Distribution Systems Involving Geographic Features Patents (Class 137/236.1)
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Patent number: 7784485Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant for storing gas under pressure. The plant includes at least one basin filled with a liquid, one or more pressure vessels located in the basin for storing the gas including interconnecting piping and connections to a gas supply and a gas discharge network, an anchoring system for supporting the vessels, a cover with a slanted surface on the underside for covering the basin which will lead any gas leak occurring in the basin towards and through a vent, and at least one gas detection equipment located in the vent. The plant is especially suitable for storing compressed gaseous hydrogen and can be connected to a hydrogen fuel replenishment system.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Norsk Hydro ASAInventors: Jan Schelling, Pål Kittilsen, Sandra Hennie Nilsen, Leif Kåre Grønstad
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Patent number: 7776222Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing ballast water, cooling water, and/or auxiliary service water to a marine vessel is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of pumps coupled to a docking facility. Each of the pumps collect water surrounding the docking facility and provides filtered water to the marine vessel as the vessel is moored. One or both of the docking facility and pumps may include a filtering device configured to prevent marine species from being entrained in the collected water.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Inventors: David Lee Glessner, Michael Webster Sparks
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Publication number: 20100147394Abstract: A method includes associating a plurality of valve balancing units with a plurality of valves in a hydronic network. The method also includes adjusting a setting of at least one of the valves using at least one of the valve balancing units to balance the hydronic network. Adjusting the setting could include identifying a differential pressure across a valve and a flow rate of material through that valve. Adjusting the setting could also include comparing the identified differential pressure to a target differential pressure and/or the identified flow rate to a target flow rate. Adjusting the setting could further include instructing an actuator to adjust the setting until the identified differential pressure is within a first threshold of the target differential pressure and/or the identified flow rate is within a second threshold of the target flow rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2008Publication date: June 17, 2010Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Pavel Trnka, Vladimir Havlena, Jaroslav Pekar, Axel Hilborne-Clarke
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Patent number: 7735506Abstract: A method for storing a gas. In some embodiments, the method includes positioning a gas storage system under water, the gas storage system having a gas inlet and injecting gas through the gas inlet into the gas storage system, wherein the gas is compressed. The method may further include venting the compressed gas through the at least one gas port to a storage facility.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2008Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Horton Wison Deepwater, Inc.Inventors: Edward E. Horton, III, James V. Maher
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Patent number: 7726585Abstract: A chemical distribution system affixes flexible tubing (50) along exterior surfaces (52) of a dwelling (12) and along structures (16) external to the dwelling. The tubing is attached to the exterior surfaces with clamps (54) and exposed for maintenance. The clamps are form-fitted to the tubing. Spray nozzles (58) are inserted into the openings in the tubing for dispensing a chemical solution. The openings can be pre-formed or cut into solid tubing at during installation. A connector (42) has one end coupled to a hose for receiving the chemical solution and another end coupled to the tubing. The fixed distribution system provides for precise and even application of the chemical solution with minimal operator intervention.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2004Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Perimicon, LLCInventors: Shane D. Pannell, Michael K. Wrigley
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Publication number: 20100122738Abstract: A grey water disposal system which is ideally placed below a parking lot. Water flow chambers are positioned beneath said parking lot. These water flow chambers having a solid upper surface and open at the bottom. Pipes communicating grey water into said water flow chambers. In one embodiment, the water flow chambers are configured with at least two legs and the pipes are configured to selectively deliver the grey water to different legs as dictated by a remotely controlled valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 3, 2009Publication date: May 20, 2010Inventor: David Williamson
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Publication number: 20100089463Abstract: A method and apparatus for joining materials having primarily ferritic properties is described. The method includes joining the ferritic materials using a welding process and a weld material having a primarily austenitic microstructure. The resulting weldment enhances the properties of yield ratio, uniform elongation, toughness and tearing resistance thereby producing superior strain capacity. High strain capacity produces a structure that accommodates high axial loading. The weldment can also accommodate larger than conventional weld flaws while maintaining sufficient strength, tearing resistance, and fracture toughness under high axial loading.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2008Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Danny L Beeson, James B. LeBleu, JR.
