockwise at the motor, the driving gear with the transmission of the gear set pushes a protruding member at the bottom of one of the left and right sides of a large fan-shaped gear to obtain a larger instant pressing force, and a set of press driving devices are used for controlling the motor to rotate clockwise or anti-clockwise, and either the left or right air freshener bottles is pressed to spray an air freshener from an air freshener nozzle of the left air freshener bottle or the right air freshener bottle, so as to provide a uniform misty spray.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Po-Hui Lin
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Publication number: 20100230510Abstract: A sprinkler controller includes a central portion and a peripheral switch being moveable in an arcuate path relative to the central portion. The peripheral switch may be a peripheral dial that can be rotated about the central portion. The dial may be rotated to select a particular mode of the sprinkler controller. A display screen is positioned on the central portion. At least two controls are also positioned on the central portion. When a mode is selected by using the peripheral dial, the user may then employ the controls (and the display on the screen) to modify the settings for the sprinkler controller. A method of using the sprinkler controller is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: Pro-Mark, Inc.Inventor: Chadwick L. Wilson
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Patent number: 7775458Abstract: The invention relates to an automated sprayer for spraying the walls of a bath and shower enclosure with a cleanser. The sprayer has a housing that can be mounted inside the shower enclosure and that defines a tray in which an inverted bottle of cleanser is stored. The bottom of the tray has a tube extending downwardly along a longitudinal axis through which the cleanser can pass. A motorized head disposed beneath the tube can be rotated about the axis for metering cleanser from the bottle and spraying cleanser outward. The sprayer includes timer circuitry that delays commencement of a spray for a set time and automatically stops spraying after a predetermined period. The sprayer also includes a system for signaling the beginning of a spray cycle including audio and visual alarms. The invention focuses on methods of using such equipment, as well as a container for supplying such equipment.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Brian K. Linstedt, Keith H. Gausmann, Cathal L. Fahy, Luke C. Stonis, Dale Aberegg, Michael C. Fryan, Padma Prabodh Varanasi, Steven A. Zach, Peter M. Neumann, Craig F. Shiesley, Terry M. Kovara
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Patent number: 7770813Abstract: A spray penetration control method that controls penetration of fluid injected as a spray from an injector. The control method uses multiple successive injection events instead of single injection events to reduce overall spray penetration. Dwell times may be fixed or varied between successive injection events to reduce overall spray penetration. Also, the mass of fluid spray injected by the injector may be fixed or varied during each multiple successive injection event to reduce overall spray penetration and the number of successive injection events may be adjusted so that a desired total amount of mass is delivered in accordance with a desired penetration.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventor: Scott E. Parrish
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Patent number: 7769494Abstract: A method automatically adjusts the amount of water supplied by a water timer having a user interface and a controller programmed to provide control signals for controlling water flow control devices. The time of day on a base day is chosen, and a base ambient temperature and a base ambient humidity are sensed. Base ambient temperature and humidity signals are provided to the controller. The current ambient temperature and humidity are subsequently sensed and corresponding signals are provided to the controller on at least one day following the base day at a time corresponding to the chosen time of day. Control signals are modified, thereby modifying watering amounts, according to the base and current ambient temperature and humidity signals.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2009Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Tim Simon, Inc.Inventors: Timothy M. Simon, Matthew T. Fisher, Blaine M. Smith
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Patent number: 7748556Abstract: A trash can assembly has a shell having an enclosing wall that defines a periphery. The assembly has a lid fitted over the top of the shell, and a foot pedal positioned adjacent the bottom of the shell, with a portion of the foot pedal positioned inside the periphery of the shell. The assembly also includes a link assembly coupling the foot pedal and the lid. The assembly can also include a liner defining a container body, the liner fitted inside the shell and having an indent provided on the container body. A handle mechanism has a link strip that has a hooked end, with the hooked end engaging the indent to lift the liner from inside the shell.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2006Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: simplehuman, LLCInventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor
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Publication number: 20100127094Abstract: The simple automatic sprinkler assistant is an apparatus to help the regular sprinkler timer to become a simple, fully automatic and zero maintenance sprinkler control system. The simple automatic sprinkler assistant combines with the regular sprinkler timer will automatically stop the sprinklers from watering when the air Relative Humidity (RH) is above certain target RH such as 70% RH. The simple automatic sprinkler assistant is connected in series and between the regular sprinkler timer and the valves. If it rains, when the Relative Humidity is above the target RH such as 70% RH, the simple automatic sprinkler assistant stops the sprinkler valves from watering the lawn.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventor: Vuong Binh Hong
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Publication number: 20100059602Abstract: A cartridge stores gas under pressure and a container stores a fragrance substance in the housing. A valve controls the release of the gas. An atomizer receives the gas and draws the fragrance substance from the container such that the fragrance substance is sprayed into the atmosphere. A controller opens the valve at predetermined intervals.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2009Publication date: March 11, 2010Applicant: Technical Concepts, LLCInventors: Joe Chiou, Sean Bellinger
