EP1817112B1 - Systeme de buse de pulverisation electrostatique - Google Patents

Systeme de buse de pulverisation electrostatique Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1817112B1
EP1817112B1 EP05823418A EP05823418A EP1817112B1 EP 1817112 B1 EP1817112 B1 EP 1817112B1 EP 05823418 A EP05823418 A EP 05823418A EP 05823418 A EP05823418 A EP 05823418A EP 1817112 B1 EP1817112 B1 EP 1817112B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
nozzle
cap
electrostatic spray
liquid
fluid tip
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP05823418A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP1817112A4 (fr
EP1817112A2 (fr
Inventor
Steven C. Cooper
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
MT Industries Inc
Original Assignee
MT Industries Inc
MT Ind Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US11/272,274 external-priority patent/US7913938B2/en
Priority claimed from US11/271,257 external-priority patent/US20060124779A1/en
Application filed by MT Industries Inc, MT Ind Inc filed Critical MT Industries Inc
Publication of EP1817112A2 publication Critical patent/EP1817112A2/fr
Publication of EP1817112A4 publication Critical patent/EP1817112A4/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1817112B1 publication Critical patent/EP1817112B1/fr
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F23COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
    • F23DBURNERS
    • F23D11/00Burners using a direct spraying action of liquid droplets or vaporised liquid into the combustion space
    • F23D11/32Burners using a direct spraying action of liquid droplets or vaporised liquid into the combustion space by electrostatic means
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/60Arrangements for mounting, supporting or holding spraying apparatus
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/60Arrangements for mounting, supporting or holding spraying apparatus
    • B05B15/62Arrangements for supporting spraying apparatus, e.g. suction cups
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B5/00Electrostatic spraying apparatus; Spraying apparatus with means for charging the spray electrically; Apparatus for spraying liquids or other fluent materials by other electric means
    • B05B5/025Discharge apparatus, e.g. electrostatic spray guns
    • B05B5/03Discharge apparatus, e.g. electrostatic spray guns characterised by the use of gas, e.g. electrostatically assisted pneumatic spraying
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B5/00Electrostatic spraying apparatus; Spraying apparatus with means for charging the spray electrically; Apparatus for spraying liquids or other fluent materials by other electric means
    • B05B5/025Discharge apparatus, e.g. electrostatic spray guns
    • B05B5/043Discharge apparatus, e.g. electrostatic spray guns using induction-charging
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45DHAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D2200/00Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
    • A45D2200/05Details of containers
    • A45D2200/054Means for supplying liquid to the outlet of the container
    • A45D2200/057Spray nozzles; Generating atomised liquid
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B13/00Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups B05B1/00 - B05B11/00
    • B05B13/02Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work
    • B05B13/0278Arrangement or mounting of spray heads
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B13/00Machines or plants for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces of objects or other work by spraying, not covered by groups B05B1/00 - B05B11/00
    • B05B13/02Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work
    • B05B13/04Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work the spray heads being moved during spraying operation
    • B05B13/0405Means for supporting work; Arrangement or mounting of spray heads; Adaptation or arrangement of means for feeding work the spray heads being moved during spraying operation with reciprocating or oscillating spray heads
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/60Arrangements for mounting, supporting or holding spraying apparatus
    • B05B15/65Mounting arrangements for fluid connection of the spraying apparatus or its outlets to flow conduits
    • B05B15/652Mounting arrangements for fluid connection of the spraying apparatus or its outlets to flow conduits whereby the jet can be oriented
    • B05B15/654Mounting arrangements for fluid connection of the spraying apparatus or its outlets to flow conduits whereby the jet can be oriented using universal joints
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05BSPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B7/00Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
    • B05B7/02Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge
    • B05B7/04Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge
    • B05B7/0416Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid
    • B05B7/0441Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid with one inner conduit of liquid surrounded by an external conduit of gas upstream the mixing chamber
    • B05B7/0475Spray pistols; Apparatus for discharge with arrangements for mixing liquids or other fluent materials before discharge with arrangements for mixing one gas and one liquid with one inner conduit of liquid surrounded by an external conduit of gas upstream the mixing chamber with means for deflecting the peripheral gas flow towards the central liquid flow