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Patent number: 7690433Abstract: A distributed function control module adapted for use in a modular blowout preventer (BOP) stack for use subsea comprises a housing, adapted to be manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a stab portion adapted to be received into a BOP stack control module receiver. Control electronics, adapted to control a predetermined function with respect to the BOP stack, are disposed within the housing and connected to one or more controllable devices by a wet mateable connector interface.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Oceeaneering International, Inc.Inventor: Graeme E. Reynolds
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Patent number: 7654279Abstract: A deep ocean gas storage system for storing compressed gas, the system comprising an inflexible thin walled storage vessel anchored to the sea floor having an axis located in water substantially perpendicular to and on a sea floor below sea level, a gas intake for admitting and discharging compressed natural gas to and from the vessel; a water port for admitting and discharging water to the vessel using hydrostatic pressure to discharge compressed gas from the vessel at a substantially constant discharge pressure as the volume of the gas in the storage vessel decreases when water content of the vessel increases; a conduit fluidly connected with the water port oriented substantially parallel to the axis having a discharge opening above the level of sea water in the vessel; and a valve disposed at the gas intake to the vessel for controlling compressed gas admission and discharge.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2006Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: AGR Deepwater Development Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edward E. Horton, III, James V. Maher
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Publication number: 20100018586Abstract: A system for the application of material such as pesticides, herbicides, and the like, within a body of water. The system includes a conduit extending into the body of water and having a distal end for discharging material into the body of water. The conduit is coupled to an adjustable fixture for adjusting the length of the conduit, which in turn adjusts the depth at which the material is applied to the body of water. The conduit is also coupled to a material handling system for regulating the flow of material to the conduit and out the distal end. The system may be mounted on a vessel that includes electronic controls and guidance systems for controlling the application of material.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2009Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventors: Thomas J. McNabb, Thomas G. Moorhouse
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Publication number: 20090320953Abstract: An interstitially insulated pipeline for flowing a hydrocarbon. In an embodiment, the pipeline comprises a first interstitially insulated pipe and a second interstitially insulated pipe. Each interstitially insulated pipe comprises an inner pipe, an outer pipe mounted coaxially around the inner pipe, an insulating interstice radially positioned between the inner pipe and the outer pipe, and a layer of screen mesh having a mesh size 10 or less disposed in the insulating interstice. In addition, the pipeline comprises a joint coupling the first interstitially insulated tubular and the second interstitially insulated tubular end-to-end. The joint includes a connection that couples the outer pipe of the first interstitially insulated pipe to the outer pipe of the second interstitially insulated pipe, and an annular seal member disposed between the inner pipe of the first interstitially insulated pipe and the inner pipe of the second interstitially insulated pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2007Publication date: December 31, 2009Applicant: THE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEMInventors: Leroy S. Fletcher, Egidio E. Marotta, Charles A. Bollfrass
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Publication number: 20090103984Abstract: Gas Subsea Transmission System (GSTS) is a new method for transferring large quantities of natural gas between marine distances through the oceans. Its purpose is to provide a safer, faster and more financially advantageous alternative to gas transmission via LNG. The GSTS's main part is a Submersible Suspension Pressure-equaliser Pipeline (SSPP). It is a long pipe with a large diameter which has a high capacity of gas transmission. This pipe is kept submersible and suspended in deep waters by its special mooring system. It is made from steel pipe which is reinforced by internal concrete rings. The basic concept of SSPP is to cancel the internal pressure of the gas pipeline with the external hydrostatic water pressure by varying the pipe environment. These conditions lead to the possibility of a large diameter pipeline resulting in efficient, high capacity gas transmission.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2007Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventor: Kasra Zarisfi
