Vortex Generator In Interaction Chamber Of Device Patents (Class 137/811)
  • Patent number: 10753154
    Abstract: A fluidic oscillator includes a vortex chamber in fluid communication with a flow volume, an outlet, a first control port, and a second control port. The flow volume is defined by a first wall and a second wall. The first wall and the second wall are arranged to direct a fluid flow to create a vortex flow in the vortex chamber. The pressure differential cycles the attachment of fluid flow between the first wall and the second wall at a cycle rate. Because the fluidic oscillator can operate at a low cycle rate, the fluidic oscillator can provide an extended reach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Tempress Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack J Kolle, Scott A Fletcher, Andrew W Fraser
  • Patent number: 9897118
    Abstract: A fluidic oscillator includes a structure having an input port and an output port. A chamber within the structure is configured to channel a fluid from the input port to the output port. A volume of the chamber is configured to change so as to change to change a frequency at which the fluid flows out of the output port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: Surya Raghu
  • Patent number: 9212522
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations, especially in horizontal wells. The shape, frequency and duration of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths, through which flow may be parallel or sequential. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill string and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8985150
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a device for directing the flow of a fluid comprises: a fluid chamber; a first outlet; a second outlet; a first outlet fluid passageway, wherein the first outlet fluid passageway is operatively connected to the first outlet; and a second outlet fluid passageway, wherein the second outlet fluid passageway is operatively connected to the second outlet; wherein the fluid rotationally flows about the inside of the chamber, and wherein the fluid flowing through the first outlet fluid passageway conjoins with the fluid flowing through the second outlet fluid passageway at a point downstream of the first and second outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8919382
    Abstract: A drainage system is provided that comprises a gully having a circumferential side wall, an outlet and a vortex brake with a vortex chamber having a chamber wall with a peripheral inlet opening and a central outlet opening, the vortex brake being arranged in the gully so that a flow path from the inside of the gully to the outlet leads through the vortex brake, and a drainpipe is connected to the outlet. The vortex brake is arranged in the gully so as to be non-demountable, and the vortex brake is provided with a flushing access having a hose connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Mosbaek A/S
    Inventor: Jørgen Mosbæk Johannessen
  • Patent number: 8899822
    Abstract: The invention provides a working trough and a method for maintaining a uniform temperature of a working fluid. The working trough is applied to an electrical discharge machine that performs wire cutting using the working fluid. The method for maintaining a uniform temperature of the working fluid is applied to the working trough and characterized by forming opening structures in a receiving slot of the working trough such that a spiral swirl having a predetermined height is allowed to be formed in the working fluid, thereby maintaining a uniform temperature of the working fluid in the receiving slot when a wire cutting process is performed in the working fluid by the electrical discharge machine. The disturbance of the spiral swirl also facilitates the discharge of scraps. The present invention further has an advantage of low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Tzuo-Liang Luo, En-Sheng Chang, Jui-Kuan Lin, Yang-Xin Lin, Chin-Mou Hsu
  • Patent number: 8696191
    Abstract: The invention provides a working trough and a method for maintaining a uniform temperature of a working fluid. The working trough is applied to an electrical discharge machine that performs wire cutting using the working fluid. The method for maintaining a uniform temperature of the working fluid is applied to the working trough and characterized by forming opening structures in a receiving slot of the working trough such that a spiral swirl having a predetermined height is allowed to be formed in the working fluid, thereby maintaining a uniform temperature of the working fluid in the receiving slot when a wire cutting process is performed in the working fluid by the electrical discharge machine. The disturbance of the spiral swirl also facilitates the discharge of scraps. The present invention further has an advantage of low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Tzuo-Liang Luo, En-Sheng Chang, Jui-Kuan Lin, Yang-Xin Lin, Chin-Mou Hsu
  • Patent number: 8584706
    Abstract: A vortex generator, designed to bring a medium into a controlled vortex motion, with a hollow inlet section (1) to direct the medium into the vortex generator. The inlet section consists of a rotational symmetric cavity (101) with a curved geometry (108). Furthermore, a vortex chamber (4a; 4b), inside which the vortex motion is to be established, is attached to the inlet section. The inlet section (1) contains at least one spiral-shaped conic channel for di-recting the medium from the rotational symmetric cavity to the vortex chamber. The vortex chamber is either trumpet-shaped (4a) or egg-shaped (4b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Watreco AB
    Inventors: Morten Ovesen, Curt Hallberg
  • Publication number: 20130291980
    Abstract: A fluid pathway is provided with a flow controller in at least a portion of its length wherein the flow controller comprises an active surface capable of influencing the fluid flow through the fluid pathway, the configuration of the active surface conforming to at least one logarithmic curve conforming to the Golden Section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Jayden David Harman
  • Patent number: 8517105
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8517106
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8517107
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8517108