Definitions

  • This invention relates to electrostatic spraying nozzles. Specifically it relates to electrostatic spray nozzle systems utilizing induction charging or contact charging methods to apply static charge to atomized liquids operating in environments with untrained operators.
  • Electrostatic charging nozzles are well known and in widespread use in a number of commercial applications. Nearly every vehicle manufactured worldwide is painted electrostatically. Most of these industrial electrostatic spray systems charge spray by ionization and dispense powder or non-conductive liquids. There is a need for electrostatic spray devices that can reliably charge electrically conductive formulations, such as those that are water based.
  • induction charging nozzles have been developed to produce electrostatically charged water sprays.
  • U.S. Patent No. 4,004,733 to Law shows an induction charging nozzle having a conductive ring surrounding a liquid jet inside a channel where high velocity air impacts the liquid stream, thereby creating a fine spray.
  • U.S. Patent Nos. 5,704,554 and 5,765,761 utilize a fluid tip that is integral to the nozzle body, and utilize unique outside nozzle surface shapes to attempt to address some of the problems of stray electrical currents due to internal and external nozzle surface contamination.
  • the fixed tip requires that the entire nozzle body be replaced in the event of mis-manufacturing, damage or wear, thereby increasing the cost and the effort of nozzle maintenance.
  • the electrode portion of these nozzles is permanently pressed into the retaining cover. This does not allow replacement of the electrode alone - the entire cover assembly must be replaced.
  • U.S. Patent Numbers 6,003,794 , 6,138,922 and 6,227,466, to Hartman use an induction charging principle and liquid tip and air channel geometry that are similar to the above mentioned patents by Law, Cooper and Sickles.
  • U.S. Patent No. 6,003,794 describes nozzles having many components with stacked tolerances. These nozzles have a replaceable electrode but do not allow for adjustment.
  • the nozzles mentioned in the above-identified patents charge well when made to precis, but expensive, machining tolerances, use matched components and are operated within a narrow range of liquid viscosities and liquid and air flow rates for a given internal spacing of components.
  • nozzles use air-atomizing induction-charging principles. With these nozzles the spray is charged to the opposite polarity as the electrode. Neither the liquid emitted from the tip nor the atomized spray is meant to contact the electrode.
  • the advantage of such a system is that it produces high spray charging with very low electrode voltage and power.
  • the disadvantage is that spray is attracted back to the nozzle surfaces. The wetted surfaces become conductive and reach the same polarity of the electrode, further attracting liquid spray droplets. The moisture deposits on the nozzle surface form into peaked shapes in response to the spray cloud space charge. The sharp points formed on these water droplets emit air ions that discharge large portions of the spray charge in the cloud.
  • Nozzles such as those described by Cooper and Law, Sickles, Hartman, and U.S. Patent No. 4,664,315 to Parmentar et al . are induction charging devices and have the unfortunate characteristic of attracting spray back to the nozzle itself. This causes wetting of the nozzle face. Wetting by conductive liquids, near the jet outlet, can cause a conductive bridge to form to the electrode and cause shock when these forward nozzle surfaces are touched, even though the nozzle parts are made from insulating materials.
  • the nozzle of Hartman which is mounted with the electrode through a hole in a PVC tube structure, is particularly susceptible to leakage currents forward from the electrode. After a period of use black electrical tracking lines are evident on the surface of the tube. In addition the thin electrode cover may be easily removed during use causing direct exposure to the electrode.
  • an air-atomizing charging nozzle for conductive liquids that has adjustable components to allow tuning for optimized spray quality and charging levels for a wide range of liquid viscosities and flow rates. It is desirable that the nozzle be manufactured with cost effective machining tolerances and not require component matching. It is also desirable that these tuning adjustments can be made while the nozzle is operating. It is also desirable that these adjustments remain set in place during normal nozzle operation. In addition, it is desirable to be able to easily replace and interchange nozzle components without adversely affecting charging and spray quality. Furthermore it is desirable to have the option to use the same nozzle as a contact charging device when necessary. Safety design considerations dictate that the nozzle have reduced leakage currents on all nozzle surfaces, particularly those interior and exterior surfaces which are easily touched by untrained operators.
  • Electrostatic charging of spray is well known in many agricultural and industrial processes. Electrostatic spray nozzles have been successfully developed to increase the deposition efficiency of powder and liquid formulations of agricultural pesticides, paints, and other coatings. Recently electrostatic spray devices have been developed for use by the consumer for applying cosmetics and for sunless tanning. A recent publication by the University of Georgia describes a method for applying decontamination sprays to humans utilizing electrostatic spray nozzles (See, Law and Cooper, 2002 Institute of Physics Conference, Edinburgh, Scotland UK).
  • electrostatic spray nozzles have been used for many years in a variety of applications, they are generally used in industrial environments with operators trained in the possible hazards associated with the high voltage devices. Electrostatic nozzles have not generally been used in consumer applications where the user is untrained and is unaware of any hazard. Many electrostatic nozzles are operated at voltage levels which can cause an electrical shock hazard. The hazard can come from contact with the high voltage electrode or from wetted nozzle surfaces which create conductive pathways to the high voltage electrode. The safety hazards may be due to contact with the electrical current itself, but more likely the hazard is the reaction to the shock, which may result in bodily harm from falling or contact with an object during involuntary movement away from the source of the shock.
  • This device does not provide a barrier between the high voltage and low voltage sections of a nozzle system as evidenced by the design which has an electrode conductor in contact with the tube wall and penetrating through an opening in the tube.
  • the design includes a non-insulated conductive air conduit and non-insulated conductive nozzle bodies within the tube shell that serve as conductors connected to the electrode voltage.
  • Conductors to the electrode which extend through the tube and contact the exterior portion of the tube are covered on one face with a nozzle cap that does not provide an electrically tight sealing surface between inner and outer portions of the tube.
  • the exposed conductors within the shell are in the vicinity of the liquid channels which are meant to be maintained at earth potential.
  • the non-insulated high voltage air tube and nozzle bodies are likely to allow leakage currents to travel through threaded seams in the liquid channels. This effect will draw excessive electrode current, elevate the liquid electrical potential by contact and reduce charging.
  • the non-insulated high voltage conduits may pose a significant hazard to those adjusting or maintaining the assembly while it is operating.
