And Water Control Patents (Class 4/626)
  • Patent number: 11793361
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a base; a reservoir connected to the base and configured to hold a fluid; a first vessel having a first volume and configured to be removably connected to the base; a connection configured to deliver the fluid from the reservoir to at least the first vessel; and a second vessel. The second vessel is configured to be disposed at least partially within the first vessel; configured to be removably secured to the first vessel; includes an aperture that allows for fluid communication between the second vessel and the first vessel; and has a second volume that is less than the first volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventors: Marta Podemska-Mikluch, Lukasz Andrzej Mikluch
  • Patent number: 11690484
    Abstract: A portable washbasin system for providing clean water for washing hands and maintaining appropriate hygiene, the system including a housing structure with an upper compartment and a lower compartment spaced apart from one another, and a sink supported on the housing structure between the upper and lower compartments. A water storage tank is housed in the upper compartment, where the sink receives water from the water storage tank and dispenses the water for use. The system further includes a water receptacle housed in the lower compartment for collecting wastewater from the sink for subsequent disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium
    Inventors: John Warren, Jon Dufendach
  • Patent number: 10968089
    Abstract: Systems and apparatuses include a control box for a movable work platform. The control box includes a housing and a display supported by the housing. The housing is defined by a first side panel and a second side partially surrounding and extending from a lower enclosure to an upper enclosure spaced apart from the lower enclosure. At least one of the upper enclosure and the lower enclosure supports a control panel having a plurality of inputs. At least one of the inputs is a platform positioning mechanism in communication with a lift system configured to move the work platform vertically between a stowed position and a deployed position. The display is supported by the housing and is in communication with at least one of the plurality of inputs. The display is configured to receive and present output obtained by a sensor monitoring a parameter of the work platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventors: Shashank Bhatia, Aaron Powers, Michael W. Stouffer
  • Patent number: 9888826
    Abstract: An environment-protection energy-saving barrel is an integral formed by three parts, i.e. an outer barrel, a middle barrel and an inner barrel. The inner barrel is communicated with the middle barrel; the bottom of the middle barrel is provided with a water inlet pipeline; the water inlet pipeline is communicated with the bottom of the outer barrel used for storing water; a water inlet quantity controller is arranged on the water inlet pipeline; the inner barrel communicated with the middle barrel is used for dewatering and cleaning a mop; and the water inlet quantity controller arranged on the water inlet pipeline is used for controlling the water inlet quantity which flows into the middle barrel from the outer barrel and controlling the on/off of a valve of the water inlet pipeline. Therefore the water in the barrel can be repeatedly used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Zhongjie Zhou
  • Patent number: 9009883
    Abstract: A backsplash includes a faucet that provides point-of-use dispensing of water to a cooktop container. The backsplash includes controls that allow a user to select a desired amount of water to be dispensed, as well as the temperature of water to be dispensed. A filter assembly includes a replaceable filter that allows for filtered water dispensation. Optionally, the backsplash can be connected to one or more appliances in the kitchen in order to communicate information and/or power. The backsplash may also include a ventilation channel to direct vented air from a range to a ventilation shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin M. Chase, Gil A. Gaska, Leif A. Norland, Christopher J. Reinke, Ameresh B. Viswanathan, Ronald L. Voglewede
  • Patent number: 8950019
    Abstract: A lavatory system is disclosed including one or more integrated hand washing stations. Each hand washing station includes a basin, a faucet, a solenoid valve configured to control water flow to the faucet, and an electric hand dryer located adjacent the basin and the faucet so that the user of the washing station may use the faucet and the electric hand dryer without leaving the washing station. The electric hand dryer preferably includes an outlet to direct air across the associated basin so that any water that drips from the user's hands fall within the basin. A control system may be provided to control activation of the fixtures such as the solenoid valve, the electric hand dryer, and/or soap dispenser. The control system may be configured to inhibit simultaneous activation of the solenoid valve and the hand dryer. A photovoltaic system may be provided to provide power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Bradley Fixtures Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Loberger, Jason M. Renner, Jeffery S. Jaworski, Mark A. Thielke, Mark A. Meyer, Kevin M. Kohlwey, Douglas Carpiaux, Daniel J. De Lay, Glenn T. Walters, Richard Walters, Jon W. Hauser, II