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20130214054
    Abstract: A process is provided for dispersing suspended particles in the air comprising: providing a generator apparatus for producing one or more propagating fluid vortex rings transporting ionized particles; directing the generator apparatus in a direction toward suspended particles in the air to be dispersed; generating a fluid vortex ring transporting ionized particles using the generator apparatus such that the fluid vortex ring travels to the suspended particles resulting in at least a portion of the ionized particles engaging and applying a charge to at least a portion of the suspended particles. The charged suspended particles are then attracted to one another or to nearby surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
    Inventor: BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
  • Patent number: 8479831
    Abstract: A system for variably resisting flow of a fluid composition can include a flow passage and a set of one or more branch passages which intersect the flow passage, whereby a proportion of the composition diverted from the passage to the set of branch passages varies based on at least one of a) viscosity of the fluid composition, and b) velocity of the fluid composition in the flow passage. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow path selection device that selects which of multiple flow paths a majority of fluid flows through from the device, based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the composition. Yet another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber, with a majority of the composition entering the chamber in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Syed Hamid
  • Patent number: 8464759
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system can include a vortex device, with resistance to flow of a fluid composition through the vortex device being dependent on a rotation of the fluid composition at an inlet to the vortex device. Another system can include a second vortex device which receives a fluid composition from an outlet of a first vortex device, a resistance to flow of the fluid composition through the second vortex device being dependent on a rotation of the fluid composition at the outlet. Another system can include a first vortex device which causes increased rotation of a fluid composition at an outlet thereof in response to an increase the fluid composition velocity, and a second vortex device which receives the fluid composition from the outlet, a flow resistance through the second vortex device being dependent on the rotation of the fluid composition at the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8453745
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8439117
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8430130
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system can include a vortex device, with resistance to flow of a fluid composition through the vortex device being dependent on a rotation of the fluid composition at an inlet to the vortex device. Another system can include a second vortex device which receives a fluid composition from an outlet of a first vortex device, a resistance to flow of the fluid composition through the second vortex device being dependent on a rotation of the fluid composition at the outlet. Another system can include a first vortex device which causes increased rotation of a fluid composition at an outlet thereof in response to an increase the fluid composition velocity, and a second vortex device which receives the fluid composition from the outlet, a flow resistance through the second vortex device being dependent on the rotation of the fluid composition at the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8381817
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill string and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20120292116
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20120292020
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8291976
    Abstract: A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising providing a fluid diode in fluid communication with the wellbore, and transferring a fluid through the fluid diode. A fluid flow control tool, comprising a tubular diode sleeve comprising a diode aperture, a tubular inner ported sleeve received concentrically within the diode sleeve, the inner ported sleeve comprising an inner port in fluid communication with the diode aperture, and a tubular outer ported sleeved within which the diode sleeve is received concentrically, the outer ported sleeve comprising an outer port in fluid communication with the diode aperture, wherein a shape of the diode aperture, a location of the inner port relative to the diode aperture, and a location of the outer port relative to the diode aperture provide a fluid flow resistance to fluid transferred to the inner port from the outer port and a different fluid flow resistance to fluid transferred to the outer port from the inner port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Robert L. Pipkin, Travis W. Cavender
  • Patent number: 8235128
    Abstract: A system for variably resisting flow of a fluid composition can include a flow passage and a set of one or more branch passages which intersect the flow passage, whereby a proportion of the fluid composition diverted from the passage to the set of branch passages varies based on at least one of a) viscosity of the fluid composition, and b) velocity of the fluid composition in the flow passage. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow path selection device that selects which of multiple flow paths a majority of fluid flows through from the device, based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. Yet another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber, with a majority of the fluid composition entering the chamber in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Syed Hamid
  • Patent number: 8070424
