Timer Means Patents (Class 239/70)
  • Patent number: 6490505
    Abstract: An irrigation timer (2) includes a controller (8), including output signal terminals (18) coupleable to irrigation valve actuators (20) and an internal clock, and user inputs (12). Each irrigation valve actuator is coupleable to an irrigation valve for a watering zone with a watering period setting for each of the watering zones during a watering cycle (96). The controller divides the watering period for each watering zone by an integer n greater than 1 to obtain fractional watering periods (98). This permits each zone to be watered for its fractional watering period during a first fractional watering cycle (100) prior to beginning a second fractional watering cycle n of the fractional watering cycles constitute the watering cycle. The use of fractional watering periods help to spread out watering over a long period of time in each zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Tim Simon, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy M. Simon, Blaine M. Smith
  • Publication number: 20020148904
    Abstract: Different kinds of developing liquids for photolithography are stored in separate chambers. The stored liquids are dispensed in a single nozzle head which merges the outlets of the two storage chambers. The mix of the liquids can be programmed. In another embodiment of the invention, each separate chamber has individual nozzle head, but the chambers are mechanically integrated as a unitary body, capable of moving and spraying together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Wen-Cheng Yu
  • Patent number: 6454185
    Abstract: The problem of the invention is to provide an easily manipulatable and long term-usable discharge apparatus. A discharge apparatus for media, particularly for spraying a fluid preferably containing a pharmaceutical substance according to the invention has a casing. On said casing is located an actuator, which is movable relative to the casing by a path corresponding to an actuating stroke path. The discharge apparatus has a control unit, which determines at least the time which has elapsed since the last actuation of the actuator. An actuating stop, operable by the control unit in a controlled manner, in its blocking position blocks the performance of an actuating stroke and allows an actuating stroke to take place in its release position. Such an actuating stop has a blocking member, which can be brought by means of an electromagnet from the release position. into the blocking position and/or from the blocking position into the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Ing. Erich Pfeiffer GmbH
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Fuchs
  • Patent number: 6453215
    Abstract: An irrigation controller in one embodiment comprising a microprocessor for controlling a plurality of watering zones of an irrigation system, a keyboard for enabling an inputting of commands relating to watering programs, a display for displaying information relating to watering programs, and an EEPROM for retaining information relating to watering programs and an on/off status variable even during extended periods without power. The irrigation controller may employ the EEPROM to retain a germinate watering program wherein everyday watering is triggered automatically and a multiplicity of watering start times can be selected. The irrigation controller may employ an analog precision rectifier for detecting how many valves are operational in a given watering zone, and the irrigation controller may also automatically adjust a maximum allowable current in response to how many valves are operational in a given watering zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventor: Nathan Lavoie
  • Patent number: 6446878
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the production of small, uniform sized droplets. The apparatus is a droplet generator including a housing defining a chamber for holding a material to be ejected therefrom, an inlet and a droplet outlet communicating with the chamber. The housing is coupled to a pressurizing system connected to the inlet for applying pressure pulses to the chamber. The housing includes a vent in communication with the chamber for relieving pressure in the chamber. The vent has an effective size so that during application of the pressure pulse the chamber is pressurized to a pressure effective to eject a droplet of the material therefrom and thereafter the chamber is vented through the vent at a rate sufficient to prevent further discharge of droplets. The droplet generator produces molten metal or alloy droplets and is particularly suitable for generating single droplets on demand in manufacturing techniques using droplet deposition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventors: Sanjeev Chandra, Rahim Jivraj
  • Patent number: 6409093
    Abstract: An electronically controlled micro-dispensing apparatus (10) is described. The apparatus includes a container (12), an adaptor (18), a nozzle (28) and a control circuit (34 or 42). The container is filled with the chemical (104) and propellant (102). The adaptor, nozzle and control circuit are removable from the container and are reusable. The control circuits controls the length of pulse and the time duration between each pulse. By controlling these factors, the apparatus dispenses a precise amount of liquid over a set time period. The ejector allows for controlled dispensing and allows the liquid to be sprayed a greater distance. In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus are used to dispense a pheromone in an outdoor setting, such as an orchard (100), to control insects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of Michigan State University
    Inventors: Michael J. Ulczynski, Brian L. Wright, James Ray Miller
  • Patent number: 6402049
    Abstract: A sprinkler timer system for effectively controlling the timed operation of a water sprinkler system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Jack V. Youngs, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020043568
    Abstract: The smart fragrance dispensing device (1) comprises an airless fragrance reservoir (1a) containing a principal medium (8), a flow channel (3) for receiving said principal medium (8), a liquid spray dispenser (2) connected to said reservoir (1a) for dispensing said principal medium (8) as a spray into said flow channel (3), a programmable driving circuit (5) for operating said liquid spray device so as to create said spray consisting of monodispersive droplets, a memory device (4) carrying and communicating identification information about at least said principal medium (8), its dispensing and diffusing characteristics, said liquid spray dispenser (2) and said reservoir (1a), and a programmable control and communication micro-controller unit (7) linked to said reservoir (1a), said programmable, driver circuit (5), and said flow channel (3), and controlling the programmable driver circuit (5) and the flow channel (3) in such a manner that flow is started in time before the driver circuit (5) is activated and st
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Applicant: Ing. Erich Pfeiffer GmbH
    Inventors: Joseph Hess, Joachim Korner
  • Publication number: 20020020756
    Abstract: A dispenser for attachment to a container containing a fluid material, including an actuator which keeps the container in a substantially constantly open configuration so as to allow the fluid to pass into the dispenser, and a controllable outlet, through which a portion of the fluid is emitted from the dispenser, substantially independent of the fluid pressure in the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Applicant: GOTIT LTD.
