By Tangential Input To Axial Output (e.g., Vortex Amplifier) Patents (Class 137/812)
  • Patent number: 11371325
    Abstract: A technique facilitates improved control over inflowing fluids with respect to, for example, a screen assembly or screen assemblies of a tubing string deployed in a wellbore. The improved control may be provided by at least one inflow control device comprising a housing defining a chamber having a first end and a second end through which fluid may flow. Additionally, the inflow control device comprises at least one inlet passage disposed at the first end and having a contour which provides a desired effect on the inflowing fluid according to the type of fluid, e.g. according to the viscosity of the fluid. The contour may comprise an expanding cross-sectional area, e.g. a cone or other expanding shape. In some embodiments, the entrance of the inlet passage may have a rounded edge to, for example, create an initially decreasing and then increasing cross-sectional area along the inlet passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gocha Chochua, Aleksandar Rudic, Vadim Blekhman, Amrendra Kumar
  • Patent number: 11352795
    Abstract: There is described a drainage system comprising: an inlet pipe; and an energy dissipater comprising a dissipation chamber. The dissipation chamber has a dissipater inlet fluidically connected to the inlet pipe and a dissipater outlet arranged to discharge fluid from the dissipation chamber. The dissipater inlet extends between a first end and a second end. A wall of the inlet pipe extends tangentially from the dissipation chamber so as to define the first end and such that, in use, fluid is discharged into the dissipation chamber in a tangential direction, thereby inducing a circulating flow within the dissipation chamber about an axis of the dissipation chamber. The width of the dissipater inlet in a direction parallel to the axis decreases from the first end to the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Hydro International Ltd
    Inventors: Daniel Stuart Jarman, Jeremy Paul Lecornu
  • Patent number: 9404339
    Abstract: Fluid flow influencer devices in chambers subsequent to vortex assemblies are described. A flow-affecting device can move from a first position to a second position based on a flow path of fluid flowing from the vortex assembly to the chamber. The flow path may depend on an amount of rotation of the fluid from the vortex assembly. The flow-affecting device in the first position can substantially allow fluid to flow through a chamber exit opening. The flow-affecting device in the second position can substantially restrict fluid from flowing through the chamber exit opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael Linley Fripp
  • Patent number: 9051724
    Abstract: A flow regulating device 2 comprising a plurality of coaxial vortex chambers 16, 116, 216, 316 disposed in flow series. Each vortex chamber 16, 116, 216, 316 has an inlet 22, 122, 222, 322 disposed to promote rotational flow within the vortex chamber 16, 116, 216, 316, and an outlet 24, 124, 224, 324. A diffusion chamber 12, 112, 212 is disposed between adjacent vortex chambers 16, 116, 216, 316, and the outlet 24, 124, 224, 324 of one and the inlet 22, 122, 222, 322 of the other of the adjacent vortex chambers 16, 116, 216, 316 open into the diffusion chamber 12, 112, 212.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: Hydro International plc
    Inventors: Robert Yaw Gyamfi Andoh, Jeremy Fink, Scott Bois, Kwabena Osei
  • Publication number: 20150136261
    Abstract: An apparatus for creating a swirling flow of fluid comprises a transmission base (1) with an internal cavity (2) to receive the fluid flow from outside via a side hole (3) which will become a hole side edge (4) to control the flow through of the fluid into the transmission base in a laminar swirling flow in the internal cavity of the transmission base. A part of the hole side edge may have an elevated insert supporting shoulder (10) to support the overlay attachment of another transmission base to stack them higher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Metha YOAVAPHANKUL
  • 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: 8905144
    Abstract: A flow control device can include a surface that defines a chamber and includes a side perimeter and opposing end surfaces, a greatest distance between the opposing end surfaces being smaller than a largest dimension of the opposing end surfaces, a first port through one of the end surfaces, and a second port through the surface and apart from the first port, the side perimeter surface being operable to direct flow from the second port to rotate about the first port. Another device can include a cylindroidal chamber for receiving flow through an inlet and directing the flow to an outlet, a greatest axial dimension of the cylindroidal chamber being smaller than a greatest diametric dimension of the cylindroidal chamber, the cylindroidal chamber promoting rotation of the flow based on a characteristic of the inflow through the inlet. The device can have a flow path structure in the cylindroidal chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • 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: 8887765