    Abstract: Provision of flow control arrangements which can be switched from high flow restriction to low flow restriction or vice versa are desirable. It is known to use switched vortex valves comprising a vortex chamber having a diverter portion which jets a through flow into either radial presentation to an outlet or tangential presentation with differential flow restrictions. Typically deflection is through cross flows presented from control ports as determined by mechanically actuated and controlled valves. Sensors are required to determine pressure differentials in order to actuate these moving part valves. By providing association between the control ports and an outlet path along with appropriate configuration and sizing of the flow regulators switching states can be provided through the cross flows presented via the flow regulators between the high and low through flow restriction. The flow regulators generally comprise orifice restrictors, diffusers/venturi arrangements or vortex throttles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLC
    Inventors: Geoffrey H. Priestman, Timothy J. Scanlon, John R. Tippetts, Paul Wilson
  • Patent number: 7651036
    Abstract: A fluidic oscillator suitable for use at colder temperatures for utilizing a pressurized liquid to generate a uniform spatial distribution of droplets has (a) an inlet for the pressurized liquid, (b) a set of three power nozzles that are fed by the pressurized liquid, (c) an interaction chamber attached to the nozzles and which receives the flow from the nozzles, wherein this chamber has an upstream and a downstream portion, with the upstream portion having a pair of boundary edges and a longitudinal centerline that is approximately equally spaced between the edges, and wherein one of the power nozzles is directed along the chamber's longitudinal centerline, (d) a throat from which the liquid exhausts from the interaction chamber, and (e) an island located in the interaction chamber, with this island being situated downstream of the power nozzle that is directed along the chamber's longitudinal centerline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Bowles Fluidics Corporation
    Inventor: Shridhar Gopalan
  • Patent number: 7472847
    Abstract: For achieving a fluidic device, being able to be made small in sizes, comprising a fluid inflow opening 1, a connector duct 2, and a fluid jet nozzle, wherein the connector duct 2 is constructed with curves, and is further constructed with two (2) pieces of flow passages, being symmetric on both sides. Constructing the connector duct with the curves reduces resistance of fluid within the duct, and further dividing the connector duct into two (2) parts in both side enhances the flows at confluent point in the duct (increase of the flow velocity).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Hitachi Industrial Equipment System Co.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Mukai, Keiichi Honma, Takeshi Honda, Tetsuo Kimiya
  • Patent number: 7174917
    Abstract: Inlet piece for a liquid-injected compressor element, characterized in that it comprises a sleeve (8) which consists of a casing (11), a bottom wall (12) provided with an opening (13) and a top wall (14) which is entirely tight, a pipe (9) opening on the inside of the sleeve (8) and a partition (10) comprising a span part (15) which spans the opening (13) in the aforesaid bottom wall (12) and which transforms into an inclosing part (16) reaching down to the bottom wall (13), whereby the partition (10) leaves a passage (18) on one side of the opening (13) and the pipe (9) opens in the sleeve (8) between the top wall (14) and the span part (15), such that, because of the partition (10), gas flowing from the opening (13) to the pipe (9) has to make among others a revolving movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Airpower, {umlaut over (n)}aamloze vennootschap
    Inventors: Tom Paul Maria Block, Manuel Paula Albert Vandevoorde
  • Patent number: 7082955
    Abstract: A system for conveying fluid through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of the material surrounded by a boundary layer flow of the same or a different flowable material, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Some embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure gas is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The gas/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the gas in the accelerating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Ecotechnology, Ltd.
    Inventors: Darin L. Lane, Walter D. Prince, Alan Miller
  • Patent number: 7066207
    Abstract: A system and method for conveying flowable material through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of the material surrounded by a boundary layer flow of the same or a different flowable material, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Some embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure air is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The air/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the air in the accelerating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Ecotechnology, Ltd.
    Inventors: Darin L. Lane, Walter D. Prince, Alan Miller
  • Patent number: 6817375
    Abstract: The torsion generator includes casing (1), in which at least one canal (2) is formed, whose inlet is located near to the casing (1) periphery. The longitudinal axis of the canal (2) passes on the logarithmical curve, wherein the mathematical sequence of the construction of the coordinates is different for each section of the curve. The outlet of the canal (2) communicates with the camera (3), formed inside the casing (1) and is connected with an outgoing pipeline (4). The inlet of the canal (2) is located tangentially, and the outlet—axially to the casing (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Alexander Sorochinsky, Hristo Stojanov, Hristo Ivanov, Marija Stojanova
  • Patent number: 6659118
    Abstract: A system and method for conveying flowable material through a conduit that creates a strong laminar flow of the material surrounded by a boundary layer flow of the same or a different flowable material, such that long transport distances through dramatic elevation and directional changes can be achieved. Some embodiments of the system include a blower assembly, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit and a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber includes an outer barrel, an inner barrel and an accelerating chamber. Low pressure air is supplied to the system by the blower assembly and mixed with particulate material. The air/material mixture is transported through the mixing chamber into the accelerating chamber and through the outlet conduit. In other embodiments, the particulate material is mixed with the air in the accelerating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Ecotechnology, Ltd.