  • Publication number: 20150013061
    Abstract: A detergent-recycling apparatus includes two containers. The first container includes two inlet ports, an outlet port and a drain valve. The first inlet port allows pressurized air to travels into the first container. The second inlet port allows detergent and contaminants to travel into the first container. The drain valve releases the contaminants from the first container. The second container includes an inlet port and an outlet port. The inlet port of the second container is connected to the outlet port of the first container to allow the pressurized air to carry the detergent into the second container from the first container while the contaminants deposit in the first container. The outlet port releases the detergent as well as the pressurized air from the second container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: PARD HARDWARE INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Da-Sen LIN
  • Patent number: 8925124
    Abstract: A portable hand washing station is provided. The station has a durable carrying case which defines an interior hand washing compartment. The front wall is adapted to include a door to permit hand access into the interior of the hand washing compartment. A lid is connected to the case so that the lid is capable of extending in an upright vertical position. A shelf is connected to the interior surface of the lid. The shelf has a pair of spaced apart valve openings. A pair of liquid dispensing reservoirs is supported on the shelf. Each of the reservoirs includes a top wall with a mouth opening, a bottom wall with a drain opening, and a touch operated flow valve connected to the bottom wall in liquid communication to the bottom wall. The flow valves are adapted to extend in axial alignment a one of the valve openings so that a cleaning or rinsing solution is dispensed into the compartment when the flow valves are deflected by hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Michael J. Littlehorn, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8677522
    Abstract: Food preparation sinks are disclosed which have an integral raised work area that is rinsed by an automatic system. Food waste or the like present in that area can be washed into a sump above a drain, and the weight of the waste and water in the sump is enough to automatically drive them through a baffle to a garbage disposal, without requiring the baffle to be manually opened. An automatic controller system coordinates water flow and garbage disposal operation, and the water supply can be linked to the sink below the sink rim to save counter top space. In some forms multiple rinsing nozzles are provided which pulse in altering fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Steven R. Aykens, Shawn J. Booth, Thomas J. Bostedt, Jonathan P. Loeck
  • Patent number: 8621682
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system for dispensing and recovering liquids designed to be arranged in a rigid container, comprising a liquid dispensing tank (16) and a tank (17) for recovering liquid after use, each tank (16, 17) including an envelope (18). Each envelope (18) includes two similar walls (19, 20) comprising each an outer surface and a peripheral edge (23). Each envelope (18) has a retracted configuration wherein said walls (19, 20) are deployed one proximate the other and in an inflated configuration wherein said outer surfaces of each said wall (19, 20) are convex. At least one envelope (18) is capable, in its inflated configuration, to be nested in the other envelope (18) in its retracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventors: Richard Maximilien, Marc Legrand
  • Publication number: 20130247295
    Abstract: A washing device for dispensing water in the sanitary field, in particular in a shower or a sink, including an outlet for spraying fluids with a lower throughput rate, as well as a delivery device for increasing the fluid pressure before the spraying. The washing device includes a heating device for heating the water. Atomization is accomplished by way of a fluid jet hitting an obstacle with a high relative speed. Thereby, the obstacle may be a moved or stationary solid body or at least one further fluid jet. Spraying is accomplished by way of the outlet including at least one nozzle set with at least two nozzles, for producing impacting fluid jets and for atomizing the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: CREAHOLIC S.A.