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Patent number: 7661606Abstract: An automated spraygun includes a spray/atomization body mounted on a feed foundation. The spraygun includes tensile locking elements between the spray body and the foundation.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: ITW Surfaces & FinitionsInventor: Eric Vacher
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Publication number: 20090302129Abstract: A three-dimensional spray envelopment system including at least one pressurizable fluid reservoir containing a reservoir fluid which may be an anti-mold or anti-fungal agent. The pressurizable fluid reservoir is in intermittent fluid communication with at least one fluid conduit and with a fluid controller. The spray heads and fluid conduit may further form an array extending over various parts of the external surfaces of a structure and may provide simultaneous spray coverage to a majority of a surface area of the plurality of structure external surfaces, including a roof. The fluid controller may include a timer and a remotely operable internet accessible controller. The pressurizable fluid reservoir may be in intermittent fluid communication with a building water supply, which can supply diluent for reservoir fluid and supply pressure to the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2008Publication date: December 10, 2009Inventor: Thomas Hartley
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Publication number: 20090261180Abstract: A centralized control unit directs compressed air towards repellant dispensers in different repellant locations to distribute atomized bird repellant. The control unit can contain a timer module that controls the time, duration, and recurrence of the mist pulses to optimize bird repellant use. Multiple bird repellant storage tanks can be placed in each repellant dispenser, or a single, common bird repellant storage tank can be used to deliver bird repellant to each repellant dispenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2008Publication date: October 22, 2009Inventors: Bruce Donoho, Rajen Rathod
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Patent number: 7584023Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes irrigation control software for a computer that interacts with the features of a plurality of advanced sprinklers, environmental sensors, and other available data. The irrigation control software provides a graphical user interface to create a more efficient irrigation scheduling control interface.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: The Toro CompanyInventors: Doug Palmer, Dana R. Lonn, Paul Standerfer, David Stucke, James T. Wright, III, Russ Huffman, Steven M. Calde, Nathan J. Fortin, Christopher Douglas Weeldreyer
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Publication number: 20090159719Abstract: A control method for one or several devices for nebulizing liquids into the air (DF1), the method including control steps for the device to nebulize a liquid into the air according to nebulizing cycles during which a liquid is nebulized into the air, the nebulizing cycles being spaced by idle periods, and comprising adjustment of the duration of idle periods as a function of the average quantity of liquid to be nebulized per unit time selected, and as a function of a concentration parameter for the active product in the liquid to be nebulized. The method enables a same apparatus to treat volumes with a factor of 100 times, typically from 7 to 700 m3.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2008Publication date: June 25, 2009Applicant: OSMOOZEInventor: Jean-Claude Millet
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Publication number: 20090127351Abstract: A timed aerosol fragrance dispenser includes a housing containing a programmable microprocessor, a low-voltage DC power source, a piezoelectric assembly for spraying timed bursts of fragrance, and circuitry for activating the piezoelectric assembly, and a magnetic reed switch air flow detector. A fragrance-containing reservoir attaches to the housing, which incorporates a clip which allows the dispenser to be secured to a heating and air conditioning vent register. When the air flow detector senses air flow from the vent register, the microcontroller in combination with other circuitry generates current pulses having a voltage sufficiently high to activate the piezoelectric assembly. Intervals between pulses are switch selectable. In addition, the normal programming can be overridden to spray fragrance for a set period even in the absence of air flow from the vent register.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2009Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventors: Michael Mac Powell, Aaron M. Best, David J. Havell
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Publication number: 20090065606Abstract: A remote-controlled electric sprinkler comprises: a control circuit, a motor, a sprinkler head, and a sensor. The control circuit controls the motor for rotating the sprinkler head and making the sprinkler head sprinkle water in a rotated pattern. The sensor senses and adjusts the rotation angle of the sprinkler head, so as to control the water sprinkling range and direction. In addition, the control circuit can also adjust the water sprinkling distance and amount of water of water sprinkled out of the sprinkler head to meet the environmental requirements.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Inventors: Feng-Nien Lee, Kuai-Wuu Sung
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Publication number: 20090008471Abstract: Control devices for irrigation systems and the associated methods for making and using such devices to control irrigation systems are described. The control devices contain a timer that can be mounted to a fixed location that is remote from a plurality of valves for the sprinkler system. The timer receives instructions that can be entered directly into the timer or the instructions can be entered remotely using another remote interface tool, such as a wirelessly connected personal computer (PC) or radio frequency (RF) programming device. Thus, the control devices are portable and can be easily removed and programmed away from the electrical interface typically used to control its programming when they are mounted at a fixed location. Second, when the control devices are removed from the fixed location containing the electrical interface, they still retain their programming even though it is no longer connected to the electrical interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Chadwick Loring Wilson