    Inventor: Shimon Yahav
  • Publication number: 20010052552
    Abstract: There is provided an ultrasonic atomizer having a start/stop switch and when the switch is turned on (ST1) an oscillation frequency generation unit and an air feeding motor are operated (ST2), an air volume dial is checked and a decision is made as to whether the current mode is a continuous mode or a timer mode (ST3, ST7). If it is the continuous mode a state of operation is displayed by dynamically moving a segment on a display and periodically ringing a buzzer to notify the user accordingly (ST4, ST5). The start/stop switch is turned off, an oscillation unit is stopped and an oscillator is turned off (ST10, ST11), and the air feeding motor is also stopped (ST12). If this state is provided in the continuous mode then an inactive state is indicated by static characters “00” (ST14). This ensures that the user can determine whether the ultrasonic atomizer in the continuous mode currently has the active state or the inactive state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 20, 2001
    Inventors: Takehiro Hamaguchi, Norihito Nishizawa, Susumu Minamikawa
  • Publication number: 20010048037
    Abstract: A chemical infeed system for a sprinkler or irrigation system including a water carrying element or supply line such as a pipe or tube for the flow of water to one or more sprinkler heads or other outlets or openings, the infeed system including at least one receptacle or container for receiving and holding a quantity of a desired chemical; a pump having an inlet or suction side for pumping or drawing the chemical from the receptacle and a discharge or outlet side connected in liquid communication with the water carrying element or supply line for pumping the chemical into the water flow therethrough. The pump of the present chemical infeed system can be powered by conventional line current, such as 110 volt household current, and can be actuated by a relay or other device which connects the pump to a power source when a power signal is received from a controller of the sprinkler or irrigation system. The power signal may be the same voltage or a different voltage than the power source for the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventors: Michael J. Bell, James W. McClure
  • Publication number: 20010045230
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are provided for irrigation systems such as automated sprinkler systems. A pre-assembled housing or valve box includes an inlet for receiving water and one or more outlets for distribution of water to other components in the irrigation system, and also includes manifolding and power and valve means for selectively controlling the flow of water from the outlets. Many of the manifold components are integrally molded with each other and provided in modular form so that the system can be relatively compact and can be customized into a variety of configurations. The manifold can consist of or include integrally formed or interconnected valve bases. The electrical power system includes a main terminal box with power lines leading to connectors adjacent each outlet, so that solenoid valves may be readily connected thereto and replaced as necessary. O-rings, non-conducting gel, and similar mechanisms are provided to ensure the water-tightness of the electrical connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventors: DONALD O. OLSON, GERALD PETERSON, AARON DELABY
  • Patent number: 6286765
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provides a controlled, continuous up-and-down motion of a pop-up sprinkler head device during an irrigation period to approximate a modified sine wave output from the pop-up sprinkler device assuring uniform coverage of an area to be irrigated without excessive watering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Nibco Inc.