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Publication number: 20090010714Abstract: In the past, “compensated” salt caverns have operated with a compensating liquid, such as brine to displace a stored liquid, such as crude oil, when the stored liquid is needed on the surface. Virtually all of the stored liquid in a compensated salt cavern can be expelled from the salt cavern when it is filled with the compensating liquid. In the past, “uncompensated” salt caverns have been used to store gases, such as natural gas. Uncompensated caverns operate without any compensating liquid; instead they rely on pressure. Some of the stored gas (cushion gas) must always be left in an uncompensated salt cavern. This invention breaks with convention and uses a compensating liquid in a salt cavern to store gases which is a technique believed to be previously unknown. “Cushion gas” is not required because the compensating liquid displaces virtually all of the gas in the salt cavern.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2008Publication date: January 8, 2009Applicant: CONVERSION GAS IMPORTS, L.P.Inventor: William M. Bishop
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Publication number: 20080314457Abstract: A device for reusing greywater includes: a water feed for supplying greywater; a collecting reservoir for collecting the supplied greywater; a storage tank for storing water; a siphoning device for siphoning water from the collecting reservoir to the storage tank; a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water user; a sewer outlet; and a control system. A method of siphoning water includes: supplying water to a collecting reservoir; detecting a predetermined water level in the collecting reservoir; operating a filling valve subject to the detected water level; and siphoning water via a siphon connection from the collecting reservoir to the storage tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2006Publication date: December 25, 2008Inventor: Johannes Donaes Jacobus Platteel
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Publication number: 20080295903Abstract: An urban and rural integrated conduit system for sewage discharging and reclaiming comprises: sewage discharging conduits or gutters constituted by sewers and outfall sewers and pits of roads; disposal wells for mud, sand and suspended matter, one end of which is connected to sewage transport pipes buried in the river bed of the present town river; and pits provided at the intersections of the sewage transport pipes, in which, gas outlets are provided at intervals on the upper side of the transport pipes, and an air pipe communicates the upper ends of the gas outlets of each transport pipe. The lower ends of both the sewage transport pipes and the air pipes communicate with one end of an integrated sewage processing plant, another end of which is connected to a water storage reservoir by a pipeline via a water pump of a pump station, with the water storage reservoir being provided with delivery valves and a variety of ducts especially for irrigation, cleaning or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2006Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventors: Cheng Huiyuan, Cheng Fei
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Publication number: 20080277326Abstract: A stormwater filtration system includes a stormwater containment structure including a concrete floor and a pre-assembled flow structure embedded in the concrete floor. The pre-assembled flow structure includes an inlet compartment housing, an outlet compartment housing and at least one filter conduit positioned between the inlet compartment housing and the outlet compartment housing and in flow communication with the interior of the outlet compartment housing. At least one bypass conduit extends from the inlet compartment housing to the outlet compartment housing for delivering water from the interior of the inlet compartment housing to the interior of the outlet compartment housing. A plurality of filter units are connected to the filter conduit so that stormwater filtered by the filter units passes into the filter conduit and then to the interior of the outlet compartment housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2007Publication date: November 13, 2008Applicant: Contech Stormwater Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Christopher S. Hersey, Gregory W. Byrne, JR., Daniel W. Aberle
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Patent number: 7448404Abstract: Seabed located storage for crude oil or other fluid, distinguished in that it is comprising a storage section in form of an oil and waterproof cloth formed as a flexible balloon that can be filled with, store and emptied for a storage fluid, a structure section formed as an external casing over the storage section, which structure section is closed in the upper part such that an upward close volume of size at least corresponding to the volume of the storage section is formed, but with openings to the surroundings in the lower part, an anchoring section formed as a substructure between the structure section and the seabed, with means for anchoring to or stable placement on the seabed, and a transfer section comprising pipes and valves for loading and unloading of a storage fluid, arranged in substance exterior to the upper part of the storage.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Navion ASAInventors: Arild Samuelsen, Kåre Breivik, Ola Ravndal
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Publication number: 20080149188Abstract: A modular block, useful for constructing liquid-storage tanks for water-recovery systems, is described. The blocks can support large vertical loadings, may be fabricated from synthetic materials, and can be assembled into a tank-like structure. Because of their small size, light weight and easy portability, custom-sized water-recovery tanks may be readily assembled and installed at competitive costs. The water-recovery tanks may be used to reclaim runoff rainwater from water-impervious surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2007Publication date: June 26, 2008Applicant: CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATIONInventors: Robert L. Zimmerman, Michael Paloian