  • Induction charging nozzles such as those previously mentioned, also have the inherent drawback of spray being attracted back to the nozzle itself and to surrounding mounting fixtures.
  • the electrode is of opposite polarity to the charged spray cloud. Once the dielectric nozzle surfaces become slightly wetted or otherwise conductive, the surfaces assume the electrode polarity and attract spray from the oppositely charged spray cloud. Excessive liquid returning to the nozzle not only contaminates the nozzle surface further, it causes spray cloud discharge as the liquid pulls into a peaked shape in the direction of the spray cloud space charge field. The point on the liquid droplet peak will produce air ions that can discharge an estimated 1/3 of the spray charge.
  • US-A-4 934 602 discloses a spray nozzle in accordance with the precharacterising portion of claim 1. This prior art nozzle does not provide for electrostatic charging. Moreover, it does not provide a convenient arrangement for coupling the liquid inlet to the nozzle body and for adjusting the liquid tip within the nozzle.
  • the present invention provides an electrostatic spray charging nozzle comprising:
  • a fluid tip 10 having a fluid tip base 20 with a threaded end is screwed into an inner threaded portion of a liquid inlet connector 30.
  • the fluid tip can be comprised of a dielectric material.
  • a sealing boss 40 on the fluid tip 10 provides for liquid sealing between the fluid tip 10 and the liquid inlet connector 30.
  • the liquid inlet connector 30 is further provided with fluid tip length adjustment threads 50 along an outer circumference.
  • the liquid inlet connector 30 is adapted to be connected to a source of spray liquid.
  • the fluid tip length adjustment threads 50 are adapted to allow the liquid inlet connector 30 to be threaded into a back surface of a nozzle body 60. With the fluid tip 10 mounted to the liquid inlet connector 30, the selective threading of the liquid inlet connector 30 result in an adjustment in the axial/longitudinal positioning of the fluid tip 10 within a central air-channel bore 70 of the nozzle body 60.
  • the fluid tip 10 is a dual fluid tip that allows for the passage of air as well as a spray fluid.
  • the fluid tip 10 is provided with air path cuts 75 in the sides which longitudinally extend to allow air to flow through the central air-channel bore 70 between the fluid tip 10 and the walls of the central air-channel bore 70. This allows for the passage of air while still allowing for concentric alignment of the fluid tip 10 with the central air channel. This design improves air flow uniformity in the atomization channel and helps prevent spray contact with the channel walls.
  • the directed air within the nozzle further produces a narrow directed spray which provides concentrated air energy at the jet outlet of the nozzle and greatly reduces the return of charged spray to the nozzle and nozzle mounting components.
  • the nozzle body 60 is further provided with an air inlet 80 for providing a flow of air or other gas from an external source through to the central air-channel bore 70.
  • An air cap 90 (or electrode) having a bore or channel is further positioned at a front end of the nozzle body 60 to form an atomization/electrode charmel.
  • An electrode wire 100 is provided to apply a charge to the air cap 90 when the nozzle is to be used for induction charging, and the air cap 90 is made from conductive materials.
  • the spray liquid itself is raised to a high voltage and the air cap 90 may be made from insulating materials. In this configuration, the electrode wire 100 may be omitted.
  • a nozzle cap 110 (or retaining cap) is further provided to retain the air cap 90 in the nozzle assembly.
  • the nozzle cap 110 may be comprised of a hemispherical nozzle cap.
  • the nozzle cap may have alternate shapes.
  • the nozzle cap 110 can be further provided with an aperture or recess adapted to removably receive the air cap 90.
  • the air cap 90 is adapted to rotate freely about the fluid tip assembly, and is removable for repair and/or replacement if necessary.
  • Adjustment of the depth that the fluid tip 10 penetrates into the atomization channel is made by turning the liquid inlet connector 30 attached to the back of the nozzle body 60.
  • the thread pitch of the liquid inlet connector 30 determines the amount of axial/longitudinal movement that is provided with respect to the placement and positioning of the fluid tip 60 in the atomization/electrode channel for each turn of the liquid inlet connector 30.
  • the threads of the liquid inlet connector 30 act as an adjustment mechanism such that the longitudinal or axial distance between the liquid outlet of the fluid tip 10 and the outlet of the nozzle cap 10 can be adjusted within a predetermined range.
  • the nozzle of various embodiments of the present invention allows for components of the nozzle to be removed and interchanged easily, for example for cleaning or replacement.
  • the removable and interchangeable components of the nozzle include the fluid tip 10, the nozzle cap 110, the air cap 90, and the nozzle body 60.
  • Nozzle cap 110 can be replaced to change its outside surface size and/or shape.
  • FIGURE 2A illustrates a side view of one embodiment of a nozzle in accordance with the present invention shown in an assembled form.
  • the nozzle cap 110 is coupled to a front side of the nozzle body 60
  • the liquid inlet connector 30 is coupled to a back side of the nozzle body 60.
  • the nozzle of FIGURE 2A may be further provided with a spacer ring 120 placed between the nozzle cap 110 and the nozzle body 60.
  • the spacer ring 120 may be removed for mounting of the nozzle to a panel.
  • FIGURE 2B shows a section view of another embodiment of a nozzle in accordance with the present invention.
  • the panel occupies the space previously occupied by the spacer ring 120.
  • Adjustment of the length of the fluid tip 10 is made by turning a fitting on the liquid inlet connector 30 connected to the back of the nozzle.
  • the thread pitch of the fluid tip length adjustment threads 50 of the liquid inlet connector 30 controls the length of axial/longitudinal movement of the fluid tip 10 per turn.
  • These fluid tip length adjustment threads 50 have been proven to seal the air very well even after many adjustment rotations have been made.
  • the fluid tip 10 is shown inserted into the central air channel bore 70 of the nozzle body 60.
  • the fluid tip 10 is held concentric in the air channel by ridges formed on the sides of the fluid tip 10.
  • FIGURE 2C shows a section view of the fluid tip 10 area of the nozzle of FIGURE 2B .
  • One aspect in accordance with embodiments of the present invention is that tightening the nozzle cap 110 pushes a ledge on the inside of the air cap 90 against a front face of the nozzle body 60 to cause a seal.
  • This design reduces stacked tolerances seen in previous designs, since only the air cap 90 inside dimension need be made with tight tolerances and the nozzle cap 110 and nozzle body 60 can be made with loose, non-critical tolerances. Any variation due to manufacturing of the nozzle parts can be taken out by adjusting the fluid tip 10 by turning the fitting of the liquid inlet connector 30 on the rear of the nozzle.
  • the fluid tip 10 is made to move in an axial direction 95, thereby changing a length 105 of the fluid tip 10 that is exposed from the nozzle body 60, as well as a depth 115 that the tip end penetrates into the channel of the air cap 90.
