Manual Or Mountable Holder; E.g., Soap Holder, Etc. Patents (Class 422/266)
  • Patent number: 6187186
    Abstract: Described is a device for introducing substances into water. The device includes a housing (1) forming first and second chambers (7, 9) separated by a partition (8). Throughgoing housing openings (11, 12) are provided on either side of the partition to allow each chamber to communicate with the container (21) supplying the substance. A connecting flange (15) having throughgoing flange openings (19, 20) is provided for connecting the housing to the container. The flange is arranged turnably relative with the housing such that in an operative condition each throughgoing housing opening coincides with a respective throughgoing flange opening. The turnable arrangement also includes at least one pin (17) located on the flange and which engages at least one groove (88) formed in the housing. A controlling means (24) is also provided in an opening (25) of the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventors: Sam Zhadanov, El Zhadanov
  • Patent number: 6162407
    Abstract: A chemical dispenser for dispensing chemicals into a tank holding liquid, such as a swimming pool. The chemical dispenser has a housing, a lid, an inlet and an outlet. The lid is selectively attachable to the housing to permit a sanitizing chemical to be placed in the housing.In a method according to the present invention, a chemical dispenser having a housing, a lid selectively attachable to the housing, an inlet orifice and outlet orifice is provided, and the inlet orifice is positioned to receive circulated liquid from the circulating system outlet. Next, chemical to be dispensed into the circulated liquid is provided and placed in the housing. Then the lid is attached to the housing, and the outlet orifice is positioned such that the flow of liquid from the outlet orifice establishes a flow pattern in the tank which causes debris to travel to and be collected at a debris collection site of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Mart A. Pihl
  • Patent number: 6119707
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaning device powered by pressurized water running into the pool from an outlet jet port connected to the pool pump. The device has two hose sections, the first being approximately one foot is screwed into the outlet jet port. Attached to an opposite end is a swivel connector which is connected to a second hose that is approximately as long as the pool itself. The second hose has floats positioned along the exterior and wear rings for protecting the hose from wear and tear effects from using the apparatus. Attached to the second hose is a cleaning head having angled through-hole exit ports, which when water is flowing through the hoses causes the head and second hose to rotate relative to the first hose. Second and third versions include using brush sleeves over hose or rings and the cleaning head. A cage having a chlorine table can be located in the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: Ginger Jordan
  • Patent number: 6117316
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a stream of tap water flowing from the outlet of a fire hydrant comprises a T-shaped diffuser is combination with a frame having a pair of screens extending transverse with respect to outlets of the diffuser. A mesh bag containing a material in tablet form in mounted on each screen. In a preferred aspect of the disclosure, the material is sodium sulfite for interacting with chlorine in the tap water and converting the chlorine to a salt harmless to aquatic life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Washington Suburban Sanitary
    Inventor: Russell Burton
  • Patent number: 6071483
    Abstract: A reactor vessel and an associated process for preparing a controlled-dosage chlorine dioxide solution. The vessel according to the invention comprises a hollow body inside which there are provided two chambers which have different volumes, each chamber having, in an upper region, an opening which is closed by a removable plug and the chambers are mutually connected by a substantially horizontal duct with openings located in a region which is spaced upward with respect to the bottom of the two cited chambers. The vessel according to the present invention is particularly suitable for preparing a disinfectant and highly pure chlorine dioxide solution, minimizing the risk of developing noxious gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Mauro Pastore
  • Patent number: 6058946
