This is the residual class for apparatus for, and corresponding
methods of operating on fluid, viscous, plastic, or fluent particulate
material solely for causing portions of the material to move irregularly
with respect to each other so as to intermix. The material may be
in motion or at rest immediately before agitation.
Apparatus for agitating articles which are treated in the same
manner as fluent particulate material will also be included in this
class, unless classified elsewhere.
This class (366) includes apparatus for forming colloid systems
(such as suspensions, emulsions) by agitation, not elsewhere provided
for. See LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS, below,
for related information.
This class (366) also includes stirrers, per se, which are disclosed
for use as agitators. However, see Lines With Other Classes, below,
for impellers.
[Note: Patents issued prior to 1945 have not in all instances
been classified by their claimed disclosure so that placement of
these older patents does not necessarily indicate lines of classification.]
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
See appropriate composition classes for processes which form
colloid systems (such as emulsifying or foaming), and see Class
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations Thereof;
Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting, for processes
of making, stabilizing, breaking, or inhibiting colloid systems
when such is generically claimed (no claimed art use for the composition)
or when there is no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC
for the specifically claimed art to the composition of the colloid
system.
See Class 241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
for the generically claimed subject matter of comminuting solid
material in a fluid to form or improve a non-colloid suspension.
Processes of forming non-colloid suspensions or dispersions of
solids in fluids, and in which the ingredients of the non-colloid suspensions
or dispersion are not claimed with such particularity as to form
a basis for classification in Class 252, the that are an integral
part therein, or some other appropriate composition class, are classified
in Class 241. In general, Class 241 provides for all apparatus
for forming suspensions of solids in fluids by comminution, whether
such suspensions are disclosed as colloid-sized or not.
See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses 40+ for
conduit provided with a flow restrictor disclosed for use in forming
emulsions of a plurality of fluids. Where such apparatus has additional
combined features, such as means to feed material to the restrictor,
etc., the patents have been placed in this Class 366.
See Class 127, Sugar, Starch, and Carbohydrates, subclass
14, for mixing devices for a sugar-bearing solution with other liquids
or solids for promoting the separation of impurities from the solution.
See Class 366, Agitating, subclasses 69+ for apparatus which
may be used for working liquid into a gel, subclasses 101+ for
apparatus which includes agitation and injection of gas which may
be a foam, subclasses 108+ for apparatus wherein the agitation
is effected by vibratory device, subclass 176.1+ for apparatus
for forming suspensions or emulsions wherein the feed means is in the
form of a pump for forcing the material through a narrow restriction
for the purpose of mixing the material, particularly for the purpose
of emulsifying or homogenizing the material, subclasses 279+ for
apparatus with rotatable stirrer which may be used for making lather
or foam, cross-reference art collection 604 for mixing apparatus
for making foam or lather, cross-reference art collection 605 for
mixing apparatus for stirring of paint.
See Class 416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate
subclasses for an impeller, per se, which may be useful as a stirrer
but where the disclosed use is solely as an impeller, or alternatively
as an impeller or stirrer.
Since agitation of material is incidental or ancillary to many
apparatuses for treating material for various purposes, an agitator
in combination with other means for treating material will be found
in the class providing for the particular treatment. Similarly,
an apparatus for treating or handling material which inherently
or incidentally agitates the material will be included in the appropriate
class providing for the treating or handling means. Cross references
have been placed in this class (366) where the agitating mechanism
claimed in combination with other treating means has been deemed
to have general utility as an agitator.
Also see References To Other Classes, below, for additional
lines between this class (366) and other classes and for references
to the following:
Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental to or Combined with
Other Primary Areas;
Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical
Modification of Textiles and Fibers,
subclass 159 for manipulative processes of agitating textile
material immersed in Liquid for purposes of mechanical or chemical
treatment other than impregnating or coating (e.g., washing, bleaching,
dyeing). (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined
With Other Primary Function).
Chemistry: Physical Processes,
subclasses 313+ for a process of agglomerating particulate nonmetallic
elements or inorganic compounds by agitation. (Apparatus Including
Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Drying and Gas Vapor Contact With Solids, for a process or apparatus for drying material including
an agitating step or means. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Package Making, appropriate subclasses for packaging methods and apparatus
including agitation of the material packaged, and see particularly
subclass 525 for apparatus for agitating or jarring material
in a filled container for compacting the material. (Apparatus Including Agitating
Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Package Making,
subclass 525 for apparatus for agitating or jarring material
in a filled container for the purpose of compacting the material.
(For Agitating Apparatus Classified Elsewhere).
Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses for processed and apparatus
for removing heat from material which may include agitation of the material.
(Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other
Primary Function)
Glass Manufacturing,
subclasses 178+ for glass working apparatus combined with means for
agitating molten glass. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Textiles: Fluid Treating Apparatus, appropriate subclasses, particularly
subclasses 131+ for apparatus for agitating textile material immersed
in liquid for purposes of mechanical or chemical treatment other
than impregnating or coating (e.g., washing machine). (Apparatus Including
Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for mechanisms which might
be useful in transmitting motion to a stirrer or a movable mixing
chamber.
Food and Beverages: Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for food treating apparatus of that class
combined with agitating means; see particularly
subclasses 452+ for apparatus for treating dairy food, and subclasses
518+, 600+ and 623+ for grain hulling
agitating step. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or
Combined With Other Primary Function).
Coating Apparatus,
subclasses 400+ for coating apparatus involving agitation of the
base and coating materials. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Stoves and Furnaces,
subclasses 155 through 157for a grate having agitating means for clearance
of ashes or subclass 387.1 for an open-top liquid heating vessel
that may include a lid having an agitator or circulator using the heated
liquid within the vessel.
Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus
for Cleaning or Liquid Contact With Solids including a carrier or
holder for the solid, and also including agitation of the material
to promote, facilitate, or perfect the cleaning or Liquid Contact.
The agitation may be caused by movement of the carrier through the
Liquid or by a separate agitator. (Apparatus Including Agitating
Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses for transfer process and apparatus
for fluent material which includes agitation or mixing of the material
and see particularly
subclasses 3+ for processes, and subclasses 87+, 599+ and
602+ for apparatus. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Pipes and Tubular Conduits,
subclasses 40+ for a conduit with a flow restrictor or deflector disclosed
for use in forming emulsions of a plurality of fluids. Where such
a conduit has additional combined features, such as means to feed
material to restrictor, etc., the patents have been placed in Class
366, subclasses 176.1 or 336+. (For Agitating Apparatus
Classified Elsewhere).
Heat Exchange,
subclass 109.1 for heat exchange apparatus including agitating
means for a fluent heat exchange medium therein. (Apparatus Including
Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Wells,
subclass 177.7 for agitating means in combination with a well
or disclosed solely for use in a well. (For Agitating Apparatus
Classified Elsewhere).
Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways,
subclass 2 and 11 for a chute combined with means to agitate
the material so as to aid its flow along the chute. (For Feeding
And Discharging Subcombinations).
Conveyors: Power-Driven,
subclasses 750+ for an oscillating conveyor, and subclasses 752+ for
a vibrating endless through conveyor, per se. (For Feeding And Discharging
Subcombination).
Distillation: Processes, Thermolytic,
subclass 33 for a distillation process including the step of
agitating the charge in the carbonizing zone. (Apparatus Including
Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function
Distillation: Apparatus,
subclasses 175 and 265 for distillation apparatus combined with agitating
means for the distalland. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function)
Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, appropriate subclasses for methods and apparatus directed
to subject matter of that class, and see particularly
subclasses 233+ for the combination of a sifter with an agitator.
(Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other
Primary Function).
Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate subclasses for methods and apparatus for separating
solids from Liquids, and see particularly
subclasses 198.1+ or a separator with means to add treating material
which may include agitating means. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Electric Heating,
subclasses 296+ for an electric heating apparatus for a Liquid
with means to circulate the Liquid in a fixed path in relation to
heat surface so as to transfer heat to the Liquid. Where electrical
heating means is only broadly claimed, placement will be in Class 366;
but where details of the heater or control means for the heater
are claimed, placement will be in Class 219. (Apparatus Including
Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Dispensing, both Classes 222 and 366 have the combination of
a container and a device operable on the container contents to mix
the same, and means to discharge the contents. Class 366 takes (1)
agitators with means to feed material thereto; (2) containers having
means to agitate, which means are inoperable to assist discharge (e.g.,
where the agitator is inoperative during discharge) and such means
combined with additional dispensing means; and (3) any means particularly
designed to agitate with only an incidental discharge assisting
function (e.g., those device in which the agitator must operate
prior to a dispensing operation, even though it operates during
and assists the discharge operation). Class 222 takes containers of
any kind with (1) devices particularly designed to convey material
therefrom or produce a force on the material therein, in a discharge
direction with only incidental agitation effect; (2) agitators combined
with other nongravity discharge assistance and operable together
only during the discharging operation (the agitator-receptacle subcombination
going to Class 366); and (3) mere solid material bridge breakers
operable to promote gravity flow toward a claimed container outlet
or discharge assisting means. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental
To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate subclasses for processes an apparatus (1) for
projection or spraying material which required mixing just prior
to or at discharge (e.g., resin type cements), usually with a catalyst
to cause solidification or setting up, or (2) comprising particular
nozzle structure of type provided for in Class 239, combined with agitation
or mixing of ingredients in the supply means, provided the ingredients
are not of the mortar type provided
for in Class 366,
subclasses 1+ . (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or
Combined With Other Primary Function).
Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus
(1) in which agitating steps or means are combined with comminuting
steps or means, or (2) which, by disclosure, will function to comminute
the material even if a mixing function is also disclosed. (Apparatus
Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary
Function).
Composition, appropriate subclasses for processes of making compositions
provided therein which may include agitation of the material, and
see the notes to the main class definition of Class 252. See also
Lines With Other Classes, above. (Apparatus Including Agitating
Incidental To Or Combined With Other Primary Function).
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for a process or apparatus
for mixing a liquid with a gas. (For Agitating Apparatus Classified
Elsewhere).
Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate subclasses for an impeller, per se, which
may be useful as a stirrer but where the disclosed use in solely
as an impeller, or alternatively as an impeller or stirrer. (For
Agitator Subcombinations Classified Elsewhere).
Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus,
subclass 222 for tumbling type agglomerating apparatus for particulate
material. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined
With Other Primary Function).
Coating Processes,
subclass 242 for processes of coating by rumbling or tumbling.
(Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other
Primary Function).
Heating, the residual class for generating heat and applying it
to materials,
subclasses 121+ for a heating chamber with more than nominally
recited heat generating means and including means for guiding or
moving material to be heated through or moving material to be heated through
or along sections of the chamber, or for agitating such material
within the chamber. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or
Combined With Other Primary Function)
Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, appropriate subclasses for fermentation processes and apparatus;
see particularly
subclasses 290.3+ for a composting apparatus including an agitation
means; subclasses 291.5+ for a malting or mashing apparatus, including
an agitation means; subclasses 295.1+ for a bioreactor
including a draft tube as a means for agitation; subclass 296.1
for a bioreactor with a sparging means for agitation; subclasses
297.2+ for perfusion bioreactors; subclass 298.2 for a
rotatably mounted bioreactor; and subclass 303.3 for an agitated
incubator. (Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined
With Other Primary Function).
Abrading,
subclasses 32+ and 326+ for a process or apparatus disclosed
for use in tumbling a workpiece for the purpose of abrading or surface
finishing the workpiece. The abrading or surface finishing may be
solely by mutual attrition of the workpieces or by an abrasive medium.
(Apparatus Including Agitating Incidental To Or Combined With Other
Primary Function)
Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components, appropriate subclasses, for planetary gear transmissions
which might be used to transmit motion to a stirrer or mixing chamber; and
particularly
subclass 11 for rotary planetary output.
SECTION IV - GLOSSARY
AGITATOR
A stirrer or a deflector.
DEFLECTOR
(1) An element or device secured within and in fixed relation
to the mixing chamber, or (2) a stationary device in a movable mixing
chamber for diverting or separating portions of material and then
permitting them to recombine so as to commingle, thus causing or
assisting in agitation of the material.
MATERIAL
A mass of fluid, viscous, particulate, or plastic substance
which is to be agitated.
MIXING CHAMBER
A space bounded on at least three sides by well structure within
which agitation takes place. The chamber may be in the form of a
trough, a conduit, or a container of any shape. A supply reservoir
or a conveyor for feeding material to a mixing chamber and which
includes means for agitating the material prior to its entry into
the mixing chamber will not be considered a mixing chamber.
OSCILLATING
Rotating alternately in opposite directions about an
axis.
RECIPROCATING RECTILINEARLY
Moving bodily back and forth in a straight line in the same
path so that at any instant, all parts of the moving body move in
the same direction at the same rate.
ROCKING
Moving back and forth as a result of a back and forth motion
of a curved surface on a flat surface.
ROTATING
Turning in but one direction about an axis.
STIRRER
A device which is movable by an applied force and which
in its movement causes agitation of material. The force may be applied
manually, by movement of the material, by relative motion of the
chamber, or by a power source, either directly or through a drive
train.
STIRRERS, PLURAL
Two or more devices or elements which are movable bodily
by an applied force and which move bodily relative to each other
an in such movement cause agitation of material. Where a plurality
of like or diverse stirrer elements are in fixed relation to each
other and move together as a unit they will be considered a single
stirrer even if the elements are adjustable relative to each other prior
to agitation or are flexible so that portions thereof move relative
to each other during agitation.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods peculiarly adapted for
mixing mortar, asphaltic and hydraulic cement, concretes, and the
like.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for (1) highway, pathway,
or walkway structure, per se, and (2) process and apparatus for
making, installing, repairing, or maintaining such structure, where such
structure, process or apparatus is not otherwise classifiable as
either (a) specifically provided for in other loci, or (b) of such
general utility as to be provided for on that basis (see section III
and IV under Class 404 class definition for known collections of
such nature and the particular lines of demarcation).