  • FIGURE 3 shows one embodiment of the nozzle according to the present invention in which the fluid tip 10 is removable from the front of the nozzle assembly. This is accomplished by first removing nozzle cap 110, and then rotating fluid tip 10 to disengage the fluid tip 10 from the liquid inlet connector 30 while the liquid inlet connector 30 remains in place. Removal of the fluid tip 10 from the front is desirable in instances where the front of the nozzle is more accessible for maintenance. For instance, if the nozzle is panel mounted and closed in on the backside.
  • the nozzle assembly of FIGURE 3 further illustrates the fluid tip base 20 of the fluid tip 10 as having threads 130 to facilitate removable of the fluid tip 10 from the liquid inlet connector 30.
  • the nozzle assembly of FIGURE 3 is further provided with an electrode wire 100 to provide a high voltage to the spray liquid during a spraying operation.
  • FIGURE 4 shows one embodiment of the nozzle according to the present invention in which a fluid tip assembly 150 comprised of a fluid tip 10 and liquid inlet connector 30 is removable from the rear of the nozzle body 60. This is accomplished by rotating the liquid inlet connector 30 to detach the liquid inlet connector 30 from nozzle body 60 while the fluid tip 10 remains attached to the liquid inlet connector 30.
  • the fluid tip can be comprised of a dielectric material. Removal of the fluid tip 10 from the rear of the nozzle body 60 may be desirable is some situations. For instance, if the nozzle were operating alongside other nozzles and only one nozzle needed service, the fluid tip 10 could be removed from the rear of the nozzle body 60 without interfering in the spray of the adjacent nozzles.
  • FIGURE 5 shows a front view of a fluid tip 10 of one embodiment of a nozzle body of the present invention.
  • the fluid tip 10 is removable and inserted into the central air channel bore 70. Cuts along the length of the side of the fluid tip 10 allow air to flow evenly around a liquid outlet 160 of the fluid tip 10 and mate the tip concentric with the inner wall of the central air channel bore 70.
  • the ridges formed on the length of the fluid tip 10 hold the fluid tip 10 concentric with the central air channel bore 70 of the nozzle body 60 and provide for air channels 170 through which air or another gas can flow. This arrangement improves the concentricity of the removable liquid tip 10 with the nozzle body 60 and the air cap 90.
  • An electrode contactor 180 is provided in the case of induction charging nozzles where a conductive air cap 90 is used in order to couple a high voltage from electrode wire 100 to the air cap 90.
  • the electrode contactor 180 includes a contact pad adapted to contact a surface of the air cap 90. In one embodiment of the present invention, the contact pad may be comprised of a spring-loaded contact pad.
  • the electrode contactor 180 is recessed in a ring cavity 190 or channel of the nozzle body 60 to prevent touching with fingers while operating.
  • the ring cavity 190 allows for the seating of air cap 90 as can also be seen in FIGURES 2B and 2C .
  • FIGURE 5 is illustrated as having a ring cavity 190, it should be understood that in other embodiments a nozzle body can be used that does not have a ring cavity.
  • FIGURE 6 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention which includes the addition of a non-conductive element 200 to the inside of the nozzle cap 10 positioned between the ends of the retaining cap 110 and a top surface of the air cap 90.
  • the function of the non-conductive element 200 is to increase human safety by reducing shock hazard at the nozzle tip area by providing an electrical isolation between the air cap 90 and the nozzle cap 110.
  • the non-conductive element 200 further acts to reduce leakage currents from surfaces surrounding of the jet outlet 210 of the nozzle cap 110 that may be touched by human hands in certain applications.
  • the non-conductive element 200 is a non-conductive or substantially non-conductive disc.
  • the non-conductive element 200 be a material with low electrical conductivity and low surface wettability, such as Teflon or UHMW Nylon.
  • the addition of the non-conductive element 200 can be made without affecting any critical geometry or performance of the nozzle.
  • the jet outlet hole 210 of the non-conductive element 200 is preferably made larger than the hole of the air cap 90 so as not to introduce any discontinuities along the wall of the air channel.
  • FIGURE 7 illustrates a configuration of a tool 220 used to insert or remove the fluid tip 10 in the nozzle according to the present invention.
  • the tool 220 does not form part of the present invention but represents background art that is useful for understanding the invention.
  • the tool 220 has an inside bore 230 of a similar shape as the outside of the sides of the fluid tip 10.
  • the tool 220 is positioned over the fluid tip 10 such that a portion of the fluid tip 10 extends through the inside bore 230 of the tool 220.
  • the tool 220 is then turned by hand to tighten or loosen the fluid tip 10 from the liquid inlet connector 30 as needed.
  • An advantage provided by an embodiment of the tool 220 is that it contacts only the sides of the fluid tip 10 in order to prevent any damage to the liquid outlet end of the fluid tip 10.
  • FIGURE 8 components of a panel mounted electrostatic spray charging system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. These components are illustrated as suited for an air atomizing induction charging system. However, it should be understood that the system could be easily configured for contact charging by applying voltage directly to the liquid rather than an induction electrode.
  • the main components of an induction charging system as shown include a nozzle body 310, removable liquid tip 320, an electrode retaining cap 330, an electrode air cap 340 having an air cap outlet 345, a sealing surface 350a, 350b on the nozzle body 310 and/or the electrode retaining cap 330, and an electrically insulating panel 360.
  • the electrically insulating panel is substantially electrically non-conductive.
  • the insulating panel may be made of a plastic material.
  • the insulating panel is made of an insulating material such that electrical resistance of the insulating panel to earth ground is greater than 2 Megaohms.
  • the nozzle body 310 is preferably made from insulating material.
  • the nozzle body 310 itself does not contain a fluid channel but instead includes a central air channel bore so that it allows the insertion of the removable liquid tip 320 in such a way that air from an air inlet 400 is caused to flow around the removable liquid tip 320 inserted into the central air channel bore.
  • the removable liquid tip 320 is positioned into and held concentric with the central air channel bore.
  • the central air channel bore is such that the removable liquid tip 320 may be inserted or removed from either the front or rear sides of the nozzle body 310.
  • the air inlet 400 is adapted to receive a supply of air or other gas from a source.
  • the removable liquid tip 320 includes at least one air channel cut 325 (see FIGURES 9 and 10 ) along a length of the removable liquid tip 320 for allowing air to flow around a liquid outlet of the removable liquid tip 320.
  • the insulating panel 360 is further provided with a plurality of mounting holes 365.
  • the nozzle body 310 is fixedly mounted to the insulating panel 360 using mounting hardware that is coupled to the nozzle body 310 and passes through the mounting holes 365.
  • the retaining cap 330 is mounted to the insulating panel 360 using mounting hardware that is coupled to the retaining cap 330 and passes through the mounting holes 365.
  • the mounting hardware can include bolts, screws, rods, attachment clips, etc.
  • the nozzle body 310 and/or the retaining cap 330 can be affixed to the insulating panel 360 using an adhesive.
  • the insulating panel 360 further includes a void 375 for allowing a portion of the nozzle body 310 to be mounted therethrough.