    Abstract: A delivery device for delivering a dose of washing material, especially a detergent tablet, into the interior of a washing apparatus such as a machine dishwasher. In one preferred form, the device comprises:a chamber for containing the dose of washing material to be delivered, the chamber including at least one opening for allowing communication between the interior of the chamber and the outside of the device;closure means for selectively closing or opening the at least one opening in the chamber; andtemperature sensitive actuation means constructed and arranged for causing the closure means to move from their closed condition to their open position at a point or stage in the wash cycle of the apparatus at which a predetermined temperature within the interior of the apparatus is reached. The temperature sensitive actuation means preferably comprises a temperature sensitive actuation element, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventors: Riccardo Paolo Federico Bellati, Robert John Monaghan, Martyn Noel Wallwork, Matthew David Cotterill, Alan Digby Tomlinson, Marco Franciscus Van Dijk
  • Patent number: 6048501
    Abstract: A liquid permeable dispensing device adapted to retain a detergent tablet in a dish washing machine is provided. The dispensing device includes a hollow body having an opening for receiving a tablet, a base opposite the opening, and a liquid permeable side wall. A hook extends along at least a portion of the side wall for attaching the hollow body to the interior of a dish washing machine, wherein the hook has a free end disposed adjacent the base. A clip having a free end disposed adjacent to or above the free end of the hook prevents upward movement of the hollow body during use in the dish washing machine. The clip is adapted to engage a perforation of a cutlery basket in a dish washing machine while the hook is adapted to engage an exterior wall of a cutlery basket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Liesbeth Johanna Carolina Lemaire, Rueben Earl Oder, III, Tanya Cecile Corneel Van Rompuy
  • Patent number: 6007788
    Abstract: A container for dispensing detergent for an automatic washing apparatus includes a straight, inwardly tapered side wall which has an open top and a bottom portion. The bottom portion includes an integral screen which includes a water inlet. Detergent is placed in the container and snap-on covers are positioned over the top and bottom of the container. To dispense detergent from the container, the bottom cover is removed and the container placed in a dispensing unit which sprays water through the bottom. Dissolved detergent is collected and flows to the washing apparatus. The container is easy to manufacture, easy to fill, easy to ship and use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: DiverseyLever, Inc.
    Inventors: Tiziano Joseph Bellon, James Wesley Livingston, Patricia Anne Anderson, Donald Wright, Charles Alan Messamer, Clifford Francis Mc Namara
  • Patent number: 5997814
    Abstract: An outer, first cup portion having a peripheral wall which has an opening at a first end and at a second end. An inner, second cup portion having a region which is formed from a first material which is impermeable to the powdered reagents but is permeable to water and to solutions containing dissolved reagents, the first and second cup portions being configured such that the second cup portion peripheral wall abuts and is connected to the first end of the outer first cup portion, the first and second being configured such that a first powdered reagent receiving chamber is defined in the first cup portion for receiving a first reagent and a second powdered reagent receiving chamber is defined in the second cup portion for receiving a second reagent, a closure secured to and closing the second end of the outer first cup portion, the closure being impermeable to the first reagent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Steris Corporation
    Inventors: David E. Minerovic, Christopher M. Fricker, Todd A. Christopher, Brian E. Schindly, Karen Thomas
  • Patent number: 5971008
    Abstract: A device positionable upstream from a shower nozzle for dispensing solid, water-soluble or water-dispersible materials is disclosed. The device includes a tubular body (1) of which a first end (2) has a circular flange (3) and comprises an internal thread (4) defining a first shoulder (5), and a second end is threaded; and a cylindrical coupling portion (6) comprising a circular abutment (7) and two threads on either side thereof, i.e., a first or outer thread (8) with a diameter suitable for engagement with a shower hose, and a second or internal thread (9) with a diameter suitable for screwing said portion (6) into the second end of the body (1). The end of said internal thread forms a second shoulder (10). A chamber (11) is defined inside said body (1) between the first (5) and second (10) shoulders, whereat the wall of said body (1) comprises a window (12) for inserting a solid material into said chamber (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Laboratoire D'Hygiene Dermique S.A.R.L.