Compositions: Coating or Plastic, appropriate subclass, particularly
subclasses 273+ and 638+ for processes of making mortar,
asphaltic or hydraulic cement, concrete, and like which are not
distinct from the compositions thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Processes comprising a step or steps of (1) incorporating
air or gas with the product, or (2) mixing, delivering, and/or
conveying the product through the medium of a fluid.
Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclasses 86+ for moving material along a surface by means of
or with the assistance of a fluid current issuing from the surface
and incidentally agitating the material; and subclasses 136+ for agitation
of material in a receptacle which feeds to a fluid current conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Processes which include other steps for making a material
ready for mixing, or modifying a material for the purpose of facilitating
the mixing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Processes wherein the treatment or preparation is the step
of controlling the relative quantities of different materials which
are mixed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein the mixing is effected by the single
passage of streams of materials through intersecting paths or over
baffles or the like obstructions which may be either stationary
or movable, at least one of said streams being gravity impelled.
(1)
Note. The term "single passage" is construed to exclude mixers
such as those having rotting or oscillating receptacles which effect
mixing by lifting and dropping material over a baffle or baffles
a plurality of times.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter for (1) incorporating air or gas with a material,
or (2) having means for mixing, delivering and/or conveying
a material through the medium of a fluid.
Conveyors: Fluid Current,
subclasses 86+ for moving material along a surface by means of
or with the assistance of a fluid current issuing from the surface
and incidentally agitating the material; and subclasses 136+ for agitation
of material in a receptacle which feeds to a fluid current conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter wherein the medium of a fluid is introduced
into a mixing chamber which revolves about a fixed axis in one direction only.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter wherein the medium of a fluid is introduced
into a mixing chamber which has a stirrer which turns in but one
direction about an axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein the mixing is effected two or more
separate mixing chambers.
(1)
Note. The mixing chambers may be arranged to have either consecutive
or alternative flow therethrough of the material being mixed, and
the chambers may be concentrically arrange.
(2)
Note. Where agitation is provided for in a container or conveyor
and which agitation is incidental to the dynamic charging of a mixing
chamber from the container or conveyor. Classification is in subclasses
30+.
(3)
Note. For purposes of the classification, a compartmented
mixing chamber is considered to be a single mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Subject matter wherein the plural mixing chambers are in
communication with each other so that the material being mixed may flow
from one chamber to another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter wherein the amount of ingredients to be added
to a batch of mixed ingredients in the mixing chamber is controlled
or regulated by (1) means in said chamber to detect a condition
of said batch (e.g., temperature, density, etc.) or (2) means external
said chamber to detect a condition of the chamber, per se (e.g.,
change in the amount of energy required to rotate the chamber).
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter wherein the ratio of the ingredients to be
mixed is controlled or regulated by respectively weighing a quantity
of each of a said ingredients, prior to charging the mixing chamber
with the same.
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter wherein the ratio of the ingredients to be
mixed is controlled or regulated by respectively measuring a quantity
of each of said ingredients volume, prior to charging the mixing
chamber with said ingredients.
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter wherein controlled or regulated by having
a different rotational speed and/or convolution size for
the screw conveyor means used to dynamically charge the mixing chamber
with said ingredients.
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Subject matter wherein the ratio of ingredients to be mixed
is controlled or regulated by respectively adjusting the gets or
valve means at each other outlet opening of the charging means to
vary the size of said opening and thereby control the amount of
ingredients that egress the charging means and flow into the mixing
chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including means to heat or dry a material
before, during, and/or after the mixing operation.
(1)
Note. The material may be subjected to agitation during the
preheating operation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter wherein the heating means heats the material
prior to and during the mixing in a mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter wherein the heating means is a high temperature
fluid introduced within the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including means for bodily raising and lowering
the mixing chamber as a unit to convey the chamber from a charging
station to a delivery station.
Material of Article Handling,
subclasses 592+ for an elevator or hoist and loading or unloading
means therefor, and see the search notes of that subclass for other
subclasses of that class (414) which include means for raising or
lowering a load.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including means for directly applying a force
to a material in order to move the material toward or into the mixing
chamber and forcible removing material therefrom.
(1)
Note. For purposes of this classification the term "charging"
has been limited to positively feeding aggregates or conducting
liquid to the mixer receptacle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter including means for mechanically or otherwise
connecting the charging and delivery means to operate in a related
manner.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter including means (1) to directly control the
operation of the charging and delivery means, or (2) to control
the enabling or disabling of devices for manually controlling the charging
and delivery means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including means for directly applying force
to a material in order to move the material toward or into the mixing
chamber, and the corresponding methods.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not include those methods and devices
in which material is permitted to enter the mixing chamber solely
under the influence of gravity.
(2)
Note. The material to which the force is applied may be any
one of the components of the mixture and may be liquid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter wherein the force is applied to the material
by vibrating element in the path conducting the material to the
mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. The vibrating element may be an element of the device
conducting the material to the mixing chamber.
(2)
Note. The vibratory motion may be induced by a single striking
movement upon the vibrating element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Subject matter wherein the vibration is applied to one or
more walls of a skip or hopper supplying the material to the mixing
chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Subject matter wherein at least one of the charge means
applies force directly to a liquid to move the liquid into the mixing
chamber.
(1)
Note. The force applying means is generally of the pump type.
Where the force applying means is of the gravitational type or is
unspecified, classification will be in subclass 36 or 40, as appropriate.
(2)
Note. Where such force applying means is the only charge means,
classification is in subclass 30.
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Subject matter wherein the dynamic charge means is a skip
or tilting bucket, and another charge means conducts liquid to the
mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Subject matter having more than one charge means and a force
is applied directly to the material in each charge means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including means for supplying liquid to the
mixing chamber without the direct application of force to the liquid.
Subject matter under 1 wherein material is supplied to a
mixing chamber by a container or static conveyor, at least one portion
of which is capable of relative motion with respect a mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Motion of the mixing chamber to effect mixing (e.g.,
rotation) is not considered relative motion as used herein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter including (1) means movable to remove mixed
material from a mixing chamber, or (2) means to move a movably mounted mixing
chamber to effect discharge thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter comprising automatic means (1) to directly
control the discharging means, or (2) to control the enabling or
disabling of devices for manually controlling the discharge means.
Subject matter under 42 wherein the mixing chamber effects
agitation by rotation and has cooperating means therein to effect
delivery when rotated in the direction opposite to that in which
agitation is effected.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber is movably mounted
so that it may tilt and discharge its contents.