    Inventor: Joe D. Byles
  • Patent number: 6283139
    Abstract: A remote controlled hose valve system for use with a water source and a hose having one end connectable to a fluid activated device and an opposite connector end is disclosed. The hose valve system includes a valve unit and a remote control unit. The valve unit has an inlet coupler connectable to the water source. The valve unit also has a hose coupler coupled to the opposite connector end of the hose. A conduit allows fluid flow between the inlet coupler and the hose coupler. A valve is located in the conduit and permits fluid flow in the conduit. An actuator which may be an electric motor is connected to the valve. A power source is provided for the actuator. A signal receiver is coupled to the power source and the actuator. The receiver allows power flow to the actuator to close or open the valve in response to a unique signal. The remote control unit includes a transmitter which sends a unique signal to open or close the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: L. R. Nelson Corporation
    Inventors: Randall R. Symonds, David A. Paul, Scott Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6279836
    Abstract: The invention includes a first dispenser for providing a first dilute concentrate of a use solution in a bottle. This bottle is then used in a portable delivery/dilution device which provides for a second level of concentration of the use solution. The bottles in which the solution is placed has both a vertical and horizontal lockout. The horizontal lockout is useful in making certain the right bottles are utilized with each dispenser and the vertical lockouts are useful in guiding the bottle upwards as the first concentration of liquid is placed in the bottle. The portable delivery/dilution system is easily portable, easily filled with water which can be easily poured from a system after use. The battery is rechargeable and can be used in most any application where spraying is desired. First and second timers activate first and second indicators to notify the user sufficient use solution has been dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Toetschinger, Mary M. Dawson, Daniel E. Pedersen
  • Publication number: 20010015387
    Abstract: The problem of the invention is to provide an easily manipulatable and long term-usable discharge apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Fuchs
  • Patent number: 6270020
    Abstract: A roadway deicing system uses a pressurized gas stored in a high pressure tank to dispense a solid or liquid deicer onto a roadway. An electrically powered controller responds to control inputs to control valves, such as solenoid valves, to cause the deicer to be dispensed at appropriate times. Since electrical power is not used for propelling the deicer onto the roadway, conventional storage batteries can provide long service life for the system between maintenance intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Thompson, David L. June, Barry D. Stephens
  • Patent number: 6267298
    Abstract: A device which is neural networked with other such devices to control the irrigation of various irrigation zones. Each neural networked irrigation controller commences irrigation for its zone, provided sufficient water is available, either when a preselected period of time arrives or sensed zonal conditions so dictate. The determination of adequacy of water in the source forms the basis for neural networking. Each controller senses water level or pressure in the source and has its own initial water threshold value—a level or pressure at which irrigation will be permitted to commence. Optionally, each controller may have its own terminal water threshold value—a level or pressure which must be maintained in order for irrigation of the zone to continue. Thus, the controllers communicate hydraulically with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Paul D. Campbell
  • Patent number: 6267297
    Abstract: A programmable dispenser, especially for dispensing an olfactory stimulating material from a source of the material, is presented. More particularly, the present invention relates to a dispenser for an olfactory stimulating material, such as an air freshener composition, wherein the dispenser can be programmed so as to be operational within a wide variety of operating modes, such as starting and ending operations at specific times during the day, being operational during specific days of the week, and dispensing frequency (i.e., in the case of an aerosol or pump source) and/or intensity (i.e., in the case of a gel or cartridge source).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Waterbury Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl D. Contadini, Nicholas A. Velezis, John J. Dean
  • Patent number: 6240336
    Abstract: A control unit for an irrigation system comprising a programmable electronic control unit having a plurality of output control lines for the control of actuators of the irrigation system and comprising a microprocessor for setting data that condition the operation of the control unit. The microprocessor is operable to allow a standard programming of the electronic control unit for setting data suitable for allowing the base operation of the control unit, and an advanced programming for setting further data suitable for customizing the base operation of the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Claber S.p.A.
    Inventor: Andrea Brundisini
  • Patent number: 6240325
    Abstract: An electronic control unit for the control of automatic watering systems having plural lines comprising an electronic circuit with a programmable processing unit for the control of a plurality of different watering lines. A manually operated selector, preferably of the rotary type, is provided, that is settable in a plurality of selectionable positions, to each one of which a specific watering cycle for the lines corresponds. By acting on the selector and on a start button, it is possible to modify the programming of the processing unit in order to associate with each single line a respective watering cycle different from the ones otherwise selectable by means of the selector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Claber S.p.A.