    Abstract: A fluid flow system is provided. The system includes a tank, a first manifold and a second manifold. The tank has a generally centralized portion and a sidewall. The tank extends from a lower portion to an upper portion to contain fluid therein. The first manifold is located adjacent the sidewall and has a first length extending from the lower portion to the upper portion. The first manifold defines at least in part a first opening extending along at least a portion of the first length permitting fluid flow therethrough. The first manifold is positioned to permit fluid to flow between the first manifold and the sidewall independent of the first opening. The second manifold is located about the centralized portion and has a second length extending from the lower portion to the upper portion. The second manifold defines a second opening extending along at least a portion of the second length permitting fluid flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: J. Mark Crump
  • Patent number: 8887745
    Abstract: An apparatus generates and/or maintains fluid flow synthesizing and maintaining an artificial tornado. The apparatus includes a generally cylindrical frame having two chambers coupled with two channels each of one half the entire length of the frame, and having reversed angular coordinates. Each chamber operates to generate and/or maintain a vortex and each channel operates to induce and/or reinforce the vortex along the length of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Robert Krause
  • Patent number: 8757667
    Abstract: A connector for a flow managing device in fluid communication with an outlet conduit is disclosed. The connector can comprise a receiving member, an engaging member, and an adapter. The receiving member can be secured to the adapter, which can be secured to a side wall of a basin near an outlet coupled to the outlet conduit. The adapter can comprise a curvature plate having a curvature that complements a curvature of the side wall. The adapter can further comprise an adapter bore through the curvature plate and an adapter conduit extending from the curvature plate and at least partially overlapping the adapter bore. The flow managing apparatus can be secured to the engaging member, which can be engaged with the receiving member. Fluid from the basin can flow through the flow managing device, the engaging member, the receiving member, and the adapter and into the outlet conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: IPEX Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Guillaume Hugo Marquis-Martin
  • Patent number: 8733400
    Abstract: The inlet device has a horn-shaped passage piece at a peripheral wall of a column that feeds a fluid tangentially into the column so that the fluid enters into a vortex flow that rotates around an axis adjacent to a central axis of the column. A middle zone and discharge zone of the passage piece are made in the manner of a diffuser and abut the peripheral wall to extends over less than one half of the wall. A discharge zone of the passage piece through which flow takes place presets a middle flow direction of the fluid which extends along the peripheral wall and is inclined against the main direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Felix Muggli, Pierre Schaeffer, Lorenzo Ghelfi
  • 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: 8678035
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use with a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least two inlets, and a flow resistance which varies depending on proportions of the fluid composition which flow into the chamber via the respective inlet flow paths, and an actuator which varies the proportions. The actuator may deflect the fluid composition toward one of the inlet flow paths. A method of variably controlling flow resistance in a well can include changing an orientation of a deflector relative to a passage through which a fluid composition flows, thereby influencing the fluid composition to flow toward one of multiple inlet flow paths of a flow chamber, the chamber having a flow resistance which varies depending on proportions of the fluid composition which flow into the chamber via the respective inlet flow paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8555924
    Abstract: A vortex flow control device is manufactured by forming a template unit having end walls of which the wall has an outlet opening, and a partial outer wall. The partial outer wall has an opening. A plate is subsequently secured to the template unit to partially close the opening, to leave an inlet. The size of the plate is selected so as to result in an inlet 30 sized to achieve required flow characteristics for the finished device. The plate his inclined to a planar portion on the opposite side of the inlet at an angle in the range 85° to 95°, so as to induce turbulence in the region of the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Hydro International plc
    Inventors: Michael G. Faram, Robert Yaw Gyamfi Andoh, Jeremy P. Lecornu, Keith G. Hutchings, Daniel S. Jarman
  • Patent number: 8534323