    Inventor: Alexis de Bertier
  • Patent number: 5967158
    Abstract: A method of retaining and dispensing a detergent tablet in an automatic washing machine. The method includes the step of providing a dispensing device having a flexible and resilient cage structure which is liquid permeable. Another step is flexibly deforming the cage structure and inserting the detergent tablet in the cage structure such that said detergent tablet is retained therein. Yet another step is placing the dispensing device including the detergent tablet into an automatic washing machine for a washing cycle in which a wash liquor is caused to pass through the cage structure to progressively dissolve and dispense detergent from the detergent tablet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Carol Smith, Tanya Cecile Corneel Van Rompuy, Steven Frederick Kelsey
  • Patent number: 5961845
    Abstract: A dispenser system for treating water containing systems in place with a dry chemical substance. The dispenser has a water soluble pouch housing a dry form of a chemical material to be used in treating the system. The pouch is positioned in a make down unit so that the chemical is dissolved to form a liquid concentrate which is then introduced into a water containing system. A controller is attached to the make down unit to regulate the flow of water into the apparatus and the flow of liquid concentrate out of the apparatus and into the water containing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: James Victor List, Lyle Hermen Steimel, Scott Winthrop Veil, Ed Bowden, Holger Frank Schwab, James Charles Bricker
  • Patent number: 5932093
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a new and improved chlorine dispenser including a substantially cylindrical housing having a closed bottom and an open top in communication with an interior chamber. A pair of diametrically opposed apertures are disposed adjacent the bottom end for respectively receiving a water inlet and a water outlet pipe. A dial is rotatably mounted to the exterior surface of the housing immediately adjacent the bottom end. The dial is in communication with a valve means disposed within the water effluent line allowing the water flow through the interior chamber to be selectively adjusted. An elongated tubular shaft is received within the cylindrical housing and vertically depends from its bottom surface. On the exterior of the shaft is a switch means in communication with an output means which may be connected to an external or auxiliary alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Joe Chulick
  • Patent number: 5916533
    Abstract: A dispensing container for the controlled dispensing of chemicals in the treatment of a body of water to prevent growth of algae and other adverse conditions includes walls defining a storage compartment for the chemicals for treating the body of water, the walls have an inlet for the controlled flow of water from the body of water into the storage compartment and an outlet for controlling the flow of water out of the storage compartment, said storage compartment is open at one end, and a charging assembly is operatively connectable to the open end of the storage compartment for charging chemicals into the storage compartment. Additionally, the combination of the dispensing container as above described with a transport device and a bracket assembly for connecting the dispensing container to the transport device to pass the dispensing container through the body of water to be treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: United Water New Jersey Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Ruta, Stefano Martino, Jr., Norval W. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5885446
    Abstract: A wastewater treatment system for treating wastewater effluent flowing through a sewer pipe from a sewage treatment plant, and specially designed chlorine tablets for use in the treatment system. In a preferred embodiment the wastewater treatment system is characterized by a wastewater flow conduit which is mounted in the sewer pipe and a tablet loading neck, closed by a removable lid, extends upwardly from the wastewater flow conduit. A tablet support rod extends downwardly through the lid and tablet loading neck into the wastewater flow conduit. Multiple treatment tablets, each having a central opening, are slidably mounted on the tablet support rod in stacked relationship, and as the tablets in the wastewater flow conduit are dissolved by the flowing wastewater, the tablets in the tablet loading neck descend on the tablet support rod into the conduit, to replace the dissolved tablets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventor: Henry E. McGrew, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5873268
    Abstract: A dispenser 100 for dispensing a chemical product that is dissolved by diluent. The dispenser includes a package 170 having a diaphragm, or fingered collar 180 attached to its opening. The diaphragm 180 has a plurality of flexible members or flexible fingers 185. The dispenser may utilize an injection manifold 109 that is sized and configured to be positioned on a washing machine top proximate the gap between the washing machine's top and lid. Still further, the invention includes a low level chemical product indicator. The indicator includes a focused light source 98a and 99a. The focused light source is a high intensity light emitting diode having a viewing angle of less than 6.degree. and an intensity of above 10,000 mcd. The dispenser also includes an apparatus and method in which a dispensing time of a dispenser is dynamically varied in response to diluent temperature during operation of the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: John Ross Spriggs, Loleta T. Tolliver-Rogers, Daniel K. Boche, Ronald Bruce Howes, Douglas Sherwin Hoerning
  • Patent number: 5849253
    Abstract: A dispenser for powdered, granular, pellet, briquette or tablet-like material is provided. The dispenser includes a dispenser head through which the material dissolved in water can be dispensed. A spray device is provided at the head to spray water onto the material provided in the dispenser head. A suspension device is provided to suspend a bag containing the material above the dispenser head. The bag in its suspended orientation has a fastener along the bottom end which closes the bottom end of the bag. The fastener is not, however, releasable until after the bag is mounted in the dispenser. Then the fastener is releasable to allow the contents thereof to fall by gravity onto the dispenser head. The dispenser provides a system, which normally avoids contact of the toxic contents of the bag with the user. At the same time, the only waste is in the form of a bag which may be made of recyclable plastic, hence minimizing waste associated with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry W. Crossdale, Peter J. Bacon, Michael Veveris