  • a portion of the retaining cap 330 in contact with the insulating panel 360 is of a diameter such that the mounting holes 365 are covered by the retaining cap 330 to inhibit charge leakage through the mounting holes 365.
  • the electrostatic spray charging system further includes a liquid inlet 370 adapted to be connected to a source of spray liquid and supply the spray liquid to the removable liquid tip 320.
  • the electrostatic spray charging system still further includes an electrode wire 380 adapted to supply an electrostatic charge to the induction electrode air cap 340.
  • the electrode retaining cap 330 is provided with an spray outlet 390 allowing for a spray of electrostatically charged liquid to be sprayed from the spray nozzle assembly.
  • the sealing surface 350a and/or the sealing surface 350b functions to prevent, or at least to inhibit, current flow between the electrode air cap 340 of the electrostatic spray nozzle assembly and a pathway to an electrical potential difference, such as a ground.
  • the sealing surface 350a and/or the sealing surface 350b serves to prevent or inhibit the formation of charge leakage paths, the presence of which will inhibit optimal charging of the spray by the electrode air cap 340.
  • the prevention or inhibition of current flow between the electrode air cap 340 and components of the electrostatic spray nozzle assembly that are positioned on the opposite side of the insulating panel 360 from the electrode air cap 340 provided by sealing surface 350a and/or sealing surface 350b also serves to isolate a person that may come in contact with these components from electrical shock.
  • the spray is charged to a negative charge potential with respect to ground, whereas in other embodiments the spray may be charged to a positive charge value with respect to ground.
  • FIGURE 9 a side view of an embodiment of the present invention in which a mounting of the nozzle by attaching the nozzle body 310 to the insulating panel 360 is illustrated.
  • a sealing surface 350a is located between the nozzle body 310 and the insulating panel 360, and may be fixedly mounted to the insulating panel 360.
  • An example situation in which it may be desirable to implement the embodiment of FIGURE 9 is in situations where it is desired to service the nozzle components from the spray outlet side of the insulating panel 360. In this case, removal of the nozzle cap 330 allows access to the removable electrode air cap 340 and the removable liquid tip 320.
  • the sealing surface 350a be a flat surface of the nozzle body 310 that contacts the insulating panel 360.
  • FIGURE 10 illustrates a mounting of the nozzle assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in which the nozzle cap 330 is attached to the insulating panel 360.
  • This mounting configuration is useful when it is desired to have the serviceable components accessible from the rear of the insulating panel 360.
  • This may be desirable may be for use in a spray booth where a service door is provided on the rear of the spray booth.
  • Another instance in which rear access is desirable is in a multiple-nozzle spray panel in which adjacent nozzles are continuously operating while an individual nozzle is serviced or its components are replaced or repaired.
  • the sealing surface 350b is on a flat area of the fixed nozzle cap 330 that contacts the insulating panel 360.
  • FIGURE 11 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in which a nozzle assembly is mounted on an oscillating spray nozzle drum 410.
  • the nozzle drum 410 is mounted on a pivot axis 420 which allows the nozzle drum to oscillate during a spraying operation, which allows the nozzle drum 410 to be pivoted to create a sweeping spray effect.
  • the outer surfaces of the nozzle drum 410 are constructed of electrically insulating material through which are mounted one or more nozzle assemblies each comprised of a nozzle cap 330 (or electrode retaining cap), an electrode air cap 340, a removable liquid tip 320, and a nozzle body 310.
  • FIGURE 11 An example application of the embodiment of FIGURE 11 is for use in spray booths that provide for the application of sunless tanning media onto humans.
  • a sealing surface 350a may be provided between the nozzle body 310 and the mounting surface of the nozzle drum 410 and/or a sealing surface 350b may be provided between the nozzle cap 330 and the mounting surface of the nozzle drum 410.
  • the nozzle system can be mounted either with the nozzle cap 330 or the nozzle body 310 providing the sealing surface.
  • FIGURE 12 illustrates a multiple nozzle spray panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention such as may be used in a spray booth.
  • the spray system of FIGURE 12 includes one or more nozzle assemblies each comprised of a nozzle cap 330, an electrode air cap 340, and a nozzle body 310, mounted to through the surface of an insulating plastic panel 430.
  • a sealing surface may further be provided between the nozzle body 310 and the plastic panel 430 and/or between the nozzle cap 330 and the plastic panel 430.
  • the nozzle system can be mounted by the nozzle cap 330 or the nozzle body 310 depending on which side of the plastic panel 430 it is desired to have service access.
  • FIGURE 13 illustrates a nozzle assembly mounted within a socket in an insulating (or non-conductive) panel.
  • the nozzle assembly includes a nozzle cap 440 and a sealing surface 460 mounted on a first side of an insulating panel 360, and a nozzle body 470 mounted on a second side of the insulating panel 360.
  • the nozzle cap 440 includes a jet outlet 450 which allows a spray of spray liquid to exit the nozzle assembly during a spraying operation.
  • the sealing surface 460 functions to prevent, or at least to inhibit, current flow between an electrode (not shown) of nozzle assembly and a pathway to an electrical potential difference, such as a ground.
  • the sealing surface 460 serves to prevent or inhibit the formation of charge leakage paths, the presence of which will inhibit optimal charging of the spray by the electrode.
  • the prevention or inhibition of current flow between the electrode and components of the electrostatic spray nozzle assembly that are positioned on the opposite side of the insulating panel 360 from the electrode provided by sealing surface 460 also serves to isolate a person that may come in contact with these components from electrical shock.
  • the spray is charged to a negative charge potential with respect to ground, whereas in other embodiments the spray may be charged to a positive charge value with respect to ground.
  • Position A of FIGURE 13 illustrates the nozzle assembly in which the jet outlet 450 has been rotated in an up position.
  • Position B of FIGURE 13 illustrates the nozzle assembly in which the jet outlet 450 has been rotated in a midway position.
  • Position C of FIGURE 13 illustrates the nozzle assembly in which the jet outlet 450 has been rotated in a down position.
  • the nozzle is pivotally mounted such that the side to side orientation of the nozzle can be changed.
  • FIGURE 13 illustrates a nozzle body pivotally mounted within a socket of an insulating panel, it should be understood that other methods of pivotally mounting the nozzle body can be used such as using a pivot pin.
  • nozzle assemblies of the present invention have been illustrated as being mounted to a flat insulating panel, it should be understood that other panel shapes can be used.
  • the nozzle assemblies of the present invention may be mounted within a curved insulating panel or a faceted insulation panel.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Electrostatic Spraying Apparatus (AREA)
  • Application Of Or Painting With Fluid Materials (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)