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Patent number: 7343932Abstract: A system for connecting multiple pipe lines includes a plurality of multi-port selector valves. Each valve includes a valve body having an inlet port module that includes a body adapted to connect to a fluid source and an outlet port module having a body with at least two outlet ports. Each of the outlet ports may connect to an outlet fluid destination. A port selector rotatably disposed in the valve body includes a rotatable member having a flow path there through that has a path inlet and a path outlet. The path outlet has a second flow direction substantially parallel to said first flow direction with an angle of less than 90 degrees to the first flow direction. An offset portion disposed between the first flow direction and the second flow direction has a longitudinal flow direction. An outlet valve line is adapted to connect one of the at least two outlet ports of a first valve of the plurality of valves to the inlet port of another of the plurality of valves.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2004Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Ronald James Manson, Russell Eric McBeth
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Publication number: 20080011357Abstract: A system for offloading LNG (liquified natural gas) from a tanker (26) in shallow waters, for regasing, or heating the offloaded LNG to produce gaseous hydrocarbons, or gas, for pressurizing the gas, and for flowing the gas to an onshore station (56), includes a structure that is fixed to the sea floor and projects above the sea surface and aids in mooring the tanker. In one system, the structure that is fixed to the sea floor is a largely cylindrical tower (12) with a mooring yoke (20) rotatably mounted on its upper end. A floating structure (14) such as a barge that weathervanes, has a bow end pivotally connected to a distal end of the yoke, so the barge is held close to the tower but can drift around the tower with changing winds, waves and currents. The tanker is moored to the tower so the barge and tanker form a combination that weathervanes as a combination.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2005Publication date: January 17, 2008Inventors: Hein Wille, Jack Pollack
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Patent number: 7311115Abstract: A collection valve for use in a water reclamation system includes a drain pipe and a collection port assembly. The drain pipe includes an inlet port connectable to a drain line from which gray water is supplied, a collection inlet, and an outlet port. The collection port assembly includes a resilient cap and a collection port disposed to receive gray water flowing into the collection inlet and connectable to a gray water drain line. The resilient cap is operable to (i) close the collection inlet to permit water flow from the inlet port to the outlet port, or (ii) open the collection inlet to permit water flow from the inlet port to the collection port, whereby the resilient cap does not physically obstruct water flow within the drain pipe between he inlet port to the outlet port in either operational condition (i) or (ii).Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Southwest Water Solutions L.L.C.Inventors: Donald Wendell, Joseph A. Casali
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Patent number: 7249607Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for servicing landfill conduits are disclosed. These systems, methods, and apparatus employ structures which facilitate access to and the servicing of buried landfill conduits, for example, one or more buried landfill laterals. In one aspect, the systems include an enclosure, at least one inlet conduit passing into the enclosure, at least one outlet conduit passing out of the enclosure, and at least one service conduit having a valve and an access port positioned between the inlet conduit and the outlet conduit. In another aspect, methods and portable apparatuses are provided for introducing high-pressure fluids or vacuum to a landfill conduit, for example, by means of the access port in the service conduit, to remove or dislodge obstructions. Conduits connected to blowers and pumps are used to introduce or withdraw fluids from the landfill conduits, for example, from predetermined locations within the landfill conduits identified by remote sensing devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: Landfill Service CorporationInventors: David L. Hansen, Dennis W. Super
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Patent number: 7237980Abstract: A soil infiltration irrigation system includes a plurality of water-permeable containers and a water-feeding pipeline communicating with each of the containers. The containers are provided with connectors for connecting to the water-feeding pipeline and are also provided with an air-relieving pipe connected to the container. The water-feeding pipeline supplies water from a water supply reservoir which can feed the water-feeding pipeline either by gravity or by a booster pump in the pipeline. The air-relieving pipe has an air outlet installed at an elevation that maintains a water level in each container. The containers may be double-layered, with the air pipe communicating with an inner layer and the outer layer communicating with the water-feeding pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventor: Changbiao Fu