  • Patent number: 5846499
    Abstract: A chemical dispenser that uses an air induction bowl and the air induction bowl. The bowl is adapted to support an inverted container of solid cast chemical and has a jet for directing a spray of liquid on the solid cast chemical to generate a solution thereof. The chemical dispenser has a valve for control of the liquid supplied to the chemical dispenser, the valve being in flow communication with the jet. The bowl comprises a container receiver portion having an upwardly directed container opening defined therein for receiving an inverted container. The container receiver portion presents an inner surface for supporting the container in an inverted disposition. An accumulator portion of the bowl depends from and is in fluid communication with the container receiver portion. The jet is disposed in the accumulator portion of the bowl. A discharge portion depends from and is in fluid communication with the accumulator portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Sunburst Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy E. Laughlin, Robert C. Grant
  • Patent number: 5774905
    Abstract: A deodorant holding device for a plumbing fixture. The device is comprised generally of a base, having an upper and a bottom surface, and a deodorant receiving cavity. The base has a plurality of upwardly extending pin members positioned on its upper surface. The pin members deflect and limit splashing of liquid directed onto the base. A cover is releasably securable to the bottom of the base in order to releasably retain deodorizing material within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventors: Leonard E. Wager, Dana S. Marshall
  • Patent number: 5772968
    Abstract: A hydrolyzer system, apparatus, and method for effecting the continuous conversion of offal, feathers, hair, and other keratinaceous material into usable protein products for further commercial usage. The hydrolyzer system includes a feed screw conveyor, transfer conduit, feed substrate expansion chamber, hydrolyzer, product expansion means, and dryer. The hydrolyzer utilizes direct steam injection heat transfer in combination with a feed expansion chamber means and means for agitation and mixing within the hydrolyzer to fluidize a plug of feather feed substrate formed in the transfer conduit by the feed screw conveyor. The apparatus provides a means for heating and fluidizing the feather feed substrate at elevated temperatures while mixing same to effect its hydrolyzation while preventing the escape of back pressure therefrom via a feed substrate plug formed by the feed screw conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Sunrise, Inc.
    Inventor: Marvin R. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 5759501
    Abstract: A container for institutional detergents, preferably tablets, includes a rigid large screened base and a flexible plastic film sidewall heat bonded to the peripheral surface of the base. The container is filled, preferably from its top portion, with tableted detergent and closed with a single heat seal along the top surface of the wall of the container. The screen surface is then closed with a removable, peel-off seal or removable cap. The upper portion of the container will include a handle which makes it easy to transport the container and place it into a dispenser for use. In use, a water nozzle will spray upwards onto the surface of the screen base through the holes in the screen, dissolving detergent and allowing the solution to pass downwardly to a drain, which directs it to a ware washing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: James Livingston, Donald Wright, Tiziano J. Bellon, Kenneth James Roach
  • Patent number: 5707590
    Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator (15, 35) for determining the level of contents in an opaque, plastic container (10, 30, 40). The container (10, 30, 40) is filled with a solid chemical (11), such as a detergent. A spray of warm or hot water (19) impinges upon the eroding surface (16) of the solid chemical (11) to produce a chemical solution. The container (10, 30, 40) is provided with a thermo-chromatic strip (15, 35) or thermo-chromatic surface (41) for detecting the level of solid chemical (11) within the plastic capsule (10). A method of manufacturing the dispensing container (10, 30, 40) is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Thomas, Jody A. Toetschinger, John E. McCall, Jr., Eric R. Balz
  • Patent number: 5624645
    Abstract: An arrangement for carbonating a solution by pressurization of a defined spatial area in a container in which a carbonating mixture is combined with a solution. The container is typically filled with a solution to a demarcation defining a spatial area. Reactants, an acid and a base, evolve CO.sub.2 when reacted in a solution. The quantity of reactants added is designated so as to generate a quantity of CO.sub.2 which will increase the pressure in a defined spatial area and cause a quantity of CO.sub.2 to redissolve. The result of this arrangement is a solution supersaturated with CO.sub.2. The reaction chamber may also be divided into separate compartments with each compartment containing individual servings. Each compartment has an evacuation device allowing the contents of the compartment to be delivered for consumption without effecting the level of carbonation of the solution remaining in the other compartments of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: Gregory T. Malley
  • Patent number: 5620671
    Abstract: An apparatus mountable atop a container having a cavity containing a solid material, an orifice positioned atop the container and a liquid inlet. The apparatus has a collar having an axial bore, a pivotable conduit attached to the collar and a diffuser attached to the conduit. The apparatus ensures that solid material within the container remains flooded during dispensing of liquid from the container and provides convenient accessibility to the diffuser for removal, inspection and replacement. The apparatus is particularly well suited for dispensing of liquids containing solid halogen donor materials from solid halogen donor containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: BetzDearborn Inc.