Claims (21)

  1. Une buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique comprenant :
    un capuchon de buse (110) présentant une sortie ;
    un corps de buse (60) présentant un premier alésage (70) ;
    un assemblage de bout pour fluide (10) s'étendant au moins en partie à travers le premier alésage (70), et présentant une entrée de liquide adaptée pour être raccordée à une source de liquide, et une sortie de liquide adaptée pour distribuer le liquide par la sortie du corps de buse (60) ; et
    un mécanisme de réglage 50 pouvant fonctionner pour déplacer l'assemblage de bout pour fluide (10) au sein du premier alésage (70) de façon à régler une distance longitudinale entre la sortie de liquide de l'assemblage de bout pour fluide (10) et la sortie du capuchon de buse (110) ;
    où l'assemblage de bout pour fluide (10) comprend :
    un raccord d'entrée de liquide (30) présentant une première extrémité adaptée pour être couplée à un deuxième côté du corps de buse (60), et une deuxième extrémité adaptée pour être raccordée à la source de liquide ; et
    un bout pour fluide présentant une entrée de bout pour liquide adaptée pour être couplée à la première extrémité du raccord d'entrée de liquide (30), et une sortie de bout pour liquide adaptée pour distribuer le liquide par la sortie du capuchon de buse (110) ;
    caractérisée en ce que :
    la première extrémité du raccord d'entrée de liquide (30) comporte des filets de réglage (50) couplant la première extrémité du raccord d'entrée de liquide (30) au deuxième côté du corps de buse (60), et
    les filets de réglage (50) sont adaptés pour régler la distance longitudinale entre la sortie de liquide du bout pour fluide et la sortie du capuchon de buse (110) en faisant tourner le raccord d'entrée de liquide (30).
  2. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1 où le corps de buse (60) comporte un premier côté adapté pour être couplé au capuchon de buse (110), et où le capuchon de buse (110) est adapté pour être découplé de façon amovible du premier côté de buse du corps de buse (60).
  3. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2 comprenant en outre :
    un capuchon d'air (90) présentant un deuxième alésage aligné avec le premier alésage (70), et positionné entre le capuchon de buse et le corps de buse (60) de façon à ce que la sortie de liquide soit reçue au sein du deuxième alésage ; et
    où le capuchon de buse (110) comporte une ouverture adaptée pour recevoir de façon amovible le capuchon d'air (90).
  4. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 3, comprenant en outre : un élément en disque substantiellement non conducteur (200) positionné entre le capuchon de buse (110) et le capuchon d'air (90), l'élément substantiellement non conducteur comportant un trou de sortie de jet (210).
  5. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 4, où un diamètre du trou de sortie de jet (210) est plus grand qu'un diamètre de la sortie du capuchon d'air (90).
  6. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 3, où le capuchon d'air (90) est formé en un matériau substantiellement non conducteur.
  7. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 4, où le capuchon d'air (90) est formé en un matériau substantiellement conducteur, et comprend une électrode adaptée pour provoquer une charge électrostatique dans le liquide.
  8. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 3, où le capuchon d'air (90) est adapté pour être monté au sein d'une cavité en anneau (190) du corps de buse (60), et comprenant en outre :
    un contacteur d'électrode situé en renfoncement au sein de la cavité en anneau (190), le contacteur d'électrode présentant un plot de contact (180) adapté pour faire contact électrique avec une première surface du capuchon d'air (90).
  9. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 8, où le plot de contact (180) comprend un plot de contact à ressort (180).
  10. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le corps de buse (60) comporte une entrée d'air couplée au premier alésage (70).
  11. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le capuchon de buse (110) comprend un capuchon de buse hémisphérique (110).
  12. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le bout pour fluide comprend un bout pour fluide double.
  13. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le bout pour fluide est adapté pour être retiré du premier côté du corps de buse (60).
  14. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le bout pour fluide est adapté pour être retiré du deuxième côté du corps de buse (60).
  15. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le premier alésage (70) comprend un alésage de canal d'air central et le bout pour fluide est adapté pour être positionné dans l'alésage de canal d'air central, et être maintenu concentrique avec celui-ci, du corps de buse (60), et où le bout pour fluide comporte en outre au moins un canal d'air sur une longueur du bout pour fluide, le au moins un canal d'air étant adapté pour permettre à de l'air de s'écouler sur la longueur du bout pour fluide au sein de l'alésage de canal d'air central.
  16. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le mécanisme de réglage 50 est adapté pour régler la distance longitudinale entre la sortie de liquide du bout pour fluide et la sortie du capuchon de buse (110) au sein d'une gamme prédéterminée.
  17. La buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 1, où le mécanisme de réglage 50 est adapté pour régler par degrés la distance longitudinale entre la sortie de liquide du bout pour fluide et la sortie du capuchon de buse (110).
  18. Un système de buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique comprenant :
    - une buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique selon la revendication 1 ; et
    - un panneau électro-isolant (360) ;
    où la buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique est adaptée pour être montée sur le panneau électro-isolant (360) positionné entre le corps de buse (60) et le capuchon de buse (110).
  19. Le système de buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 18, où le panneau électro-isolant (360) comprend une surface de montage de buse d'un tambour de buse (410).
  20. Le système de buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique de la revendication 19, où le tambour de buse (410) est adapté pour se déplacer en oscillant autour d'un axe pivot.
  21. Un système de buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique comprenant :
    - une buse de chargement de pulvérisation électrostatique selon la revendication 1 ; et
    - un panneau électro-isolant (360) ;
    où le corps de buse (60) est monté de façon à pivoter sur le panneau électro-isolant (360).
EP05823418A 2004-11-12 2005-11-12 Systeme de buse de pulverisation electrostatique Active EP1817112B1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US62719104P 2004-11-12 2004-11-12
US62748004P 2004-11-12 2004-11-12
US11/272,274 US7913938B2 (en) 2004-11-12 2005-11-10 Electrostatic spray nozzle with adjustable fluid tip and interchangeable components
US11/271,257 US20060124779A1 (en) 2004-11-12 2005-11-10 Panel-mounted electrostatic spray nozzle system
PCT/US2005/040956 WO2006053229A2 (fr) 2004-11-12 2005-11-12 Systeme de buse de pulverisation electrostatique