    Inventors: Elmar Mock, Andre Klopfenstein, Laurent Torriani
  • Patent number: 8528126
    Abstract: An apparatus and/or device for personal hygiene by a person who is confined to a room or bed includes a first clean water storage tank, a second used water storage tank and a basin between the two tanks and wherein the first tank is disposed above the basin and the used water tank is below the basin. The apparatus and device also includes four adjustable legs with casters thereon as well as a frame assembly including upper and lower frame portions. A pair of forwardly extending arms and privacy curtains provides a modicum of privacy. In addition a fluid soap dispenser, soap dish and mirror as well as an electric blow dryer, retractable electric cord and electrical sockets are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Khaled Abdullah M. Al-Mahnna
  • Publication number: 20130180043
    Abstract: A sink includes a basin extending down from a horizontal opening along a substantially constant length and vertical sidewall to a horizontal base. A spout operable to dispense fluid into basin is connected to a faucet valve and a diverter is operably connected to faucet valve. A sidewall sprayer including a spray head is attached to sidewall, a side nozzle of spray head has an unobstructed spray path into basin, spray head is connected to diverter, and diverter is operably disposed between spray head and faucet valve. A hand-held sprayer may be operably connected to diverter operably disposed between hand-held sprayer and faucet valve. A button may be operably connected to a side nozzle valve for controlling water flow to side nozzle. Two or more sidewall sprayers may be attached to sidewall around basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey Lawrence Pickle
  • Patent number: 8482409
    Abstract: An electronic faucet has controller is configured to selectively open and close a valve to provide fluid flow through the valve and a passageway of the faucet. The controller is programmed to monitor a maintenance condition of the electronic faucet and to selectively open and close the valve to generate a fluid flow pattern through the passageway to provide an indication to a user of an existing maintenance condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventor: Joel D Sawaski
  • Publication number: 20130145535
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel optical sensors and novel methods for sensing optical radiation. The novel optical sensors and the novel optical sensing methods are used, for example, for controlling the operation of automatic faucets and flushers. The novel sensors and flow controllers (including control electronics and valves) require only small amounts of electrical power for sensing users of bathroom facilities, and thus enable battery operation for many years. A passive optical sensor includes a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for controlling the operation of automatic faucets or automatic bathroom flushers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Natan E. Parsons, Fatih Guler, Kay Herbert, Xiaoxiong Mo, Haiou Wu, Yue Zhang
  • Publication number: 20130042404
    Abstract: A portable hand washing station is provided. The station has a durable carrying case which defines an interior hand washing compartment. The front wall is adapted to include a door to permit hand access into the interior of the hand washing compartment. A lid is connected to the case so that the lid is capable of extending in an upright vertical position. A shelf is connected to the interior surface of the lid. The shelf has a pair of spaced apart valve openings. A pair of liquid dispensing reservoirs is supported on the shelf. Each of the reservoirs includes a top wall with a mouth opening, a bottom wall with a drain opening, and a touch operated flow valve connected to the bottom wall in liquid communication to the bottom wall. The flow valves are adapted to extend in axial alignment a one of the valve openings so that a cleaning or rinsing solution is dispensed into the compartment when the flow valves are deflected by hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Michael J. Littlehorn, SR.
  • Patent number: 8296875
    Abstract: A lavatory system is disclosed to include one or more integrated hand washing stations. Each hand washing station includes a basin, a faucet, a solenoid valve configured to control water flow to the faucet, and a electric hand dryer located adjacent the basin and the faucet so that the user of the washing station may use the faucet and the electric hand dryer without leaving the washing station. The electric hand dryer preferably includes an outlet to direct air across the associated basin so that any water that drips from the user's hands will fall within the basin. A control system may be provided to control activation of the fixtures such as the solenoid valve, the electric hand dryer, and/or soap dispenser. The control system may be configured, for example, to inhibit simultaneous activation of the solenoid valve and the hand dryer. A photovoltaic system may be provided to provide power to one or more of electrical fixtures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Bradley Fixtures Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Loberger, Jason M. Renner, Jeffery S. Jaworski, Mark A. Thielke, Mark A. Meyer, Kevin M. Kohlwey, Douglas Carpiaux, Daniel J. De Lay, Glenn T. Walters, Richard Walters, Jon W. Hauser, II
  • Patent number: 8235306
    Abstract: A purge valve comprising a valve body having a valve inlet and a valve outlet and a water flow passage between the valve inlet and the valve outlet; first valve means adapted to set the valve in open position by opening the water flow passage in response to a user's action; second valve means adapted to hold the valve in open position if and until the water flowing through the water flow passage is below a predetermined temperature; third valve means adapted to automatically set the valve in close position when the water flowing through the water flow passage is at the predetermined temperature; and, fourth valve means adapted to alert the user that the valve has closed and water having the predetermined temperature is available at the valve inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Aaron Schneider