    Inventor: Andrea Brundisini
  • Patent number: 6227220
    Abstract: An irrigation controller modifies sophisticated irrigation protocols using an extremely simple user control. In one aspect of a particularly preferred class of embodiments, the user control includes a simple “more/less” (increase/decrease) adjustment In another aspect of preferred embodiments, the controller automatically determines appropriate irrigation amounts, start times, durations, and frequencies. Such automatic determination may advantageously be based in part on the more/less adjustment, and in part on an external signal, such as that transmitted by a radio transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: John W. Addink
  • Patent number: 6220293
    Abstract: A novel irrigation valve having a single central inlet and a plurality of radially located outlets each covered by a sliding disk valve. Each disk valve is manually operable. and in automatic mode is operated by the interference action of an innovative indexing mechanism which uses the hydraulic pressure of the inlet for its operation. a single three-way solenoid valve is energized to actuate a piston within the indexing mechanism while a pin-teeth engagement of a cylinder-indexer assembly converts the linear motion of a piston rod into a rotary motion of an indexing arm. A battery operated timer controls the time intervals between each incremental rotation of an indexing arm in sequence until it is returned to its home position. The housing of the valve is compact and of low profile, thereby simplifying its manufacturing, assembling, installation and maintenance and reducing cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Ardishir Rashidi
  • Patent number: 6182904
    Abstract: An electronically controlled micro-dispensing apparatus (10) is described. The apparatus includes a container (12), an adaptor (18), a nozzle (28) and a control circuit (34 or 42). The container is filled with the chemical (104) and propellant (102). The adaptor, nozzle and control circuit are removable from the container and are reusable. The control circuits controls the length of pulse and the time duration between each pulse. By controlling these factors, the apparatus dispenses a precise amount of liquid over a set time period. The ejector allows for controlled dispensing and allows the liquid to be sprayed a greater distance. In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus are used to dispense a pheromone in an outdoor setting, such as an orchard (100), to control insects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Board of Trustees operating Michigan State University
    Inventors: Michael J. Ulczynski, Brian L. Wright, James Ray Miller
  • Patent number: 6145755
    Abstract: An irrigation system that controls the amount of water to be applied based upon specific historical meteorological data including relative humidity, evapotranspiration data, and precipitation. The invention is also of a method for determining the optimal time of day to measure actual relative humidity, and for setting the relative humidity set-point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Louis V. Feltz
  • Patent number: 6138928
    Abstract: A liquid suspension distribution system is provided which is essentially a conventional center pivot irrigation system, but which has the innermost sprinkler guns sequenced by way of a programmable logic control. The innermost sprinkler guns are sequenced on and off by the programmable logic controller so that an even distribution of the liquid manure or the like is achieved on the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob L. LaRue, Wendell E. Dorsett
  • Patent number: 6129103
    Abstract: A timed control valve is of the type that is installed in a fluid line upstream from a regular valve and capable of being physically oriented an any direction in the fluid line. The timed control valve is capable of sensing at least the normal flow of fluid when the regular valve is opened, stopping the normal flow at an end of a first predetermined period of time beginning with an initial sensing of the normal flow; and then allowing the normal flow at an end of a second predetermined period of time beginning with an initial stopping of the normal flow. Various embodiments of the timed control valve include different sensing and timing device for regulating the overall amount of the fluid that can be used and can even be configured to protect against a major loss of fluid if there is a rupture or failure of the fluid line down stream of the timed control valve. The invention also includes the method of doing the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventors: Acie R. Fields, Larry S. Cutshaw
  • Patent number: 6105583
    Abstract: A cigarette end container capable of putting out cigarette ends definitely, suitable for being placed in a narrow space without a reduction in container capacity, and in which disposal of cigarette ends after collection may be simply, easily and hygienically carried out. A body of a cigarette end container is provided with a device for relatively raising a concentration of incombustible gas and includes a gas cylinder filled with an incombustible gas, an injection nozzle having a jet inside the container, a passage for communicating the injection nozzle to the gas cylinder, an electromagnetic control valve disposed in the passage to control a flow rate of the incombustible gas, and a timer for presetting an opening time of the electromagnetic valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Takanori Yamada
  • Patent number: 6102061
    Abstract: An irrigation controller modifies sophisticated irrigation protocols using an extremely simple user control. In one aspect of a particularly preferred class of embodiments, the user control includes a simple "more/less" (increase/decrease) adjustment. In another aspect of preferred embodiments, the controller automatically determines appropriate irrigation amounts, start times, durations, and frequencies. Such automatic determination may advantageously be based in part on the more/less adjustment, and in part on an external signal, such as that transmitted by a radio transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: John W. Addink