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Patent number: 7461798Abstract: A collector ring for use with a center pivot irrigation system which permits the mounting of a communication device above the span structure. The collector ring also includes a monitoring device which senses the angle or rotation of the span structure with respect to the fixed center pivot structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Inventors: Craig S. Malsam, Donald M. Salazar, Mark G. Schechinger, Joseph F. Novotny
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Patent number: 7458523Abstract: A foam-dispensing faucet for dispensing a quantity of foam soap and separately dispensing a flow of water according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a faucet body having a dispensing opening, water supply means integrated into the faucet body for delivering water to the foam-dispensing faucet, liquid soap means integrated into the faucet body for delivering liquid soap to the foam-dispensing faucet, air supply means integrated into the faucet body for delivering air to the foam-dispensing faucet, the interior of the faucet body being configured for processing liquid soap from the liquid soap means and air from the air supply means into a foam soap, and control means for timing and sequencing the dispensing of water and foam soap from the foam-dispensing faucet.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2007Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Inventor: William J. Hyslop
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Patent number: 7455245Abstract: A diffusion device includes a housing having a battery disposed therein and adapted to receive a replaceable fluid reservoir for holding a fluid, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a wick for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. The diffusion device further includes a piezoelectric element energized by a power source for vibrating a perforated orifice plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the wick, wherein the piezoelectric element develops vibratory movement to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the perforated discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control circuit and light emitting diode (“LED”) are disposed in the housing, wherein the control circuit energizes the LED at a particular frequency when the dispenser is active and a voltage developed by the battery is above a threshold voltage.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Gene Sipinski, Jeffrey L. Harwig, Murthy S. Munagavalasa, Gopal P. Ananth
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Publication number: 20080283626Abstract: A mist-generating device that can be connected to a vehicle's Low Direct Current Voltage (LDCV) power supply is disclosed. The device can be used to treat mold, bacteria and clean or remove odors on exposed and hard-to-reach surfaces of the interior of a car. The device can include a unique filling system that can be used to prevent foreign materials from entering into the unit, including fluids or substances that would deteriorate the performance of the unit or the components of the device itself. The inside of the device can include an internal anti-foam and anti-splash structure designed to keep electronic components dry and reduce the foaming and turbulence of the fluid being misted. Further, the inside of the device in one embodiment is split into three adjacent areas, which govern efficient flow of air and atomized chemicals through the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2008Publication date: November 20, 2008Applicant: UVIEW ULTRAVIOLET SYSTEMS INC.Inventors: Leonardo Aldana, Andrew Stanislaw Chochol, Tony Ferraro, Kerwyn Prescod, Ting On Wong, Sasan Raissi
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Publication number: 20080272202Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for assisting people with remembering directions or specific locations, such as where a vehicle is parked in a parking garage. A device for automatically dispersing a scent is provided at the location. The scent may be provided in combination with an associated image, photograph, color scheme, sound or other indicia. The scent may be added to a portable item such as a paper ticket which a person may take as a reminder of the location.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2007Publication date: November 6, 2008Inventor: Martha Morelos
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Publication number: 20080251601Abstract: A water sensor apparatus used in connection with a watering system. The water sensor apparatus includes a main housing comprising an inlet and an outlet. A valve mechanism is provided inside the main housing. The valve mechanism opens and closes the outlet of the main housing in response to a water level collected in the main housing and a water pressure entering the inlet of the main housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2008Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: MELNOR, INC.Inventors: Juergen NIES, Ha Van DUONG, Chunling ZHAO
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Publication number: 20080203186Abstract: A misting device capable of selectively spraying a fluid mist to cool an area or an individual(s) and/or promote health and wellness of the individual(s). The misting device includes a body, a pump and one or more fluid reservoirs disposed in the body, a spray arm extending from the body, and one or more misting nozzles supported by the spray arm. The body is adapted to support the device on a surface and the spray arm and nozzles are movable to adjust the direction of the mist exiting the nozzles.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2008Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: FOARA INTERNATIONAL, LLCInventor: Ursula GROCKE
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Patent number: 7416030Abstract: A mechanical time delay apparatus for creating a time delay between a pneumatic inlet for connection to a source of pressurized gas and a pneumatic outlet includes a primary pneumatic flow path from the inlet to the outlet. A movable gate is associated with the primary pneumatic flow path and is movable between an open position and a closed position. The gate is urged by a biasing force to the closed position. In the closed position, the gate is disposed to block a flow of gas through the primary pneumatic flow path. In the open position, the gate permits such flow. The time delay apparatus further includes an accumulation chamber in communication with the gate for a gas pressure within the accumulation chamber to urge the gate against the biasing force to the open position when the gas pressure exceeds a threshold pressure. A secondary pneumatic flow path extends the inlet to the accumulation chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Kidde Fenwal, Inc.Inventors: Richard Lawrence Lupien, Peter Karalis