    Inventor: Donald P. Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 5607651
    Abstract: A multiple product dispensing system includes a plurality of use solution dispensers and a controller for selecting one of the dispensers according to a preset regimen, e.g., selecting different dispensers on different days of the week. Each dispenser dispenses a controlled concentration of use solution using a diluent delivery apparatus that delivers a diluent to form a liquid concentrate from a solid chemical composition, and to form make-up diluent for diluting the liquid concentrate and forming a use solution of controlled concentration. A foam reducer reduces the kinetic energy of the make-up diluent prior to mixing with the liquid concentrate to reduce foaming. An unskilled operator may operate the dispensing system to dispense a use solution of carefully controlled concentration, and the controller will automatically select the proper dispenser according to the preset regimen, without any additional input on the part of the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Thomas, John E. McCall, Daniel K. Boche, John J. Rolando, Terry J. Klos
  • Patent number: 5593648
    Abstract: A dispensing device for tablet detergent compositions for use in automatic washing machines. The dispensing device has an opening for the insertion of the tablet into the body of the dispensing device, wherein adjacent to the opening there is a restraint for substantially restricting the removal of the tablet after it has been inserted into the dispensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Julie A. Christie, Brian E. Talkes
  • Patent number: 5579656
    Abstract: A clothes washing machine includes a water supply nozzle and a detergent dissolving apparatus disposed beneath the nozzle. The dissolving apparatus includes a receptacle having a semi-spherical recess for containing detergent, and a cover overlying the receptacle. The cover includes a filter having a central hole aligned with the nozzle to enable a water stream from the nozzle to enter the recess. The recess includes a convex projection extending upwardly from a center of the bottom of the recess, and radial ribs extending upwardly from the projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeong S. Shin
  • Patent number: 5577527
    Abstract: A container for use in liquifying granular detergent and thereafter dispensing such liquified detergent to an industrial dishwashing machine, in which the container has a threaded end cap having a 2" center hole through its 4" diameter flat end and a flush plate attached to the end cap through a parallel spacing of 1/8". Hot water is directed through the space between the end cap and the flush plate, with a portion of the hot water being diverted through the hole in the end cap to engage any detergent not falling through the hole onto the flush plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventors: David P. Jacobs, Gaston Gaal
  • Patent number: 5549875
    Abstract: A detergent dispenser that is coupled to a source of fluid and which has a chemical source in solid cast form. A spray generator is designed to generate a fluid spray bearing on the chemical source, the fluid spray generating a concentrated solution of the chemical. The concentrated solution of the chemical is discharged through a discharge conduit. A single valve controls a flow of fluid from the source of fluid. The valve has an inlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the source of fluid, an outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the spray generator, and an outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the discharge conduit. A metering device for selectively metering portions of the flow of fluid to the spray generator and to the discharge conduit is disposed within the valve and selectively fluidly couples the inlet to the outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the spray generator and to the outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the discharge conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Sunburst Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy E. Laughlin, Robert C. Grant
  • Patent number: 5478537
    Abstract: A detergent dispenser that is coupled to a source of fluid and which has a chemical source in solid cast form. A spray generator is designed to generate a fluid spray bearing on the chemical source, the fluid spray generating a concentrated solution of the chemical. The concentrated solution of the chemical is discharged through a discharge conduit. A single valve controls a flow of fluid from the source of fluid. The valve has an inlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the source of fluid, an outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the spray generator, and an outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the discharge conduit. A metering device for selectively metering portions of the flow of fluid to the spray generator and to the discharge conduit is disposed within the valve and selectively fluidly couples the inlet to the outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the spray generator and to the outlet that is operably fluidly coupled to the discharge conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Sunburst Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy E. Laughlin, Robert C. Grant
  • Patent number: 5460718
