Ground marking bead flow dispenser

Abstract

A bead flow dispense assembly includes a bead valve that opens and closes to control output of beads, a sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the bead flow to the bead valve, a valve actuator configured to open the bead valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness, and a controller configured to control opening of the bead valve based on the bead flow data.

Description

[0001]

[0002] GROUND MARKING BEAD FLOW DISPENSER CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 778,107 filed March 26, 2025 and entitled “GROUND MARKING BEAD FLOW DISPENSER,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to line striping systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a monitoring system for bead dispensing.

[0005] Line striping systems, which can be vehicle-mounted, are used for painting stripes on roadways, runways, parking lots, and other ground surfaces. Line striping systems typically comprise pushed and / or gas or electric-propelled platforms that dispense materials used to mark ground surfaces. The systems typically include a gas or electric motor for driving a pump. The pump is fed a flowable material, such as paint, from a container and pumps the fluid to spray nozzles mounted to discharge the fluid toward the ground surface. While paint is used herein as an exemplar, it is understood that paint is merely one example and that other solutions (e.g., water, oil, solvents, beads, flowable solids, pellets, etc.) can be applied in addition to or instead of paint. In some cases, ground markings can be thermally applied instead of sprayed as a paint.

[0006] Striping systems are typically mounted on a vehicle. For example, the striping systems can be mounted on the bed of a truck. Such a striping system has the advantage of being used in a common truck, such as a pickup truck, without the need of a specialized vehicle. The striping systems can be palletized such that they can be loaded, lifted, placed, and unloaded by a conventional pallet jack or forklift in the same manner as a conventional pallet. When mounted on a vehicle, one or more dispense outlets are mounted on an extension that extends away from the vehicle to dispense the striping material as the vehicle drives. In most cases, the extension is on the lateral side of the vehicle to apply one or more stripes to the side of the vehicle as the vehicle drives forward. Such a system can apply a large volume of striping material to the ground due to the carrying capacity of the vehicle, both in terms of material to be applied and the pumping, mixing, and dispensing equipment, and due to the distance that such a vehicle can efficiently cover, particularly along a long stretch of roadway.Beads may be applied to line stripes to increase their reflectivity. Beads are three-dimensional and can be highly reflective along many orientations. Wet paint or other coating applied to the ground surface can have beads dropped or shot on the paint or other coating to embed or otherwise adhere the beads to the paint or other coating. The paint or other coating will rapidly dry and the beads can become permanently part the line stripe, increasing the visibility, and in particular the reflectivity, of the stripe.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow control apparatus includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator operatively connected to the valve, the valve actuator configured to one or both of open and close the valve including by opening the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to a plurality of different amounts.

[0009] According to an additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; a sensor module disposed upstream of the valve, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads; and a controller operatively connected to the valve actuator, the controller configured to set an opening size of the valve based on the bead flow data.

[0010] According to another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; a valve displacer connected to a closure of the valve, the valve adjustor configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve; and a flow adjustor configured to limit a distance that the valve displacer displaces the closure away from the seat to thereby set an opening size of the valve; wherein the flow adjustor is actuatable to a plurality of different states corresponding to a plurality of different degrees of openness of the valve such that the flow adjustor sets an opening size of the valve.

[0011] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air andentrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; and a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; wherein the flow of air and entrained beads flows to the valve along a flow axis that is angled relative to the valve axis.

[0012] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a valve housing; a valve disposed in a first housing portion of the valve housing, the valve configured to open to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and close to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the scat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; and a sensor module rigidly connected to the valve housing, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads.

[0013] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a module housing; a valve disposed in a first housing portion of the module housing, the valve configured to open to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and close to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; and a sensor assembly mounted to the module housing, the sensor assembly configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads.

[0014] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees ofopenness; wherein the valve actuator is configured to pneumatically open the valve and the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically set an opening distance of the valve.

[0015] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead flow dispense module includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; wherein the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically open the valve and the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically set an opening distance of the valve.

[0016] According to yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a bead dispensing system includes a plurality of bead dispense modules and a controller. Each bead dispense module includes a bead dispenser and a sensor module. The bead dispenser includes a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness. The sensor module is configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads to the bead dispenser associated with the sensor module. The controller is operatively connected to the plurality of bead dispense modules and configured to control output of the flow of air and entrained beads from each bead dispense module of the plurality of bead dispense modules by receiving the bead flow data from the sensor module; and controlling the valve actuator to set an opening distance of the valve.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a striping system that includes a bead dispensing system.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an exemplary bead dispensing system of the striping system that includes a bead flow sensor module.

[0019] FIG. 3A is an isometric view of a bead dispense module.

[0020] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 3A.

[0021] FIG. 3C is an isometric cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 3A. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a bead dispense module.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The present disclosure relates generally to ground marking. More specifically, the present disclosure is directed to bead flow dispensing for ground marking systems. Bead dispensing modules according to aspects of the disclosure are configured to modulate the output of beads for application on a stripe of material. The bead dispensing module includes a valve modulator that can set an opening distance of a valve that controls output of the beads from the bead dispensing module. The valve modulator can control the opening of the valve such that the valve can open to different degrees of openness to control the output of the beads.

[0023] Bead dispense modules according to aspects of the disclosure include a sensor module. The sensor module includes sensing components that are configured to generate information regarding bead flow through the sensor module. The opening distance of a valve of the bead dispense module can be controlled based on the bead flow data generated by the sensor module.

[0024] A bead flow sensor that provides flow data to a controller of the bead flow dispenser can include a beam that extends into a flow channel within a housing. The flow channel is configured to convey the ground marking beads through the bead flow sensor module. The beam is connected to sensor components that are configured to generate information based on deflection of the beam. The beam deflection provides information indicative of the volumetric bead flow through the sensor assembly.

[0025] Bead dispense modules according to aspects of the disclosure include a flow adjustor that is configured to control a flow rate of the beads output by the bead dispenser. The flow adjustor can control the size of an opening through the bead dispenser through with the beads flow to be output from the bead dispenser. For example, the flow adjustor can set an opening distance of a valve of the bead dispense module. The flow adjustor can be electrically controlled. In some examples, the flow adjustor can include an electric actuator, such as an electric motor, solenoid, among other options.

[0026] Bead dispense modules according to some aspects of the disclosure include a valve modulator. The valve modulator is configured to control opening of the valve that controls dispensing of the ground marking beads. The valve modulator can be configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness to control the rate at which the ground marking beads are dispensed.

[0027] Some examples of bead dispense modules include a valve actuator that is configured to open and close a valve through which the beads flow to be dispensed. Thevalve actuator can be configured to open and close the bead valve pneumatically, electrically, mechanically, a combination thereof, among other options. Bead dispense modules according to some aspects of the disclosure can include a flow adjustor that operates in conjunction with the valve actuator. The flow adjustor can be formed separately from the valve actuator or formed together with the valve actuator. The flow adjustor can, in some examples, physically interface with the valve actuator to set the maximum opening of the bead valve. The flow adjustor can set a maximum displacement of the valve actuator, thereby setting a maximum opening through the valve.

[0028] Bead dispense modules according to aspects of the disclosure include a controller that is operatively connected to a bead flow sensor to receive bead flow data from the bead flow sensor. The controller is operatively connected to a flow adjustor to control a degree to which a bead valve can open, thereby controlling a dispense rate of the beads from the bead dispense module. The controller can control the degree of openness of the bead valve in a closed loop manner. The controller can automatically provide commands to the flow adjustor based on the bead flow data to control the dispense rate of the beads. In some examples, the controller can provide commands to the flow adjustor based on the bead flow data and based on a ground speed of the bead dispense module (e.g., based on the ground speed of a vehicle supporting the bead dispense module).

[0029] Bead dispense modules of the present disclosure can include a needle that moves relative to a seat to allow or disallow output of beads from the bead dispenser. The needle is configured to shift along a valve axis to open and close the bead valve formed between the needle and the seat. A valve actuator is connected to the needle and actuates the needle relative to the seat can be disposed in-line with the needle. The valve actuator can be disposed coaxially with the needle. A flow adjustor, which can be integrated with the valve actuator or formed separately from the valve actuator, can be disposed in-line with the needle. The flow adjustor can be disposed coaxially with the needle.

[0030] According to various aspects of the disclosure, the bead flow can be oriented transverse to the valve axis of the needle of the bead valve. The bead flow to the bead valve can be angled relative to the actuation directions of the needle. The bead flow entering into a valve housing within which the valve is disposed can be oriented transverse to a valve axis along which movable valving components of the valve displace.

[0031] Bead dispense modules according to various aspects of the disclosure include a bead valve that has a needle assembly that is actuated relative to a seat. The interface between the needle assembly and the seat is disposed in a valve housing. A valve actuator can bedisposed in another housing portion of the valve housing. The needle assembly can exit from a first portion of the valve housing and span between the first and second portions of the valve housing.

[0032] According to some aspects of the disclosure, a bead flow sensor is mounted to a sensor housing and a bead valve is disposed in a valve housing. The sensor housing can be rigidly connected to the valve housing. A valve actuator can be rigidly connected to the valve housing. In some examples, the sensor housing and the valve housing can be integrated into a single component, such as by being formed monolithically. In some examples, the bead dispensing assembly does not include any flexible hosing or tubing between the sensor housing and the valve hosing.

[0033] Bead flow sensors according to aspects of the disclosure can include a beam that extends into the flow of the beads through a sensor housing of the bead flow sensor. The beads can impact the beam. Deflection of the beam can be sensed by sensing components of the bead flow sensor to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of the beads through the bead flow sensor. The beam can be in-line with the bead valve. The beam can be inline with a movable valving component (e.g., a needle) of the bead valve.

[0034] Components with common reference numbers can be structurally and functionally equivalent except to the limited extent specifically shown and / or described to be different. As such, aspects discussed and / or shown in connection with one embodiment can be present in another embodiment even if not discussed and / or shown for the other embodiment, particularly when common reference numbers are used.

[0035] Components can be considered to radially overlap when those components are disposed at common axial locations along an axis. A radial line extending from the axis will extend through each of the radially overlapping components. Components can be considered to axially overlap when those components are disposed at common radial and circumferential locations relative to an axis such that an axial line parallel to the axis extends through the axially overlapping components. Components can be considered to circumferentially overlap when aligned about the axis, such that a circle centered on the axis passes through the circumferentially overlapping components. Components can be considered to tangentially overlap when aligned about an axis such that a tangent line to a circle centered on the axis passes through each of those tangentially overlapping components.