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Patent number: 7407065Abstract: A method of discharging a plurality of aerosolized fluids from a plurality of aerosol cans to an ambient environment, including the steps of: fluidly coupling a first solenoid valve of an aerosol delivery system with a first aerosol can; fluidly coupling a second solenoid valve of the aerosol delivery system with a second aerosol can; determining a first release sequence of a first aerosolized fluid from the first aerosol can; determining a second release sequence of a second aerosolized fluid from the second aerosol can, the second release sequence being independent of the first release sequence; actuating both the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve using an electronic controller electrically coupled to the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve to release the first aerosolized fluid according to the first release sequence and the second aerosolized fluid according to the second release sequence to the ambient environment.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Aaron L. Hooks, Scott Dewitt
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Publication number: 20080110925Abstract: A medical gas cylinder system is provided that includes a gas cylinder, a gas dispensing mechanism for dispensing the medical gas from the gas cylinder, a flow control valve operatively disposed in the dispensing mechanism and adapted to initiate a flow of medical gas from the gas cylinder upon actuation, and a cylinder contents gauge adapted to indicate the status of medical gas within the gas cylinder. The flow control valve includes a setting to ensure the gas contents of cylinder are evacuated prior to return shipment. The disclosed system further includes a shipping container having a configuration adapted to hold the gas cylinder and dispensing mechanism and having one or more transparent surfaces or windows such that the cylinder contents gauge or other cylinder status indication is visible when the gas cylinder and dispensing mechanism are placed in the container. The gas cylinder and container are suitable for shipment via commercial carrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventors: Bradley Hagstrom, Paul W. Garvey, William J Bryce, Stephan Gamard
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Publication number: 20080099581Abstract: Apparatus for attracting wild game, such as deer, to a selected area is provided. A liquid attractant for the game is pumped from a reservoir through a nozzle for dispersal as a mist in or near the area. A battery-powered pump may be activated remotely.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2006Publication date: May 1, 2008Inventors: Kemper O. Modlin, Leo J. Niekerk
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Publication number: 20080067263Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for safely and for efficient controlling adult populations of flying pests. A self-contained reservoir system for automated misting of pesticides (as opposed to merely spraying) is disclosed which can be operated in remote location without the availability of line power or pressurized water. The present automated spraying system comprises a secure controller unit with locking features, and a plurality of dispersing elements attached to the unit. Enclosed within the weatherproof and secure enclosure of the unit is a controller, pump, pesticide reservoir and power source for delivering controlled amounts of a pesticide mixture to the dispersing elements. The pump is capable of producing pressures sufficient for producing a mist from the dispersing elements. The pesticide reservoir holds pre-measured and premixed pesticide that can be used for direct treatment of an area. A misting schedule is entered into the controller, or timer.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2006Publication date: March 20, 2008Inventors: Kemper O'neal Modlin, Leo John Niekerk
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Publication number: 20080011875Abstract: A diffusion device includes a housing having a battery disposed therein and adapted to receive a replaceable fluid reservoir for holding a fluid, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a wick for movement of the fluid to a discharge end thereof. The diffusion device further includes a piezoelectric element energized by a power source for vibrating a perforated orifice plate disposed adjacent the discharge end of the wick, wherein the piezoelectric element develops vibratory movement to pump the fluid from the discharge end through the perforated discharge plate and into the atmosphere. A control circuit and light emitting diode (“LED”) are disposed in the housing, wherein the control circuit energizes the LED at a particular frequency when the dispenser is active and a voltage developed by the battery is above a threshold voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2006Publication date: January 17, 2008Inventors: Gene Sipinski, Jeffrey L. Harwig, Murthy S. Munagavalasa, Gopal P. Ananth
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Patent number: 7317972Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods in which an irrigation management system reduces high peak water use values by utilizing a microprocessor (220) disposed in an irrigation controller (100) to receive peak water use information from a water supplier receive water use information at a consumer site and automatically derive a new irrigation schedule that is at least partly based on the information received. The new irrigation schedule, derived by the microprocessor (220), may include a modification in a default irrigation frequency, a modification in a default irrigation start time(s), a reduction in a default irrigation application duration, the use of a rolling-average in the determination of the new irrigation application duration and other changes or modifications to the default irrigation schedule that will provide for the reduction in high peak water use values.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2001Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Aqua Conserve, Inc.Inventors: John W. Addink, Sylvan Addink