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has means associated
therewith enabling the operator to tilt the chamber by hand.
(1)
Note. Included in this subclass are mixers that have a manual
lever or a hand crank for tilting the mixer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber is supported on
a frame comprising two elements which have a single ground contacting
wheel there between forwardly of the chamber and which extend rearwardly
of the chamber to terminate in handle portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter wherein the means to remove the mixed material
from the chamber is a rotatable auger screw conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter wherein the means to remove the mixed material
from the chamber is a pump which directly forces or induces material
from the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter wherein the means for removing material from
the mixing chamber is a scraper or a deflector.
(1)
Note. The scraper or deflector is so mounted as to direct
material through the discharge opening of the mixer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber turns about an
axis in one direction only.
(1)
Note. Included herein are surface contacting rolling chambers
as well as wheel supported chambers wherein rolling contact of the
wheels causes rotation of the chamber.
(2)
Note. The placement of a rotatable mixing chamber upon an
independently movable platform-type support is not deemed to impart
an additional motion to the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has a component
of motion additional to its rotation.
(1)
Note. Included herein are surface contacting rolling chambers
as well as wheel supported chambers wherein rolling contact of the
wheels causes rotation of the chamber.
(2)
Note. The placement of a rotatable mixing chamber upon an
independently movable platform-type support is not deemed to impart
an additional motion to the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Subject matter wherein the agitator is a nonflexible device
secured within the mixing chamber to divert a portion of the material
to assist agitation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Subject matter wherein the deflector forms a partition dividing
the mixing chamber into a plurality of sections.
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Subject matter wherein the actuating or control means includes
a device actuated or controlled by a liquid under pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein the support structure includes a
particularly described element for permitting rotational movement
of the chamber about an axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64. Subject matter including an element having an edge, or a
plurality of bristles movable in contact with or in close proximity
to a wall of the chamber for removing material from the wall surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter comprising a static conveyor and at least
one portion of which is capable of relative motion with respect
to a mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and method including a mixing chamber and an agitator
therein for use in kneading substantially self-sustaining, semisolid,
or heavy plastic material such as clay, dough, gum, plastic, resin,
or similar heavy plastic.
(1)
Note. A patent for apparatus or method for mixing ingredients
for making a plastic mass and kneading the mass will be placed in
this or an indented subclass. However, an apparatus or method for mixing
the ingredients without further kneading the mass will be placed
in an appropriate subclass elsewhere in this class.
(2)
Note. In regard to the line between Class 241 and Class 366,
see search note to Class 366 under Class 241 definition, section
12.
(3)
Note. Kneading is a process to work substantially self-sustaining,
semisolid, or heavy plastic material into a uniform mixture by pressing,
folding, and stretching.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 98+ for colloid systems of continuous or semicontinuous
solid phase with discontinuous liquid phase (gels, pastes, flocs,
coagulates) or agents for such systems or making or stabilizing
such systems or agents, when generically claimed or when there is
no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC for the specifically
claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter comprising spaced arms mounted for relative
motion toward and away from each other whereby said material is kneaded
by repeated stretching and recombining of stretched portions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein the agitator comprises a pair of
rollers for pressing the material therebetween and means for removing
said material therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein the agitator comprises a press couple
comprises rolls with means to adjust the space between each roll.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein the agitator comprising a press couple
comprises rolls with means to adjust the space between each roll.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein the agitator comprises a press couple
including a roll coacting with the interior of said mixing chamber
or receptacle type of platen.
Presses,
subclass 156 for a concurrent pressing and conveying apparatus comprising
external and internal rolls, and subclass 210 for a roll and platen-type
press.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter including means in said mixing chamber or
in a stirrer for releasing gas from said mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter including a particularly described means
for conveying or admitting material into said mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Mere recitation of an opening, inlet port, or feed conduit
for the material will not be considered specified feed means. However,
any of the following claimed particulars will be considered specified
means for this subclass: (a) Means applying positive or negative pressure
on material to move it into the chamber (e.g., pump). (b) Conveyor means
(e.g., belt, screw, chute). (c) Feed control means (e.g., valve,
gate). (d) Structure determining the proportions of different material
fed to the chamber. (e) A feed conduit extending into the mixing chamber
or in tangential relation to the chamber. (f) A plurality of feeders
(conduits, chutes, hoppers, etc.) in a particular relation to each
other and/or to the mixing chamber. (g) A supply reservoir and
means to feed material from the reservoir into the chamber.
Dispensing, appropriate subclasses, for material dispensing
apparatus, per se. See References to Other Classes in the class
definition of this class (366) for the line between Class 366 and Class
222.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter including a detector for sensing a variable
condition of the apparatus or of the material and means for initiating
or modifying the movement of material into the mixing chamber in
response to a signal from the detector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter wherein the means for conveying or admitting
material is a continuous helical blade which is rotated about its
longitudinal axis and is clearly distinguishable in function and
structure from the agitator in the mixing chamber
for a similar feed means for materials other than
rubber or heavy plastic in which material is fed into a mixing chamber
by a plurality of screw conveyors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter wherein the conveying or admitting means
has an elongated member which is rotated to feed material to the
mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter including a plurality of means for conveying
or admitting material into the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter including a member movable along a straight
path in the direction of feed of material to move the material into
the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.7. Subject matter wherein the agitator comprises a rotor having
a recess or pocket (e.g., a blind bore) for receiving the material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter wherein material is supplied to the mixing
chamber solely by gravity by way of a chute or hopper.
(1)
Note. A hopper is a funnel shaped container, usually, but
not necessarily used for dispensing solids. A chute is an open-topped
channel or conduit for guiding material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.9. Subject matter including a gate or closure for controlling
release of material from the chute or hopper.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76.1. Subject matter including particularly described means to
start, stop, or regulate the flow of material in the feed means.
(1)
Note. More than the mere recitation of a valve or pump is
required for placement of a patent in this subclass. There must be
a claim of valve details, a valve operator mechanism, pump feed
rate adjustment means, or other feature directly related to adjustment
or control of the material flow rate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter including a particularly described means
for conveying or releasing said material from said mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Mere recitation of an opening, outlet port, or discharge
conduit for the material will not be considered specified discharge
means. However, any of the following claimed particulars will be considered
as specified means for this subclass: (a) Means applying pressure
on the material to move it out of the chamber (e.g., pump). (b)
Conveyor means (e.g., belt, chute, screw). (c) Discharge control
means (e.g., valve gate).
