Abstract: A fuel injector, in particular an injector for fuel injection systems in internal combustion engines, includes a valve needle (6) having a valve-closure member (7) which cooperates with a valve-seat surface (8) situated in valve-seat member (5) to form a sealing seat (9) and which has several injection orifices (4, 12) which are situated downstream from the sealing seat (9), and are sealed by sealing seat (9) against a fuel supply. A disk element (10) is arranged downstream from the sealing seat (9), the disk element (10) having at least one valve section (11), which changes its shape when the temperature changes. Valve section (11) is connected to a heating element (13) and is possibly covering an injection orifice (12).

Abstract: A fluid dispensing system for monitoring a weight of a fluid dispensed by a fluid dispenser. A first monitoring device determines a first flow characteristic, for example, pressure, of the pressurized fluid flowing through the fluid dispenser; and a second monitoring device determines a second flow characteristic, for example, viscosity, of the pressurized fluid flowing through the fluid dispenser. A monitor control produces an output representing a weight of the fluid dispensed by the fluid dispenser as a function of the first and second flow characteristics. The monitor control also stores values relating to a size of an orifice through which the pressurized fluid is dispensed and a density of the pressurized fluid. The weight value is determined as a function of the orifice size and the density values. The present invention also includes a method of monitoring a weight of a fluid being dispensed by a fluid dispenser.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system capable of accurately monitoring each of a plurality of snowmakers of ice crushing type which are placed on a skiing ground. The system has a monitoring device, which is placed in a monitoring station of the skiing ground and is connected to each of the snowmakers for monitoring an operational state of each of the snowmakers. The system further includes an external monitoring device provided in an external monitoring station located in a remote place from skiing grounds. The external monitoring device is capable of monitoring an operational state of each of the snowmakers in a selected skiing ground, since it can be selectively connected to the monitoring device placed in each skiing ground.

Abstract: A fuel injection device is so constructed that fuel fed from a pressure storage chamber to a valve housing (11) with a nozzle (14) is led to a needle valve back pressure chamber (16) through a groove (21) provided on the peripheral surface of a needle valve (17); a fuel pressure in the back pressure chamber (16) is controlled by opening and closing a pressure regulating port (13) provided in the valve housing by a pilot valve (38) so as to move the needle valve, whereby the nozzle is opened and closed. The pressure regulating port is opened and closed by a drive control of the pilot valve with a valve drive unit by means of elongation and contraction of the magnetostrictive rods attributable by the action of an external magnetic field. The magnetostrictive rods, consisting of first and second magnetostrictive rods (34 and 35), are axially arranged side by side in parallel to the pilot valve.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for heating spray equipment hoses used during inclement weather can heat water, or other medium, to a desired temperature, circulate the heated water in thermal contact with, but separated from, the spray equipment hoses to heat the material therein and generally maintain the material at an appropriate temperature to facilitate spraying.

Abstract: An electrical thermal glass ampoule for fire fighting sprinkler is disclosed. The ampoule(200) according to the present invention comprises a closed hollow cylindrical glass casing(100), an electrically heating coil(120) installed inside of said glass casing, a negative electrode(140) provided on outer surface at bottom end of said casing and electrically connected with one end of said coil, a positive electrode(142) provided on outer surface at side wall of said casing and electrically connected with the other end of said coil, and heat expansive gas(G) entrapped inside the casing. The glass ampoule(200) can be precisely manufactured as a single body integrated with a thermal coil(120) inside of the casing, have good install handiness due to no necessity of coil being wound around the ampoule and has long term duration because the coil(120) is installed inside the glass casing(100) and, thus can be prevented from corrosion.

Abstract: A method for aromatherapy including recirculating shower water on a body of a bather, the shower water including at least one aromatherapy substance.

Abstract: In an injection nozzle (10) for a fuel injection system, having a pressure chamber (26) which is provided with a fluid inlet (24) and a fluid outlet (30), having a valve seat (32) around the fluid outlet, having a valve element (34) which can contact the valve seat, so that the fluid outlet is closed, and having a piezoelectric actuator (40), which is provided with an actuation extension (42) that can engage the valve element, a temperature compensation is to be attained at little effort. To that end, it is provided that a displaceable wall part (28) is provided, on which the valve seat is embodied and which defines the pressure chamber on the side of the valve seat, and that a temperature compensation element (44) is provided, which cooperates with the displaceable wall part and displaces it in accordance with a temperature-dictated change in length of the piezoelectric actuator.

