Mobile Distributor Patents (Class 239/722)
  • Publication number: 20040140379
    Abstract: A surface cleaner for assemblies having a spray nozzle such as pressure washers, spray wands, spray lances, and the like. The surface cleaner includes a guide having wheels in line with the spray nozzle for substantially maintaining the distance from the spray nozzle to a surface through a variety of angles assumed by the spray wand or the like. In exemplary embodiments, the guide is capable of being moved up and down the spray lance or the like for control of the cleaning force, and a set of markings may be provided on the guide, the spray lance, or the like for indicating the appropriate distance for the spray nozzle from many different surfaces. Additionally, the guide allows for one handed operation of the spray wand assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Shane Dexter
  • Patent number: 6745959
    Abstract: An irrigator has a single irrigation arm adapted to move in reciprocal rotational motion. In a first setting, the irrigator sprays irrigating liquid at a first orientation with respect to the arm to move the arm in a first direction. In a second setting, the irrigator sprays irrigating liquid at a second orientation with respect to the arm to effect a reversal in the rotational direction of the arm. Alternating mechanisms are provided to alter the arm between the first and second settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Stuart Dundonald Reid
  • Patent number: 6695235
    Abstract: A power washer that is foldable and that may be hung on a wall in the folded configuration. The power washer includes front and rear legs. The front legs and rear legs fold in toward one other and under a prime mover so as to make the power washer more compact when hung. The front legs are formed integral with a handle, and the front legs and handle rotate relative to the prime mover. This feature permits the folded power washer to be hung from the handle, and enables the power washer to be hung so that the prime mover is held in an upright position. The rear legs may be pivotally attached to the front legs, so that folding of the front legs causes a corresponding folding of the rear legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Coleman Powermate, Inc.
    Inventors: Ginnie A. Faller, Andrew J. Johnson, James N. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6685115
    Abstract: A spray nozzle mechanism includes a fluid conduit which has an operating handle on one end and a spray nozzle unit on another end. A linkage connects the operating handle to the spray nozzle unit to move the spray nozzle unit in response to operation of the operating handle. A stop unit limits the movement of the spray nozzle unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel D. Hardin
  • Patent number: 6663028
    Abstract: A wheel track closing assembly is described for use with a drive unit of a mechanized irrigation system. Each of the wheel track closing assemblies includes an elongated rigid arm which is longitudinally and pivotally connected to either the drive wheel or the gearbox for the drive wheel. A replaceable soil-engaging member in the form of oppositely disposed shovels is secured to the free end of the rigid arm for engaging the soil adjacent the wheel track to move the soil into the wheel track to close the same. When the direction of movement of the drive tower is reversed, the drive wheels walk-over the soil-engaging members so that the soil-engaging members are repositioned in a trailing position with respect to the associated drive wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig S. Malsam, Dale A. Christensen
  • Patent number: 6637679
    Abstract: A lawn irrigation system including a frame, a motor, a sprinkler arm, at least one drive wheel, and a cover. The motor is operably attached to the frame. The at least one drive wheel is operably connected to the motor. The sprinkler arm is operably connected to the motor for dispersing water in a selected pattern. The cover is attached to the frame so that the cover at least partially covers the frame, the motor, and the at least one drive wheel so that the lawn irrigation system resembles an object other than a sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: S & S Product Design Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Duncan, Scott A. Dunlap, Stephen Alexander
  • Patent number: 6604697
    Abstract: A self propelled sprinkler is disclosed. The sprinkler has a support body with a drive unit which drives two rear wheels. The drive unit is powered by water pressure supplied through a hose which is coupled to the drive unit via a hose coupler. The drive unit has a cylindrical drive chamber with circular impeller in fluid communication with the hose coupler. The impeller is rotated by the water pressure and is mechanically connected to a lateral shaft. The shaft is connected to the rear wheels. Reduction gearing from the impeller to the shaft governs the speed of the sprinkler. The reduction gearing is achieved through a series of sun gears, carrier disks and planet gears. The drive unit also has an outlet which has a socket which allows the exit of the pressurized water. The socket allows the insertion of any variety of sprinkler heads. Thus, the sprinkler allows a variety of water distribution patterns. The sprinkler is propelled by water pressure rotating the impeller and eventually the rear wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: L. R. Nelson Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence P. Heren, Scott Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6595438