  • Patent number: 8210442
    Abstract: A system and method for conserving water in a hot and cold water system collects hot water that is discharged prior to the water reaching a desired temperature. A receptacle is disposed for receipt of cold and hot water from a water system, and a drain line is configured with the receptacle to drain water from the receptacle to a first collection site. A diverter valve is configured in the drain line and operates between a first position wherein water from the receptacle is directed to the first collection site, and a second position wherein water from the receptacle is directed to a branch line. A temperature activated valve is provided, and a second collection site disposed downstream of the temperature activated valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher Sharp Bondura
  • Publication number: 20120102638
    Abstract: An apparatus and/or device for personal hygiene by a person who is confined to a room or bed includes a first clean water storage tank, a second used water storage tank and a basin between the two tanks and wherein the first tank is disposed above the basin and the used water tank is below the basin. The apparatus and device also includes four adjustable legs with casters thereon as well as a frame assembly including upper and lower frame portions. A pair of forwardly extending arms and privacy curtains provides a modicum of privacy. In addition a fluid soap dispenser, soap dish and mirror as well as an electric blow dryer, retractable electric cord and electrical sockets are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Khaled Abdullah M. Al-Mahnna
  • Patent number: 8104112
    Abstract: A portable solar shower includes two detachable water reservoirs. One of the reservoirs may be coupled to a water source and includes a diverter valve regulating the flow and temperature of water spayed by a shower head, and the other reservoir has a port for coupling to the shower head. When the solar shower is not in use, the reservoirs may be separated from one another to form a compact package adapted for storage or transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Jyh-Hsin Tsai, Huai-Ping Wang
  • Patent number: 7946055
    Abstract: A drying apparatus has a casing, a cavity formed in the casing for receiving an object, and a fan located in the casing and creating an airflow. At least one slot-like opening communicates with the fan and is arranged in the casing so as to direct an airflow transversely across the cavity. The slot-like opening is formed between opposing walls which are manufactured from a thermosetting plastics material. By manufacturing the walls of the slot-like opening from a thermosetting plastic material such as melamine, the walls of the slot-like opening can be molded economically instead of machined from metal. The thermosetting plastic material is dimensionally stable when moulded, thermally resistant and impact resistant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Dyson Technology Limited
    Inventors: John Churchill, James Dyson, Peter David Gammack
  • Patent number: 7743439
    Abstract: A portable sink having a hot and cold water faucet connected to an electric water pump and fresh water tank and a wastewater outlet from said sink connected to a wastewater tank and cabinet mounted on wheels having one upper door that has a dipwell attached that is connected to the fresh and waste-water systems and one lower door to access the interior thereof. The dipwell is mounted on the upper door that is rotatable about a vertical access. The dipwell is within the cabinet when the door is closed and outside the cabinet when the door is rotated 90 degrees in a locked open position. One tank for fresh water is mounted in the cabinet and a tank for wastewater is mounted outside the cabinet. There is an electrical connection for powering the water pump and water heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Magnolia Carts, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Anthony Switzer
  • Publication number: 20090265849
    Abstract: The washbasin contains a lateral front platform and a vertical back platform. A bowl is formed in the front platform and the bowl is laterally portioned into a primary sink and a secondary sink by a ridge running along a front-back direction inside the bowl. The primary and secondary sinks have outlets at the sinks' bottoms, respectively. On a front side of the back platform, a primary faucet and a secondary faucet are provided above the primary and secondary sinks, respectively. In addition, hot-water and cold-water knobs at the two sides of the primary faucet are provided above the primary sink. The back platform has a flat top surface for the placement of various washing-up items such as glasses, tooth brushes, tooth paste, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: CHIN-CHUNG HUANG
  • Patent number: 7240379
    Abstract: A portable sink having a hot and cold water faucet connected to an electric water pump and fresh water tank and a wastewater outlet from said sink connected to a wastewater tank and cabinet mounted on wheels having one upper door that has a dipwell attached that is connected to the fresh and waste-water systems and one lower door to access the interior thereof. The dipwell is mounted on the upper door that is rotatable about a vertical access. The dipwell is within the cabinet when the door is closed and outside the cabinet when the door is rotated 90 degrees in a locked open position. One tank for fresh water is mounted in the cabinet and a tank for wastewater is mounted outside the cabinet. There is an electrical connection for powering the water pump and water heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Anthony Switzer
  • Patent number: 7159252
    Abstract: A sink may include a basin and a faucet assembly foldably mounted relative to the basin. The faucet assembly is rotatable between an upright position wherein the faucet assembly protrudes out from the basin and a folded position wherein the faucet assembly is received within the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Today's Gear, Inc.