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Patent number: 7232278Abstract: An adjustable outlet riser including a riser (54), a reducer (58) sealed to the riser (54), and an adjustable riser (56) having a tight but slidable fit with the reducer (58). A pond for treatment of aqueous solutions has a piping system dividing its interior into a plurality of cells, the piping system having separate headers for each cell, each header having an adjustable outlet riser in accordance with the invention.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2006Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Inventors: Timothy P. Danehy, Gene T. Hilton, Margaret Hensley Dunn, Clifford F. Denholm, IV, Shaun L. Busler
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Patent number: 7229233Abstract: A double walled riser sump has an annular space between the two walls. The provision of the annular space provides for monitoring the integrity of the two walls of the sump. The two walls of the sump are preferably separated by a thin film or a distance fabric that allows the passage of fluids, and preferably liquids. The annular space may be in fluid communication with a reservoir holding a monitoring fluid and positioned near the top of the sump to be easily accessible. In some embodiments, a top of the riser sump is also double walled and the top annular space is in fluid communication with the annular space between the vertical walls. If a leak develops in either wall of the sump, a corresponding drop in the fluid level of the reservoir will occur.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Xerxes CorporationInventors: John Burwell, Michael G. Zais, Roberto Sanchez
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Patent number: 7192218Abstract: An underground porosity water storage reservoir minimizes the impacts on surface uses of the reservoir site. Furthermore, a method of operating an underground porosity storage reservoir minimizes damage to the reservoir due to injecting sediment-laden water or water that is chemically incompatible with the porous material in the underground reservoir. The underground porosity water storage reservoir reduces temperature impacts on surface waters due to the discharge of stored water. A method of using the porosity storage reservoir to minimize adverse temperature impacts when discharging water to a surface body is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: PS Systems Inc.Inventors: Stanley R. Peters, Donald O. Summers
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Patent number: 7150290Abstract: A unitary concrete structure pumping station useful in pumping waste fluids and the like during the passing of such materials from one part of a gravity flow waste system to another. This concrete structure is simple to install and use and many of the problems associated with conventional pumping stations are alleviated. The structure is comprised of several parts that can be made pre-assembled at the factory or assembled in the field prior to installation. By being a unitary structure this pumping station is resistant to movements within the earth and therefore less likely to incur line breaks.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Electric Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Frank J. Smith
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Patent number: 7105084Abstract: A passive treatment system for removing metals, especially manganese, from mine drainage and other aqueous solutions. The Hybrid Flow Pond (HFP) is an open, pond-like structure utilizing a horizontal or vertical operational flow path through a bed of treatment media together with a vertical flow path for flushing accumulated solids from the bed. The bed preferably contains basic steel slag, limestone, marble, blast furnace slag, other types of slag, organic material, or mixtures thereof. In another aspect of the Hybrid Flow Pond, a tiered piping system divides an interior of the treatment bed into cells. Each cell has its own header and adjustable riser whose output level can be raised or lowered to change the head experienced by each cell.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2005Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Inventors: Gene T. Hilton, Jr., Timothy P. Danehy, Margaret Hensley Dunn, Clifford F. Denholm, IV, Shaun L. Busler
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Patent number: 7104727Abstract: In a pipeline system having a plurality of pipe segments joining a fluid supply tank to a fluid dispenser, the invention includes a pipe coupling assembly for use on at least one terminal end of a fluid transfer pipe, where the transfer pipe has an inner tubular member for transferring fluid and an outer tubular member and an interstitial space there between. The coupling assembly comprises a transition coupling for attachment to the pipe segment to provide a first path for the fluid in the inner tubular member and a second path for the interstitial space. The coupling assembly further comprises a transition tube assembly for attachment to the transition coupling to provide separate paths for the transfer fluid and the interstitial space, where the interstitial space provides a means for performing leak detection or fitting integrity tests during application of either a vacuum condition or pressurized gas input via such selective access.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Inventor: Michael C. Webb