  • Patent number: 6098898
    Abstract: A master control system for conserving water used by sprinkler systems within a predetermined geographical region includes a plurality of sprinkler systems each of which is assigned an identifying indicia. A transmitting station is arranged for transmitting control signals receivable at any location within the geographical region. A valve connects each sprinkler system to a water source for selectively feeding water to an associated sprinkler system when the valve is open and for precluding water from being fed to the associated sprinkler system when the valve is closed. A receiver is provided for each sprinkler system within the region connected to an associated valve for receiving the control signals and generating a disabling signal for causing only said valves for the sprinkler systems assigned said identifying indicia to open independently of their status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Paul Storch
  • Patent number: 6036108
    Abstract: An automatic liquid spraying device includes a housing having a wall with a liquid outlet, a liquid container disposed within the housing, and a nozzle member which is installed on an upper end portion of the container and which has a front face formed with a spraying port, and a top surface formed with a groove. A driving unit includes a nozzle activating member, which can press automatically the nozzle member to move toward the container and which has an engagement portion, that engages fittingly the groove in the nozzle member when the nozzle member is pressed by the nozzle activating member to move relative to the container, thereby registering the spraying port in the nozzle member with the liquid outlet in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Bobson Hygiene International Inc.
    Inventor: Cheng-Chang Chen
  • Patent number: 6012531
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing device to reduce or extinguish a fire in a specific localized area such as a room or a hallway within a burning building. A base with a disbursement container fixed to the base is provided to hold an explosive charge and a volume of fire extinguishing agent. When the explosive charge is detonated, the extinguishing agent is forced out of the disbursement container in an upward direction to subsequently shower down upon a fire in the vicinity of the detonated fire extinguishing device to at least in part extinguish the fire in the localized area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: James W. Ryan
  • Patent number: 5964403
    Abstract: An electronically controlled micro-dispensing apparatus (10 or 210) is described. The apparatus includes a liquid storage container (12), a propellant container (16), a control circuit (34 or 42) and an ejector (28). In a second embodiment, the liquid and propellant are in the same container (212). The control circuits control the length of pulse and the time duration between each pulse. By controlling these factors, the apparatus dispenses a precise amount of liquid over a set time period. The ejector allows for controlled dispensing and allows the liquid to be sprayed a greater distance. In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus are used to dispense a pheromone in an outdoor setting, such as an orchard, to control insects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Board of Trustees operating Michigan State University
    Inventors: James Ray Miller, Michael John Ulczynski, Brian L. Wright
  • Patent number: 5956248
    Abstract: An irrigation controller includes a housing for enclosing a microprocessor that stores and executes at least one watering program. The microprocessor has a parallel output bus with a plurality of pin sets for controlling a plurality of irrigation stations. The connection between the controller and the irrigation stations is through a plurality of station modules that are removably coupled, in any desired number, to the various pin sets on the output bus. The number of stations controlled is adjusted by the number of modules connected to the output bus. The controller housing has a pocket for holding a user's manual, which is positioned between the controller housing and a mounting bracket when the controller housing is installed on the mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Jonathan D. Williams, Peter M. F. Tam
  • Patent number: 5954269
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an installation for automatically purifying one or more enclosures located in one or more premises, such as toilets, comprising:a supply module comprising a control panel and a reservoir of liquid purifying product;at least one module for spraying the purifying product, comprising an electrovalve and a spray;each spray module being connected to the supply module via a single pipe;characterized in that it comprises means for placing said product under pressure, solely in said pipe, the pressure being substantially greater than atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Sanitaire Equipement
    Inventor: Bernard Bolze
  • Patent number: 5944052
    Abstract: A novel irrigation valve having a single central inlet and a plurality of radially located outlets each covered by a sliding disk valve. Each disk valve is manually operable and in automatic mode is operated by the interference action of an innovative indexing mechanism which uses the hydraulic pressure of the inlet for its operation a single three-way solenoid valve is energized to actuate a piston within the indexing mechanism while a pin-teeth engagement of a cylinder-indexer assembly converts the linear motion of a piston rod into a rotary motion of an indexing arm. A battery operated timer controls the time intervals between each incremental rotation of an indexing arm in sequence until it is returned to its home position. The housing of the valve is compact and of low profile, thereby simplifying its manufacturing, assembling, installation and maintenance and reducing cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Ardishir Rashidi