    Abstract: Valves comprise a valve body having a gallery coupled to an inlet and an outlet to facilitate a fluid flow therethrough. A plug is movably disposed within the valve body and a seat ring assembly may be coupled to the outlet of the valve body. At least one circular motion inducement feature is positioned in a portion of the valve body, the seat ring assembly, or both. The at least one circular inducement feature is configured to induce a circular motion in a fluid flow through the valve. Methods of creating a circular flow in a fluid flowing through a valve are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Flowserve Corporation
    Inventors: Bradford Haines, Gifford Decker
  • 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
  • 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: 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: 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: 8511714
    Abstract: A connector assembly for a flow restricting apparatus is disclosed. The flow restricting apparatus comprises an outlet configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet conduit. The connector assembly comprises a first member configured to be engaged with the flow restricting apparatus at least partially about the outlet. The first member comprises a first face, a second face, and a bore defined through the first member. The connector assembly comprises a second member comprising a first side, a second side, a bore defined through the second member, at least one projection extending outwardly from the first side of the second member, and sealing means for sealing positioned intermediate the first member and the second member. The at least one projection forms a receiving portion configured to receive a portion of the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Ipex Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Guillaume Hugo Marquis-Martin
  • 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: 8408243
    Abstract: A valve device includes: a valve member that controls flow of a fluid, and a body that has a valve insertion hole in which the valve member is inserted, and whose inner surface is cylindrically formed, and into which the fluid flows, and a lead-in passage that has an opening in the inner surface of the valve insertion hole, and that causes the fluid to flow into the valve insertion hole. A line representing the direction of extension of the lead-in passage is tilted from a line normal to the inner surface of the valve insertion hole at a position of the opening of the lead-in passage, in a view in the axis direction of the valve insertion hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroaki Suzuki, Takuya Suzuki, Munetoshi Kuroyanagi, Toshihiko Shima
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8376047
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Luke W. Holderman
  • Patent number: 8356668
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Luke W. Holderman
  • Publication number: 20120292018
    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 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8276669
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber having an outlet and at least one structure which resists a change in a direction of flow of a fluid composition toward the outlet. The fluid composition may enter the chamber in the direction of flow which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and a structure which impedes a change from circular flow about the outlet to radial flow toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • Patent number: 8261839
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows in a well, the chamber having an inlet and an outlet. The fluid composition enters via the inlet in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. A well system can include a variable flow resistance system through which a fluid composition flows between a tubular string and a formation, the flow resistance system including a flow chamber through which the fluid composition flows, with only one chamber inlet. The fluid composition flows more directly from the inlet to an outlet as a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition increases. Another flow resistance system can include at least one structure which influences portions of the fluid composition which flow circuitously between the inlet and the outlet to maintain such circuitous flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8017090
    Abstract: Phosphine gas is generated by agitating a reaction mixture of a metal phosphide and water with agitation air in a reaction pot of a phosphine gas generator. The resulting phosphine gas is then diluted with dilution air to produce a fumigant phosphine gas which is directly delivered to a commodity for fumigation. The reaction pot does not have any rotating means such as agitators, rotors, or stirrers. The generator provides on-site generation of phosphine gas in a rapid manner improving the fumigation efficiency for a commodity, such as grain, preferably contained within a storage structures, such as a grain silo. The generator has a built in deactivation system for the unused metal phosphide and phosphine gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: United Phosphorus Ltd.