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1817112A2 EP1817112A2 (fr) 2007-08-15
EP1817112A4 EP1817112A4 (fr) 2008-08-06
EP1817112B1 true EP1817112B1 (fr) 2010-08-04

Family

ID=36337263

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05823418A Active EP1817112B1 (fr) 2004-11-12 2005-11-12 Systeme de buse de pulverisation electrostatique

Country Status (7)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1817112B1 (fr)
AT (1) ATE476257T1 (fr)
AU (1) AU2005304395B2 (fr)
CA (1) CA2597250A1 (fr)
DE (1) DE602005022755D1 (fr)
HK (1) HK1107956A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2006053229A2 (fr)

Families Citing this family (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2008264728A (ja) * 2007-04-24 2008-11-06 Daikin Ind Ltd 静電噴霧装置
JP5420307B2 (ja) * 2008-12-24 2014-02-19 本田技研工業株式会社 粉体塗装装置
JP5420301B2 (ja) * 2008-12-24 2014-02-19 本田技研工業株式会社 粉体塗装方法及びその装置
EP2368641A4 (fr) * 2008-12-24 2012-05-02 Honda Motor Co Ltd Dispositif d'application de revêtement en poudre et procédé d'application de revêtement en poudre
JP2011050812A (ja) * 2009-08-31 2011-03-17 Honda Motor Co Ltd 粉体塗装方法及びその装置
CN102355956A (zh) 2009-01-26 2012-02-15 3M创新有限公司 液体喷枪、喷枪平台和喷头组件
RU2571133C2 (ru) 2011-02-09 2015-12-20 Зм Инновейтив Пропертиз Компани Насадки сопел и узлы распылительной головки для краскопультов
MX343152B (es) 2011-07-28 2016-10-26 3M Innovative Properties Co Montaje de boquilla rociadora con tapa/tobera de aire integrada para pistola pulverizadora de liquido.
CA2852006C (fr) 2011-10-12 2020-12-22 3M Innovative Properties Company Ensembles tetes de pulverisation pour pistolets de pulverisation de liquide
EP2822699B1 (fr) 2012-03-06 2021-12-22 3M Innovative Properties Company Pistolet pulvérisateur à conduit de surcompression interne
WO2013142045A1 (fr) 2012-03-23 2013-09-26 3M Innovative Properties Company Tube de pistolet de pulvérisation ayant une buse inséparable
CA2918141A1 (fr) 2013-07-15 2015-01-22 3M Innovative Properties Company Anneaux deflecteurs a inserts a geometrie de coupe pour pistolets pulverisateurs de liquide