Abstract: A fuel injector comprises a body having a longitudinal axis, a length-changing solid state actuator that has first and second ends, a closure member coupled to the first end of the solid state actuator, and a compensator assembly coupled the second end of the solid state actuator. The solid state actuator includes a plurality of solid state elements along the axis between the first and second ends. The closure member is movable between a first configuration permitting fuel injection and a second configuration preventing fuel injection. And the compensator assembly axially positions the solid state actuator with respect to the body in response to temperature variation. The compensator assembly utilizes a configuration of at least one spring disposed between two pistons so as to reduce the use of elastomer seals to thereby reduce a slip stick effect.

Abstract: A sprayer device may receive water from a water reservoir, and includes a light device, and a device for actuating the light device with the water flowing through the sprayer device. The light device may be energized to light the mist or the spraying water out of the sprayer device for decorative purposes. The sprayer device includes a barrel coupled to the water reservoir. A switch device includes two conductor blades disposed in the barrel and coupled to the light device for being actuated by the water flowing through the barrel.

Abstract: A self-contained thermo-mechanically self-opening steam head that is normally generally flush with a supporting steam room wall when not in use so as not to pose a safety hazard. The steam head has a mechanical thermostat that automatically responds to the presence of heat as from steam to move a deflector plate, which normally generally blocks a steam outlet from the head, to an open position. That open position is spaced from but closely in front of the steam outlet. This allows steam to flow out of the outlet, but the deflector plate diverts the outward steam flow to a direction generally along the supporting wall. When the steam is shut off, the thermostat cools and thereby causes the deflector plate to return to its closed, blocking position. There is no electrical wiring or connection which could pose a major safety hazard in the presence of water.

Abstract: A fluid-activatable shut-off device, configured as a shut-off valve, has a valve housing formed with a flow passage therethrough and a movably supported valve body, which is movable between an open valve position and a closed valve position. In the open valve position, the valve body is mainly withdrawn from the flow passage, which is thereby essentially cleared. In the closed valve position, the valve body blocks the flow passage. The valve body is arranged to close the valve by abnormal flow conditions by a portion being formed so that the flowing fluid provides a lifting force which affects the valve body and seeks to move it towards the closed position. The valve body may thereby close by an abnormal increase in the fluid flow rate, density or viscosity. The portion may also be supported by an expansion pad arranged to push the lifting surface further into the flow passage as a consequence of changes in the fluid pressure and/or temperature, thereby providing increased lift so that the valve body closes.

Abstract: A method and device are disclosed for monitoring lacquer consumption per can in a lacquer application unit. The device includes a counter providing can number data on the number of cans being applied with lacquer in the application unit; a tank for intermediate storage of lacquer; a lacquer feeder for feeding lacquer from a lacquer reservoir to the tank through an inlet pipe; and a lacquer feeder for feeding lacquer from the tank to the application unit. A valve is provided in the inlet pipe for intermittent movement between a closed position and an open position, in which lacquer is admitted into the tank. A flow meter is arranged to provide flow rate data on the amount of lacquer flowing into the tank.

Abstract: A mobile, real-time, closed-loop system and method for delivering an aerosol insecticide spray to a treatment area during a treatment period of time employs a prime mover having a spray nozzle through which an air volume is produced in order to entrain insecticide as particles in an airstream passing out of the nozzle. A particle size detector, weather centers and an electronic controller are used to regulate the amount of insecticide and particle size dependent upon speed of the prime mover and weather conditions at the treatment area.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for heating or cooling material having poor thermal conductivity, especially medium-consistency fiber suspensions. The material is directed, substantially as a plug flow, at a velocity below 5 m/s (e.g. 0.1-1 m/s) through an apparatus formed by a flow channel provided with heat exchange surfaces. The flow of the material is throttled at a throttling point by a more than 30% reduction in the cross-sectional area of the channel. After throttling, the material is discharged from the throttling point in such a manner that another portion of the material contacts the heat exchange surfaces.

Abstract: A sprinkler head includes a body having one end adapted for connection to a supply of pressurized fluid and the other end closed by a valve element, and a thermally responsive assembly for normally holding the valve element in a closed position and opening the valve element at a preset temperature to cause the pressurized fluid to flow out of the other end of the body. The thermally responsive assembly includes a holder and a fusible alloy contained within the holder and held in place by a plunger. The fusible alloy is free of lead and/or cadmium and includes at least two materials selected from the group consisting of tin, bismuth, indium, zinc, gallium and silver.