    Abstract: A portable, battery powered spray applicator car wash device capable of holding and dispensing liquid cleansers and waxes for rubbing into the body and windows of a vehicle; thereby, enabling complete and portable mobile washing and cleaning services and complete detailing of a vehicle without the use of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Jung You
  • Patent number: 6565668
    Abstract: The device relates to a method for the cleaning of animal stalls, which have a number of spaces that are to be cleaned by means of an automatic clean device. The method is characterized by the steps of (a) positioning the device in a parking position, in which the device can reach into and clean a first space, (b) cleaning of the first space through manual controlling of the device, (c) the repetition of steps (a) and (b) until all the spaces in the premises which are to be cleaned have been cleaned by the device, programming the device with the movements which were performed during the above-mentioned steps, by means of signals representing these movements which are supplied to a control unit, through registering the movements performed by storage of the steps in a memory which is provided in a control unit which is part of the device, and the use of the contents of the memory during the next cleaning of the same animal stall as a program for the control unit for the automatic controlling of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventors: Jan Sandberg, Bjarne Graff, Anders Lif
  • Publication number: 20030080222
    Abstract: A power washer that is foldable and that may be hung on a wall in the folded configuration. The power washer includes front and rear legs. The front legs and rear legs fold in toward one other and under a prime mover so as to make the power washer more compact when hung. The front legs are formed integral with a handle, and the front legs and handle rotate relative to the prime mover. This feature permits the folded power washer to be hung from the handle, and enables the power washer to be hung so that the prime mover is held in an upright position. The rear legs may be pivotally attached to the front legs, so that folding of the front legs causes a corresponding folding of the rear legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Applicant: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Ginnie A. Faller, Andrew J. Johnson, James N. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6547187
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for deicing, equipment, particularly aircraft. In one embodiment, the system of the present invention may comprise a vehicle frame; a boom having a first end mounted on the vehicle frame and a free end; a lightweight air source disposed above the first end of the boom; and a deicer air jet nozzle located at the boom and operatively coupled to the air source for receiving air and discharging the air for a deicer application, wherein the lightweight air source is located proximate to the deicer air jet nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Clifton L. Foster
  • Publication number: 20030052204
    Abstract: An overcap for use with a spray canister includes a peripheral wall adapted to attach to the spray canister, a cantilevered lever arm hingedly attached to the peripheral wall, and a nozzle within the cantilevered lever arm. The nozzle includes a stem socket adapted to receive a valve stem of the spray canister and adapted to provide a fan-shaped spray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Dale Aberegg, Cathal Fahy, Tracey A. Frosch, Steven A. Zach, Allen D. Miller
  • Patent number: 6527196
    Abstract: A system to produce a high pressure stream of deionized water, for cleaning a body or bodies, comprising, in combination, a deionization bed within a first vessel, a first conduit or conduits to conduct non-deionized water at a relatively low pressure or pressures to pass through the bed to deionize the water, a primary sensor to measure the deionization level of water that has passed through the bed, a second conduit or conduits to conduct water from the bed, a pump to receive water passed by the second conduit or conduits and to pressurize said received water to a level of at least about 1,200 PSI, a nozzle connected to the pump and operable to controllably dispense a high pressure stream of deionized water for highly effective cleaning of said bodies, and a hand truck carrying said vessel, conduits, pump and nozzle for transporting same to the location of said body or bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Ionman Wash Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen D. Ehrick, David A. Ehrick
  • Publication number: 20030029943
    Abstract: A wheel track closing assembly is described for use with a drive unit of a mechanized irrigation system. Each of the wheel track closing assemblies includes an elongated rigid arm which is longitudinally and pivotally connected to either the drive wheel or the gearbox for the drive wheel. A replaceable soil-engaging member in the form of oppositely disposed shovels is secured to the free end of the rigid arm for engaging the soil adjacent the wheel track to move the soil into the wheel track to close the same. When the direction of movement of the drive tower is reversed, the drive wheels walk-over the soil-engaging members so that the soil-engaging members are repositioned in a trailing position with respect to the associated drive wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Craig S. Malsam, Dale A. Christensen
  • Publication number: 20030006323