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter including a stirrer which turns in but one
direction about a fixed axis and moves back and forth in a straight
line along said fixed axis simultaneously or alternately to produce
mixing and kneading.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber is designed to
receive material at one end of a path and to discharge it at the
other end in a continuous flow, and said agitator comprises a stirrer
having a helical ribbon or thread type conveyor rotatable so as
to mix and knead the material concurrent with conveying it through said
path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter including a device secured within and in
fixed relation to said mixing chamber for assisting said conveyor
in mixing and kneading.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter wherein said conveyor includes an additional
element on the ribbon or thread (e.g., pin, blade, rib) to assist
mixing and kneading.
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter wherein the additional stirrer element comprises
an annulus integral with or affixed to the shaft of said conveyor.
(1)
Note. The ring or disk may be apertured, grooved, or may have
other outer surface configuration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 83. Subject matter wherein said conveyors are located within
a plurality of mixing chambers having main axes parallel to each
other and each mixing chamber is in communication with each other
so that material may flow from one mixing chamber to another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Subject matter wherein one of said conveyors has a profile
which contacts a mating surface of parallel screw conveyor along
the length thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Subject matter wherein the communication between each mixing
chamber is by means of an elongated, hollow tube.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter including foraminous means (e.g., grate,
lattice, screen, etc.) located at the discharge end of said conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter wherein the spacing of thread or helical
ribbon on a portion of said conveyor differs from the spacing of
said thread or said helical ribbon on another portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter wherein the diameter of a portion of the
shaft of said conveyor differs from the diameter of the shaft on
another portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Subject matter wherein said thread or said helical ribbon
has an opening therethrough or a discontinuous portion thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein said material is kneaded within a
plurality of mixing chambers.
(1)
Note. Mixing chambers which are in communication with each
other so that material may flow from one chamber to another will
be placed in this subclass. Moreover, the communication may be by means
of a conduit, or through a conduit, or through or across a portion
separating the chambers.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter including a stirrer which turns in but one
direction about a fixed axis within said rotating mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 94. Subject matter wherein only one rotating stirrer is within
said rotating mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Where a plurality of like or diverse stirrer elements
are in fixed relation to each other and move together as a unit they
will be considered as single stirrer even if the elements are adjustable
relative to flexible so that portions thereof move relative to each
other during agitation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter comprising a stirrer which turns in but one
direction about a fixed axis within said stationary mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 97. Subject matter wherein only one rotating stirrer is within
said stationary mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Where a plurality of like or diverse stirrer elements
are in fixed relation to each other and move together as a unit they
will be considered a single stirrer even if the elements are adjustable
relative to each other prior to agitation or are flexible so that
portions thereof move relative to each other during agitation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein
the mixing chamber includes a stirrer and a particularly described means
for drive said stirrer to mix and knead.
(1)
Note. Mere recitation of a motor would not be considered as
specified drive means.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods wherein the agitation
is effected by the introduction of a gas under pressure into contact with
the material in the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. The injection of gas into a liquid must be primarily
for agitating the liquid. If the primary purpose is to mix the gas
with the liquid, placement will be in Class 261, and see note to
that class below.
Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
subclass 143 for gas effected agitation of supply for a fluid
sprinkling or spraying device, and subclasses 654+ for
gas effected agitation of supply for nonfluid material sprinkling
or spraying device.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting,
subclasses 10+ for foam colloid systems or agents for such systems
or making or stabilizing such systems or agents, when generically claimed
or when there is no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC for
the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Subject matter wherein the chamber is rotatable and the
gas is injected into the chamber while it is rotating.
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Subject matte wherein the gas is introduced in recurrent
interrupted sequence or in recurrent variation in flow rate.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods wherein the agitation
of the material is effected by the action of a vibratory device
producing rapid to and from movement of portions of the material,
of the mixing chamber, of a portion of the chamber well or of a
stirrer, or by rapid to and from movement of a stirrer energized
by flow of the material there against.
(1)
Note. A patent for vibratory device, per se, disclosed for
use as a stirrer by insertion with a mass of of material will be place
in subclasses 117+ below, and see the search notes thereto.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting, appropriate subclasses for subject matter relating
to: colloid systems (such as sols*, emulsions, dispersions,
foams, aerosols, smokes, gels, or pastes) or wetting agents (such
as leveling, penetrating, or spreading); subcombination compositions
of colloid systems containing at least an agent specialized and designed
for or peculiar to use in making or stabilizing colloid systems; compositions
and subcombination compositions specialized and designed for or
peculiar to use in breaking (resolving) or inhibiting colloid systems;
processes of making the compositions or systems of the class; processes
of breaking (resolving) or inhibiting colloid systems; in each instance,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior
provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter including an endless means (e.g., belt, chain,
rotary turret) for moving the material, or a mixing chamber containing
the material through a zone where the agitation takes place.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibrator device is attached to
a receptacle or clasp for the mixing chamber, and wherein the vibration
of the mixing chamber results from the operation of the vibratory
device.
(1)
Note. For proper placement of a patent in this subclass, the
mixing chamber does not have to be claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device directly supports
the mixing chamber or a platform for supporting the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. For proper placement of a patent in this subclass, the
mixing chamber does not have be claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device is secured in
an opening in the bottom wall of the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device is fastened
to the mixing chamber wall or to platform adapted to support the
mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. For proper placement of a patent in this subclass, the
mixing chamber does not have to be claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device is adhered or
welded to the mixing chamber wall or to the platform.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter including means for regulating or controlling
the amplitude or frequency of the vibration.
(1)
Note. Mere recitation of a switch with no particularly described
means for regulating the frequency or the amplitude of the vibration
is not sufficient for placement of a patent in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the agitation of the material is
effected by a stirrer activated by a vibratory device, or wherein
the stirrer is a vibratory device acting directly on the material.
(1)
Note. A patent for a vibratory device, per se, disclosed for
use as a stirrer by insertion within a mass of material will be placed
in this or an appropriate indented subclass.
Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for the combination of a toll
and a tool driving or impacting means which combination is not limited
to a specific tool art, such as specific shape of the work contacting portion
of the tool, related tools, or an opposed work support.
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. Subject matter wherein the stirrer comprises an elongated
slender housing enclosing the vibratory device and which is intended
for insertion manually into the material by the user.
This subclass is indented under subclass 120. Subject matter wherein the vibration of the stirrer is caused
by the unbalanced weight which is mounted eccentrically on a rotatable
shaft.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device causes vibration
of the material or of a portion of the chamber wall, the vibration
of the device being caused by the flow of fluid under pressure within
the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device comprises a
shaft, a cylindrical housing for the shaft, and a radially movable
element (e.g., blade, vane, ball, pin) on said shaft, the fluid acting
on the element or the housing to cause eccentric rotation of the
shaft or orbital movement of the housing relative to the shaft and thus
causing vibration of the housing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Subject matter wherein the vibratory device comprises a
sphere guided for rolling movement along a generally circular or
elliptical path by pressure of the fluid thereagainst, the movement
of the sphere causing the vibration of the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibration is caused by periodic
deformation of a dielectric body as the result of an applied electric
or magnetic field.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the vibration of the device is caused
by movement of an unbalanced weight which is mounted eccentrically on
a rotatable shaft.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods comprising a stirrer
and/or mixing chamber which is entirely sustained against
the force of gravity by the user during agitation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Subject matter wherein a mixing chamber is so held by the
user.