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Patent number: 7033108Abstract: A perforated pipe network beneath a playing surface. A blower connected to the pipe network drawing an air flow through the pipe network to create a vacuum. A drain pipe connecting to the pipe network. An air/water separator connected upstream of the blower for separating water from the air flow prior to entering the blower and channeling the water into the drain pipe for discharge. A flow control unit having a unit inlet connected to the drain pipe downstream of the air/water separator and a unit outlet discharging water to a drain outlet. The flow control unit blocking air flow through the unit inlet into the drain pipe when the blower is in the vacuum mode, and opening the unit inlet when a waterhead buildup at the unit inlet exceeds the vacuum level established by the blower to discharge water through the drain outlet.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2005Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: SubAir Systems, LLCInventors: George T. Hummert, Fredrick O. Hartenstein
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Patent number: 7025076Abstract: A system and method for restoring the natural water cycle by reducing stormwater runoff and addressing issues affecting groundwater supply. In one embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a roof washer component, cistern component, pump, and manufactured dry well. The system is designed to divert polluted rooftop runoff, capture clean rooftop runoff and store this clean water for irrigation purposes and nonpotable uses, while infiltrating excess water to recharge groundwater supplies thereby replicating the natural hydrologic cycle.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2003Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Charles River Watershed AssociationInventors: Robert L. Zimmerman, Jr., Joseph Antocci, Nigel Pickering
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Patent number: 6986622Abstract: A pipework containment system comprising: (i) an outer containment pipe extending between a chamber and a sump; (ii) a fluid-tight seal between the outer containment pipe and the chamber; (iii) a fluid-tight seal between the outer containment pipe and the sump; (iv) a plurality of flexible supply pipes extending between said chamber and said sump; characterized in that the plurality of supply pipes are contained within one and the same outer containment pipe, the arrangement of supply pipes within the outer pipe and the flexibility of the supply pipes being such that each individual supply pipe may be withdrawn from the system and/or replaced after construction of the pipework containment system is complete.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2001Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Petro Technik LimitedInventors: Jan Ageheim, Glyn A. V. Owens, Wayne Clifton Augustus Wright
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Patent number: 6976497Abstract: Liquid raising systems raise liquid from a system inlet to a system outlet without any moving parts below the system outlet. One or more closed cells are disposed at elevations between the system inlet and outlet. A liquid conduit leads from the bottom of each cell to the top of the next downstream cell. Gas pressure-differential between two next-adjacent cells causes liquid to flow through the liquid conduit to the next cell. The pressure-differential need be only enough to move the liquid between adjacent cells. The cells are cyclically filled and emptied by sequentially applying the gas at higher and lower pressures to adjacent cells, thus progressively moving liquid toward the system outlet. A cell can have a variety of shapes and sizes, so long as the cell gas inlet is above the liquid inlet, and the liquid outlet is below both the liquid inlet and the gas inlet.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Brian J. Gridley
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Patent number: 6886585Abstract: A tool having a hand gripping region for rotational attachment to an irrigation system with the tool having soft bumps thereon spaced from each other and affixed to the hand gripping region to cushion the user's hand as an irrigation component is field attached to an irrigation system.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: The Patent Store LLCInventors: L. Herbert King Jr., Glenn Hoffman
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Patent number: 6847305Abstract: A method and system for communications of fuel data, including fuel depletion data, in regards of fuel storage tanks includes an electronic communicator linked to a sensor associated with the storage tank for communicating over a communications network the fuel data to innumerable other parties connected on the communications network.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2003Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Inventor: Michael Buck