    Abstract: An irrigator (A) for distributing a constant depth of fluid as the irrigator (A) moves over an area. The irrigator (A) has a moveable nozzle boom arm (9), a winch (15) with cable (15a) and a governor (B). The governor (B) is connected to the moveable nozzle boom arm (9) and to the winch (15). In use the governor (B) controls the speed of winch (15) and the speed and movement of the moveable nozzle boom arm 9, so that application depth of liquid being applied by the irrigator (A) can be kept substantially constant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Stuart Dundonald Reid
  • Publication number: 20020190138
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a pavement surface with a plurality of layers in a single pass, including: a chassis having a forward end and a rear end; a plurality of rolling means spaced longitudinally along the chassis for supporting the chassis so it can roll along a particular direction of advance; a powerplant for moving the chassis along the direction of advance; a first storage tank mounted on the chassis for containing bituminous sealant; a second storage tank mounted on the chassis for containing bituminous emulsion; a main hopper mounted on the chassis for storing aggregate particles; a first mechanism in flow communication with the first storage tank for applying a layer of bituminous sealant at a predetermined temperature and application rate on the pavement surface; a second mechanism in flow communication with the second storage tank for applying a layer of bituminous emulsion at a predetermined temperature and application rate on the layer of bituminous sealant, wherein a thermal reaction occurs be
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Phillip Rand Terry
  • Patent number: 6450420
    Abstract: A disinfectant spraying apparatus is disclosed for mounting on a vehicle for spraying disinfectant on each tire of a vehicle before and after entering a livestock farm. The apparatus includes a container for containing the disinfectant, the container being mounted on the vehicle. A pump is disposed in fluid communication with the container for pumping the disinfectant from the container and a motor is provided for driving the pump. A manually operated switch is provided for selectively connecting the motor to a source of power such that when the switch is disposed in an operative disposition thereof, the motor is energized so that the motor drives the pump for generating a flow of the disinfectant downstream from the pump. A flow splitter is included for splitting the flow of the disinfectant pumped by the pump from the container such that the flow is split into a plurality of flow lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Monroe Truck Equipment Inc.
    Inventors: Donavon G Gerber, Andrew M Holverson, Rodney J. La Combe
  • Publication number: 20020117563
    Abstract: A method for suppressing dissemination of dust from a pile of dust-producing bulk material, such as a pile of petroleum coke. The pile has a surface. The method comprises placing a sprayer apparatus on the pile, and discharging a liquid from the sprayer in a manner to distribute the liquid to at least an area of the surface of the pile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Applicant: Benetech, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy R. Lulewicz
  • Patent number: 6435129
    Abstract: A device for inserting a utility marker is described that includes an elongated handle with upper and lower ends; a marker extractor adjacent the handle lower end that is moveable along a vertical pathway, and a marker magazine adjacent the handle lower end adapted to hold a plurality of stacked markers including a leading marker adjacent said marker extractor pathway. The extractor, when moved to its extended position by pushing on the plunger, extracts the leading marker from the stacked markers, and inserts the lower end of the marker into the ground. Simultaneously, a valve actuator at the lower end of the handle is moved to an operative position to open the valve of an aerosol can, spraying paint adjacent the marker. A unique marker for use with the device is also described, the marker including an extraction projection that is engageable by the lower end of the marker extractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: James C. McDonald, Edward J. Kreul, Stephen M. Miller
  • Patent number: 6394370
    Abstract: A wash apparatus for automotive vehicles includes a plurality of reciprocating wands which are driven by a compact drive/linkage system to move the wands in unitary reciprocating motion as a vehicle is moved adjacent thereto. Each wand has a turbo nozzle that emits a stream of liquid in a circulating conical path which in cooperation with the reciprocating movement of the wands on which the nozzles are rotated creates a desired cleaning action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Mark VII Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Don L. Payne, James D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6390391
    Abstract: A sprinkler apparatus for transferring water from a supply hose to a ground surface. The sprinkler apparatus includes a conical-shaped main body member with a plurality of apertures around the outer surface for watering close to the sprinkler, and a retractable spray nozzle on the top for covering the area surrounding the sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Joyce Ulin
  • Publication number: 20020030128
    Abstract: An irrigator has a single irrigation arm adapted to move in reciprocal rotational motion. In a first setting, the irrigator sprays irrigating liquid at a first orientation with respect to the arm to move the arm in a first direction. In a second setting, the irrigator sprays irrigating liquid at a second orientation with respect to the arm to effect a reversal in the rotational direction of the arm. Means are provided to alter the arm between the first and second settings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: Stuart Dundonald Reid