[0036] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of striping system 10. Striping system 10 includes vehicle surface 12, pumping module 14, user interface 16, liquid reservoirs 17, compressor18, bead hopper 19, support frame 20, hoses 21, beam mount 22, support beam 24, dispense arm 26, carriage 28, and seat 30. Pumping module 14 includes pumps 32 and motor 34. Beam mount 22 includes beam clamps 36. Dispense arm 26 includes boom 38, lateral arm 40, wheels 42, and output assemblies 44. Output assemblies 44 include gun arms 46, spray outlets 48, and bead dispensers 49. Carriage 28 includes carriage motor 50.

[0037] Striping system 10 is a system for applying stripes of a marking material, such as paint, water, oil, solvents, beads, reflective glass beads, flowable solids, pellets, etc., to a ground surface, such as a roadway, runway, parking lot, or other desired surface. While the term “stripes” is used herein as an example, it will be understood that the scope of this disclosure includes dispensing fluid and / or material on any surface in any pattern, and is not limited to the marking of stripes.

[0038] Vehicle surface 12 is a surface of a self-propelled vehicle that supports other components of striping system 10. For example, vehicle surface 12 can be the bed of a truck, such as a pickup truck, a pallet or other structure mounted to a truck, or another vehicle surface. Liquid reservoirs 17 are disposed on vehicle surface 12 and are configured to store the marking material prior to application to the ground surface. The marking material can be any desired material suitable for creating the stripes, such as paint, flowable solids such as beads, plural component materials, or any other suitable material. In some examples, system 10 can include bead hopper 19 to store beads apart from a liquid component (e.g„ paint) of the marking material contained in liquid reservoirs 17. A compressor 18 pressurizes bead hopper 19 and generates an airflow to carry the beads out of bead hopper 19 via hoses 21 to bead dispensers 49.

[0039] Support frame 20 is disposed on vehicle surface 12 and supports various components of striping system 10. Support frame 20 is configured to mount to vehicle surface 12 and can either rest on vehicle surface 12 or be connected to vehicle surface 12. In some examples, support frame 20 is removably connected to vehicle surface 12, such as by fasteners, such as bolts, or straps. In other examples, support frame 20 is permanently connected to vehicle surface 12, such as by welding.

[0040] Pumping module 14 is supported by support frame 20 and configured to drive the marking material from liquid reservoirs 17 to dispense arm 26. Pumps 32 are supported by support frame 20 and are fluidly connected to liquid reservoirs 17 by one or more of a pipe, a conduit, and a hose. Motor 34 is also supported by support frame 20 and is configured to power pumps 32. In some examples, motor 34 powers a variable displacement pump that drives pumps 32, such as in examples in which pumps 32 are hydraulically powered. Insome examples, motor 34 can also power an air compressor 18 to power pumps 32, where pumps 32 are pneumatic, to draw a liquid component of the marking material from reservoir 17 and discharge the liquid component of the marker material through spray outlets 48. In some examples, air compressor 18 also pressurizes bead hopper 19 to drive reflective glass beads to and out of glass bead dispensers 49. It is understood, however, that pumps 32 can be driven in any desired manner, such as mechanically, electrically, or hydraulically, and motor 34 can be of any suitable configuration for powering pumps 32. While pumping module 14 is shown as including two pumps 32, it is understood that pumping module 14 can include fewer or greater number of pumps 32. Moreover, pumping module 14 can include any desired configuration of pump 32 suitable for driving the marking material from liquid reservoirs 17 to dispense module 44, such as piston pumps, diaphragm pumps, gerotor pumps, lobe pumps, rotary vane pumps, peristaltic pumps, plunger pumps, among other options.

[0041] Scat 30 is supported by support frame 20. A user is typically seated in scat 30 during operation. The position of seat 30 allows the user to monitor the placement of the stripe by striping system 10 and adjust the location of dispense arm 26 as needed. User interface 16 extends from seat 30 and provides controls to the user to allow the user to actuate carriage 28 and adjust the position of dispense arm 26 along the Y-axis. User interface 16 is operatively connected to carriage motor 50 to control operation of carriage motor 50. User interface 16 can provide information to the user, such as information regarding bead flow through sensor module 58.

[0042] Beam mount 22 extends from support frame 20. Beam mount 22 is directly or indirectly connected to support frame 20, such as by bolts or intermediate structural plates and / or tubes. Support beam 24 is mounted on beam mount 22 and is secured to beam mount 22 by beam clamps 36. Beam clamps 36 prevent movement of support beam 24 relative to beam mount 22 and support frame 20. Support beam 24 is cantilevered from beam mount 22 with a free end of support beam 24 spaced from vehicle surface 12. Support beam 24 extends laterally along the Y-axis from vehicle surface 12 so that the free end of support beam 24 is positioned to the left side of vehicle surface 12 and the remainder of the vehicle.

[0043] Carriage 28 rides on support beam 24. Carriage 28 is movable along the entire length of support beam 24. Specifically, carriage 28 can move laterally along the Y-axis. Carriage motor 50 is configured to drive carriage 28 laterally along support beam 24 on the Y-axis.Dispense arm 26 is connected to support beam 24 by carriage 28. Boom 38 is attached to and extends from carriage 28. Lateral arm 40 extends laterally from boom 38 along the Y-axis. Wheels 42 are disposed at the ends of boom 38 and are configured to support dispense arm 26 relative to the ground. Wheels 42 support the weight of dispense arm 26 on the ground surface. Wheels 42 typically bracket the ground surface being marked by striping system 10. While dispense arm 26 is shown as including two wheels 42, it is understood that dispense arm 26 can include any desired number of wheels 42 to support dispense arm 26 on the ground surface, such as one, three, four, or any other desired number of wheels 42. Lateral translation of carriage 28 along support beam 24 likewise causes lateral movement of dispense arm 26.

[0044] Gun arms 46 extend from boom 38 and output assemblies 44 are disposed on gun arms 46. Output assemblies 44 are fluidly connected to pumps 32 to receive marking material from pumps 32 and apply the marking material to the ground surface. Gun arms 46 arc disposed generally orthogonal to lateral arm 40. While dispense arm 26 is shown as including five gun arms 46, it is understood that dispense arm 26 can include as many or as few gun arms 46 as desired, such as one, two, three, or any desired number. Spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 are typically positioned above the surface being marked, such as by one or more inches (i.e., by 2.54 or more centimeters). Spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 eject the marking material, in separate liquid and bead components, onto the ground surface. Specifically, for each stripe, the spray outlet 48 is positioned in front of each bead dispenser 49 such that the spray outlet 48 passes over a surface and sprays the surface with paint or other liquid coating and then the bead dispenser 49 passes over the freshly sprayed liquid coating and drops, blows, or otherwise dispenses the beads onto the liquid coating to adhere the beads to the stripe. Spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 are moved along the surface being marked by forward motion of the vehicle, which motion is translated to spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 by support frame 20, beam mount 22, support beam 24, carriage 28, and dispense arm 26. In some examples, spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 are positioned relative to one another so as to eliminate any gaps between the stripes generated by spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49. It is understood that dispense arm 26 can include as few or as many varieties of spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 as desired. Moreover, dispense arm 26 can include additional variations of spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 in addition to the spray nozzles and bead dispensers shown.During operation, the vehicle that vehicle surface 12 is a part of is driven across the ground surface in the longitudinal direction, along the X-axis. A user separate from the driver is seated in seat 30 and controls the position of dispense arm 26 along the Y-axis via user interface 16. As such, the user can monitor the application of the stripes and the lateral position of dispense arm 26 independent from steering of the vehicle. Pumps 32 draw the marking material from liquid reservoirs 17 and drive the marking material to output assemblies 44. Hopper 19 is pressurized by compressor 18 to drive beads downstream from hopper 19 to bead dispensers 49. Spray outlets 48 and bead dispensers 49 eject the marking material, in separate liquid and bead components, onto the ground surface.

[0045] FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of the bead dispensing system 11 of the striping system 10. Controller 62 is shown. Controller 62 includes control circuitry 64 and memory 66. The bead dispensing system 11 includes a compressor 18 or other source of compressed air, such as a tank of compressed air. The compressor 18 generates a flow of compressed air. The flow of compressed air is routed, such as by hose, pipe, or conduit, to a bead hopper 19. The bead hopper 19 includes an internal chamber into which beads can be placed. The quantity of beads can number in the hundreds of thousands or millions within a bead hopper 19. The bead hopper 19 is sealed such that the inflow of compressed air circulates within the bead hopper to pressurize the area around the beads and flows out of the bead hopper 19 via hose 21, carrying the beads.

[0046] Multiple hoses 21 may flow out of the bead hopper 19 or a manifold may attach to multiple hoses 21. One or more hoses 21 can fluidly communicate with a lower portion of bead hopper 19, or other region of bead hopper 19 where beads collect. The beads are small and light enough that they are entrained in the flow of compressed air to flow through the interior of the hose with the airflow. It is noted that the flow can be dry such that the only fluid is compressed air flowing and the beads themselves. Hose 21 connects with the bead dispenser 49 which can spread the beads out laterally to fall on the freshly sprayed line from the spray outlet 48. During operation, the beads can fully fill the one or more hoses 21 such that the beads flow together as a fluid that is urged through the one or more hoses 21 by the compressed air flow.

[0047] A position of sensor module 58 can be anywhere along the bead flow path between an outlet of bead hopper 19 and an outlet of bead dispenser 49. In some embodiments, sensor module 58 can be located anywhere along hose 21 between an outlet of the bead hopper 19 and an inlet of bead dispenser 49. In this embodiment, the sensor module 58 is located close to the bead dispenser 49 and relatively far away from the bead hopper 19,however the sensor module 58 can be placed anywhere along the flow path of beads. For instance, sensor module 58 can be adjacent to bead dispenser 49 as shown in FIG. 2. In this example, sensor module 58 connects to bead dispenser by a short length of hose 21, for example, by a length less than one meter. In other examples, the short length of hose 21 is less than half a meter, or less than one fourth of a meter. In still other examples, the short length of hose 21 between sensor module 58 and bead dispenser 49 can be omitted, connecting sensor module 58 directly to a fitting operatively associated with bead dispenser 49, or integrated into bead dispenser 49. In other examples, the sensor module 58 can be directly attached to an outlet of the bead hopper 19. While in other examples, the sensor module 58 can be intermediate of the bead hopper 19 and the bead dispenser 49. Bending, flexing, expansion, and / or contracting of hose 21 can introduce differences between the bead flow sensed by sensor module 58 and the bead flow discharged from bead dispenser 49. Placing sensor module 58 closer to bead dispenser 49 and relatively far away from hopper 19 improves accuracy of bead flow volume measurements by reducing or minimizing a length of hose 21 between sensor module 58 and bead dispenser 49.