    Abstract: A water treating device for a domestic water handling device such as a toilet water tank, an air conditioning drain pan or a humidifier includes a housing having permanent magnets in a flow path of water flowing through the housing via openings in the housing, to collect free ions in the water. An antimicrobial polymer disinfecting agent is in a mass inserted in a chamber in the housing and/or in a polymer in a housing surface. The housing is configured so an air bubble forms against the housing roof to assure that a base of the housing rests on the floor of the water handling device. Ribs adding structural strength to the cover are aligned and have approximately the same size and shape as slots in the cover roof through which water passes so the ribs obscure the magnets from view from above and to sides of the cover. The magnets are held in place by a spring finger extending upward from the base to exert a force downwardly against the magnet upper pole face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Micasa Trading Corporation
    Inventors: David Weck, Erwin M. Frey, Fred J. Meyer
  • Patent number: 5427748
    Abstract: Described is a chemical feeder comprising a housing having a base and upwardly extending side walls that define a cavity for containing solid chemical material, e.g., calcium hypochlorite. A hollow coaxial chamber is located within the cavity and is seated on the base. The side walls of the chamber are spaced from the side walls of the housing, thereby to define an annular collection zone. A grid having a plurality of perforations covers the hollow coaxial chamber and has a flange associated with the edge of the grid, the perimeter of the flange being adjacent to, or close to but spaced from, the walls of the housing, thereby to permit liquid communication between the portion of the housing cavity above the grid with the collection zone. An inlet conduit is used to supply dissolving liquid to the hollow chamber. An outlet conduit from the annular collection zone to outside the housing wall removes liquid solution of solid chemical material from the collection zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Wiedrich, Gerard F. Dooley
  • Patent number: 5385044
    Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator (15, 35) for determining the level of contents in an opaque, plastic container (10). The container (11) is filled with a solid chemical (11), such as a detergent. A spray of warm or hot water (19) impinges upon the eroding surface (16) of the solid chemical (11) to produce a chemical solution. The container (10) is provided with a thermo-chromatic strip (15, 35) for detecting the level of solid chemical (11) within the plastic capsule (10). A method of dispensing a solid chemical (11) and a dispensing container (10) are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Thomas, Jody A. Toetschinger, John E. McCall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5384102
    Abstract: An apparatus for dissolving a solid chemical material including a housing having a base and sidewalls that define a cavity within which is seated a container that is spaced from the housing sidewalls and covered with a grid is described. A flange connects the upper end of the housing sidewall to the container sidewall above the grid. A plurality of arrayed openings in the container sidewall above the grid and below the flange level leads to an annular collection zone in the housing. An outlet discharge pipe is connected to the collection zone and an inlet pipe for charging dissolving liquid communicates with the container below the grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Ferguson, Charles R. Wiedrich
  • Patent number: 5366706
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a solid cake-like detergent. A dry powdered detergent mixture is discharged downwardly as a flowing particulate stream. The particulate stream is moistened by a spray of water. The moistened particulates are collected in a container in which the detergent is solidified and formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Winbro Group, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hubert A. Perry, Jr., Kenneth E. Perry
  • Patent number: 5342587
    Abstract: A detergent dispenser that is utilized with solid cast detergent. A single valve is utilized to initiate a flow of a ready to use detergent solution that may be drawn off in container. The valve commences a flow of water that is split in a T-shaped fitting. An appropriate portion is routed to spray on the solid cast detergent and to dissolve the detergent into a concentrated solution. The concentrated solution flows into a conduit where it is mixed with the second portion of the water, diluting the solution to an appropriate concentration for use. A restricter located in the T-shaped fitting acts to split the flow of water appropriately to ensure that the discharge solution is in a ready to use concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Assignee: Sunburst Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy E. Laughlin, William H. Scepanski, Kenneth P. Gruber
  • Patent number: 5268153
    Abstract: An apparatus dispenses a solid-form chemical in the form of a dilute solution which is ready for immediate use. The apparatus supports a capsule of the solid chemical in an inverted position above a spray nozzle. A supply of solvent for the chemical is split into two portions, one of which is directed to the spray nozzle for spraying at the exposed surface of the solid chemical to form a concentrated solution of the chemical. The other portion of the solvent is directed to the outlet of the housing where it mixes with the concentrated chemical solution so that the solution is diluted to a desired concentration for use prior to being dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Assignee: Sanolite Corporation