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Patent number: 6811354Abstract: A saltwater intrusion prevention system for use at an interface between a fresh water body and a saltwater body includes a water recovery subsystem for recovering fresh water from a fresh water body. A retention reservoir in fluid communication with the water recovery subsystem receives and redirects the recovered fresh water. A saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem in fluid communication with the retention reservoir is positioned at an interface of the fresh water body and the saltwater body. The saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem includes a plurality of submerged return discharge ports for vertically ejecting the recovered fresh water for providing a hydraulic mounding zone, and a fine air bubbler header for creating a mixing zone. The hydraulic mounding zone and the mixing zone increase the density of the fresh water for offsetting saltwater from the saltwater body.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: WPSI, Inc,Inventor: Wayne W. Spani
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Publication number: 20040179897Abstract: A saltwater intrusion prevention system for use at an interface between a fresh water body and a saltwater body includes a water recovery subsystem for recovering fresh water from a fresh water body. A retention reservoir in fluid communication with the water recovery subsystem receives and redirects the recovered fresh water. A saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem in fluid communication with the retention reservoir is positioned at an interface of the fresh water body and the saltwater body. The saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem includes a plurality of submerged return discharge ports for vertically ejecting the recovered fresh water for providing a hydraulic mounding zone, and a fine air bubbler header for creating a mixing zone. The hydraulic mounding zone and the mixing zone increase the density of the fresh water for offsetting saltwater from the saltwater body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2003Publication date: September 16, 2004Inventor: Wayne W. Spani
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Patent number: 6712089Abstract: A recessed, frostproof water faucet having a tubular stem connected to a pivot plumbing unit connected to a subsurface water line through the rear wall of a box-like recess unit. A slider connector connects the water faucet tubular stem and the access panel or lid of the recess unit. The lid pivots on hinges and as one lifts the lid, the faucet is lifted by the slider connector from a horizontal storage position to a vertical locked position for use, the slider connector being connected to a faucet flange and sliding along grooves in tracks mounted along the inner side of the lid. A sliding hinge locks the lid upright, sliding downward along the upper end of the rear wall. The faucet is returned to the storage position by pulling upward and lowering to the closed position, the slider connector sliding forward along the grooves to the stored position.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2003Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Danny Heflin
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Patent number: 6698442Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving the operation of sewer systems includes a first set of sewer lines connected to a source of other water and a second set of sewer lines of smaller diameter than the sewer lines of said first set connected to sources of sanitary effluent, the first and second sets of lines being separately connected to a sewerage treatment plant. The second set of sewer lines has at least a portion thereof that extends inside the first set of sewer lines and the first set of sewer lines can be an existing sanitary sewer system. The apparatus can include at least one sanitary effluent process device connected to the second set of sewer lines such as a pumping station, a grinder pump or a vacuum system to assist the flow of the sanitary effluent through the second set of sewer lines.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: E. Wynn Berry, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040025938Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving the operation of sewer systems includes a first set of sewer lines connected to a source of other water and a second set of sewer lines of smaller diameter than the sewer lines of said first set connected to sources of sanitary effluent, the first and second sets of lines being separately connected to a sewerage treatment plant. The second set of sewer lines has at least a portion thereof that extends inside the first set of sewer lines and the first set of sewer lines can be an existing sanitary sewer system. The apparatus can include at least one sanitary effluent process device connected to the second set of sewer lines such as a pumping station, a grinder pump or a vacuum system to assist the flow of the sanitary effluent through the second set of sewer lines.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2002Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventor: E. Wynn Berry
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Patent number: 6681796Abstract: A drainage valve tap assembly for connection of a branch line to a main line while simultaneously forming a freeze proof drain comprising a hollow body having a first end and a second end, a cutting tube attached to the first end of the body; a handle having a hollow interior, the handle attached to the second end of the body for rotating the body; and a resilient drain plug extending at least partially in the body for blocking off the flow of water therethrough under a water pressure and for allowing the draining of water therethrough and out of the drainage valve when the water pressure is cut-off.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2001Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Inventor: Lloyd Herbert King, Jr.