[0048] Sensor module 58 and bead dispenser 49 can be considered to form a dispense module 47. The dispense module 47 can generate information regarding the flow of beads and can control output of the beads from the striping system 10. Dispense module 47 can be communicatively connected to controller 62 to provide information to controller 62 and to receive commands from controller 62.

[0049] Sensor module 58 is configured to generate information regarding flow of the beads to the bead dispenser 49. Sensor module 58 can generate the bead flow data and provide the bead flow data to the controller 62.

[0050] Bead valve 68 is operable to control output of beads from the bead dispenser 49. Bead valve 68 can be actively controlled to control dispense of the beads. Bead valve 68 is disposed in bead dispenser 49. Bead valve 68 is disposed upstream of the outlet of bead dispenser 49. Bead valve 68 can be disposed downstream of the sensor module 58.

[0051] Valve actuator 70 is connected to bead valve 68. Valve actuator 70 can be operatively connected to a movable valving component of bead valve 68. Valve actuator 70 is configured to displace the movable valving component to open and close the bead valve 68. Valve actuator 70 can control a degree of opening of the bead valve 68. As such, valve actuator 70 can control the dispense rate at which the beads are output from bead dispenser 49. Valve actuator 70 can be electrically controlled, pneumatically controller, a combination or pneumatic and electric control, among other options.Valve actuator 70 can one or both of open and close the bead valve 68 including by opening the bead valve 68 to a plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to a plurality of different amounts. Valve actuator 70 can include a driver that is connected a movable valving component of the bead valve 68 to displace that component and cause the bead valve 68 to open and close. The controller 62 can cause force to be applied to the driver (e.g., pneumatic force, hydraulic force, electromagnetic force, etc.) to cause displacement of the driver and thereby cause a state change in the bead valve 68 (e.g., from open to closed or from closed to open).

[0052] Controller 62 is operatively connected to various components of striping system 10, electrically and / or communicatively, to control operation of components of striping system 10. Controller 62 can be of any desired configuration for controlling operation of striping system 10. Controller 62 is operatively connected to sensor module 58 to receive information from sensor module 58. Controller 62 can receive the bead flow data from the sensor module 58. Controller 62 is operatively connected to valve actuator 70 to control actuation of the bead valve 68. Controller 62 can control opening and closing of the bead valve 68. Controller 62 can control a degree of opening of the bead valve 68, such as based on the bead flow data generated by the sensor module 58.

[0053] Memory 66 is configured to store software that, when executed by control circuitry 64, can generate parameter information regarding the bead flow through sensor module 58. For example, control circuitry 64 can include one or more of a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a system-on-module (SOM), or other equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry.

[0054] Memory 66, in some examples, is described as computer-readable storage media. In some examples, a computer-readable storage medium can include a non-transitory medium. The term “non-transitory” can indicate that the storage medium is not embodied in a carrier wave or a propagated signal. In certain examples, a non-transitory storage medium can store data that can, over time, change (e.g., in RAM or cache). In some examples, memory 66 is a temporary memory, meaning that a primary purpose of memory 66 is not long-term storage. Memory 66, in some examples, is described as volatile memory, meaning that memory 66 does not maintain stored contents when power to controller 62 is turned off. Examples of volatile memories can include random access memories (RAM), dynamic random access memories (DRAM), static random access memories (SRAM), and other forms of volatile memories. Memory 66, in one example, isused by software or applications running on control circuitry 64 to temporarily store information during program execution. Memory 66, in some examples, also includes one or more computer-readable storage media. Memory 66 can further be configured for longterm storage of information. Memory 66 can be configured to store larger amounts of information than volatile memory. In some examples, memory 66 includes non-volatile storage elements. Examples of such non-volatile storage elements can include magnetic hard discs, optical discs, floppy discs, flash memories, or forms of electrically programmable memories (EPROM) or electrically erasable and programmable (EEPROM) memories.

[0055] User interface 16 can be any graphical and / or mechanical interface that enables user interaction with controller 62. For example, user interface 16 can implement a graphical user interface displayed at a display device of user interface 16 for presenting information to and / or receiving input from a user. User interface 16 can include graphical navigation and control elements, such as graphical buttons or other graphical control elements presented at the display device. User interface 16, in some examples, includes physical navigation and control elements, such as physically actuated buttons or other physical navigation and control elements. In general, user interface 16 can include any input and / or output devices and control elements that can enable user interaction with controller 62.

[0056] A data line 60 extends from the sensor module 58 and is configured to provide a signal to controller 62, the signal indicating a measure of bead flow volume. The data line 60 is shown as a wire in this embodiment, but the data line 60 could be a wireless signal communication between the sensor module 58 and the controller 62. In typical use, one sensor module 58 will be provided for each hose 21. Each bead dispenser 49 is supplied by a respective hose 21. Therefore, there may be one sensor module 58 for each bead dispenser 49. For example, a plurality of sensor modules 58 can be provided for a plurality of bead dispensers 49, respectively. It is understood, however, that each sensor module 58 can be associated with one or more bead dispensers 49.

[0057] A data line 61 extends from the valve actuator 70 and is configured to provide a communication link between controller 62 and valve actuator 70. It is understood that the data line 61 can be formed as a wired or wireless connection. The controller 62 can provide commands to the valve actuator 70 via the data line 61 to control opening and closing of the bead valve 68. The controller 62 can provide commands to the valve actuator 70 via the data line 61 to control a degree to which the bead valve 68 opens. Opening the bead valve 68 to a relatively lesser degree provides a relatively smaller bead dispense rate whileopening the bead valve 68 to a relatively greater degree provides a relatively greater bead dispense rate.

[0058] The user interface 16 can output a value representing the volume of the flow based on the bead flow data communicated along the data line 60 from the sensor module 58. The user interface 16 can output a value representing the volume of the bead flow actually being dispensed from the bead dispenser 49 based on the modulated opening of the bead valve 68 and the bead flow data.

[0059] Striping system 10 provides significant advantages. Controller 62 is configured to control operation of valve actuator 70, and thus the dispense rate of the beads, based on the bead flow data generated by the sensor module 58. The beads can be disposed according to a target flow rate. The controller 62 can provide commands to the valve actuator 70 to adjust an opening through the bead valve 68 based on the bead flow data and the target flow rate. For example, the controller 62 can cause the bead valve 68 to open to a greater degree to allow greater flow of the beads and the controller 62 can cause the bead valve 68 to open to a lesser degree to allow lesser flow of beads. The controller 62 can be configured to control the degree of opening of the bead valve 68 in a closed loop manner. Such a configuration causes the striping system 10 to apply the beads at a desired deposition rate, preventing waste due to overapplication and ensuring desired reflectivity by preventing underapplication.

[0060] The controller 62 actively controls the degree of opening of the bead valve 68 based on the bead flow data from the sensor module 58. As discussed above, the striping system 10 can include multiple dispense modules 47 that each have a sensor module 58 associated with a bead dispenser 49. Controller 62 can individually control operation and modulation of the bead valve 68 of each bead dispenser 49 based on the bead flow data from the sensor module 58 associated with that bead dispenser 49. As such, controller 62 can provide discrete control for bead output from each of multiple bead dispensers 49.

[0061] FIG. 3A is an isometric view of dispense module 47. FIG. 3B is an elevational cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C is an isometric cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 3A. FIGS. 3A-3C are discussed together. Bead dispenser 49, sensor module 58, bead valve 68, valve housing 72, valve actuator 70, and spreader 74 of dispense module 47 are shown. Valve housing 72 includes housing portion 76a, housing portion 76b, bead inlet 78, and bead outlet 80. Valve actuator 70 includes valve displacer 82 and flow adjustor 84. Valve displacer 82 includes actuator housing 86, plate 88, return spring 90, head 92, and connector 94. Flow adjustor 84 includes stopper96 and electric drive 98. Electric drive 98 includes stator 100 and mover 102. Sensor module 58 includes sensor assembly 104 and sensor housing 106. Sensor assembly 104 includes assembly housing 108, beam 110, and deflection sensors 112. Bead valve 68 is formed between seat 114 and closure 116.

[0062] Dispense module 47 is configured to output beads from striping system 10. Dispense module 47 is further configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads to and / or through dispense module 47.

[0063] Module housing 51 supports other components of dispense module 47. In the example shown, module housing 51 supports sensor assembly 104, valve actuator 70, and bead valve 68. Module housing 51 can be formed from separate housing components that are assembled together or can be formed as a single unitary component. In the example shown, module housing 51 is formed by valve housing 72 and sensor housing 106.

[0064] Bead dispenser 49 is configured to output beads from striping system 10. Spreader 74 is configured to spread the beads cross the width of a stripe that has been freshly sprayed on the ground surface. Spreader 74 is disposed downstream of bead valve 68. The bead dispenser 49 includes a valve housing 72. The bead valve 68 is at least partially disposed in the valve housing 72. The dispense module includes a sensor module 58.

[0065] Sensor module 58 is mounted to valve housing 72. In the example shown, sensor module 58 is rigidly connected to valve housing 72 such that no length of flexible hosing extends between and connects sensor module 58 and valve housing 72. In the example shown, the sensor housing 106 is rigidly connected to the valve housing 72. The sensor housing 106 can be rigidly connected to the valve housing 72 and the bead inlet 78 at which beads are admitted into the valve housing 72. A flow axis FA extends through sensor housing 106. The flow of air and entrained beads can flow through the sensor module 58 generally along the flow axis FA.

[0066] Sensor assembly 104 is configured to sense the flow of beads through sensor housing 106 and to generate bead flow data regarding that bead flow. Sensor assembly 104 includes an assembly housing 108 that supports other components of sensor assembly 104. Assembly housing 108 is mountable to the sensor housing 106. For example, assembly housing 108 can be mounted to the sensor housing 106 by interfaced threading, among other options.

[0067] Beam 110 projects from assembly housing 108 into the flow channel 126 through the sensor housing 106. Beam 110 is positioned in the flow channel 126 such that beads flowing through the flow channel 126 can impact the beam 110. The beam 110 iscantilevered into the flow channel 126 from the assembly housing 108. The impacting of the beads on the beam 110 deflects the cantilevered beam 110.

[0068] One or more deflection sensors 112 are operatively associated with the beam 110 to sense deflection of the beam 110. It is understood that some examples can include multiple deflection sensors 112 while other examples can have a single deflection sensor 112. Distortion due to deflection of the beam 110 is sensed by the deflection sensors 112, resulting in output of signals to controller 62 which identify and measure the degree of deflection and relate that to a metric of bead flow.