    Inventors: John Underbrink, Peter C. Hill
  • Patent number: 6611972
    Abstract: A sink comprising a basin and a faucet assembly foldably mounted relative to the basin. The faucet assembly is rotatable between an upright position wherein the faucet assembly protrudes out from the basin and a folded position wherein the faucet assembly is received within the basin. Another embodiment comprises a sink assembly including a sink housing including a conduit rack and a receptacle for a sink with such a foldable faucet assembly. The sink assembly may further include one or more slidable table portions or a pivotable lid for covering the sink when the faucet assembly is in the folded position. A serving cart, a gardening cart and a barbecue station, each including a sink with a foldable faucet assembly and a slidable table portion or pivotable lid for covering the sink when the faucet assembly is in the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Spang & Company
    Inventors: John Underbrink, Peter C. Hill
  • Patent number: 6401274
    Abstract: A central steel column serves as a core module for a portable washstand. The column extends upwardly from a horizontal foot, and has foot pumps which communicate with a water intake tube and with water spouts. In addition, the central column has fasteners, such as adjustable bands, for connecting fresh and waste water receptacles to the column. A yoke may have pins which extend into the rims of the receptacles to connect them to the column. The receptacles may be conventional cylindrical drums, which support a molded plastic countertop with washbasins positioned beneath the spouts. For decorative purposes, a molded front panel extends between the countertop and the base, and together with a sheet rear panel encloses the two drums. Paper towel and soap dispensers may be connected to the central column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Wilbert, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry F. Brown
  • Patent number: 6298502
    Abstract: A central steel column serves as a core module for a portable washstand. The column extends upwardly from a horizontal foot, and has foot pumps which communicate with a water intake tube and with water spigots. In addition, the central column has fasteners, such as adjustable bands, for connecting fresh and waste water receptacles to the column. The receptacles may be conventional cylindrical drums, which support a molded plastic countertop with washbasins positioned beneath the spigots. For decorative purposes, a molded front panel extends between the countertop and the base, and together with a sheet rear panel encloses the two drums. Paper towel and soap dispensers may be connected to the central column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Alltrista Corporation
    Inventor: Henry F. Brown
  • Patent number: 6253394
    Abstract: A multi-functional and transportable wash station for use in an industrial facility, the facility having overhead extending pressurized water supply lines and waste water drainage lines. The wash station includes a body with a polygonal shaped base and a superstructure extending upwardly from the base. An inlet supply line extends from the body and is operatively connected to a selected water supply line of the facility. A selected number of both potable and non-potable water supply sources, such as faucet and sink stations, faucet and hose connections, drinking fountains and emergency shower stations are provided at specified locations of the wash station and are in communication with the inlet supply line. An electric power input is provided to the wash station and operates such features as a sewage ejection pump, a water heater and a water chiller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Goyette Mechanical Co.
    Inventors: Dominic T. Goyette, Carl M. Burke
  • Patent number: 6173458
    Abstract: A portable sink having a sink module and a hot and cold water outlet connected to a spigot and a used water outlet from said sink connected to a cabinet mounted on wheels having at least one door to access the interior thereof. At least one tank for fresh water and a reservoir for used water is mounted in the cabinet. An electrical connection for powering a pump and a heater connected to the outlet of the pump has an outlet connected to the hot water outlet and a connection from the pump to the cold water outlet. A hammer arrester diminishes line surges and fluidic pounding from the pump, and a flow check valve prevents back flow to the fresh water tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Cambro Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Larry D. Maddux
  • Patent number: 5978983
    Abstract: A portable showering cabinet for use by non-ambulatory, aged, or other persons unable to use conventional showering and hygienic home care facilities, particularly useful for a private home, hospitality industry, residential schools, general and specialized hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and bedside care in a nursing home. The showering cabinet system provides daily hygienic care for disabled, with or without minimal assistance from a caregiver, eliminating the need for a caregiver to help a disabled person enter a shower stall and eliminating the need for a caregiver to perform the showering of the individual. The portable cabinet includes a water supply system that attaches to existing hot and cold water supply cabinets and a manually movable cabinet that has casters, allowing it to be moved easily and quickly along a floor surface to a bedside, and an improved access auxiliary seat to insure safe entrance by the patient into and out of the enclosure from a seated position on the outside of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventors: Carl J. Queen, deceased, Donna Queen, Administratrix
  • Patent number: 5945068