    Inventors: Darin L. Lane, Walter D. Prince, Alan Miller
  • Patent number: 6536468
    Abstract: A whirlpool reduction cap. The cap for redirecting fluid flow towards an exit port or drain in a vessel comprises a top solid surface area greater than or equal to the area of the exit port, a base connected to the exit port, a side wall positioned between the top surface and the exit port, and an inlet positioned in the side wall, thereby reducing formation of a vortex as a fluid is drained from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Kinetics Chempure Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Wilmer, David R. Kuyat
  • Patent number: 6450189
    Abstract: Atomized particles within a desired size range (e.g., 1 micron to about 5 microns) are produced from two immiscible fluids, a first fluid source containing the formulation to be atomized, and a second fluid source which is contained in a pressure chamber surrounding at least the area where the first liquid is to be provided. The invention provides methods for: the production of templates for microfabrication, such as particles that serve as templates for self-assembly of monolayers; the creation of small particles to serve as building blocks for the microassembly of objects; and the use of an atomizate to etch configurations and/or patterns onto the surface of an object by removing a selected portion of the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Universidad de Sevilla
    Inventor: Alfonso Gañán-Calvo
  • Patent number: 6435214
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for ejecting a second fluid into the near-wall region of the boundary layer of a first fluid, so that the second fluid hugs the wall. This alone reduces drag by modifying the behavior of the near-wall structure, thereby reducing the frequency of burst and sweep cycles, even when the first and second fluids are identical. Further, one or more additives, such as polymer, surfactant, micro-bubbles, a combination thereof, and/or using a second fluid having an elevated temperature as compared to the temperature of the first fluid, may be used to achieve much greater drag reduction as well as lower dissipation rates than previously possible. The second fluid is ejected using a convex Coanda surface (7) and at a controlled velocity that is a small fraction of the velocity of the first fluid moving along the wall so that the flow lines of the second fluid are substantially aligned with the flow lines of the first fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Cortana Corporation
    Inventor: Victor V. Babenko
  • Patent number: 6402820
    Abstract: A system for separating a liquid and a gas including a separation vessel (30) with an inlet (28) for a gas/liquid mixture. Outlets (40, 42) for the fluids are disposed at different heights in the vessel. The outlets are controlled by turn-up vortex amplifiers (fluidic valves TuVAs) that include a supply port (40, 42), a control port (36, 38) and an outlet port (48, 50). The control port is supplied from the vessel at an intermediate level between the outlets, so that a change of flow in the control port alters resistence to flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: The University of Sheffield
    Inventors: John R. Tippetts, Geoffrey H. Priestman
  • Publication number: 20020003002
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for ejecting a second fluid into the near-wall region of the boundary layer of a first fluid, so that the second fluid hugs the wall. This alone reduces drag by modifying the behavior of the near-wall structure, thereby reducing the frequency of burst and sweep cycles, even when the first and second fluids are identical. Further, one or more additives, such as polymer, surfactant, micro-bubbles, a combination thereof, and/or using a second fluid having an elevated temperature as compared to the temperature of the first fluid, may be used to achieve much greater drag reduction as well as lower dissipation rates than previously possible. The second fluid is ejected using a convex Coanda surface (7) and at a controlled velocity that is a small fraction of the velocity of the first fluid moving along the wall so that the flow lines of the second fluid are substantially aligned with the flow lines of the first fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Inventor: Victor V. Babenko
  • Patent number: 6253782
    Abstract: A fluidic oscillator includes a member having an oscillation inducing chamber, at least one source of fluid under pressure, at least a pair of power nozzles connected to the at least one source of fluid under pressure for projecting at least a pair of fluid jets into the oscillation chamber, and at least one outlet from the oscillation chamber for issuing a pulsating or oscillating jet of fluid to a point of utilization or ambient. A common fluid manifold connected to said at least a pair of power nozzles. The shape of the power nozzle manifold forms one of the walls of the interaction or oscillation chamber. In some of the fluidic circuits, the length can be matched to fit existing housings. The power nozzle can have offsets which produce yaw angles in a liquid spray fan angle to the left or right depending on the direction desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Bowles Fluidics Corporation
    Inventor: Surya Raghu