  • Patent number: 5936362
    Abstract: A control system for remotely controlling the application of electric power to a plurality of electric apparatuses includes a radio transmitting device at a central location, and a radio receiving device and a control unit at each electrical apparatus location. Programming signals designating the operating protocol or mode and the location of the electrical apparatus are transmitted by a radio programming signal to the control unit associated with each electrical apparatus. Subsequently, timing reference signals are transmitted to the control units of all electrical apparatus. Each control unit interprets and responds to the timing signals in accordance with previously received programming signals to control the application of electric power to the electrical apparatus in accordance with a predetermined operating protocol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Profile Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Larry G. Alt, Robert C. Florin, Joseph H. Little, Richard C. Oesterle
  • Patent number: 5908157
    Abstract: A portable control system for use with conventional sprinklers including a portable housing. Further included is a plurality of interconnections positioned within the housing for allowing interconnection between an inflow hose and a plurality of outflow hoses. A plurality of valves is connected to the interconnection for allowing the passage of fluid upon the activation thereof. A control panel is situated within the housing and connected to the valves. The control panel is connected to a rain level detector and is adapted to allow selective actuation and deactivation of each valve mechanism at a designated time as a function of the amount of rain received by the rain level detector. A fertilizer mechanism is connected to the interconnections for allowing the supply of fertilizer to the fluid passing between the garden inflow hose and the garden outflow hoses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventors: Domenico Antonellis, George Valentino
  • Patent number: 5861685
    Abstract: A circuit isolator apparatus for use with pump or master valve circuits having a plurality of controllers connected thereto. One isolator apparatus is used in association with each controller. The isolator apparatus includes a pair of relays which allow only one controller to access the pump or valve circuit at a time to prevent feedback between controllers and damage to controllers due to incorrect phasing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Inventor: James E. Geiger
  • Patent number: 5857425
    Abstract: A feeder containing animal feed uses feed removal equipment to remove feed at a known constant rate. This feed metering apparatus is used to indicate the amount of feed remaining in the feeder at any time. This apparatus is operated to move a pointer indicating feed quantity only when feed is actually being removed from the feeder. The movement of the pointer is adjusted to correspond to feeder rates for different feeder equipment either by adjusting the duty cycle of a motor driving the pointer to different percentages of the feeder equipment operating time, or by adjusting the motor rpm rate, either by using an adjustable frequency changer to drive an ac motor, or by changing the power from ac to dc and using dc to drive a speed adjustable dc motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas L. Rahm
  • Patent number: 5836339
    Abstract: Disclosed is a raindrop counter and control system for irrigation systems which provides the quick detection of the presence, and subsequent absence of precipitation once it has first been detected. When applied to automatic irrigation systems and the like, the invention disables normal operation of the system by interrupting power to the irrigation valves during and after detection of precipitation. The control system includes sensitivity selections to electronically adjust the triggering threshold to precipitation, as well as a decoupled comparator network which compensates for background ambient light levels. Furthermore, the duration of sensed precipitation will determine the disable time period by reprogramming the output delay from a short to a long delay time period, if so desired. The time of the long delay is then user selectable to a plurality of time periods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventors: David L. Klever, M. Thomas Craigo
  • Patent number: 5833137
    Abstract: A view tank including an upper partition plate and a lower partition plate dividing the tank body into an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section. The walls of the middle section are transparent and openable for planting purposes. The lower section is a water storage section, and water is pumped to a fog generating box for generating fog. Excessive water flows down from the upper portion of the middle section. The upper section has a light for illuminating the middle section, and a fan for blowing the hot air in the upper and middle sections to the outer rim of the transparent walls of the middle section so as to remove water moisture on the walls. The respective walls of the three sections may be fabricated into integral units which are then assembled as a whole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Chih-Hsueh Liao
  • Patent number: 5829678
    Abstract: A cleaning cycle generator for an irrigation system having a programmable irrigation controller. When the irrigation controller terminates an on cycle, the cleaning cycle generator of the present invention will initiate a time delay after which it will turn the sprinklers completely on for a timed period. The sprinklers will then be turned off to complete the remainder of the off cycle. The present invention is particularly advantageous in pressure regulated irrigation valves where particles in the water can become trapped between valve seat surfaces that are in close proximity due to the pressure regulation. Leaking throughout the lengthy off cycle of the irrigation system is prevented by flushing out particles while the valve is in the completely open, unregulated state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Hunter Industries Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard E. Hunter, Peter J. Woytowitz