[0069] Deflection sensor 112 can be configured to generate the bead flow information based on deflection of the beam 110. For example, the flow of air and entrained beads can include a mass flow of the beads that can exert an applied force on the beam 110 to cause a moment force on the cantilevered beam 110. The deflection sensor 112 can generate the bead flow information based on deflection or bending caused by the force exerted on beam 110. In some examples, the deflection sensor 112 can be connected to a component that flexes in response to deflection of the beam 110 (e.g., a diaphragm or plate connected to the beam 110, the beam 110 itself, among other options). In some examples, the deflection sensor 112 can be a strain gauge, amongst other options.

[0070] Deflection sensor 112 outputs a signal proportional to the degree of bending or other type of strain due to deflection of the beam 110. The signal output by the deflection sensor 112 can be correlated to a known volume of bead flow to establish a relationship between the signal output by the deflection sensor 112 and bead flow volumes. It is noted that a bead flow volume can relate to weight per unit time or another metric of bead flow. The deflection sensor 112 may be a resistor whose resistance increases as the resistor is strained (e.g., by narrowing and / or lengthening a resistor wire within the deflection sensor 112 when strained). The change in resistance can be measured by a change in current flow through the resistor, and different amounts of change in current flow can be correlated to different known flow rates of beads. After calibration, the current or other metric of the signal output by the deflection sensors 112 can be compared to establish relationship and correlate the measured signal to the known flow rate of beads.

[0071] Bead valve 68 is disposed downstream of sensor module 58 in the example shown. Bead valve 68 is disposed within valve housing 72. Bead valve 68 is disposed within housing portion 76a of valve housing 72 in this example. Closure 116 is configured to shift relative to seat 114 to open and close a flowpath through bead valve 68. Closure 116engages with seat 114 to close the bead valve 68. Closure 116 is displaced away from and disengaged from seat 114 to open bead valve 68.

[0072] In the example shown, the closure 116 is a ball-end of the needle assembly 118, however other shapes of the closure 116 are possible, such as a cone, amongst other options. Closure 116 is formed as an enlargement at a distal end of the needle assembly 118 that extends between and connects closure 116 and valve displacer 82. The closure 116 is larger than other portions of needle 120 extending in axial direction ADI away from seat 114.

[0073] Closure 116 is configured to shift axially along valve axis VA to open and close the bead valve 68. In the example shown, closure 116 shifts in axial direction ADI to disengage from seat 114 and closure 116 shifts in axial direction AD2 to engage with seat 114.

[0074] The closure 116 being formed as a radial enlarged portion of needle 120 facilitates efficient bead flow through bead outlet 80 and downstream to spreader 74. In the example shown, the bead flow through bead outlet 80 is defined by the diameter DI of scat 114. The relatively large width W1 of the portion of closure 116 engaging with seat 114 allows for a relatively large diameter DI relative to portions of the bead flowpath upstream of bead valve 68, such that seat 114 does not overly restrict the bead flow.

[0075] In some examples, the diameter DI of seat 114 can be at least 80% of diameter D2 of flow channel 126. The diameter D2 can be a smallest diameter portion of flow channel 126. In some examples, the diameter DI of seat 114 can be at least 90% of diameter D2. In some examples, the diameter DI of seat 114 can be at least 80% of diameter D3 of the canted channel 128 within housing portion 76a. in some examples, diameter DI can be at least 90% of diameter D3 of canted channel 128.

[0076] Closure 116 can be radially wider than portions of needle assembly 118 that project out of housing portion 76a and into gap 134. Closure 116 can, additionally or alternatively, be radially wider than the portion of needle assembly 118 that extends out of housing portion 76b and into gap 134. The closure 116 can, in various examples, be radially larger than any portion of needle assembly 118 extending axially away from closure 116 along valve axis VA. Such a configuration can facilitate a relatively smaller size interface between the needle 120 and seal 122 to prevent fluid leakage frow within housing portion 76a.

[0077] Generally, the further the closure 116 is away from the seat 114, the more open the bead valve 68 and the more beads can flow through the bead valve 68. The closer the closure 116 is to the seat 114, the less open and more restrictive the bead valve 68 andfewer beads can flow through the bead valve 68. The amount of beads output from bead dispenser 49 can correspond with greater reflectivity or less reflectivity due to the amount of beads applied to the paint stripes, with more beads in a line being more reflective and fewer beads in a line being less reflective.

[0078] The degree of openness of the bead valve 68 is controlled by the valve actuator 70. The valve actuator 70 can be fully electric. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the valve actuator 70 is hybrid pneumatic-electric. In the example shown, the valve actuator 70 includes valve displacer 82 that is configured to cause the bead valve 68 to open and close, and the valve actuator 70 includes flow adjustor 84 that is configured to set an opening size of the bead valve 68.

[0079] Valve displacer 82 can open and close bead valve 68 which permits and prevents the flow of beads out from the bead outlet 80 of the bead dispenser 49. More specifically, opening of the bead valve 68 can allow beads to flow to and out of the spreader 74 wherein closure of the bead valve 68 prevents beads from flowing to and out of the spreader 74.

[0080] Valve displacer 82 is configured to open the valve 68 to a plurality of different degrees of openness. As such, instead of the bead valve 68 merely being binary as in one state of being open or an alternative state of being closed, the bead valve 68 can be open in a plurality of different states corresponding with different amounts of bead flow permitted through the bead valve 68. In this way, the dispense rate of the beads from bead dispenser 49 can be controlled based on the degree of openness of the bead valve 68.

[0081] In the example shown, valve displacer 82 includes actuator housing 86. The actuator housing 86 can be cylindrical. In the example shown, valve displacer 82 is pneumatically operated such that actuator housing 86 can be considered to form an actuator housing 86. The actuator housing 86 can receive compressed air via pneumatic port 124. The compressed air, when introduced, moves back a plate 88 located within the actuator housing 86. The plate 88 is connected to the needle assembly 118 such that the introduction of compressed air to the pneumatic port 124 opens the bead valve 68 by moving the closure 116 off of the seat 114. The pneumatic pressure overcomes the force of return spring 90, but when the pneumatic pressure is relieved, corresponding to commands to stop dispensing beads to the stripe, the return spring 90 pushes the plate 88 and the closure 116 forward to seal against the seat 114 and stop dispensing beads. It is understood that the plate 88 can be considered to form a driver of the valve actuator 70.

[0082] The use of air pressure alone to open the bead valve 68 is binary in that it causes the bead valve 68 to either close or open to a maximum limit. It is the maximum limithowever, which is changed to make the bead valve 68 stop at a plurality of different degrees of openness, as further discussed herein. It is understood that while valve displacer 82 is shown as including single-acting pneumatics, other examples can include double-acting pneumatics. In such an example, air pressure on one side of plate 88 can cause bead valve 68 to open and air pressure on the other side of plate 88 can cause bead valve 68 to close.

[0083] Valve actuator 70 includes flow adjustor 84. Flow adjustor 84 is configured to set the maximum opening size of the bead valve 68. Flow adjustor 84 can limit displacement of the closure 116 away from the seat 114 to set the opening size of the bead valve 68. In this way the flow adjustor 84 can set the dispense rate of the beads out from the bead dispenser 49. In the example shown, the flow adjustor 84 is electrically operated. The flow adjustor 84 can be considered to set the opening distance of the bead valve 68 by electromagnetics.

[0084] Flow adjustor 84 can be configured to interface with portions of the valve displacer 82 to limit displacement of the closure 116 relative to the scat 114. The electric flow adjustor 84 is configured to move the position of a stopper 96 relative to the valve displacer 82. It is the stopper 96 which limits the travel of the closure 116 when opened. Specifically, when the introduced air pressure pushes the plate 88 backwards, a head 92, which travels with the plate 88, engages the stopper 96 to stop the movement of the head 92, the plate 88, and the closure 116, thereby limiting the degree of openness of the bead valve 68. As such, the position of the stopper 96 determines how open the bead valve 68 can be.

[0085] The stopper 96 can be moved relative to the plate 88 to set the travel distance of the head 92 and thereby set the travel distance of the closure 116 on opening. In the example shown, the stopper 96 can be moved closer to and further from the bead valve 68 to change the opening distance of the bead valve 68. Stopper 96 can be configured to move axially relative to the valve axis VA along which the closure 116 can displace, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0086] The position of the stopper 96 is changed by the electric drive 98. The electric drive 98 can be configured as an electric motor, among other options. The electric drive 98 can include a stator 100 and a mover 102. The mover 102 can be a rotor which rotates as driven electromagnetically by the stator 100. The mover 102 can be configured to rotate on a rotational axis RA. The rotational axis RA can be disposed coaxially with the valve axis VA, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited. The electric drive 98 can be a stepper motor, among other options.Rotation of mover 102 can displace the stopper 96 to change the maximum opening size of the bead valve 68. Mover 102 can include a nut 132 which interfaces with an outer surface (e.g., threaded portion) of a screw 130. The screw 130 can connect with the stopper 96, or the stopper 96 can be a single piece of metal together with the screw 130.

[0087] In some examples, rotation of the mover 102 can displace the screw 130 towards or away from head 92 to thereby change the position of the stopper 96. In some examples, rotation of the mover 102 can rotate the screw 130 and such rotation can displace the stopper 96 towards or away from head 92.

[0088] To adjust the position of the stopper 96, the stator 100 can cause the mover 102 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise which due to the nut 132 interfacing with the screw 130, causes the screw 130 to linearly translate and thereby move the stopper 96 closer or farther away from the head 92, depending on the direction of rotation of the mover 102.

[0089] It is understood that the position of stopper 96 can be adjusted while the bead valve 68 is closed. In some examples, the position of the stopper 96 can be changed while the stopper 96 is engaged with the head 92 while the bead valve 68 is open.

[0090] Needle assembly 118 connects between closure 116 and valve actuator 70 in the example shown. Needle assembly 118 is configured to transmit motion from valve actuator 70 to closure 116 to open and close bead valve 68.

[0091] In the example shown, needle assembly 118 connects between closure 116 and valve displacer 82 to transmit the driving input from valve displacer 82. In the example shown, the needle assembly 118 is formed by needle 120 and closure 116 that extend along valve axis VA, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited. Closure 116 formed as a portion of needle 120. Needle 120 is elongate along valve axis VA. Needle 120 extends in axial direction ADI from closure 116 to interface with connector 94.

[0092] Connector 94 extends between plate 88 and needle 120. Connector 94 can be formed as a single component with plate 88, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited, connector 94 extends in axial direction AD2 from plate 88 and interfaces with needle 120 to connect needle 120 to plate 88.