  • Patent number: 6237636
    Abstract: Skin friction reduction on a surface moving relative to a fluid can be obtained by ejecting a polymer-water mixture/solution into the boundary layer. The efficacy of the ejected polymer-water mixture/solution is closely related to polymer dissipation out of the boundary layer and conditioning (i.e, lenthening, unwinding or stretching) of the polymer molecules by liquid shear forces immediately before ejection. The invention is a method and apparatus for conditioning and ejecting a polymer-water mixture/solution that improves drag reduction characteristics of the mixture/solution and maintains the mixture/solution in the boundary layer for as long as possible. By improving the drag-reduction characteristic in the polymer-water mixture/solution and by extending the time it remains in the near-wall region, the ejector can increase the performance and reduce the volume and storage requirements of a drag-reduction system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Cortana Corporation
    Inventor: Victor V. Babenko
  • Patent number: 6176676
    Abstract: Structure with elements includes a main body of the element used in gas stream and a plurality of fluid passage. Each outlet of the fluid passage is opened on surface of the main body. Coolant fluid flows from each outlet through the passage to cover the surface as a film-like fluid. The plurality of fluid passages include first fluid passages and second fluid passages. The coolant fluid flows from the outlet of the first fluid passage along the direction of the gas stream on the surface. On the other hand, the coolant fluid also flows from the outlet of the second fluid passage toward the gas stream neighbored on each outlet of the first fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Kazutaka Ikeda, Akinori Koga, Junji Ishii
  • Patent number: 6092982
    Abstract: Structure with elements includes a main body of the element used in gas stream and a plurality of fluid passage. Each outlet of the fluid passage is opened on surface of the main body. Coolant fluid flows from each outlet through the passage to cover the surface as a film-like fluid. The plurality of fluid passages include first fluid passages and second fluid passages. The coolant fluid flows from the outlet of the first fluid passage along the direction of the gas stream on the surface. On the other hand, the coolant fluid also flows from the outlet of the second fluid passage toward the gas stream neighbored on each outlet of the first fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Kazutaka Ikeda, Akinori Koga, Junji Ishii
  • Patent number: 6021519
    Abstract: An apparatus for protecting a wearer against positive acceleration comprises:a trouser having inflatable pockets and a control unit having an outlet communicating with the pockets, an inlet communicating with a source of pressurized gas and an inertia body for sensing acceleration. The control unit inflates the pockets with pressurized gas under a pressure which increases responsive to positive acceleration according to a predetermined law when the positive acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold higher than 1 g and modifies the predetermined law following detection of a degree of acceleration which is negative or lower than another threshold lower than 1 g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Intertechnique
    Inventor: Michel Bardel
  • Patent number: 5979481
    Abstract: A fuel vapor reduction apparatus comprising an inert gas receiver, pressure sensor of the vacant volume of a fuel storage tank, external pressure sensor, a non-permeable expandable member disposed inside the fuel storage tank, and an inert gas regulator that is responsive to a predetermined differential pressure between the pressure of the vacant volume inside the tank and the external fuel storage tank pressure, whereby, the expandable member is able to expandably receive and hold the inert gas to fill the vacant volume and reduce fuel vapor formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Loren Ayresman
  • Patent number: 5971023
    Abstract: A biological fluid transport device comprises a cutwater at the junction of at least two blood flow paths. The cutwater is substantially straight, substantially vertical, or both. At least one of the fluid paths may be tubular, and in some embodiments all of the fluid paths are tubular. The shear sensitive fluid may be, without limitation, blood, blood-based combinations, cell culture media, cell suspensions, proteins, and microcapsule suspensions. The device may be part of an extracorporeal circuit (e.g., blood during heart-lung bypass procedures or blood processing), but it need not be. Preferred embodiments of the device include, without limitation, kinetic pumps, mass transfer devices, filters, reservoirs, and heat exchangers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Cynthia T. Clague, Frank D. Dorman, Robert C. Hamlen, Donald W. Hegeman, III, Timothy A. Miller, Joseph E. Poissant, Richard T. Stone, Michael P. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5971301