Abstract: A fluid pressure and heat sensitive flow control valve interposed in a flow line includes a collapsible pin, normally maintaining the valve open, which collapses to close the valve in response to fluid pressure above a predetermined limit and includes a fusible plug which melts in event of a fire, releasing the pin to allow fluid pressure to close the valve.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for making snow. The method includes discharging a supply of pressurized water in ambient air, discharging a supply of pressurized air in ambient air, and controlling the discharge of the supply of pressurized water and/or the discharge of the supply of pressurized air to regulate a ratio of water to air, to more efficiently make snow over a range of ambient temperatures.

Abstract: A liquid processing apparatus is provided to improve its processing efficiency, together with a liquid processing method. The apparatus is capable of both reduction in temperature-variation of a processing liquid at processing and shortening for temperature-recovery of the processing liquid. Further, the liquid processing apparatus can facilitate the establishment of respective designated temperatures for different processes and carry out different processes continuously and effectively. The apparatus includes an inner cylinder 25 to accommodate semiconductor wafers W and a chemical supply unit 50 to supply the semiconductor wafers W in an inner cylindrical chamber 23 with a chemical liquid. The apparatus further includes a case heat exchanger 90 arranged in an outer peripheral position of the inner cylinder 25 and allowing a temperature-adjustment medium to flow and a medium supplier 100 to supply the regulator 90 with the temperature-adjustment medium.

Abstract: A spinning wash nozzle assembly having a fluid brake pump within the rotating spinner housing. The fluid pump has a sump which is also within the rotating spinner housing such that centrifical forces acting on the fluid tend to separate the heavier fluid from any air within the sump. As a result, only the fluid is drawn into the pump as opposed to fluid and air. This avoids undesirable effects on the pump from air being drawn therein.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for optimizing the injecting of NOx inhibiting liquid reagent into the flue gas of a utility or industrial type boiler to reduce emissions of NOx including a temperature sensor for measuring the boiler flue gas temperature and a moveable conduit for injecting the NOx inhibiting reagent into the flue gas at a sensed predetermined temperature range.

Abstract: Valve, in particular glue valve, having a magnetostrictive actuator (14) for actuating a closure member (15) in consequence of a change in a magnetic field. In order to nullify the effects of uncontrolled changes in length of the actuator (14), in particular in consequence of temperature fluctuations, the actuator (14) is connected to a holder, more specifically a holding block (23), which can be moved with inertia.

Abstract: A method of monitoring and regulating the viscosity of paint in an automotive paint application is provided. The method includes delivering paint to the paint application system with a pump. Continuously monitoring the pressure that the paint is delivered to the paint application by the pump. Returning the paint which is not applied to the automotive vehicle by the paint application system through a return line. Continuously monitoring the pressure of the paint flowing through the return line. Continuously calculating the viscosity from the pressure differential between the delivery pressure and the return line pressure and the flow rate in the return line and the fluid resistance of the paint application system to determine the viscosity of the paint. Delivering the paint from the return line to a sump. Selectively adding thinners to the paint to cause the paint to have a predetermined level of viscosity.

Abstract: A new fluid temperature control for a heated fluid cleaner with multiple outlets for maintaining the temperature of the discharge fluid when multiple outlets of the heated fluid cleaner are opened. The inventive device includes a fluid reservoir for containing a supply of fluid, at least one pump for suctioning fluid from the fluid reservoir. A heater is also in fluid communication with the pump for heating a flow of fluid received therefrom. The heater preferably comprises a combustible fuel heater and has a fuel conduit fluidly connecting the heater to a fuel reservoir. An outlet conduit is fluidly connected to the heater for receiving heated fluid therefrom. The outlet conduit has a plurality of outlets for discharging fluid therefrom. A heater control device is provided for controlling the temperature of the fluid exiting the heater such that it is maintained at a constant predetermined temperature when more than one outlet is opened.