[0093] Connector 94 interfacing with the needle 120 rigidly connects the needle assembly 118 to plate 88 such that plate 88 can drive the needle assembly 118 axially along the valve axis VA to open and close bead valve 68.

[0094] In the example shown, the valve displacer 82 is disposed in-line with the bead valve 68. Valve displacer 82 is disposed in-line with the closure 116. Valve displacer 82 is disposed coaxial with the bead valve 68. In the example shown, the plate 88 is configuredto shift axially along the valve axis VA to displace the closure 116 and thereby open and close the bead valve 68.

[0095] In the example shown, the flow adjustor 84 is disposed in-line with the bead valve 68. Flow adjustor 84 is disposed in-line with the closure 116. Flow adjustor 84 is disposed coaxial with the bead valve 68. In the example shown, stopper 96 is disposed on valve axis VA such that stopper 96 is disposed coaxial with the bead valve 68.

[0096] Components of bead dispenser 49 are supported by valve housing 72. The beads flow within housing portion 76a of valve housing 72. Valve actuator 70 is connected to housing portion 76b. Housing portion 76a and housing portion 76b can be formed monolithically, such as from a single piece of metal, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0097] Needle assembly 118 extends out of housing portion 76a to connect between valve actuator 70 and bead valve 68. In the example shown, needle assembly 118 projects into housing gap 134 formed between housing portion 76a and housing portion 76b. In the example shown, the needle assembly 118, which can be considered to be formed by needle 120 and connector 94, bridges between housing portions 76a, 76b. The needle assembly 118 exits from housing portion 76a and into gap 134 and exits from gap 134 into housing portion 76b.

[0098] In the example shown, the needle 120 interfaces with the connector 94 at a location within the gap 134. The needle 120 interfacing with the connector 94 within the gap 134 can provide for ease of access, such as during assembly of bead dispenser 49.

[0099] In the example shown, components of dispense module 47 that are disposed in the bead flow to control the bead flow (e.g., the bead valve 68) are within housing portion 76a. Components of dispense module 47 that modulate the flow of the beads are disposed in and / or supported by housing portion 76b. Gap 134 is disposed between the components disposed in the bead flow and the components that control actuation of the bead valve 68.

[0100] In the example shown, the flow adjustor 84 is disposed on an opposite axial side of the valve displacer 82 from the bead valve 68. The plate 88 is disposed directly axially between the stopper 96 and the closure 116. The stopper 96 is disposed on a first side of the actuator housing 86 while the bead valve 68 is located on a second side of actuator housing 86.

[0101] The degree of openness of the bead valve 68 can be controlled via the valve actuator 70 by a controller (e.g., controller 62) responsive to output from the sensor module 58. Specifically, if the amount of beads being dispensed is less than what is expected (e.g.,relative to a predetermined setting), then the flow adjustor 84 can change the position of the stopper 96 to allow the bead valve 68 to open to a greater degree to allow more beads to be dispensed. If the amount of beads being dispense is greater than what is expected (e.g., relative to a predetermined setting), then the flow adjustor 84 can change the position of the stopper 96 to set a maximum opening of the bead valve 68 to a relatively lesser amount to allow fewer beads to be dispensed. In this way, the sensor module 58 and valve actuator 70 can operate in a closed loop manner to adjust the amount of beads being dispensed relative to a predetermined setting.

[0102] It is understood that there may be a plurality of predetermined settings corresponding to a plurality of different degrees of opening of the bead valve 68 corresponding to different flow rates of beads. A user can select one of flow rates (e.g., via user interface 16) and then the controller 62 adjusts the opening of the bead valve 68 to achieve the flow rate. The plurality of predetermined settings can correspond to a plurality of different outputs from the sensor module 58 corresponding to different bead flow rates. Such a plurality of different outputs can be calibrated by running a known quantity or flow rate through the dispense module 47.

[0103] The flow adjustor 84 can adjust the degree of openness of the bead valve 68 responsive to the speed of the vehicle, such that a dispense rate of the beads is increased when the vehicle is going faster and the dispense rate is decreased when the vehicle is going slower to attempt to even out the volume of beads being applied.

[0104] It is noted that the measure of bead flow is taken at a location upstream of the bead valve 68. As such, despite the sensor module 58 being upstream from the bead valve 68, sensor module 58 outputs the signal indicative of the presumed flow of beads through the downstream bead valve 68.

[0105] Sensor module 58 is mounted to valve housing 72. A flow axis FA extends through the flow channel 126 through sensor module 58. The beads generally flow through the sensor housing 106 along the flow axis FA and towards the valve housing 72. The beads enter into valve housing 72 through bead inlet 78.

[0106] Dispense module 47 is configured such that the flow axis FA is angled relative to the valve axis VA. In some examples, the flow axis FA can intersect with the valve axis VA. In the example shown, the flow axis FA is disposed transverse to the valve axis VA.

[0107] Flow axis FA can intersect with the valve axis VA at angle a. Angle a is formed as an acute angle in the example shown. The beads can turn a corner at bead valve 68 to flow through bead valve 68 and bead outlet 80 and to the spreader 74. In various examples, thebeads can turn less than 90-degrees from flowing along the flow axis FA to passing through bead valve 68. Such a configuration can provide for smoother and more even bead flow out of dispense module 47.

[0108] In the example shown, valve housing 72 is configured such that the bead flow is redirected from along the flow axis FA to along the valve axis VA within valve housing 72. Valve housing 72 includes canted channel 128 that is aligned with the flow channel 126 through sensor module 58. Canted channel 128 can be disposed coaxially with the flow channel 126. The bead inlet 78 can be formed as or by a portion of the canted channel 128.

[0109] The bead flow is redirected from along the flow axis FA to along the valve axis VA within the rigid body of the valve housing 72. Redirecting the flow within the rigid housing body can maintain even flow through the bead valve 68 as the valve housing 72 does not flex, expand, contract, etc. in response to changes in flow or pressure.

[0110] As discussed above, beam 110 of sensor module 58 projects into the bead flow through flow channel 126. The beam 110 can extend to or past a midpoint of a width of a diameter of the flow channel 126. The beam 110 can project such that the flow axis FA extends through the beam 110.

[0111] The flow axis FA can intersect with the beam 110 and with components of bead valve 68. In the example shown, the flow axis FA extends through beam 110 and closure 116 of bead valve 68. The beam 110 and the closure 116 can axially overlap along the flow axis FA. The flow axis FA can extend through the beam 110 and through the opening defined by seat 114.

[0112] Dispense module 47 provides significant advantages. Bead valve 68 is controllable to open to a desired degree to regulate the flow of beads out of the dispense module 47. In the example shown, the bead valve 68 is opened pneumatically and the degree of openness is set electrically. Opening the bead valve 68 via pneumatic power provides advantages, particularly speed, which is needed as the vehicle moves along the roadway and fast starting and stopping is need for each individual stripe. The electric flow adjustor 84 can provide precision but may not be able to keep up with the strength and speed needed for accurate dispense on individual stripes. As such, the hybrid pneumatic-electric valve actuator 70 allows the power and speed of pneumatic with the precision of electric. For example, the flow adjustor 84 can be infinitely adjustable, particularly if a screw and nut mechanism is used.Bead valve 68 of dispense module 47 can be controlled in a closed loop manner based on the bead flow data generated by sensor module 58. The degree of openness of the bead valve 68 is set by the valve actuator 70. The controller 62 provides commands to the valve actuator 70 based on the bead flow data to set the openness of the bead valve 68. Such a configuration allows for discrete control of the bead dispense from dispense module 47, preventing material waste.

[0113] Needle 120 is configured to actuate along valve axis VA to open and close bead valve 68. The beads enter into valve housing 72 along flow axis FA and can flow to the bead valve 68 along flow axis FA. The flow axis FA is transverse to the valve axis VA such that the bead flow turns a comer from flowing along the flow axis FA to flowing along the valve axis VA. In the examples shown, the beads turn angle a, which is an acute angle. Turning the comer at an acute angle generally allows for relatively free flow of beads through bead valve 68, allowing for even flow and deposition.

[0114] The flow axis FA being disposed transverse to the valve axis VA can provide for a compact configuration of dispense module 47 as opposed to a sensor module 58 disposed in-line with the bead valve 68 along the valve axis VA. The transverse flow axis FA can direct the beads more directly through the bead valve 68, particularly in examples in which the flow axis FA is axially aligned with the opening through the seat 114 of the valve. Such a configuration can provide for more efficient operation and improved flow control for bead distribution.

[0115] Dispense module 47 includes a fast open actuator and an electric adjustor. In the example show, the fast open actuator is formed by valve displacer 82 and the electric adjustor is formed by flow adjustor 84. The valve displacer 82 provides quick opening and closing of the bead valve 68 which allows for accurate, precise output of the beads on a freshly applied stripe of marking material (e.g., freshly sprayed paint stripe). The flow adjustor 84 sets the opening position of the bead valve 68 to provide precise control for the volumetric output of the beads. In the example shown, the dispense module 47 includes a fast open pneumatic actuator and an electric adjustor.

[0116] Needle assembly 118 bridging between housing portions 76a, 76b provides for ease of assembly and isolates actively controlled components (e.g., valve displacer 82, flow adjustor 84) from the bead flow. The needle 120 can connect to the connector 94 within gap 134 between housing portions 76a, 76b. Bead valve 68 is disposed in housing portion 76a through which the beads flow. Valve actuator 70 is supported by housing portion 76b and is isolated from the bead flow.Dispense module 47 is configured such that sensor module 58 is rigidly connected to valve housing 72. Sensor module 58 being rigidly connected to valve housing 72 eliminates any flexible tubing between sensor module 58 and valve housing 72. Such a configuration can provide for bead flow data that more accurately corresponds with the actual dispense rate of the beads from the bead dispenser 49. Eliminating tubing eliminates components that can flex due to changes in pressure, which can affect the bead flow data. Further, the sensor module 58 being directly supported by the valve housing 72 provides for a compact configuration of dispense module 47. The sensor module 58 being rigidly connected to the valve housing 72 also provides for easier set up and assembly as the dispense module 47 does not include flexible components between components of dispense module 47, which flexing can cause the components to be difficult to handle and manipulate.

[0117] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of dispense module 147. Dispense module 147 is substantively similar to dispense module 47 (best seen in FIGS. 3A-3C), except that dispense module 147 includes an electrically powered valve displacer 182. It is understood that the discussion of dispense module 47 in FIGS. 3A-3C is equally applicable to dispense module 147 except as explicitly indicated.