    Inventor: Edward J. Muller
  • Patent number: 5262132
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing solid or semi-solid detergents includes a hollow elongated opening or chute and an arcuate plate that extends from the side wall of the apparatus to beneath the chute. This plate provides a planar support for a detergent bar placed within the chute. Water is sprayed down the arcuate plate and projects against the detergent supported on the planar support causing it to dissolve and flow down a drain. The chute has a unique geometric design which is suitable to receive only one uniquely shaped elongated detergent bar. In a kitchen having several detergent dispensers, each detergent dispenser will have a uniquely defined chute so that only the appropriate detergent can be used in the appropriate dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Assignee: Diversey Corporation
    Inventors: James C. Bricker, Robert E. Ebbeler, Michael R. Roseman
  • Patent number: 5251656
    Abstract: An automatic swimming pool chemical feeder designed to operate on the pressure side of the filter system and which combines two independent feeding compartments is provided. A first compartment contains, for dispensing, a solid material such as water soluble chlorine tablets which erode by water flow in contact therewith and the second compartment contains a liquid also to be dispensed. Material from both compartments is dispensed as a liquid. The solid material is liquified by introducing a dissolving liquid such as water into the first compartment to dissolve at least the lower part of the solid material. The apparatus is connected in the line of a flowing liquid stream such as a swimming pool recirculation system. Liquid from both compartments is dispensed as desired in predetermined quantities from the bottom of each compartment into the pressure side of a line carrying the flowing stream into which the apparatus is connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventor: Wilson B. Sexton, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5252302
    Abstract: A container is arranged to include an internal cavity to receive at least one porous bag member therewithin, with the porous bag member arranged to contain manure and composting therewithin for seepage into the container when fluid is directed therein. A modification of the container structure is arranged to include a plurality of support members, each including a screen grid floor to permit screening of various components to prevent their flow from the container. Sponge inserts are arranged for positioning selectively on each screen floor to impart various additives into a fertilizer solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventors: George Schmidt, Tammy L. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5229084
    Abstract: A dispenser cap for a non-liquid chemical delivery system is disclosed. The dispenser cap is attached to the base of a chemical container holding a non-liquid chemical. The dispenser cap is also coupled to a discharge conduit which includes a nozzle positioned within it. The nozzle may produce a direct vertical spray and a circumferential spray into the dispenser cap. The dispenser cap disclosed includes a distributor for intercepting the direct vertical spray of water into the dispenser cap. The distributor indirectly conveys the intercepted water into the container. The water conveyed into the container by the distributor produces a stream of chemicals which exits the container through the discharge conduit, without impinging upon the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Beta Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Livingston, Frederick J. Fulmer
  • Patent number: 5194230
    Abstract: A solid product static brake (10) is provided which is employed in cast solid chemical block dispensing systems for slowing a generally downward gravitationally driven movement of the solid chemical block when placed or installed in a chemical dispenser. The brake provides the ability to prevent the destruction of the cast solid during installation due to mechanical shock. The static brake comprises a horizontal base frame (12), and a plurality of rigid blade members (18) extending from the base frame in a generally perpendicular direction. When a new solid block is installed, the blade members contact and slow the solid block as it falls into the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew D. PeKarna, Greg M. Grandprey, John M. Lavorata, Daniel K. Boche
  • Patent number: 5186912
    Abstract: A dispenser (10) and method for washing dishes and utensils in a dishwashing machine are disclosed. The dispenser (10) is comprised of a container (11) and lid (12), the dispenser containing a solid detergent composition (13). A slot (23) in a side wall (17) and baffle (26) allow for controlled drainage of the detergent solution. The lid (12) has a plurality of openings (18) through which water from the dishwashing machine enters, so as to dissolve the solid detergent (13). The dispenser (10) is positioned within the washing chamber (20) of a dishwashing machine (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: Ecolab, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Steindorf, Katsumi Maeda, Daniel K. Boche, Yoichi Satoh
  • Patent number: 5165119