Abstract: A nozzle for spraying deicing liquid onto surfaces lies flush with surfaces to prevent obstruction of surface treatment. The nozzles may be integral nozzles formed with the surface and may have relief channels designed to spread spray into a stream or a flatter pattern by adsorption of the streaming spray to the relief channel. The nozzles may be adapted for mounting and have an alignment base. An integral check valve and a flow switch are provided in the system. Additionally, either combined with the movement of the nozzle assembly or independently, a pump is regulated to vary the substance flow and pressure to get the desired spray distance and droplet size. Different programs may drive the nozzle and pump assembly depending on the target surface and rheology of the substance under the conditions to be sprayed. The nozzle may be of composite material, stainless or other metal, cast or molded.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of distributing a liquid composition over the ground from travelling equipment, the composition comprising an active ingredient, in which method the concentration of the active ingredient in the liquid composition is varied in dependence on the speed of the travelling equipment over the ground, the liquid composition also comprising a viscosity modifying agent, the method comprising varying the relative proportion of the viscosity modifying agent in the liquid composition in dependence on the speed of the travelling equipment, thereby to control the viscosity of the liquid composition. Also disclosed is equipment for use in the aforesaid method.

Abstract: A cleaner with temperature control is provided including a fluid tank for containing a supply of water and at least one pump for suctioning water from the fluid tank. Also included is a heating element in communication with the pump for heating water received therefrom. A heating element control mechanism is provided for controlling the temperature of the water exiting the heating element such that it transitions smoothly to a constant predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A duct made of flexible material, comprising a plurality of spaced dispensers and regulator valves. Each dispenser is provided with two ports, one for ground dispensing and the other one for over-the-crop dispensing; the ports are controlled by respective differential membrane valves. The ports are supplied by separate system sections, one at low pressure and the other one at high pressure, which comprise respective pipes which are supplied by corresponding motorized pump units at low and high pressure respectively; the pipes are joined in a single duct with side-by-side passages provided with a cross-section shaped substantially like a figure-of-eight.

Abstract: A suck back valve is equipped with a second valve by which a flow amount of a pressurized fluid, which is sucked by a third diaphragm, is electrically controlled based on an output of activation and deactivation signals from a main controller. The suck back valve further includes an encoder which detects a displacement amount of the third diaphragm, and outputs a detection signal thereof to the main controller.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a valve assembly suitable for use on a pressure washer pump. The valve assembly includes an unloader valve having an inlet port sized and configured to be connected directly to the pressure washer pump. The unloader valve also includes an outlet port sized and configured to be placed in fluid communication with a release mechanism. The unloader valve further includes a bypass port sized and configured to be placed in fluid communication with the pressure washer pump. Finally, the valve assembly also includes a thermal relief valve connected directly to the unloader valve at a location generally opposite from the bypass port.

Abstract: A suck back valve is proposed, comprising a suck back mechanism for sucking a coating liquid inside a fluid passage under a negative pressure action of a diaphragm displaced by a pilot pressure, an ON/OFF valve for opening and closing the fluid passage under action of the pilot pressure, and a flow amount control device for controlling the pilot pressure supplied to the ON/OFF valve.

Abstract: A suck back valve is equipped with a displacement speed regulating device made up of an ER (Electro-rheological) fluid filled in a chamber and whose viscosity changes in correspondence with the size of an external electric field, a coil member which generates the external electric field in response to an applied voltage, and a constriction which regulates a flow amount of the ER fluid between an upper-side chamber and a lower-side chamber of the chamber.

Abstract: A suck back valve is equipped with a first flow amount control device for controlling a pilot pressure supplied to an ON/OFF valve, and a second flow amount control device for controlling a pilot pressure supplied to a suck back mechanism, wherein the first and second flow amount control devices are operated based on activating and deactivating signals output from a main controller.

Abstract: A fuel injector employs at least one sensing device for sensing changes in the thermodynamic properties of the fuel within the injector to thereby monitor injector performance during usage. In some embodiments, advantageously placed temperature sensors are employed to detect the release of thermal energy which occurs when the potential energy of a fuel at high-pressure is suddenly converted into kinetic energy by lowering the pressure of the fuel. Other embodiments of the instant invention employ advantageously placed pressure sensors to detect sudden changes in fuel pressure which occur during the course of the injection cycle. Whereas the sensing devices of the instant invention can be placed at a variety of locations, they are preferably placed to detect changes in the thermodynamic properties of the fuel flowing within an injector where such changes are appreciably large during injector usage.

Abstract: An automatic temperature controlled shower head assembly includes a housing having an inlet port and a plurality of outlet ports to permit water to flow therethrough; a valve device operatively associated with the input port controls the volume of water flowing through the assembly depending upon the position of a temperature responsive drive mechanism mounted within the housing in operative relationship to the valve device. The drive mechanism detects temperature changes of the flowing water and acts in response to these temperature changes, within a predetermined range, wherein the valve device is moved to automatically vary the volume of water flowing from the outlet ports depending upon the temperature of the water.