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for sterilizing hands includes a sink containing ozonated water. Water is continually circulated through said sink past an ozone generator which continually injects ozone into the sink. The individual sanitizes his hands by simply immersing his hands in the ozonated water for a period of time effective to destroy germs. Upstream of the sink is a secondary water circulation system which includes a second ozone generator which maintains a constant supply of ozonated water which can be added to the sink when necessary. An infrared sensor can be added to detect when individuals are using the sink and further to determine when make-up water is required. The present invention optionally will include an ozonated air hand drier or an ozonated air applicator for towels. This system is designed to ensure that individuals in, for example, food service operations maintain sanitary conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Daniel A. Ferone
  • Patent number: 5924148
    Abstract: An automatic hand washing and drying machine for automatically washing and drying the hands and, optionally, moisturizing the hands. The machine has an enclosed hand washing chamber wherein the housing has a front wall having first and second openings for receiving therethrough the right and left hands of the user. The first and second openings are covered with a first and second flexible rubber gaskets, respectively. The housing further comprises a sloped top wall made of clear and transparent material to allow the user to visually inspect the hand washing and drying processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Stanley E. Flowers, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5862540
    Abstract: A portable kitchen, toilet and shower unit includes a sink bowl (6), a sink tap (8) for the sink bowl, a work top (10), at least one cupboard (12,16) positioned beneath the sink bowl and the work top, at least one water container (18,20) in the cupboard, a portable chemical toilet, first conduit device (22) connecting the water container to the sink tap, a shower hose (24), shower head (26) and a stored shower enclosure (40) to attach to a rear door (46) of the vehicle, second conduit device (28) connecting the water container to the shower hose, and an electrically-operated pump (32) for pumping water from the container to the sink tap and the shower hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Michael Kuek Sze Chuan
  • Patent number: 5813063
    Abstract: A portable sink (10) includes a housing (12) having a basin (14) movably mounted to the housing. The basin is movable from an inserted position in the housing, to a position extending from the housing. The basin includes an outlet (22) for draining fluids from the basin. When the basin is in the extended position, the outlet form the basin aligns with an inlet (26) to drain a tank (24) in the housing. Thus, in the extended position, fluid in the basin is directed through the outlet into the inlet of the drain tank. When the basin is in the inserted position, the outlet form the basin is remote from the inlet to the drain tank. The portable sink further includes a flexible spigot (78) mounted to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventors: Louis Scott Watkins, Shawn Mathews
  • Patent number: 5715549
    Abstract: Provided is a self-contained water supply system for over-the-road trucks. More specifically, the present invention includes a sink assembly stowable within a cabinet assembly which is capable of providing a self contained supply of water from a supply tank located within the interior of the vehicle. The sink assembly further includes a basin for collecting water and draining the waste water into a drain tank also contained within the vehicle. The sink assembly including the basin and the faucet assembly are disposed within a drawer assembly which is stowable within a cabinet assembly located in the interior of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: ASC Incorporated
    Inventors: David Piontek, Walter Kemmer
  • Patent number: 5704078
    Abstract: A portable sink is particularly adapted for use in a portable toilet and includes a cabinet in which a conventional five gallon bottle of water can be retained. The sink is designed to drain into the portable toilet, and a supply of deodorizing soap operates to both clean a user's hands and deodorize the entire portable toilet assembly. Suction cups are provided on rear and bottom surfaces of the sink to facilitate its attachment to the plastic housing of the portable toilet, and adjustable brackets mounted on magnetic supports allow the brackets to be positioned to fit virtually any manufactured shape of water bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Velma Chandler
  • Patent number: 5702115
    Abstract: A utility cart for facilitating patient care and supporting patient care material is described. The cart includes a frame, plural wheels on the frame, and plural walls mounted on the frame forming two spaced vertical support members defining at least one storage area which may be accessed via a hingedly mounted wall. At least one shelf is mounted between the support members and is bi-directionally extendable on either side of the cart. A bi-directionally extendable drawer, is similarly mounted adjacent the shelves. A sink is provided on the frame, and a console on the cart adjacent the sink includes plural faucets operatively connected to storage tanks for supplying water, soap, and/or moisturizer. Photo-sensitive switches on the console adjacent the faucets enable no-contact dispensing of various liquids. The console also includes plural information-conveying gauges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: L. Frank Pool
  • Patent number: 5687434