  • Patent number: 5823433
    Abstract: A wind governed sprinkler control system including a sprinkler control unit adapted to provide power upon the actuation thereof. A plurality of sprinklers are connected to the sprinkler control unit and adapted to dispense water upon the receipt of power. A wind detection switch is adapted for allowing the transmission of a wind actuation signal upon the detection of wind. Further provided is a first relay mechanism connected between the sprinkler control unit and the sprinklers and adapted to allow the transmission of power to the sprinklers only during the receipt of a first relay activation signal. Associated therewith is a second relay mechansim connected to the sprinkler control unit and adapted to provide power at an output thereof upon the actuation of the sprinkler control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Tracy L. Harlow
  • Patent number: 5762268
    Abstract: Simulation apparatus for displaying three-dimensional graphics including a device for emitting an aroma generating material in connection therewith and a dispensing apparatus for emitting the aroma generating material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: The BOC Group plc
    Inventors: Evelyn Arthur Shervington, Raymond Cyril Burningham
  • Patent number: 5748466
    Abstract: An adaptable controller for controlling variable numbers of switches is disclosed. Specifically the controller is useful in an irrigation system having a number of water sprinklers whose operation may be controlled by user-defined programs. The system has a processor unit, an interface unit and a number of add-on units. Switches for actuating electrically-operated devices such as sprinklers are located on the interface unit and the add-on units. The controller allows a user to enter operating parameters relating to the switches in the form of the user-defined programs. The processor is capable of ascertaining the number of switches on the interface unit and the add-on units and limiting the number of switches selected and controlled by the user-defined programs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: L. R. Nelson
    Inventors: Patrick T. McGivern, Bradley S. King, Steven Graham
  • Patent number: 5730360
    Abstract: A hand washing apparatus disposed in a trunk of a car is provided and comprises a water tank, a pump, an electromagnetic valve, and a control apparatus. The water tank holds water, and on sensing the hands of a user, the sensor sends a message to the control apparatus. Responsive to the message, the control apparatus activates the electromagnetic valve to open and activates the pump to dispense the water from the water tank, so that the user can wash her or his hands with the water pumped from apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: Tang-Cheng Wang
  • Patent number: 5692679
    Abstract: An air purging system for an oil burner system having at least one fuel burner nozzle is disclosed. The system has a pump having an inlet communicating with the fuel source and an outlet. A control valve is provided for regulating the pressure of the fuel supplied from the pump to the at least one fuel burner nozzle. A control valve has an inlet passage for receiving high pressure fuel from the outlet of the pump, an outlet passage for delivering fuel to the at least one fuel burner nozzles, and a return passage for permitting high pressure fuel not supplied to the one or more fuel burner nozzles to return to the fuel source. The system includes a passageway connecting the pump outlet and the control valve inlet. An air purging assembly is connected on one end to the pump outlet with the other end in communication with the fuel source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: Energy Kinetics, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Marran, Jack F. Marran
  • Patent number: 5662269
    Abstract: A high pressure hot water cleaning system which includes a source of water flowing to a pressure valve to allow the system to come online, providing a tank for receiving the water, the tank having an inner portion, and an outer jacket portion, a water heater, a pump for pressurizing the water, and a pressure wand for flowing the hot, pressurized water for cleaning. The system further provides a means to allow the water to cool when the wand is disengaged. This means includes a flow line from the pump to the inner tank portion of the water tank, where the hot water is cooled by the ambient water in the tank jacket portion, and returning the cooler water into the pump during the idle period. Further, there is provided a timer which is activated by a flow switch when the water flow is interrupted, so that after a period of time of idle time, the system is automatically shut down and must be manually reactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Dale Francis
  • Patent number: 5662135
    Abstract: To solve the problem of the missing homeowner when the residential irrigation system needs the annual start-up or winterizing, electrical connection is made between the standard irrigation timing control unit located inside a building with an irrigation control bypass apparatus attached on an outside surface of the building, the apparatus including a terminal strip in the housing with connector lugs for each of the electrical lines to irrigation zones, sockets connected to reduced amperage current supplied by the timing control unit, and jumper wires to alternatively connect the socket means with a chosen lug on the terminal strip to open the corresponding water line to the irrigation zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: Arthur's Landscaping & Garden Center Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur L. Oppmann, John F. Oppmann, Charles S. Siedlecki