[0118] Valve displacer 182 is connected to closure 116 and is configured to shift closure 116 relative to seat 114 to actuate bead valve 68. Valve displacer 182 includes actuator stator 136, plunger 138, and actuator housing 140. In the example shown, valve displacer 182 is formed as a solenoid, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0119] Valve displacer 182 is disposed within housing portion 76b. Actuator stator 136 includes one or more coils which generate electromagnetic fields when electric current is run through the one or more coils. The coils can be disposed coaxial with and extend around valve axis VA, though not all examples are so limited.

[0120] Plunger 138 can be considered to form the armature of valve displacer 182. Plunger 138 has a magnetically attracted part (e.g., permanent magnets, electromagnets, etc.) that is electromagnetically moved by actuator stator 136. Plunger 138 is reactive to the electromagnetic fields generated by actuator stator 136 to be displaced along axis VA by the electromagnetic field.

[0121] In the example shown, connector 94 is formed together with plunger 138. Connector 94 extends out of housing portion 76b and into gap 134 to connect with the needle 120 that extends out of housing portion 76a and into gap 134. It is understood that the plunger 138 can be considered to form a driver of the valve modulator 170.In some examples, valve displacer 182 is a double-acting solenoid in which electromagnetic fields generated by actuator stator 136 cause plunger 138 to shift in both first axial direction ADI and second axial direction AD2. In such an example, actuator stator 136 can include a pair of coils, one of which is charged to cause plunger 138 displacement in first axial direction ADI and the other one of which is charged to cause plunger 138 displacement in second axial direction AD2. In some examples, valve displacer 182 is a single-acting solenoid in which electromagnetic fields generated by actuator stator 136 cause plunger 138 to shift in one or the other of the first axial direction ADI and the second axial direction AD2. The plunger 138 can then be mechanically displaced in the other axial direction, such as by return spring 90.

[0122] In the example shown, the actuator stator 136 is configured to electromagnetically displace plunger 138 in axial direction ADI to open bead valve 68 and return spring 90 is configured to mechanically displace plunger 138 in axial direction AD2 to close bead valve 68.

[0123] Flow adjustor 84 is configured to interface with the electric valve displacer 182 to set an opening distance of the bead valve 68. Flow adjustor 84 includes electric drive 98 that is configured to displace the stopper 96 along the valve axis VA.

[0124] In the example shown, the stopper 96 can be fixed to the actuator housing 140 such that flow adjustor 84 can actively drive actuator housing 140 in both axial directions ADI, AD2 along the valve axis VA. In some examples, the stopper 96 and actuator housing 140 can be formed as a single part, such as monolithically, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited.

[0125] Dispense module 147 can be configured such that actuator housing 140 does not rotate about the valve axis VA. Preventing rotation of the actuator housing 140 can prevent tangling of electric leads that provide power to the actuator stator 136. In some examples, the actuator housing 140 can be keyed within the actuation chamber 142 within housing portion 76b. For example, an exterior of the actuator housing 140 and the surfaces defining the actuation chamber 142 can include matching non-circular cross-sections in a view taken along the valve axis VA. As such, a keyed interface 141 can be formed between the valve displacer 182 and the housing portion 76b.

[0126] In some examples, the stopper 96 is prevented from rotating. For example, the interface between stopper 96 and actuator housing 140 can prevent rotation, the stopper 96 can include a projection or slot that interfaces with a corresponding slot or projection on the housing portion 76b, among other options. In some examples, the stopper 96 can rotaterelative to the actuator housing 140 while the actuator housing 140 does not rotate. For example, the stopper 96 can be connected to the actuator housing 140 at a bearing interface that allows rotation of the stopper 96 while axially fixing the actuator housing 140 and the stopper 96 together for common displacement along the valve axis VA.

[0127] Slot 139 is formed in valve housing 76b in the example shown. Wire leads 137a, 137b can extend within the slot 139 to connect to the actuator stator 136, such as to provide power to the actuator stator 139. The slot 139 allows the wire leads 137a, 137b to travel axially with the actuator housing 140 and actuator stator 136 as the flow adjustor 84 changes the degree to which the bead valve 68 can open.

[0128] During operation, the controller 62 can provide commands to valve modulator 170 to control dispensing of beads from dispense module 147. Controller 62 can provide dispense commands to the valve displacer 182 to cause opening and closing of the bead valve 68. For example, the controller 62 can provide power signals to the actuator stator 136, which generates electromagnetic fields that drive displacement of plunger 138. The controller 62 can provide setting signals to flow adjustor 84 to set the opening size of the bead valve 68. The electric drive 98 can displace the stopper 96, thereby displacing the actuator stator 136 and changing a distance that the plunger 138 is able to retract, to set the opening distance of the bead valve 68.

[0129] Dispense module 147 provides significant advantages. Bead valve 68 is controllable to open to a desired degree to regulate the flow of beads out of the dispense module 147. In the example shown, the bead valve 68 is opened electrically and the degree of openness is set electrically. Opening the bead valve 68 via the electric valve displacer 182 can provide for quick reaction that opens the bead valve 68 quickly, which is needed as the vehicle moves along the roadway and fast starting and stopping is need for each individual stripe. In the example shown, the valve displacer 182 is formed as an electric solenoid that can quickly retract the closure 116 from the seat 114 to open the valve 68. The electric flow adjustor 84 can provide precision but may not be able to keep up with the strength and speed needed for accurate dispense on individual stripes. As such, the dual electric valve modulator 170 allows for the power and speed provided by a first type of electric actuator (e.g., a solenoid) with the precision of a second type of electric actuator (e.g., a stepper motor). For example, the flow adjustor 84 can be infinitely adjustable.

[0130] It is understood that components that are described as connected are not necessarily in contact with each other without an intermediary component, unless it is specified that they are directly connected, in which case the two components are in contact with eachother. Although not necessarily stated, any two materials that are contacting in any of the figures can be described (e.g., specifically claimed) as directly connected, and any two components described herein as being connected can be described (e.g., specifically claimed), optionally, as directly connected.

[0131] Optional language is used herein describing what “can” or “may” be present, or what “various" embodiment may include, not what is or must necessarily be present. Therefore, if in reference to an embodiment, it is stated that an aspect “may” or “can” be present, then the option can be included, or left out, of the embodiment, particularly in a claim. Each sentence or paragraph can refer to multiple, independent aspects. A claim can be amended with a select word or phrase from a sentence or paragraph without taking the whole sentence or paragraph.

[0132] The present disclosure is made using several embodiments to highlight various inventive aspects. Modifications can be made to the embodiments presented herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. It is intended that someone can mix various aspects from the presented embodiments and remain within the scope of this disclosure. For example, this disclosure contemplates that a single element disclosed in part of a sentence of a paragraph can be implemented in a different embodiment (or claimed) apart from the other aspects of the rest of the sentence and paragraph. Likewise, an aspect of part of an embodiment shown in a figure can be implemented in a different embodiment (or claimed) apart from the rest of the embodiment shown in the figure. The scope of the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments shown herein. Rather, this disclosure is presented in an illustrative manner to demonstrate several of many possibilities within the scope of this disclosure. The scope of the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed herein.

[0133] Discussion of Non-Exclusive Examples:

[0134] The following are non-exclusive descriptions of possible examples according to various aspects of the disclosure.

[0135] Example 1. A bead flow control apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator operatively connected to the valve, the valve actuator configured to one or both of open and close the valve including by opening the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to a plurality of different amounts.Example 2. The bead flow control apparatus of example 1, wherein the valve actuator is configured to one or both of open and close the valve pneumatically.

[0136] Example 3. The bead flow control apparatus of example 2, wherein the valve actuator includes an air cylinder and the air cylinder is single acting.

[0137] Example 4. The bead flow control apparatus of example 2, wherein the valve actuator includes an air cylinder and the air cylinder is double acting.

[0138] Example 5. The bead flow control apparatus of example 1, wherein the valve actuator is one or both of opened and closed electromagnetically.

[0139] Example 6. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 1-5, wherein the valve actuator includes an adjustable stop that is adjustable to stop movement of the valve at a plurality of different positions respectively corresponding to the plurality of different degrees of openness of the valve.

[0140] Example 7. The bead flow control apparatus of example 6, wherein the adjustable stop is located on a first side of a disk of the valve actuator, the disk configured to be displaced pneumatically to open the valve, while the valve is located on a second side of the disk, the second side opposite of the first side.

[0141] Example 8. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 6 and 7, wherein the adjustable stop comprises a nut and screw.

[0142] Example 9. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 6-8, wherein the adjustable stop comprises an electric motor.

[0143] Example 10. The bead flow control apparatus of example 9, wherein the electric motor is a stepper motor.

[0144] Example 11. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 6-10, wherein the adjustable stop is coaxial with the valve.

[0145] Example 12. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 1-11, further comprising a bead flow sensor that outputs a signal indicative of the amount of beads passing by the bead flow sensor.

[0146] Example 13. The bead flow control apparatus of example 12, wherein the bead flow sensor comprises a beam that extends into a path of the flow of air and entrained beads.

[0147] Example 14. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 12 and 13, wherein the bead flow sensor is located upstream of the valve.

[0148] Example 15. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 12-14, wherein the bead flow sensor is located along a first channel that is non-coaxial and non-parallel with respect to a second channel through the valve through which the flow of air and entrained beads travels through the valve.

[0149] Example 16. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 12-15, further comprising a controller.

[0150] Example 17. The bead flow control apparatus of example 16, wherein the controller adjusts the valve actuator to open the valve to the plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to the plurality of different amounts based on the signal output by the bead flow sensor.

[0151] Example 18. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 16 and 17, wherein the controller adjusts the valve actuator to open the valve to the plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to the plurality of different amounts based on a speed of a vehicle on which the bead flow control apparatus is mounted.

[0152] Example 19. The bead flow control apparatus of example 1, wherein the valve actuator comprises: a valve displacer connected to the valve and configured to actuate the valve open and closed; and a flow adjustor, the flow adjustor interfacing with the valve displacer to limit a displacement of the valve and thereby set an opening distance of the valve.

[0153] Example 20. The bead flow control apparatus of example 19, wherein the valve displacer includes a disk disposed in an air cylinder, and wherein the air cylinder is configured to be pneumatically pressurized to displace the disk and cause the valve to open.

[0154] Example 21. The bead flow control apparatus of example 19, wherein the valve displacer includes an electric actuator configured to be electrically powered to cause the valve to open.

[0155] Example 22. The bead flow control apparatus of example 21, wherein the electric actuator is a solenoid.

[0156] Example 23. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 19-22, wherein the valve displacer includes a return spring, the return spring configured to cause the valve to close.