Abstract: A method of retrofitting existing irrigation systems is disclosed. An irrigation system having a control circuit of water supply and a plurality of valve assemblies including communication with the water supply is provided. The control circuit has a centralized controller, a plurality of independent valve control lines extending between the controller and each of the valve assemblies and a return line extending from each of the valve assemblies to the controller. According to the method, a terminal strip is installed within the controller and connects each of the valve control lines together, wherein each valve control line receives the same signal from the controller. An encoder is installed within the controller and a decoder is installed in series with each valve assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for cooling a vessel containing molten metal has a quantity of liquid coolant atomized by a gaseous medium and onto a surface to be cooled. The supply of gaseous medium is constant while the supply of liquid coolant to the spray nozzles is controlled by at least one valve the operation of which is brought about by a non-electrical temperature responsive element in thermal contact with the surface to be cooled. The rate at which the liquid coolant is sprayed on to the hot surface is controlled such that the volume of coolant sprayed on to the surface to be cooled does not exceed the volume of liquid that is capable of being vaporized from the surface.

Abstract: A nozzle for use on opposing ends of the rotor of a jet powered tri-mode aircraft is disclosed. The nozzle includes two thermally-controlled doors, which are moveable between an open configuration where hot jet engine exhaust is vented therethrough to propel the rotor in a helicopter mode, and a second closed configuration where the two doors are tightly sealed to provide a stable aerodynamic surface for the rotor when the jet powered tri-mode aircraft is operating in an airplane mode. The two doors are thermally-activated by an internal surrounding temperature, such that they remain open by the hot jet engine exhaust passing thereby in the helicopter mode, and remain shut by resulting cooler air when the hot jet engine exhaust is not routed by the two nozzle doors.

Abstract: An automatic continuous flow liquid dispensing device for dispensing liquid onto a receiving surface of an article includes an improved flow control mechanism comprising a threaded elongate shaft retained in threaded engagement by a base member securely attachable to the external housing, so as to be selectively rotatably movable to any one of a plurality of stop positions. The threaded shaft is positioned to be contactable by a valve of the dispensing device, thereby acting as a backstop to preclude the valve from reaching its full flow position, and thus defining a plurality of partial flow positions. An electric motor rotates the threaded shaft in first and second rotational directions, to selected stop positions. Electrical controls are connected in electrically conductive relation to the electric motor for selective control thereof.

Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention generates and controls an air-atomized spray, for application of moisture to a moving sheet, such as paper or converted paper products (e.g. corrugated board). The air-atomized water spray is generated by mixing a metered quantity of water with a constant air volume. In a representative embodiment the water flow is metered by adjusting the axial position of a shut-off needle relative to a circular control orifice. The needle is positioned by pushing and pulling upon it with a thermally-expanded metallic element. The thermally expanded element is heated directly or indirectly, at a controlled rate, to produce the desired needle movement and resultant water flow. A series of such controllable nozzles can be mounted across the width of a sheet to permit localized, metered moisture application to each cross-machine control zone.

Abstract: A spray application system and method for a two-part, self-setting compound, comprising a source of the first part of the compound, a source of the second part of the compound, a spray device for applying the compound, a mixing assembly for intermingling the two parts of the compound, a heated hose downstream of the mixing device for delivering the compound to the spray device, a first pump or set of pumps for delivering the first part of the compound to the mixing device, and a second pump or set of pumps for delivering the second part of the compound to the mixing device.

Abstract: An improved flow control mechanism for use in an automatic continuous flow liquid dispensing device for dispensing liquid through a dispensing output onto a receiving surface of an article, is disclosed. The improved flow control mechanism comprises a needle valve on a threaded elongate shaft, which shaft is threadably mounted on the dispensing device housing, for movement of the needle valve between a full flow position where the needle valve is retained in spaced relation with respect to the dispensing output opening so as to permit a full flow of liquid from the main chamber through the dispensing output opening, and a reduced flow position where the needle valve is retained in a reduced spaced relation with respect to the dispensing output opening so as to permit only a reduced flow of liquid from the main chamber through the dispensing output opening.