    Abstract: A portable wash station, comprising an outer water tank, a flexible inner water tank secured within the outer tank, and a sink basin affixed atop the outer tank including at least one sink, one water faucet for dispensing water from the outer tank and one drain for draining water from the sink into the inner tank. The flexible inner tank has an associated volume that expands as the water is dispensed from the outer tank and into the flexible inner tank, that contracts as the water is removed therefrom, and that is subjected to minimal hydraulic pressure from the water dispensed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: PolyJohn Enterprises Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Leach Tagg
  • Patent number: 5465438
    Abstract: A mobile nursing home unit is formed by an upright cabinet containing an assembly of nursing facilities including a sink and a superposed gray water tank and fresh water reservoir selectively supplying water to and draining from the sink into the gray water tank. Miscelleanous washcloths, soaps, lotions, towels and other desired small items are temporarily stored on the cabinet top wall and maintained thereon during mobile movement of the cabinet by a kitchen rail extending along adjacent edge limits of the top wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventors: Thomas Allman, Cathy A. Lee
  • Patent number: 5301376
    Abstract: A portable sink arranged for ease of transport and storage includes a central housing having respective lower and upper housings positioned on opposed sides of the central housing, wherein the upper housing includes a fluid reservoir structure arranged for orthogonal orientation relative to the central housing, with a faucet member permitting fluid flow therethrough upon pivoting of the faucet relative to a floor cavity within the upper housing floor. The lower housing includes an upper housing reservoir in communication with a sink within the central housing for storage and subsequent disposal of fluid within the lower housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventor: Norbert G. Herbert
  • Patent number: 5287570
    Abstract: A control system for water faucets comprises an on-off control switch located at a sink and actuated by pressure applied and released by the body of the user. When the body of the user pushes forward towards the sink, the switch will be depressed and the water faucets will turn on. When the user backs away from the sink, the switch will be released and close off the flow of water. An overflow reservoir is provided to collect cold water run off prior to the time when hot water makes its way through the water pipes, and a temperature sensor switch and/or alarm controls either an automatic or manual change over from hot to cold water. In addition, a microprocessor and key board control various water delivery functions such as volume and temperature. The control system reduces leakage and saves water which would otherwise be lost due to running the hot water until it becomes heated to the desired temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Inventors: Donald A. Peterson, Bryan J. Broussard
  • Patent number: 4884725
    Abstract: Disclosed is a water dispensing system for an aircraft wherein hot and cold water supplied to a faucet disposed above a washbasin in a controlled manner including solenoid valves for both the hot and cold water. Two manually operated switches are employed to energize, respectively, the hot and cold solenoid valves. Two different timing cycles are employed. In one timing cycle, when one switch is actuated and then the other switch is actuated within a predetermined time period, both solenoid valves will be turned on to provide approximately equal volumes of water to the faucet for a predetermined time period. In another timing cycle, when one switch is actuated and the other switch is actuated within a predetermined time period, the solenoid valve means energized by the first switch will be turned off and the second solenoid valve will be turned on for a predetermined time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Inventors: Munir J. Ahad, Sven A. Pettersson
  • Patent number: 4765003
    Abstract: A portable hands-free wash stand characterized by upper and lower foot pedals on its ladder-shaped bottom block for controlling water pump to pump up clean water to feed pipe for wash, and comprising a control switch for the selection of warm water and cool water, wherein waste water is collected in waste water storage tank; a low water level indicating lamp turns on when clean water of clean water storage tank been used up so as to advise people to move the present wash stand to a specific location for filling clean water and draining off waste water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Inventor: Chen-Hsiung Chang
  • Patent number: 4336619
    Abstract: A hand washing and drying device having a recessed bowl defining a hand washing and drying space. Drying structure is provided including an air moving device which is mounted to the bowl. The air moving structure further includes an outlet opening to within the drying space defined by the recessed bowl to provide an improved utilization of the drying air provided by the air moving structure. The hand washing and drying device also includes a water tank mounted to the bowl. The device may include a housing removably enclosing the bowl and components carried thereby. A wall hanger may be provided for removably mounting the housing in providing a wall-mounted installation of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1982
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Lester H. Hinkel, Robert M. Chandler
  • Patent number: 4231123
    Abstract: This invention relates to water basins and valves and valve controls therefore. The basin has interior water supply and overflow lines communicating with the interior peripheral surface and is provided with valves and push button controls to control the flow of water into and out of the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1980
    Inventor: Yao-Hui Cheng