  • Patent number: 6343749
    Abstract: A mobile drip irrigation system includes an existing mobile irrigation system with the sprinkler heads removed and drip lines connected to the locations of the removed sprinkler heads. Each drip line includes a drop line extending from the irrigation system supply pipe, generally vertically to a lower end spaced slightly above the ground. A drip hose is connected to the lower end of each drop line and has a plurality of drip irrigation emitters along the length thereof. A weight is attached to the lower end of each drop line to maintain the drop line in a generally vertical orientation as the irrigation system moves through the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: T-L Irrigation Company
    Inventor: David W. Thom
  • Publication number: 20020008167
    Abstract: A ground based remote sensing system for use in conjunction with agricultural irrigation systems. The ground based remote sensing system includes a sensor package mounted to a carriage for movement along a track attached to the agricultural irrigation system. The track is triangular in cross section and includes springs between abutting sections so that travel of the carriage along the track will not be compromised by misalignment between the abutting sections. The sensor package is mounted to the carriage by a mount which acts to ensure that the sensor package remains in a predetermined orientation with respect to the agricultural crop from which data is being gathered. The mount also includes an inclinometer to permit correction of agricultural data gathering errors due to misalignment of the sensor package with respect to the agricultural crop. The ground based remote sensing system also includes conducting rails to transmit energy from a speed control circuit to the carriage motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: Julio A. Haberland, Charles W. DeFer, Peter M. Waller, Christopher Y. Choi, Paul D. Colaizzi, Michael A. Kostrzewski
  • Publication number: 20020005443
    Abstract: An apparatus for watering plants has a movable beam carrying several valves for dispersing water. At least some of the valves include a mechanism for sensing water flow and a regulator for adjusting the degree of opening of the valve until the actual flow corresponds to a selected flow value which is determined by a central control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventor: Arno Drechsel
  • Publication number: 20020003173
    Abstract: A machine (10) that can clean and spray coat the inside of a hollow pipe (14) can contain a support bar (16) and associated motors (6 and 8) with a moveable carriage (12) which mounts a thermal spray coating device (28) and/or an abrasion cleaning/profiling head (30) where a programmable controller external to the pipe is capable of controlling the motors (6 and 8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Applicant: Siemens Westinghouse Power Corporation
    Inventors: James Alan Bauer, George Franklin Dailey, Mark William Fischer, Dwight Owen Willaman, Michael J. Metala
  • Publication number: 20010038041
    Abstract: A pressure sprayer is pressurized automatically with movement of the sprayer and maintains adequate pressure during non-movement to allow the ejection of an amount of liquid before needing re-pressurization. The pressure sprayer includes wheels that allow the pressure sprayer to be mobile. A cam is attached to the axle of the wheels which rotates with the rotation of the axle/wheels. A pressure pump is associated with the cam such that movement of the cam causes the pressure pump to pump liquid from a holding tank to an accumulator or directly to a spray wand in communication with the pump. The liquid may be sprayed (ejected) from the accumulator during both movement (pumping) and non-movement (no pumping) of the sprayer, while the liquid may be directly sprayed from the holding tank only during movement (pumping) thereof. Thus, as the wheels rotate due to moving the pressure sprayer, the cam causes movement of the pressure pump to fill the accumulator with the liquid under pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Rick L. Leer, Scott A. Walker
  • Publication number: 20010025894
    Abstract: A high torque driveline coupler is provided for use in the driveline between a drive motor and a wheel drive of a sprinkler irrigation system. The coupler has first and second yoke assemblies with intermeshed pairs of legs, and a floating rubber member with radially extending arms positioned between the intermeshed legs of the yoke assemblies. The legs of the yoke assemblies and the floating rubber member are arranged to allow the coupler to be quickly and easily coupled and decoupled without the use of separate means for securing the yoke assemblies together. The coupler has a unique alignment system for aligning the floating member with the yoke assemblies. The alignment system includes first and second recesses formed in opposite sides of a center portion of the floating rubber member, and first and second projections extending from the first and second yoke assemblies, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Applicant: Reinke Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley G. Weatherl, Darin J. Neff
  • Patent number: 6289995
    Abstract: A rough terrain, large water volume, track driven firefighting vehicle with tracked running gear for all terrain capability, having a large onboard water tank, a universal nozzle and heat shields cooled by a system of standoff sprinklers behind the shields, a forward spraying sprinkler and an operator's compartment having controls for operating the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventor: Homer M. Fuller