(1)
Note. Included in this subclass are patents for receptacles
with internal deflector structure wherein the agitation is effected
by manual manipulation of the receptacle as a whole by the user.
Special Receptacle or Package,
subclasses 219+ for a package of two or more separated materials
which are adapted to be commingled within the package by manipulation
of the package or a part thereof.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods including external means
to convey or admit material into the mixing chamber and means to convey
or release the material therefrom and wherein said means: (a) are
interconnected by a duct or conveyor exteriorly of the chamber for returning
discharge material to the chamber; (b) have a common control system
for regulating movement of material into and out of the chamber.
(c) have a single mechanism for moving the material into and out
of the chamber, or(d) are specifically
related to each other by their relative size.
(1)
Note. The feed and discharge may be through a common opening.
for a device including means to produce a partial
vacuum in the mixing chamber which means may also serve to move
material into and/or out of the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter including a common control system for regulating
movement of material into and out of the chamber, and also including a
detector for sensing a variable condition of the apparatus or of
the material and initiating or modifying operation of a part of
the apparatus in response to signal from the detector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter wherein a single endless or screw conveyor
serves to either move material into and out of the chamber or to
return discharged material to the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter wherein there is more than one feed or discharge
means in a particular relation to each other and/or to
the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter wherein the feed and discharge means are
interconnected by a duct exteriorly of the mixing chamber for returning
at least a portion of discharge material to the chamber.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein material is mixed by directing a
jet or spray of one material into contact with a free-falling stream
of another material so as to intermix the material of the jet and
the stream.
(1)
Note. The free-falling stream of material may be solid or
liquid. The material is considered free-falling if it is unconfined or
substantially uninfluenced in its motion by any adjacent surfaces
or the like during its fall through a gas.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods provided with means,
in addition to inlet and outlet means for the material to be agitated,
for introducing a cleansing fluid into the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods including means for
producing a partial vacuum in the mixing chamber during agitation.
(1)
Note. Substantially the entire contents of the mixing chamber
must be under reduced (subatmospheric) pressure. Where the contents
are not and localized vacuum or suction is created to feed material
into the chamber, placement is as indicated in the search notes
below.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods including means for
or a step of segregating or removing a portion of the material for
the purpose of inspection examination, or testing.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods including means for
or a step of determining the weight of a segregated quantity of
material.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods with means for (a) determining
a property or characteristic of the material for the purpose of indicating
the property or (b) producing or providing a perceptible manifestation
(e.g., audible or visible) of a condition of a part of the apparatus
or of a condition or rate of flow of the material.
(1)
Note. If feeding of material is automatically controlled by
or in response to the determining means, placement is as indicated
in the search notes below.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods including means for
viewing a part of the apparatus or a portion of the material.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Apparatus and corresponding methods including means for
modifying the temperature of the material.
(1)
Note. The temperature modification may occur before, during,
or after agitation.
(2)
Note. See the class definition for class lines with other
heating or cooling classes.
Stoves and Furnaces,
subclass 387.1 for an open-top liquid heating vessel that may
include a lid having an agitator or circulator using the heated
liquid within the vessel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Subject matter wherein the material is heated by means of
an electric current moving through a resistance element.
Electric Heating,
subclasses 296+ for an electric heating apparatus for a liquid
with means to circulate the liquid in a fixed path in relation to
a heated surface so as to transfer heat to the liquid. Where electrical
heating means is only broadly claimed, placement will be in Class
366; but where details of the heater or control means for the heater
are claimed, placement will be in Class 219.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Subject matter wherein the temperature modifying means includes
means for circulating a heated or cooled fluid (e.g., gas, water)
in the stirrer or for admitting such fluid in to the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Subject matter wherein the temperature modification of the
material is effected prior to its entry into the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Subject matter including wall structure surrounding the
mixing chamber in spaced relation to provide a cavity for a fluid
heating or cooling medium.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. An apparatus or corresponding method including a particularly
described means for conveying or admitting material (i.e., feed means)
into the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Mere recitation of an opening, inlet port, or feed conduit
for the material is not considered specified feed means. However,
any of the following claimed particulars are considered specified
means for this subclass: (a) means applying positive or negative
pressure on material to move it into the chamber (e.g., pump); (b)
conveyor means (e.g., belt, screw, chute); (c) feed control means
(e.g., valve, gate); (d) structure determining the proportions of
different materials fed to the chamber; (e) a feed conduit extending
into the mixing chamber or in tangential relation to the chamber;
(f) a plurality of feed means (conduits, chutes, hoppers, etc.)
in a particular relation to each other or to the mixing chamber;
or (g) a supply reservoir and means to feed material from the reservoir
into the chamber.
Dispensing, appropriate subclasses, for material dispensing
apparatus, per se. See References to Other Classes in the Class
definition of this class (366) for the line between Class 366 and Class
222.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter including a detector for sensing a variable
condition of the apparatus or of the material and means for initiating
or modifying the movement of material into the mixing chamber in
response to a signal from the detector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 151.1. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has feed means
for different materials, the means for initiating or modifying movement
of the material controlling at least one of the feed means so as
to control or maintain the ratio of the materials admitted into
the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 152.1. Subject matter wherein (a) the variable condition sensed
by the detector is a volume or specific quantity of material fed
by one of the feed means and (b) the detector senses the condition by
monitoring the feed means.
(1)
Note. The specific quantity of material to be fed may be determined
by the operation of a pump of known capacity for a given time period.
This subclass is indented under subclass 152.1. Subject matter wherein the detector senses resistance to
the movement of an object through the material being mixed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 151.1. Subject matter wherein the detector senses resistance to
the movement of an object through the material being mixed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means deposits the material
in the mixing chamber in layers and the material is subsequently
removed from the mixing chamber such that portions of each layer
are substantially simultaneously removed, thereby mixing the material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter including means for agitating the material
in the feed means or in a supply container operatively associated
with the feed means.
(1)
Note. The agitation may be for the purpose of moving the material
toward the chamber or merely for preventing agglomeration of the
material so as to maintain its free flow. The recitation of a screw
conveyor or other feed means that inherently agitates material is
sufficient to make placement of a patent here proper. A trap chamber
feeder is not considered to inherently agitate material as required
for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 154.1. Subject matter wherein the means for agitating the material
in the feed means includes a vibrating element.
(1)
Note. The vibrating element may be part of the feed means.
Dispensing,
subclasses 196+ for a container and means for vibrating the container
or portion thereof to assist gravity discharge of material from
the container.