[0157] Example 24. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 19-23, wherein the flow adjustor includes a stopper actuatable along a valve axis of the valve, and wherein a position of the stopper sets the opening distance of the valve.

[0158] Example 25. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 19-24, wherein the flow adjustor includes an electric drive.Example 26. The bead flow control apparatus of example 25, wherein the electric drive includes a stator and a rotor.

[0159] Example 27. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 25 and 26, wherein the electric drive comprises a stepper motor.

[0160] Example 28. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 1-27, wherein the valve comprises: a needle elongate along a valve axis, the needle connected to the valve actuator to be displaced along the valve axis relative to a seat of the valve by the valve actuator.

[0161] Example 29. The bead flow control apparatus of example 28, wherein the needle is partially disposed in a first housing portion of a valve housing and the needle extends out of the first housing portion.

[0162] Example 30. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 28 and 29, wherein the flow of air and entrained beads is along a flow axis angled relative to the valve axis upstream of the valve.

[0163] Example 31. The bead flow control apparatus of example 30, wherein the flow axis is transverse to and intersects with the valve axis.

[0164] Example 32. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 30 and 31, wherein the flow axis extends through a closure of the needle that engages with the seat to close the valve.

[0165] Example 33. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 30-32, wherein the flow axis extends though an opening through the seat.

[0166] Example 34. The bead flow control apparatus of example 29-33, wherein the needle is connected to a connector of the valve actuator, the connector and the needle forming a needle assembly that spans between the first housing portion and a second housing portion of the valve housing.

[0167] Example 35. The bead flow control apparatus of example 34, wherein the needle assembly spans across a gap formed axially between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0168] Example 36. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 1-35, further comprising: a valve housing within which the valve is disposed; and a sensor module rigidly connected to the valve housing, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads through the sensor module.

[0169] Example 37. The bead flow control apparatus of example 36, wherein the sensor module comprises: a sensor housing defining a flow channel through which the flow of airand entrained beads flows prior to entering into the valve housing; and a sensor assembly mounted to the sensor housing, the sensor assembly including a beam that projects into the flow channel; wherein the sensor module is configured to generate the bead flow data based on deflection of the beam due to the flow of air and entrained beads.

[0170] Example 38. The bead flow control apparatus of example 37, wherein a flow axis through the flow channel is disposed transverse to a valve axis along which the valve is actuated.

[0171] Example 39. The bead flow control apparatus of example 38, wherein the flow axis extends through the beam.

[0172] Example 40. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of examples 38 and 39, wherein the flow axis extends through the valve.

[0173] Example 41. The bead flow control apparatus of example 40, wherein the flow axis extends through a closure of the valve, the closure configured to engage a seat to place the valve in a closed state.

[0174] Example 42. The bead flow control apparatus of example 41, wherein the flow axis extends through an opening defined by the seat.

[0175] Example 43. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; a sensor module disposed upstream of the valve, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads; and a controller operatively connected to the valve actuator, the controller configured to set an opening size of the valve based on the bead flow data.

[0176] Example 44. The bead flow dispense module of example 43, wherein the controller is configured to set the opening size of the valve based on a comparison of a sensed bead flow rate from the bead flow data and a target bead flow rate.

[0177] Example 45. The bead flow dispense module of example 44, wherein: the controller is configured to cause the opening size of the valve to increase based on the comparison indicating that the sensed bead flow rate is less than the target bead flow rate; and the controller is configured to cause the opening size of the valve to decrease based on the comparison indicating that the sensed bead flow rate is greater than the target bead flow rate.Example 46. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 43-45, wherein the valve actuator comprises: a valve displacer connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat; and a flow adjustor configured to limit a distance that the valve displacer displaces the closure away from the seat and thereby set the opening size.

[0178] Example 47. The bead flow dispense module of example 46, wherein the valve displacer is configured to open the valve pneumatically.

[0179] Example 48. The bead flow dispense module of example 47, wherein the valve displacer is configured to close the valve pneumatically.

[0180] Example 49. The bead flow dispense module of example 46, wherein valve displacer is configured to open the valve by electromagnetics.

[0181] Example 50. The bead flow dispense module of example 49, wherein the valve displacer is configured to close the valve by electromagnetics.

[0182] Example 51. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 47 and 49, wherein the valve displacer includes a return spring configured to close the valve.

[0183] Example 52. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 46 and 49-51 wherein the valve displacer includes a solenoid.

[0184] Example 53. The bead flow dispense module of example 52, wherein the flow adjustor is configured to set a location of a stator of the solenoid to set the opening size of the valve.

[0185] Example 54. The bead flow dispense module of example 53, wherein the stator of the solenoid is rotationally locked to prevent rotation about an actuation axis of the solenoid.

[0186] Example 55. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 53 and 54, wherein the flow adjustor is configured to displace the stator towards the valve to decrease the opening size of the valve and the flow adjustor is configured to displace the stator away from the valve to increase the opening size of the valve.

[0187] Example 56. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 46-55, wherein the flow adjustor is electrically powered.

[0188] Example 57. The bead flow dispense module of example 56, wherein the flow adjustor includes a first stator and a first mover, the first stator configured to electromagnetically cause movement of the first mover.

[0189] Example 58. The bead flow dispense module of example 57, wherein the first stator is configured to electromagnetically cause rotation of the first mover.Example 59. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 56 and 57, wherein the flow adjustor includes a stopper that interfaces with the valve displacer.

[0190] Example 60. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 46-59, wherein the valve displacer is disposed coaxially with the valve.

[0191] Example 61. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 46-60, wherein the flow adjustor is disposed coaxially with the valve.

[0192] Example 62. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; a valve displacer connected to a closure of the valve, the valve adjustor configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve; and a flow adjustor configured to limit a distance that the valve displacer displaces the closure away from the seat to thereby set an opening size of the valve; wherein the flow adjustor is actuatable to a plurality of different states corresponding to a plurality of different degrees of openness of the valve such that the flow adjustor sets an opening size of the valve.

[0193] Example 63. The bead flow dispense module of example 62, wherein the flow adjustor includes a stopper configured to interface with the valve displacer to limit the distance that the valve displacer displaces the closure.

[0194] Example 64. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 62 and 63, wherein the flow adjustor includes a stator configured to electromagnetically displace a mover.

[0195] Example 65. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 62-64, wherein the flow adjustor includes a stepper motor.

[0196] Example 66. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 62-65, wherein the valve displacer is configured to open the valve pneumatically.

[0197] Example 67. The bead flow dispense module of example 66, wherein the valve displacer is configured to close the valve pneumatically.

[0198] Example 68. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 66 and 67, wherein the valve displacer comprises: an air cylinder; a disk disposed within the air cylinder, the disk connected to the closure such that pneumatic pressure acting on a first side of the disk causes the disk to displace the closure away from the seat.

[0199] Example 69. The bead flow dispense module of example 68, wherein the flow adjustor is configured to interface with a second side of the disk opposite the first side of the disk to limit a displacement of the disk.Example 70. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 68 and 69, wherein a stopper of the flow adjustor that interfaces with the disk to limit displacement of the disk is spaced away from the disk with the valve closed.

[0200] Example 71. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 68-70, further comprising a return spring disposed on a side of the disk opposite the first side, the return spring configured to bias the valve towards a closed state.

[0201] Example 72. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 62-65, wherein the valve displacer is configured to open the valve electromagnetically.

[0202] Example 73. The bead flow dispense module of example 72, wherein the valve displacer is configured to close the valve electromagnetically.

[0203] Example 74. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 72 and 73, wherein the valve displacer comprises a solenoid.

[0204] Example 75. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 72-74, wherein the valve displacer includes an actuator stator that has at least one coil, and the valve displacer includes a plunger configured to be displaced electromagnetically.

[0205] Example 76. The bead flow dispense module of example 75, wherein the actuator stator is at least partially disposed in an actuator housing.

[0206] Example 77. The bead flow dispense module of example 76, wherein the plunger extends into the actuator stator through a first side of the actuator stator and wherein the flow adjustor interfaces with the actuator housing on a second side of the actuator stator opposite the first side of the actuator stator.

[0207] Example 78. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 75-77, wherein the flow adjustor is configured to change a position of the actuator stator to set the opening size of the valve.

[0208] Example 79. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; and a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; wherein the flow of air and entrained beads flows to the valve along a flow axis that is angled relative to the valve axis.

[0209] Example 80. The bead flow dispense module of example 79, wherein the flow axis is transverse to the valve axis.Example 81. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 79 and 80, wherein the closure is aligned on the flow axis with the valve in a closed state.

[0210] Example 82. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 79-81, wherein the flow axis extends through an opening defined by the seat.

[0211] Example 83. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 79-82, wherein the flow of air and entrained beads flows through a sensor module disposed upstream of the valve along the flow axis.

[0212] Example 84. The bead flow dispense module of example 83, wherein the flow of air and entrained beads exits a flow channel through a sensor housing of the sensor module along the flow axis.

[0213] Example 85. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 79-84, wherein a bead inlet of a valve housing within which the valve is disposed is coaxial with the flow axis.

[0214] Example 86. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 79-85, wherein the valve actuator is disposed coaxially with the valve on the valve axis.

[0215] Example 87. The bead flow dispense module of example 86, wherein the valve actuator includes a valve displacer connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure along the valve axis, and the valve actuator includes a flow adjustor configured to interface with the valve displacer to set an opening size of the valve.

[0216] Example 88. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a valve housing; a valve disposed in a first housing portion of the valve housing, the valve configured to open to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and close to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; and a sensor module rigidly connected to the valve housing, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads.

[0217] Example 89. The bead flow dispense module of example 88, further comprising: a controller operatively connected to the valve actuator, the controller configured to set an opening size of the valve based on the bead flow data.

[0218] Example 90. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 88 and 89, wherein the flow of air and entrained beads flows through the sensor module prior to encountering the valve.Example 91. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 88-90, wherein the sensor module includes a sensor housing and a sensor module mounted to the sensor housing, wherein the flow of air and entrained beads flows along a flow axis through the sensor housing.

[0219] Example 92. The bead flow dispense module of example 91, wherein the sensor module includes a beam that extends into the flow channel, the sensor module configured to generate the bead flow data based on deflection of the beam.

[0220] Example 93. The bead flow dispense module of example 92, wherein the beam extends to intersect the flow axis.

[0221] Example 94. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 91-93, wherein the flow axis is oriented transverse to the valve axis.

[0222] Example 95. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 91-94, wherein an opening through the seat is aligned on the flow axis.

[0223] Example 96. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 91-95, wherein the flow axis projects through the closure with the valve in a closed state.

[0224] Example 97. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 91-96, wherein the sensor housing is formed separately from and connected to the valve housing.