  • Patent number: 6279589
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning and disinfecting containers, such as elongated, walled containers, such as truck trailers, rail cars, airplane holds, or ship containers, generally comprises a rolling trolley which produces a disinfecting mixture of ozone and water at high pressure and delivers the disinfectant by a hose to a rolling dolly which enters into the container. The trolley supports the dolly at a height conductive for entry into the container. The dolly is manually pushed into the container. Rotating spray nozzles on the dolly deliver the disinfectant at high pressure to the inside walls of the container. The nozzles are directed at an angle fore or aft of their radius of rotation such that the spray strikes the wall of the container at a sheer angle. Hose retrieval apparatus on the trolley retrieves the hose so as to pull the dolly from the container at a desired speed, thereby controlling the cleaning/disinfecting rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: AG Tech International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark D. Goodley
  • Publication number: 20010011521
    Abstract: A glass sealer spray system for vehicle, the system comprising: an air controller; a sealer spray frame mounted with the air controller at one side thereof; glass contact rollers each mounted at left and right side of the sealer spray frame; a spray nozzle unit movably mounted at the sealer spray frame which is a midsection of the glass contact roller; a glass press roller unit rotated by power transmitted to one side of the spray nozzle; and a variable motor unit disposed underneath the sealer spray frame for transmitting power to the glass press roller unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Publication date: August 9, 2001
    Inventor: Kyu-Tag Cho
  • Patent number: 6267308
    Abstract: A nozzle assembly connectable to a pressure washer water output line that is adapted for cleaning curbs. The curb cleaner nozzle assembly includes multiple nozzles that are oriented at different angles and are adjustable by the user to the desired orientation to most effectively clean a particular curb. The nozzle assembly is mounted onto a wheeled support structure to allow the nozzle assembly to be moved along the curb while supporting the nozzles at the correct orientation and spacing for optimal cleaning of the curb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Tommy Hall
  • Patent number: 6247658
    Abstract: A stowable device for washing the underside and wheel well regions of a vehicle includes a base member joined at one end to a handle member such that the angle between the members can vary. A water jet disposed adjacent the distal end of the base member has a slit-like outlet. A length of flexible tubing couples the water jet to a trigger handle and waterjet valve located on the free end of the handle member. A source of water is coupled to the trigger handle, and passes through the flexible tubing and out the waterjet when the user presses the water jet valve. At least one non-swivelling wheel assembly is attached to the base member. The ratio between the length of the base member and the width of the wheel assembly preferably exceeds about 20:1 to promote maneuverability of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventor: John Bakas
  • Patent number: 6237863
    Abstract: A sealed worm wheel gearbox is provided having a worm disposed on a driveshaft. The worm engages a bull gear within the gearbox. Eccentric rotatable driveshaft mounts are mounted on opposite sides of the gearbox to support the driveshaft. The driveshaft axis of rotation is offset from the eccentric rotatable driveshaft mount axis of rotation. Thus, when the eccentric shaft mounts are rotated, the driveshaft moves linearly within the gearbox. In this way, rotation of the eccentric shaft mounts enables engagement and disengagement of the worm and bull gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: William F. Smith
  • Patent number: 6158678
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus designed to apply cleaning fluids to all types of surfaces and to apply those fluids to vertical, horizontal, angled, and overhead surfaces. The apparatus is designed so that it is able to glide easily over uneven or irregular surfaces. This is possible, in part, because the section of the washing apparatus that dispenses the cleaning fluid is kept in a spaced relationship to the surface being cleaned by the pressure of the cleaning fluid. The apparatus of the present invention includes a spraying unit, a support assembly and a bottom control unit. The spraying unit includes a housing, a swivel, and a spray bar having nozzles rotatably connected the housing. The support assembly includes an adjustable pole hingedly connected to the spraying unit at one end. The bottom control unit includes a base that is hingedly connected to the pole at its other end. At least one high pressure fluid line is connected to the spray bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Sky Robotics, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael R. Lange
  • Patent number: 6131831
