there is no patent for just buying it and using it in our own manner. its dumb that somone will want to use scare tactics to protect their "new invention" a modified lawn mower, that is way too big for what it really is. Just like some of the mower parts they are using. Who will ever find out u are using it in the way they said is there invention? Someone simply has to use it one step different and there is no violation. but that means they will have to be up all night looking for PW's working and looking at their recovery systems. good luck. sory guys I just think they are stupid and overpriced
MY$.02
I like the idea of a driveable surface cleaner, especially one that can vacuum up the dirty water, I would like the idea even more if it were more affordable.
I would just hate to go into garage cleaning and end up getting sued for using something that was intentionally sold to me knowing what I would be using it for and in the end getting sued, that would suck! hahahaha
There are so many ways out there to do a job and recover and deal with the wastewater, the hard part is choosing a system that will work in many different situations so you are not constantly having to add to your trailer or modify it or have to swap things in/out all the time.
I agree John, that flocculation is a chemistry term, and that there are different methods of achieving flocculation.
I however did not read the entire patent but from what I understand "using a powdered flocculant on a wheeled/mobile unit (trailer or otherwise) in conjunction with pressure washing/cleaning or steam cleaning with or without a vacuum system or with or with out a drivable surface cleaner" you are in violation of their process, .......not "flocculation violation" per say the process/combinations is the patent.
Am I incorrect?
I dont see it Nigel unless your using a parkerwest swabby system with flocculent from them and are not licensed with them. I dont think it can be inforced. sunbrite sells floc I dont think they would if there was any chance of legal trouble.
I found your link Nigel.
I don't even need to send this to the lawyer. It's so complicated you can change many things and operate (and sell) without violating the patent in my opinion.
How do I know this? I have been involved in three patents. One of them was Ventsation scent clips back in the 90's. Mike Farmer invented these. He detailed the process of impregnating scents into plastic that comes out over time. Medo copied his process, but USED DIFFERENT EQUIPMENT to manufacture the product. They then dared him to sue them. Because he couldn't win.
The most rock solid patents are the most simple.
I certainly don't mind a guy getting paid for his research, but hamstringing an entire industry (like Dupont does) just invites copying.
Drivable or otherwise, size could be a great advantage
Thanks for the info James.
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Good talking with you greg
So what can be done diffrently and which lawyer to keep on retainer...lol
Nigel, is the owner of that large surface cleaner a member here or any of the bbs's?
Flocculation is a reaction when (In Waste Water Operations) chemicals (Polymer) are introduced into waste water (same as reclaiming), the chemicals (polymer) binds with suspended solids (dirt, oils, etc.) gravity then pulls this binded flock to the bottom of the tank in which it is mixed, clear water or supernate is on the top, flocked sludge will be on the bottom where a valve can be installed to drain the sludge to be deposed of properly.
I will be at work tomorrow night, I'll do a jar test and take some pictures to demonstrate this process.
It's kind of cool!
For one example, if you use a gas powered mixer instead of a "1 hp electric motor powered by a generator" you've made your own "innovation" that changes the product.
There are probably 20 or 30 things you could do differently. The reason the patent process makes you spell out your entire process is to protect your "invention". Using water to clean a coil is not an "invention" using flocculation to clean dirty water is not the "invention".
Any "inventor" can threaten to sue or even send you a "cease and desist" letter. But it has no teeth unless you have copied their process exactly. Attorneys know this. They will send "cease and desist" letters all day long because it costs them $0.39.
I have been on BOTH sides of this issue in the past. Patent protection is costly. Too costly for most. Expecially if the company is on shaky financial ground to begin with.
I don't know about Parker W. but IF they are claiming that they hold the patent for ALL cosmetic pressure washing involving flocculation they are blowing smoke. It's not possible under the patent system to do that.
My question is if is was that easy to modify and not infringe, why did cleanupamerica not just modify it so they would not end up in court. Unless I dont know the whole story between the two companies.