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3332623A (en) * 1964-12-14 1967-07-25 Donald A Gallant Atomizer
US5085373A (en) * 1987-03-23 1992-02-04 Behr Industrieanlagen Gmbh & Co. Apparatus for coating workpieces electrostatically
US4934602A (en) 1987-05-22 1990-06-19 Mattson Roy D Adjustable fluid spray gun with air transition nozzle
US5984985A (en) * 1990-06-21 1999-11-16 Marathon Ashland Petroleum Llc Multiple vessel molten metal gasifier
US5409162A (en) * 1993-08-09 1995-04-25 Sickles; James E. Induction spray charging apparatus
AU676810B2 (en) * 1995-01-30 1997-03-20 Abb K.K. Spray gun type electrostatic painting apparatus
FR2731921B1 (fr) * 1995-03-20 1997-04-30 Sames Sa Dispositif de projection electrostatique de produit de revetement
US5591412A (en) * 1995-04-26 1997-01-07 Alanco Environmental Resources Corp. Electrostatic gun for injection of an electrostatically charged sorbent into a polluted gas stream
US5704554A (en) 1996-03-21 1998-01-06 University Of Georgia Reseach Foundation, Inc. Electrostatic spray nozzles for abrasive and conductive liquids in harsh environments
US6003794A (en) * 1998-08-04 1999-12-21 Progressive Grower Technologies, Inc. Electrostatic spray module
JP2001205143A (ja) * 2000-01-26 2001-07-31 Ransburg Ind Kk 2つのタイプに使い分けることのできる静電塗装機及びその方法

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1817112A4 (fr) 2008-08-06
HK1107956A1 (en) 2008-04-25
AU2005304395B2 (en) 2010-04-22
AU2005304395A1 (en) 2006-05-18
WO2006053229A3 (fr) 2006-11-09
WO2006053229A9 (fr) 2007-01-25
AU2005304395A2 (en) 2006-05-18
DE602005022755D1 (de) 2010-09-16
WO2006053229A8 (fr) 2006-12-21
CA2597250A1 (fr) 2006-05-18
ATE476257T1 (de) 2010-08-15
WO2006053229A2 (fr) 2006-05-18
EP1817112A2 (fr) 2007-08-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1817112B1 (fr) Systeme de buse de pulverisation electrostatique
US7913938B2 (en) Electrostatic spray nozzle with adjustable fluid tip and interchangeable components
US9138760B2 (en) Electrostatic liquid spray nozzle having an internal dielectric shroud
US7784718B2 (en) Electrostatic paint sprayer
KR101791844B1 (ko) 정전식 분무장치의 전극 조립체
AU643192B2 (en) Electrostatic rotary atomizing liquid spray coating apparatus
US5409162A (en) Induction spray charging apparatus
EP0230341B1 (fr) Buse de pulvérisation électrostatique
US4572438A (en) Airless spray gun having improved nozzle assembly and electrode circuit connections
US9433953B2 (en) Reversible coating material nozzle for a spray gun for coating a workpiece with coating material
US20060124779A1 (en) Panel-mounted electrostatic spray nozzle system
RU2644903C2 (ru) Распылительный наконечник в сборе для электростатического распылительного пистолета
JPH0655106A (ja) 液状コーティング剤の静電塗装用回転アトマイザヘッドを有する装置
JP5400995B2 (ja) 静電塗装スプレーガン
US20210162434A1 (en) Electrostatic rotary projector for coating product and spraying installation comprising such a projector
US9498785B2 (en) Electrostatic spraying device
DE102005000983A1 (de) Universeller Ionisierungsaufsatz für ein Sprühgerät, elektrostatisches Sprühgerät und Sprühbeschichtungsverfahren zur Sprühbeschichtung
KR101522914B1 (ko) 에어로졸 스프레이 시스템 및 노즐 인서트
JP4745934B2 (ja) 静電塗装装置
US4989793A (en) Indirect charging electrode for electrostatic spray guns
ES2350244T3 (es) Sistema de boquilla de pulverización electrostática.
WO2020080347A1 (fr) Appareil de pulvérisation électrostatique

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20070601

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL BA HR MK YU

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: HK

Ref legal event code: DE

Ref document number: 1107956

Country of ref document: HK

A4 Supplementary search report drawn up and despatched

Effective date: 20080704

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20081021

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: MT INDUSTRIES, INC.

Owner name: COOPER, STEVEN C.

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: MT INDUSTRIES, INC.

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: COOPER, STEVEN C.

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 602005022755

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20100916

Kind code of ref document: P

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: VDEP

Effective date: 20100804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Effective date: 20110110

LTIE Lt: invalidation of european patent or patent extension

Effective date: 20100804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101204

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101206

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101104

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: HU

Ref legal event code: AG4A

Ref document number: E009117

Country of ref document: HU

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101105

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20110506

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101130

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602005022755

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20110506

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: HK

Ref legal event code: GR

Ref document number: 1107956

Country of ref document: HK

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101112

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101112

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100804

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20131108

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20131011

Year of fee payment: 9

Ref country code: HU

Payment date: 20131104

Year of fee payment: 9

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20131108

Year of fee payment: 9

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20150731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20141113

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20141201

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20151229

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20141112

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20141113

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R082

Ref document number: 602005022755

Country of ref document: DE

Representative=s name: MURGITROYD & COMPANY, DE

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R081

Ref document number: 602005022755

Country of ref document: DE

Owner name: SUNLESS, INC. (N. D .GES. D. STAATES DELAWARE), US

Free format text: FORMER OWNER: MT INDUSTRIES INC.,, MACEDONIA, OHIO, US

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20230921

Year of fee payment: 19

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20230919

Year of fee payment: 19