    Abstract: An improved portable automobile undercarriage washing/cleaning device consisting of an ovoid, bowl-like body portion on the top surface of which is centered a detachable water spray nozzle and an accompanying nearby small tube, which itself connects the interior fluid chamber/reservoir, the fluid consisting of a mixture of detergent and water, with the exterior of the body, the same tube directing a pressurized mixture of detergent and water into the water spray pattern emanating from the nozzle, the mixture then being admixed with the spray, the whole of which when attached via a side connection on the body, to a rigid, non-flexible water pipe, which is itself connected to a garden-type hose via a pistol-grip water control valve, produces a pressurized water spray pattern capable of removing accumulated road salt and debris deposited onto the underside of an automobile or other wheeled vehicle and effecting a rapid removal of the debris from the undercarriage of the automobile or other wheeled vehicle and it
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: John S. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 6131832
    Abstract: The manual watering boom comprises of a wheeled frame, a water delivery system, and a handle. The wheeled frame comprises of a horizontal beam, at least two support structures, and a wheel assembly. The horizontal beam has a first and a second end and at least two adjustable brackets are connected to it. Each support structure has a front and rear shaft, and attaches to the horizontal beam raising the horizontal beam to an elevated position. The wheel assembly attaches to each shaft and comprises of an axle and a wheel. The water delivery system comprises of a water delivery pipe and multiple irrigation outlets. The water delivery pipe is supported by the adjustable brackets and is in fluid communication with the water inlet. The multiple irrigation outlets are spaced longitudinally along the water pipe for delivering water in overlapping spray patterns. The handle comprises of a handle joint and a steering handle. The handle joint is attached to the horizontal beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: John J. Murphy
  • Patent number: 6126084
    Abstract: A method serving the purpose of spraying a crop with a plant protective liquid. The liquid is sent out in the shape of a number of clouds (10) of atomized liquid in the direction of the crop (11) via a number of liquid nozzles (9) placed on a sprayer boom (8) which, at the same time, is driven across the crop (11). The nozzles (9) are adjusted to put each atomized liquid cloud (10) into whirling movement. The whirls (10) created thereby are stiff and stable against drifting. The liquid whirls (10) can be supported by a curtain of air whirls (14). By means of the method and the sprayer boom according to the invention, a crop can be sprayed efficiently with a minimum use of crop spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Albert Hedegaard
  • Patent number: 6116527
    Abstract: The invention is a device for installation in a conventional center-pivot irrigation system commonly found in agriculture which prevents ruts caused by the movement of the wheels in the drive mechanism of the irrigation system by re-directing the flow of water from the front of the drive mechanism of the irrigation system to the rear of the system thus enabling the wheels of the drive mechanism to travel of dry soil instead of freshly irrigated soil in the field. The invention consists of water pipe, quick connect attachments, a reciprocating sprinkler head, support struts and connecting ports for the drop lines supplied by the center-pivot irrigation system nearest the drive mechanism of the irrigation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventors: Ed W. Granger, Donald L. Rose
  • Patent number: 6092736
    Abstract: A portable athletic field water fountain consisting of a base frame having a plurality of inwardly facing walls; a floor fixedly attached to and positioned upon the base frame so that the upper surface of the floor spans between the inwardly facing walls of the base frame, and so that such inwardly facing walls extend upwardly from the upper surface of the floor, the floor and the inwardly facing walls of the base frame forming a water collection basin; a pallet positioned within the water collection basin, the pallet being adapted for supporting an athlete standing thereon and elevating the athlete above water within the water collection basin; wheels extending downwardly from the lower surface of the base frame; a tube having a plurality of water emission apertures; and a tube support frame, positioning the tube over the basin so that water emitted from the tube falls into the water collection basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Terry L. Conkle
  • Patent number: 6079640
    Abstract: An auto underwasher for cleaning the underside of an automobile, comprising a 1/2" malleable metal alloy pipe approximately 6.5 feet in length and having a generally modified-Z shaped body. The user grasps one end of the device by vinyl grips attached to the top and middle legs of the device, the top leg being connected to a liquid cleaner supply source. The bottom leg of the device has a crimped and sealed end forming a nozzle with a plurality of jets aligned longitudinally. The length of the middle leg permits the user to stand upright while extending the bottom leg to direct the spray under the automobile body, removing dirt, road salts, and chemicals which might otherwise corrode the exposed undercarriage of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Gary W. Merritts
  • Patent number: 6068197
    Abstract: A pivoting lateral move irrigation system which operates to water in the pivot mode. The irrigation system includes a conduit extending over the field to be irrigated, and a series of support towers which are spaced along the length of the conduit and support the conduit. The power tower is designed for lateral movement and includes a pivoting top according to the present invention. In the preferred embodiment, the irrigation system is a ditch fed system which moves laterally to a canal or ditch, from which water is obtained for irrigation. The power panel includes switches to allow the machine to pivot at the end or corner of the canal. According to the present invention, during pivoting, the irrigation system operates to irrigate, i.e., provide water to the field, during the pivot operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Hlavinka Equipment Company