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Patent number: 6655402Abstract: A flushing system and method are provided for substantially reducing sewer solid accumulation in urban drainage systems such that their performance is optimized, their structural integrity is substantially maintained, and pollution of receiving waters is substantially minimized. The flushing system includes at least one flush reservoir that fluidly communicates with the urban drainage system and discharges wet weather flow to flush accumulated sewer solids therefrom. An air release valve on the at least one flush reservoir closes when it is substantially full to create a vacuum that is broken by drawing air through an air intake conduit in the at least one flush reservoir when the urban drainage system is drained to a predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyInventor: Chi-Yuan Fan
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Patent number: 6638024Abstract: A gas compression system including a body of fluid and a down pipe. A first end of the down pipe is positioned to receive a fluid from a source above a surface of the body of fluid and a second end is positioned at a lower level of the body of fluid. A gas inlet is coupled to the down pipe, above the surface of the body of fluid for mixing a gas to be compressed with the fluid from the source to form a mixture. A chamber is positioned at the lower level of the body of fluid and coupled to the second end of the down pipe for receiving the mixture and collecting a compressed gas therefrom. A conduit is coupled to the chamber for transferring the compressed gas therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Inventor: Bruce Jay Hancock
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Patent number: 6635172Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing the water quality in a subterranean pressurized water system is disclosed and provides a discharge passage control via a valve that can be actuated electronically at the location of the valve or remotely. The discharge through the apparatus permits the flow of water in the subterranean pressurized water system and a corresponding discharge of contaminants and increased concentration of disinfectants supplied to the subterranean pressurized water system by the water system manager. The discharge can occur directly to a below ground drain such as a storm drain, sewer or drain field.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: Michael R. Newman
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Patent number: 6616375Abstract: An arrangement is provided in a drain water system having a main drain conduit which is designed as a closed ring conduit (19), and pump members (17, 18) are arranged to pump drain media emanating from different buildings (6) to and into the ring conduit for transport therein through pumping action. Devices (27-31) for taking care of drain media are connected to the ring conduit through a branch (12, 13) each. Valve members (24, 25, 32) are arranged in each connection to the ring conduit and optionally controllable so as to either open in the case of a feed connection and allow pumping of drain media into the ring conduit and in the case of a device connection allow drainage of drain media from the ring conduit, or close to stop drain media from flowing into or out of the ring conduit.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2000Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Inventor: Bertil Eriksson
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Patent number: 6609533Abstract: A subsea actuator and method is disclosed that includes all moving components mounted in a compact, concentric configuration. The subsea actuator is highly reliable and will operate at depth even with zero valve body cavity pressure. A preferably cup-shaped spring pusher is provided in telescoping relationship to the hydraulic chamber. A piston position indicator is provided which is connected externally to the hydraulic piston cylinder to avoid the possibility of hydraulic leaks due to the piston indicator. A manual override may be provided with a manual override indicator. The manual override indicator has a shorter travel length than the manual override operating stem to thereby reduce the overall length of the manual override assembly. The driving stem provides a removable connection to the hydraulic piston from the top of the actuator housing and a quick disconnect permits disconnection of the driving stem from the valve stem.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2001Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: World Wide Oilfield Machine, Inc.Inventor: Alagarsamy Sundararajan
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Patent number: 6581618Abstract: A shallow depth, low pressure gas storage facility(s) and related methods of use are disclosed for purposes relating to a supply of gas in a gas pipeline and a supply of gas to a user. The shallows depth, low pressure gas storage facility(s) of the present invention have characteristics of high deliverability of injection and withdrawal over a wide pressure range.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Canatxx Energy, L.L.C.Inventors: Ross K. Hill, Paul J. Grimes
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Patent number: 6582156Abstract: A level control device for constructed wetlands which is suitable for use in cold climates. The device comprises an outer casing with an inner diameter at least about 4 inches and less than about 18 inches with an overflow weir, in fluid communication with the constructed wetland, located inside the outer casing.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Inventor: David A. Flowers
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Publication number: 20030098064Abstract: The present invention provides a method for remedying minute seal leaks in downhole tools and equipment. The various embodiments of the present invention utilize pressure activated liquid sealants stored in local reservoirs to remedy such leaks.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2002Publication date: May 29, 2003Inventors: Harjit Kohli, Hebah Ahmed, Michael Johnson
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Patent number: 6565284Abstract: A system for maintaining a surcharge on a sanitary sewer collection system to minimize the pressure differential across pipe walls carrying the waste and to offset the buoyant effects of hydrostatic pressure on the outside of the pipe. Pinch valves or other remotely controllable pipe closing devices are employed in combination with a system of monitors and a centralized control system to maintain and periodically release fluid from the surcharged system.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2000Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Inventor: Stephen V. Gearhart