[0225] Example 98. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 88-97, wherein the valve actuator is disposed in a second housing portion of the valve housing.

[0226] Example 99. The bead flow dispense module of example 98, wherein a needle assembly that includes the closure bridges between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0227] Example 100. The bead flow dispense module of example 98, wherein a needle assembly that includes the closure exits from the first housing portion into a gap between the first housing portion and the second housing portion and extends into the second housing portion from the gap.

[0228] Example 101. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 98-100, wherein the second housing portion includes an air cylinder, and wherein the valve is pneumatically opened.

[0229] Example 102. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 98-100, wherein at least one electric actuator of the valve actuator is disposed in the second housing portion.

[0230] Example 103. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a module housing; a valve disposed in a first housing portion of the module housing, the valve configured to open topermit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and close to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; and a sensor assembly mounted to the module housing, the sensor assembly configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads.

[0231] Example 104. The bead flow dispense module of example 103, wherein the module housing comprises: a valve housing within which the valve is disposed; and a sensor housing mounted to the valve housing, wherein the sensor assembly is mounted to the sensor hosing.

[0232] Example 105. The bead flow dispense module of example 104, wherein the valve housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion, and wherein the valve is disposed in the first housing portion and the valve actuator is supported by the second housing portion.

[0233] Example 106. The bead flow dispense module of example 105, wherein a needle assembly that includes the closure and is configured to displace axially along the valve axis spans between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0234] Example 107. The bead flow dispense module of example 106, wherein the needle assembly bridges a gap formed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0235] Example 108. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 103-107, wherein the valve modular is configured to pneumatically displace the valve to an open state and the valve actuator is configured to electrically set an opening distance of the valve.

[0236] Example 109. The bead flow dispense module of any one of examples 103-107, wherein the valve modular is configured to electrically displace the valve to an open state and the valve actuator is configured to electrically set an opening distance of the valve.

[0237] Example 110. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; wherein the valve actuator is configured to pneumatically open thevalve and the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically set an opening distance of the valve.

[0238] Example 111. A bead flow dispense module comprising: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; wherein the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically open the valve and the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically set an opening distance of the valve.

[0239] Example 112. A bead dispensing system comprising: a plurality of bead dispense modules, wherein each bead dispense module comprises: a bead dispenser including: a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; a sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads to the bead dispenser associated with the sensor module; a controller operatively connected to the plurality of bead dispense modules, the controller configured to control output of the flow of air and entrained beads from each bead dispense module of the plurality of bead dispense modules by: receiving the bead flow data from the sensor module; controlling the valve actuator to set an opening distance of the valve.

[0240] Example 113. The bead dispensing system of example 112, wherein the valve actuator comprises: a valve displacer connected to the valve and configured to open the valve; a flow adjustor configured to interface with the valve displacer to set the opening distance of the valve.

[0241] Example 114. The bead dispensing system of example 113, wherein the controller is configured to cause the flow adjustor to change a position of a stopper of the flow adjustor to change the opening distance of the valve.

[0242] While the invention(s) has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the invention(s) without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention(s) not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the invention(s) may include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Any single feature, or any combination of features from one embodiment show herein, may be utilized in a different embodiment independent from the other features shown in the embodiment herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention(s) and any claims thereto are not limited to the particular to the embodiments and / or combinations of the features shown herein, but rather can include any combination of one, two, or more features shown herein.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A bead flow control apparatus, the apparatus comprising:a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator operatively connected to the valve, the valve actuator configured to one or both of open and close the valve including by opening the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to a plurality of different amounts.

2. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the valve actuator is configured to one or both of open and close the valve pneumatically.

3. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 2, wherein the valve actuator includes an air cylinder and the air cylinder is single acting.

4. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 2, wherein the valve actuator includes an air cylinder and the air cylinder is double acting.

5. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 1, wherein the valve actuator is one or both of opened and closed electromagnetically.

6. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the valve actuator includes an adjustable stop that is adjustable to stop movement of the valve at a plurality of different positions respectively corresponding to the plurality of different degrees of openness of the valve.

7. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 6, wherein the adjustable stop is located on a first side of a disk of the valve actuator, the disk configured to be displaced pneumatically to open the valve, while the valve is located on a second side of the disk, the second side opposite of the first side.

8. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein the adjustable stop comprises a nut and screw.

9. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 6-8, wherein the adjustable stop comprises an electric motor.

10. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 9, wherein the electric motor is a stepper motor.

11. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 6-10, wherein the adjustable stop is coaxial with the valve.

12. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 1-11, further comprising a bead flow sensor that outputs a signal indicative of the amount of beads passing by the bead flow sensor.

13. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 12, wherein the bead flow sensor comprises a beam that extends into a path of the flow of air and entrained beads.

14. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 12 and 13, wherein the bead flow sensor is located upstream of the valve.

15. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 12-14, wherein the bead flow sensor is located along a first channel that is non-coaxial and non-parallel with respect to a second channel through the valve through which the flow of air and entrained beads travels through the valve.

16. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 12-15, further comprising a controller.

17. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 16, wherein the controller adjusts the valve actuator to open the valve to the plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to the plurality of different amounts based on the signal output by the bead flow sensor.

18. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 16 and 17, wherein the controller adjusts the valve actuator to open the valve to the plurality of different degrees of openness to modulate the flow of air and entrained beads to the plurality of different amounts based on a speed of a vehicle on which the bead flow control apparatus is mounted.

19. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 1, wherein the valve actuator comprises:a valve displacer connected to the valve and configured to actuate the valve open and closed; anda flow adjustor, the flow adjustor interfacing with the valve displacer to limit a displacement of the valve and thereby set an opening distance of the valve.

20. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 19, wherein the valve displacer includes a disk disposed in an air cylinder, and wherein the air cylinder is configured to be pneumatically pressurized to displace the disk and cause the valve to open.

21. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 19, wherein the valve displacer includes an electric actuator configured to be electrically powered to cause the valve to open.

22. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 21, wherein the electric actuator is a solenoid.

23. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 1 -22, wherein the valve displacer includes a return spring, the return spring configured to cause the valve to close.

24. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 19-23, wherein the flow adjustor includes a stopper actuatable along a valve axis of the valve, and wherein a position of the stopper sets the opening distance of the valve.

25. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 19-24, wherein the How adjustor includes an electric drive.

26. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 25, wherein the electric drive includes a stator and a rotor.

27. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 25 and 26, wherein the electric drive comprises a stepper motor.

28. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 1-27, wherein the valve comprises:a needle elongate along a valve axis, the needle connected to the valve actuator to be displaced along the valve axis relative to a seat of the valve by the valve actuator.

29. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 28, wherein the needle is partially disposed in a first housing portion of a valve housing and the needle extends out of the first housing portion.

30. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 28 and 29, wherein the flow of air and entrained beads is along a flow axis angled relative to the valve axis upstream of the valve.

31. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 30, wherein the flow axis is transverse to and intersects with the valve axis.

32. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 30 and 31, wherein the flow axis extends through a closure of the needle that engages with the seat to close the valve.

33. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 30-32, wherein the flow axis extends though an opening through the seat.

34. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 29-33, wherein the needle is connected to a connector of the valve actuator, the connector and the needle forming a needle assembly that spans between the first housing portion and a second housing portion of the valve housing.

35. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 34, wherein the needle assembly spans across a gap formed axially between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

36. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 1-35, further comprising:a valve housing within which the valve is disposed; anda sensor module rigidly connected to the valve housing, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads through the sensor module.

37. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 36, wherein the sensor module comprises:a sensor housing defining a flow channel through which the flow of air and entrained beads flows prior to entering into the valve housing; and a sensor assembly mounted to the sensor housing, the sensor assembly including a beam that projects into the flow channel;wherein the sensor module is configured to generate the bead flow data based on deflection of the beam due to the flow of air and entrained beads.

38. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 37, wherein a flow axis through the flow channel is disposed transverse to a valve axis along which the valve is actuated.

39. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 38, wherein the flow axis extends through the beam.

40. The bead flow control apparatus of any one of claims 38 and 39, wherein the flow axis extends through the valve.

41. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 40, wherein the flow axis extends through a closure of the valve, the closure configured to engage a seat to place the valve in a closed state.

42. The bead flow control apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the flow axis extends through an opening defined by the seat.

43. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve;a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness;a sensor module disposed upstream of the valve, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads: and a controller operatively connected to the valve actuator, the controller configured to set an opening size of the valve based on the bead flow data.

44. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a valve that opens to permit a How of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; a valve displacer connected to a closure of the valve, the valve adjustor configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve; and a flow adjustor configured to limit a distance that the valve displacer displaces the closure away from the seat to thereby set an opening size of the valve: wherein the flow adjustor is actuatable to a plurality of different states corresponding to a plurality of different degrees of openness of the valve such that the flow adjustor sets an opening size of the valve.

45. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve; anda valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness;wherein the flow of air and entrained beads flows to the valve along a flow axis that is angled relative to the valve axis.

46. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a valve housing;a valve disposed in a first housing portion of the valve housing, the valve configured to open to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and close to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve;a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; anda sensor module rigidly connected to the valve housing, the sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads.

47. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a module housing;a valve disposed in a first housing portion of the module housing, the valve configured to open to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and close to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve, the valve including a closure configured to shift along a valve axis relative to a seat to open and close the valve;a valve actuator connected to the closure and configured to displace the closure relative to the seat to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness; and a sensor assembly mounted to the module housing, the sensor assembly configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads.

48. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness;wherein the valve actuator is configured to pneumatically open the valve and the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically set an opening distance of the valve.

49. A bead flow dispense module comprising:a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; and a valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness;wherein the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically open the valve and the valve actuator is configured to electromagnetically set an opening distance of the valve.

50. A bead dispensing system comprising:a plurality of bead dispense modules, wherein each bead dispense module of the plurality of dispense modules comprises:a bead dispenser including:a valve that opens to permit a flow of air and entrained beads through the valve and closes to stop the flow of air and entrained beads through the valve; anda valve actuator connected to a closure of the valve, the valve actuator configured to displace the closure relative to a seat of the valve to open the valve, the valve actuator configured to open the valve to a plurality of different degrees of openness;a sensor module configured to generate bead flow data regarding the flow of air and entrained beads to the bead dispenser associated with the sensor module;a controller operatively connected to the plurality of bead dispense modules, the controller configured to control output of the flow of air and entrained beads from each bead dispense module of the plurality of bead dispense modules by:receiving the bead flow data from the sensor module;controlling the valve actuator to set an opening distance of the valve.

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