    Abstract: A low pressure fluidic oscillator having an oscillation chamber having a centerline, and a pair of mutually facing and complementary-shaped sidewalls, planar top and bottom walls, upstream end and downstream end walls. An input power nozzle is formed in the upstream end wall having a width P.sub.W and a depth PD.sub.D, for issuing a jet of liquid into the oscillation chamber and forming alternately pulsating vortices in the oscillation chamber on each side of the jet, respectively. An outlet opening is formed in the downstream end wall and substantially axially aligned with the power nozzle. A pair of short sidewalls diverge in a downstream direction from the outlet opening. The distance from the power nozzle to the outlet opening being L. A slot is formed in at least one of said top and bottom walls, the slot having a slot centerline which is spaced upstream from the outlet opening a distance from about the edge of the downstream end of said oscillation chamber to about 0.48L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Bowles Fluidic Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald D. Stouffer, Fred Heil
  • Patent number: 5947144
    Abstract: A diaphragm pressure regulator comprising a housing having first and second sections. The first section 1a has a cavity or vacuum space, and a wave spring is disposed in the vacuum space, a load distributor is disposed adjacent to the wave spring, and a diaphragm seals the cavity and secures the wave spring and load distributor in the cavity. The second section of the housing comprises a movable and sealable vent stem that moves in response to movement of the diaphragm, and a vent opening for venting the interior of the second section of the housing to external pressure in response to motion of the diaphragm. The diaphragm pressure regulator may be preferentially used in an upper atmospheric system that needs to maintain a specified pressure, but requires venting capabilities. Such systems include missile systems that fly into the upper atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Roy A. Mangano, Paul M. Lyons
  • Patent number: 5893383
    Abstract: A fluidic oscillator is disclosed for providing oscillating flow to outlet ports (172, 173). The fluid oscillator (100) in one embodiment has no fluid communication between a pair of diverging diffuser legs (163, 164) downstream of the upstream edge (169) of a splitter (165) and no fluid communication between a chamber (162) and either of the diverging diffuser legs downstream of the splitter edge. In other embodiments, a turbulent flows generator is formed by use of bump step (202), pins (220, 230), surface discontinuities (250) or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Perfclean International
    Inventor: David M. Facteau
  • Patent number: 5865308
    Abstract: A device, a system and a method are provided for controllably releasing a product (26) into a container (10) in which the product (26) is mixed with another product contained within an interior (14) of the container 10. The device (12) releases the product (26) due to variations in temperature or pressure that the system experiences during an autoclaving or sterilization procedure, for example. Materials and shapes of the members (20, 20a, 20b, 22) of the device (12) are selected such that the members (20, 20a, 20b, 22) react or otherwise move within the device in a predetermined manner in response to changes in temperature or pressure. As a result, products (26) within the device (12) may be maintained separately from products within the interior (14) of the container (10) in which the device (12) is held. Prior to administration of a solution within the container (10), the product (26) within the device (12) may be mixed with the solution or other product in the container (10) in a controllable fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Chuan Qin, Yuanpang Samuel Ding, Chi Chen, Jerry Ripley
  • Patent number: 5651392
    Abstract: Static assembly for increasing speed of a fluid jet. The assembly includes a series of fluid deflectors or obstacles, each having an edge over which the jet flows while accelerating. Respective surfaces connect the accelerated flow to the next successive deflector or obstacle, where the acceleration phenomenon repeats. Each deflector or obstacle preferably includes a hollow shape which the jet impacts. The width of the fluid jet decreases in proportion to the speed of the jet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Rene Essirard
  • Patent number: 5357949
    Abstract: An oxygen breathing apparatus for protection of aircraft passengers against aircraft depressurization has a pressurized oxygen storage and a distribution unit operated responsive to loss of pressurization at high altitude for feeding a pipe with pressurized oxygen from the storage. The passenger masks have a face cover which is formed with an inwardly directed circumferential flexible sealing lip and are each connected to the pipe by a flexible hose having a metering orifice. The distribution unit delivers pressurized oxygen under a pressure which increases up to a first value which is reached when loss of pressurization occurs immediately under a predetermined altitude (about 40,000 ft) and has a second value, of about two times the first value as long as the altitude exceeds the predetermined value. In a modification, the second pressure is delivered for a given period, typically about 3 mn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Assignee: Eros G.I.E.
    Inventors: Fernand Bertheau, Gerard Silber