Abstract: A high pressure hot water acid washer is towed to a site on a trailer. A chemical tank and gasoline and diesel fuel tanks are filled. A water supply hose is connected to a water tank. A power cord is connected to a power source. A float valve controls the filling of the water tank. Water flows from the water tank through a Y-type filter to a water pump. A drain withdraws water directly from the water pump. The water pump and a compressor are driven with an engine. Pressurized water flows through a flow switch to a heat exchanger. Upon water flow, the flow switch completes a power circuit to operate a fuel pump with an electric motor. Fuel is pumped from the fuel tank and is atomized and sprayed into the heat exchanger. An ignition coil ignites the fuel. The power circuit is interrupted upon sensing a high temperature in a pressurized water delivery line from the heat exchanger. Pressure of pressurized hot water in the delivery line is controlled with a hot water pressure relief valve.

Abstract: The present invention provides an irrigation control valve for use in an irrigation system having a liquid supply tube providing liquid to be emitted from the irrigation control valve. The irrigation control valve includes a control valve body having an inlet coupled to the liquid supply tube, a drip port for providing drip irrigation from the irrigation control valve and a mist port for providing mist irrigation from the irrigation control valve. The irrigation control valve further includes a displaceable structure disposed within the control valve body for directing liquid to the drip port or the mist port in response to a control signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately controlling gas fuel flow to a combustion device is provided to control gas flow to a burner of the combustion device. A variable orifice solenoid operated valve serves as a control element. The valve includes a poppet having a fixed control surface at an end received in an insert element having a variable control surface. The poppet has a plurality of positions within the insert element, including a full open position and a full closed position. Maximum fuel flow is measured in the full open position and minimum fuel flow is measured in the full closed position. Intermediate partially open positions are adjustable by a signal of an electronic controller connected to the solenoid valve operating as a function of actual and desired temperature of the combustion device.

Abstract: A liquid spray device particularly for agricultural and horticultural apparatuses is disclosed. A nozzle is provided through which liquid is emitted in a sheet, preferably a conical sheet. A source of heated air or gas, preferably a burner, is directed to interact with the liquid and is drawn through the liquid curtain to initiate the breakup into droplets of a liquid sheet, thus regulating the droplet size to minimize wastage of expensive agrochemicals or other materials. A shroud is provided to protect the gas in the vicinity of the nozzle from drafts. A thermal sensor is located in the shroud to interrupt the fuel supply to the flame or heated gas if the spray is interrupted.

Abstract: A paint circulation system for supplying paint to a plurality of distributors utilizing a circulating pump to circulate paint to the distributors and an injection pump operated by a closely controlled electric motor for injecting paint into the circulation network from a paint supply reservoir to maintain a predetermined pressure within the circulation network. A "leakage" passage having a predetermined restriction permits paint to leave the circulation network when the valved paint distributors are closed, and the use of an automatic timing valve within the leakage bypass permits flow rates within the circulation network to be varied. The components permit paint viscosity and volumes to be determined, settling of the paint particles within the circulation network and degradation of the circulating paint is minimized, and circulating motor wear may be determined.

Abstract: A weed killing system utilizes hot water or steam, alone, or in combination with an herbicide to kill weeds. Cart, backpack, and vehicle mounted versions are disclosed in propane and electrically powered embodiments. A cart mounted version includes a detachable wheel assembly to allow selective conversion into a manually manipulable wand, and may be provided with an angularly adjustable bifurcated distribution nozzle. In electrically heated embodiments, Salt may be added to the heated water in order to increase the boiling point to enable higher effective application temperatures. A gas powered version includes a microprocessor control system for regulating water level in a tank portion of a heater, gas supply to a burner assembly, electric spark ignition of the burner assembly, and hot water or steam outlet dependent upon temperature and pressure levels in the tank portion.

Abstract: A fire retardant dispensing device is disclosed intended to be worn about the head within the helmet of a driver, which includes an apertured dispensing ring secured to the helmet about critical facial areas and operatively coupled to a pressurized source or reservoir of fire retardant. The dispensing ring includes a pair of lateral nozzles supplementing discharge and distribution of the fire retardant from the apertured ring. A buckled belt releasably retains the fire retardant source about the torso or leg of the user.

Abstract: The invention includes an electrically isolated electrically less-conductive component fluid-flow course and an electrically-grounded electrically more-conductive component fluid-flow course. The electrically more-conductive component fluid-flow course may be additionally electrically isolated at the preference of an operator. The invention includes an electrostatic spray gun a mixer positioned proximal to the electrostatic spray gun, and a first conduit which holds alternating segments of electrically more-conductive component and electrically less-conductive component. The alternating segments function in series to additively provide a combined resistance which electrically blocks the high-voltage potential generated at the electrostatic spray gun.