This subclass is indented under subclass 154.1. Subject matter wherein the agitator comprises a stirrer
that agitates the material by turning about an axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155.1. Subject matter wherein the stirrer includes an element that
(a) is elongated in the radial direction of the shaft, (b) has a
substantially constant cross section perpendicular to its longitudinal
axis whose thickness is similar in all directions, and (c) has a
free radially outer end.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155.1. Subject matter wherein the rotatable impeller comprises
structure having a continuous helical blade which rotates about
its longitudinal axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156.1. Subject matter wherein there is more than one rotatable
impeller structure having a continuous helical blade which rotates
about its longitudinal axis in the feed means.
(1)
Note. There may be a single feed means having plural screw
feeders or plural feed means each having a screw feeder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156.1. Subject matter wherein (a) the mixing chamber has a stirrer
which moves about an axis aligned with the axis of the rotatable
impeller or (b) the rotatable impeller extends into the mixing chamber
to also serve as a stirrer within the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 157.1. Subject matter wherein (a) the stirrer moving about the
axis aligned with the screw conveyor is a screw-type stirrer, or
(b) the screw conveyor extends into the mixing chamber to serve as
the stirrer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156.1. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has a stirrer
movable about an axis which is parallel to and noncoaxial with the
axis of the screw conveyor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156.1. Subject matter wherein the helical blade varies in diameter
along its length or the blade surrounds and is mounted on a central
shank that varies in diameter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156.1. Subject matter including an agitator upstream of the helical
blade in the direction of flow of material in the feed means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 154.1. Subject matter wherein the means for agitating the material
in the feed means or supply container comprises a stationary deflector
configured and arranged to cause irregular flow of material past
the deflector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter including means to cause or permit material
fed toward the mixing chamber to move away from the chamber in the
feed means before entering the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes variable
means for controlling the relative quantities of different materials
fed by the feed means to the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 160.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes a pump for
moving or conveying the material to the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. A "pump" includes a screw- or auger-type feed means
for purposes of this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 160.2. Subject matter wherein the variable means comprises means
for varying the speed, duration, or capacity of the pump.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means is designed to deliver
different materials to the mixing chamber in a fixed proportional
relationship.
This subclass is indented under subclass 162.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes at least
one feed means that rotates for feeding material to the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Endless conveyors are not considered rotatable feed
means. Rotatable feed means include screw conveyors, rotatable trap
chambers, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 162.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means has a feed chamber
for feeding material to the mixer and the feed chamber decreases
in volume during the feeding of material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes a pair of
inlets into the mixing chamber constructed to direct material toward
a common point and wherein the material is introduced into the chamber
through the inlets with sufficient velocity to form streams that collide
at the common point and intermix.
(1)
Note. Devices in which the energy of any streams formed by
mixing chamber inlet is substantially dissipated before the streams
collide are excluded.
Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing,
Preserving, or Sterilizing,
subclasses 133 and 135 for chemical reactors forming impinging
jets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 162.4. Subject matter including a body that reciprocates within
the mixing chamber to assist the discharge of the material from
the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the material is moved into the chamber
under the influence of negative pressure produced in the chamber.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not require substantially the entire
volume of the mixing chamber to be exposed to negative pressure.
for a mixing chamber, the entire contents of which
is exposed to negative pressure, in which the negative pressure
may serve to move material into the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 163.1. Subject matter including (a) a passage having a region of
reduced cross- sectional area connected to the mixing chamber and
constructed so that the flow of a fluid through the region creates
the suction, or (b) a small tube through which material is directed
into a larger tube with sufficient velocity to produce the suction.
(1)
Note. The passage may constitute a portion of the mixing chamber,
or a low pressure region of the passage may be fluidly connected
to the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 164.1. Subject matter wherein the stirrer is mounted for rotation
about a fixed axis and the material is fed by the suction to the
chamber through a conduit that is fixed to or part of the stirrer
so as to be substantially immovable with respect to the stirrer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 164.2. Subject matter wherein the stirrer is mounted on and driven
by a rotatable drive shaft and the stirrer and at least a portion
of the conduit can be repositioned or are removably mounted on the
drive shaft.
This subclass is indented under subclass 164.3. Subject matter having a fixed deflector in the mixing chamber
for providing additional agitation of the material.
for a stationary element in a mixing chamber cooperating
with a rotating stirrer. See the search notes in subclass 302 for
other locations of mixing apparatus having stationary agitating elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 164.2. Subject matter wherein the stirrer has a blade and the material-conducting
conduit discharges the material into a zone to the rear of the blade.
This subclass is indented under subclass 164.1. Subject matter wherein the stirrer is rotatable, rotation
of the stirrer generating flow of material away from the axis of
rotation of the stirrer that creates the negative pressure in the
mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. Excluded from this subclass are devices in which all
radial motion of fluid is incidental to the operation of the device,
that is, not producing the suction drawing material into the mixing
chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means is arranged relative
to an inner wall of the mixing chamber to cause a generally circular
or elliptical movement of the material within the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165.1. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has a deflector
therein positioned to be contacted by either the material entering
the chamber or the material undergoing mixing within the chamber.
(1)
Note. The deflector may be part of the mixing chamber wall
and extends into the chamber.
for a stationary element in a mixing chamber cooperating
with a rotating stirrer. See the search notes in subclass 302 for
other locations of mixing apparatus having stationary agitating elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165.1. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has a rotatable
member therein for further implementing agitation.
(1)
Note. The rotatable member may be driven by a power source
such as a motor or driven by means of the material entering the
mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes means (e.g.,
a valve or pump) to control the flow of material into the mixing
chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 165.1. Subject matter wherein the means supplying the material
has a plurality of outlets into the mixing chamber, all of which
are connected to a common supply source.
178.2, and 181.6, for feed means having plural outlets
into a mixing chamber, all connected to the same source of material.
See the search notes in subclass 181.6 for further locations of mixing
apparatus having plural material feed means or outlets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes a passage-forming
element projecting into the mixing chamber so as to admit liquid material
through the element into the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167.1. Subject matter wherein the injector comprises a rotating
member having an internal chamber or channel through which the material
flows and having outlets in its periphery through which material
is discharged from the chamber or channel into the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. A rotating hollow stirrer (i.e., a rotating body agitating
material by contact with the exterior surface of the body) through
which material is fed is not included in this subclass. See the search
notes below for the location of such a device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.1. Subject matter wherein the passage-forming element is an
integral part of the stirrer.
(1)
Note. A drive shaft integral with a stirrer is considered
a part of the stirrer.
(2)
Note. Typical of patents in this subclass is a stirrer having
a drive shaft and having a passage in the shaft through which liquid
is fed into the mixing chamber.