    Abstract: The chemical setting receptacle comprises a receptacle body loading chemical and a lid covering the top opening of the receptacle body, wherein the lid is formed by connecting more than one vertical plate and a passage connected to a chemical loading section of the receptacle body is installed between the vertical plates. Urine and water hitting the ridge of the vertical plate separate and fall into the chemical loading section and also, urine and water entering the passage hit the side of the vertical plate and fall into the chemical loading section. Therefore, urine and water do not splash outward. The receptacle body and lid are made of decomposable plastic material containing an additive having a decomposition by microorganisms and sunlight characteristic. After the receptacle is used, the additive is naturally decomposed in a short time by activity of microorganisms and irradiation of sunlight, the plastic material collapses into a granular resin, and the receptacle loses its original form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Assignee: Amenity Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Satoshi Yamato
  • Patent number: 5160709
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing solid or semi-solid detergents includes a hollow elongated opening or chute and an arcuate plate that extends from the side wall of the apparatus to beneath the chute. This plate provides a planar support for a detergent bar placed within the chute. Water is sprayed down the arcuate plate and projects against the detergent supported on the planar support causing it to dissolve and flow down a drain. The chute has a unique geometric design which is suitable to receive only one uniquely shaped elongated detergent bar. In a kitchen having several detergent dispensers, each detergent dispenser will have a uniquely defined chute so that only the appropriate detergent can be used in the appropriate dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Diversey Corporation
    Inventors: James C. Bricker, Robert E. Ebbeler, Michael R. Roseman
  • Patent number: 5147615
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for dispensing detergent from within a container comprises directing a water spray transversely of the container vertical orientation to dissolve and remove detergent in solution from the container. The transverse direction of water spray greatly improves detergent dispensing performance and minimize clogging of the system during down times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Diversey Corporation
    Inventors: K. J. H. Bird, G. W. Crossdale, J. W. Livingston
  • Patent number: 5137694
    Abstract: A cleaning system and dispenser are disclosed which feature a reservoir for retaining a liquid detergent solution; a chamber for retaining a mass of solid, dissolvable detergent; a measurement device for measuring the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution; and a flow control device for circulating the liquid detergent solution from the reservoir into contact with the solid detergent so as to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent and increase the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution. The circulation of the liquid detergent solution is in response to a signal from the concentration measuring device that the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution has fallen below a predetermined minimum. The dispenser also includes a measurement device for measuring the volume of solution in the reservoir and for adding fresh water to the reservoir when the volume of solution is below a predetermined minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Copeland, Henry A. Snyder, Sherwood A. Bergseid, Thomas H. Indieke
  • Patent number: 5066468
    Abstract: Fountain permitting the release of active agents into water originating from a well, comprising a passage for circulating the water drawn from the well around a cartridge containing the active agent to be diffused and for keeping this cartridge immersed in water when water is not being drawn from the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Assignee: Rhone-Poulenc Chimie
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Arnold, Guy Cyprien, Jean-Francois Olivere
  • Patent number: 5053206
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a chemical solution into a pipeline transporting a liquid under pressure irrespective of whether the liquid pressure varies between a maximum and a minimum or is subsantially constant. The volume of solution dispensed is varied at times when the liquid pressure is varying by selection of an aperture from a plurality of apertures at varying axial positions, for placing the interior of the pipeline in communication with the interior of the enclosure above the solution level, at times when the level drops axially to the selected apertures; or, at times when the liquid pressure is substantially constant, by adjustment of the amount of liquid permitted to enter the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Universal Chemical Feeder, Inc.
    Inventors: Murrill W. Maglio, Stephen D. Moore
  • Patent number: 5019346
    Abstract: A drain sanitizing article (9) for reducing microbiological activity in drain runoff areas having a housing (10), the housing having an inner wall (16) defining an inner opening (18) in the housing, an outer wall (12), and a bottom wall (14) defining a central cavity (15) in the housing (10), a tear strip (20) for destructibly removing the housing outer wall and a portion of the bottom wall (14), a handle (30) spanning the inner opening (18) of the housing (10) and joined to the inner wall (16) of said housing (10); and a chemical sanitizing agent (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Francis L. Richter, James Wilson, Daniel E. Pedersen