    Inventor: Harold N. Tolson
  • Patent number: 6062486
    Abstract: The cleaning system includes a portable water tank, pump, and nozzle member for cleaning air conditioning coils with water at a high volume and low pressure. In the preferred embodiment the system is to be operated to spray water within a range of about 15 to 46 gallons per minute at a pressure of about 350 to 850 psi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Frank Hill
  • Patent number: 6045064
    Abstract: A garden hose attachment for cleaning an underside of a vehicle is provided including at least one elongated rigid tube having a pair of ends. At least one elbow conduit is coupled to one of the ends of the rigid tube. A spray nozzle is connected to the elbow conduit. Also included is a spray gun mounted to one of the ends of the rigid tube. Upon the depression of a trigger of the spray gun, water is sprayed from the spray nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Michael A. Abraham
  • Patent number: 6045092
    Abstract: An apparatus for deicing aircraft includes a vehicle frame, such as part of a truck, and a boom having one end mounted on the vehicle frame and a free end. A compressor unit is mounted on the boom and includes a hydraulic motor having an output and a centrifugal compressor operatively connected to the hydraulic motor output. A deicer air jet nozzle is connected at the free end of the boom and operatively coupled to the air outlet of the centrifugal compressor for receiving air and discharging the air for a deicer application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Clifton L. Foster
  • Patent number: 6039265
    Abstract: A portable snow making system for home use which is mounted on a wagon for easy portability. An elongated telescoping support pole is detachably supported from the base of the wagon and a snow making gun is mounted on the upper end of this support pole. Snow making nozzles are provided in the gun for ejecting air and water under pressure into the ambient subfreezing atmosphere for manufacturing snow. A high pressure water pump and an air compressor are also mounted on the wagon to provide sources of water and air under pressure to the snow gun. The snow gun is provided with a housing with a water inlet and an air supply tube passes through this housing for exposure of its exterior surfaces to the interior of the housing in order to warm the air tube and prevent freeze-up of the air tube and the air nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventors: Herman K. Dupre, Charles N. Santry
  • Patent number: 5967162
    Abstract: A mobile shelter which provides a canopy that protects from sun and rain. The canopy is mounted on a series of curved rib units that are connected to a triangular support system which is attached at each end to a truncated A-Frame support on wheels. The shelter is high enough to provide adequate clearance for activities such as golf. The shelter can span distances of up to 200 feet or more, and the canopy may be retractable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Mark Alan Bolton
  • Patent number: 5908163
    Abstract: Apparatus for spraying a fluid under pressure upward onto an undercarriage of a vehicle and downward onto an upward-facing surface. The apparatus includes a conduit adapted for connection to a pressurized fluid source for delivering fluid under pressure from the source and a spray assembly connected to the conduit for movement between an upward spraying position for spraying pressurized fluid toward an undercarriage of a vehicle and a downward spraying position for spraying pressurized fluid toward an upward-facing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph H. Wells
  • Patent number: 5878926
    Abstract: An assembly for spraying a poultry house or the like with liquid biocide having a frame on which there is a spray manifold connectable to a biocide supply hose, the frame having a single front support in the form of a wheel or a skid and two rear supports in the form of skids, the frame being triangular and having lateral deflector plates mounted on its periphery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Clark Pest Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan G. Schmidt, Ronald A. Fair, Robert D. Baker
  • Patent number: 5820037
    Abstract: A portable automobile undercarriage washing/cleaning device consisting of an inverted bowl-like body portion featuring a water spray nozzle on the top face and a connection for a rigid, non-flexible water pipe on the side of the body, the water pipe ending in a water control valve, and casters underneath of the body and attached to the body, which when all of the components are connected together and secured to a standard garden-type hose, results in a pressurized water spray pattern capable of being delivered to the undercarriage of an automobile, or other wheeled vehicle, the pressurized water spray being used to remove accumulated mud or road salt from the undercarriage of the vehicle, which was deposited on the undercarriage of the vehicle under normal driving conditions on debris-ladened readways and effecting the rapid removal of the debris from the undercarriage and its related structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: John S. Lawrence