(3)
Note. Substantially all of the material that flows through
the passage-forming element must be from outside the mixing chamber
rather than from the agitated contents of the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 169.1. Subject matter wherein the material is fed radially through
a side wall of a drive shaft of the stirrer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 169.1. Subject matter wherein the passage-forming element is a
projection of the stirrer having substantial radial extension from
the axis of rotation of the stirrer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 169.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes a stationary
conduit having a portion located inside the rotating stirrer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.1. Subject matter wherein the mixing chamber has an immovable
element therein which is in addition to the injector and which cooperates with
the rotatable stirrer to effect agitation.
for a stationary element in a mixing chamber cooperating
with a rotating stirrer. See the search notes in subclass 302 for
other locations of mixing apparatus having stationary agitating elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.1. Subject matter wherein there is more than one passage-forming
element in the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. A branched tube constitutes plural injectors, while
a single tube or nozzle having a plurality of perforations without
projecting hollow fluid conducting members does not constitute plural injectors.
for feed means having plural identical outlets opening
into a mixing chamber all of the outlets being connected to the
same source of material. See the search notes in subclass 181.6
for further locations of mixing apparatus having plural material
feed means or outlets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.1. Subject matter wherein the tube or nozzle directs the material
into a region immediately adjacent to the stirrer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167.1. Subject matter wherein there is more than one passage-forming
element in the chamber.
(1)
Note. A branched tube constitutes plural injectors, while
a single tube or nozzle having a plurality of perforations without
projecting hollow fluid conducting members does not constitute plural injectors.
for feed means having plural identical outlets opening
into a mixing chamber, all of the outlets being connected to the
same source of material. See the search notes in subclass 181.6
for further locations of mixing apparatus having plural material
feed means or outlets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.1. Subject matter having plural passage-forming elements in
the mixing chamber for material from the same supply.
178.2, and 181.6, for feed means having plural inlets
into a mixing chamber connected to a common material source. See
the search notes in subclass 181.6 for further locations of mixing
apparatus having plural material feed means or outlets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 167.1. Subject matter which also includes an element that is in
the chamber and stationary relative to the chamber or a support
therefor serving to divert portions of the material in the mixing chamber
so as to assist in the agitation.
(1)
Note. The deflector need not act directly on fluid introduced
by the tube or nozzle or a flow induced entirely by the introduction
of material through the tube or nozzle, but may act on any moving
material in the chamber.
for a stationary element in a mixing chamber cooperating
with a rotating stirrer. See the search notes in subclass 302 for
other locations of mixing apparatus having stationary agitating elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 174.1. Subject matter wherein the passage-forming element directs
the material introduced through it onto the stationary element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means is in the form of
a pump for forcing the material through a narrow restriction for
the purpose of mixing the material, particularly for the purpose
of emulsifying or homogenizing the material.
and particularly 340, for mixing apparatus in which
material is divided into different portions by passage around deflectors
or through apertures therein and recombined for the purpose of mixing
or emulsifying the material.
Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or Inhibiting, appropriate subclasses for subject matter relating
to: colloid systems (such as sols*, emulsions, dispersions,
foams, aerosols, smokes, gels, or pastes) or wetting agents (such
as leveling, penetrating, or spreading); subcombination compositions
of colloid systems containing at least an agent specialized and designed
for or peculiar to use in making or stabilizing colloid systems; compositions
and subcombination compositions specialized and designed for or
peculiar to use in breaking (resolving) or inhibiting colloid systems;
processes of making the compositions or systems of the class; processes
of breaking (resolving) or inhibiting colloid systems; in each instance,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior
provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
This subclass is indented under subclass 176.3. Subject matter wherein the narrow restriction is within
a chamber and the pressure within the chamber may be changed by
adjustable means for maintaining a desired pressure (e.g., a regulator
valve).
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter including a plurality of feed means emptying
into the mixing chamber through separate outlets and being in a
particular relation to each other or the mixing chamber.
(1)
Note. The mixing chamber that the materials enter must be
a chamber in which mixing of the type proper for Class 366 occurs.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter wherein at least two elongated feed means
have a common axis and are arranged one inside the other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178.1. Subject matter wherein one of the feed means has a plurality
of outlets into the mixing chamber that are substantially the same
size and shape.
for nonconcentric feed means having plural identical
outlets opening into a mixing chamber, all of the outlets being
connected to the same source of material. See the search notes in
subclass 181.6 for further locations of mixing apparatus having
plural material feed means or outlets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 178.1. Subject matter in which (a) an inner one of the feed means
extends through a wall of an outer one of the feed means forming
an intersection between them and (b) the axis of the inner feed means
extends along the common axis of the feed means at the intersection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter wherein at least one of the feed means supplies
quantities of material to the chamber in recurrent interrupted sequence.
(1)
Note. Means to intermittently operate flow control means for
the material to repeat a material-supplying operation without operator
intervention is required for placement in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter wherein the feed means includes a chute or
hopper that supplies material solely by gravity.
(1)
Note. A hopper is a funnel-shaped container usually, but not
necessarily, used for dispensing fluent solids. A chute is an open-topped
channel or conduit for guiding material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 181.1. Subject matter including means for distributing material
over a region of the mixing chamber as it is being introduced into
the mixing chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 181.1. Subject matter including a valve, gate, or closure for controlling
release of material from the chute or hopper.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter including a rotating stirrer in the mixing
chamber and a stationary deflector cooperating therewith to agitate
the material in the chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter including an obstacle in the mixing chamber
past which the material flows and which deflects or changes the
motion of the material to promote mixing of the material.
(1)
Note. To be placed in this subclass, the obstacle must be
an element other than the mixing chamber wall, even if collision
of material with the wall is responsible for agitating the material.
(2)
Note. An obstacle agitating only one of a plurality of materials
fed to the mixing chamber before combination with other materials
is not considered to be within the mixing chamber.
for a stationary element in a mixing chamber cooperating
with a rotating stirrer. See the search notes in subclass 302 for
other locations of mixing apparatus having stationary agitating elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter wherein a feed means has a plurality of outlets
opening into the mixing chamber which are substantially the same
size and shape.
and 10+, for mortar mixing apparatus in
which fluid is introduced into a mixing region of a conveying conduit through
a plurality of substantially identical inlets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter including a rotatable stirrer in the mixing
chamber defining a space of relatively small radial dimension between
the periphery of the stirrer and the wall of the mixing chamber
and wherein one of the feed means introduces material directly into
the space.
This subclass is indented under subclass 177.1. Subject matter wherein one of the feed means is a device
that acts on fluid to force it to move along a path to the mixing
chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 150.1. Subject matter including means to start, stop, or regulate
the flow of material in the feed means.
(1)
Note. The mere disclosure of a valve or pump is not sufficient
for placement of a patent in this subclass. There must be a disclosure
of valve details, a valve operator mechanism, pump feed rate adjustment
means, or other feature directly related to adjustment or control
of material flow rate.
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CLASS 366,![[List of Patents for class 366 subclass 1]](../ps.gif)
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