    Inventors: Shroff Rajnikant Devidas, Pushpaksen P. Asher
  • Patent number: 7775456
    Abstract: A fluidic device, that operates on a pressurized liquid flowing through it to generate an oscillating spray having desired three-dimensional flow characteristics, includes a member that has fabricated within it at least two liquid flow channels that are configured in the form of a fluidic circuit having an inlet and an outlet and a centerline therebetween. These flow channels are further configured so that the straight line projections of their centerlines, that extend from their outlets, intersect at a prescribed intersection angle, ?, and the outlets are separated by a characteristic separation distance, “w.” We have found that the values of the intersection angle, ?, and separation distance, “w,” can be are chosen so as to yield the desired three-dimensional flow characteristics of the spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Bowles Fluidics Corporation
    Inventors: Shridhar Gopalan, Gregory Russell
  • Patent number: 7771667
    Abstract: A transfer method and system (8) to discharge overflow slurry from a polymerization reactor (10) to a tank (14). The method includes thermally isolating a conduit extension (28) at a distal end of a transfer line (20) from a quench fluid inlet (42) to a quench chamber (12). The transfer system (8) is characterized by an annular thermal barrier around the conduit extension (28) that can include insulation (34) and/or thermally resistant support ring (36), and a trap-free conduit (20) in fluid communication between the reactor (10) and the conduit extension (28). The transfer method and system can reduce or eliminate incidents of transfer line (20) plugging in the manufacture of isoolefin polymers and copolymers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Inc.
    Inventors: E. Baud Richard, F. McDonald Michael, T. Milner Scott, D. Shaffer Timothy, H. Schatz Ralph, N. Webb Robert, J. Wright Pamela, Courseaux Jean-Pierre
  • Patent number: 7712317
    Abstract: A flow control system comprises includes a fluidic control device having a main fluid path for a flow of fluid through the device, and a control fluid path for a control flow of fluid through the device. At least part of the control fluid path coincides with at least part of the main fluid path to control the flow of fluid out of the fluidic control device. A valve is associated with the control fluid path. The valve is movable between an open condition to allow fluid to flow along the control fluid path to effect the aforesaid control of the fluid flow out of the fluidic control device, and a closed condition to inhibit or prevent fluid flow along the control fluid path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLC
    Inventor: Timothy J. Scanlon
  • Patent number: 7650909
    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: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: SpiroFlo, Inc.
    Inventors: Darin L. Lane, Walter D. Prince, Alan Miller
  • Patent number: 7597115
    Abstract: A method and arrangement for reducing the evaporation of volatile organic compounds (VOC) or other gases during the filling of an essentially liquid petroleum product on a storage and/or transport tank (2) via a feed pipe (6), and where the petroleum product is led into the storage/transport tank via a loading column (8) having a significantly larger cross section than that of the feed pipe (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Knutsen OAS Shipping AS
    Inventor: Per Lothe
  • Patent number: 7556785
    Abstract: Phosphine gas is generated by agitating a reaction mixture of a metal phosphide and water with agitation air in a reaction pot of a phosphine gas generator. The resulting phosphine gas is then diluted with dilution air to produce a fumigant phosphine gas which is directly delivered to a commodity for fumigation. The reaction pot does not have any rotating means such as agitators, rotors, or stirrers. The generator provides on-site generation of phosphine gas in a rapid manner improving the fumigation efficiency for a commodity, such as grain, preferably contained within a storage structures, such as a grain silo. The generator has a built in deactivation system for the unused metal phosphide and phosphine gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: United Phosphorus, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shroff Rajnikant Devidas, Pushpaksen P. Asher
  • Publication number: 20090050801
    Abstract: Briefly described, embodiments of the present disclosure include: confining/focusing vortex flow transmission structures, mass spectrometry systems including a confining/focusing vortex flow transmission structure, methods of using the confining/focusing vortex flow transmission structure, methods of using mass spectrometry system, methods of transmitting droplets and ions, methods of evaporating droplets and desolvating ions, and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Andrei G. Fedorov
  • Patent number: 7478767
    Abstract: An apparatus for regulating fluid flow through a spray nozzle comprising a circular chamber (1) defined by spaced apart end walls, a peripheral side wall (3), a central axis, and a first inlet at or near the peripheral side wall (3) to allow a flow of fluid to enter said chamber (1) tangential to the peripheral side wall (3), and an outlet (4) exiting through one of the end walls. In use a flow of fluid entering through the first inlet has a primary lower layer (16) that follows a first circular flow path which forms a vortex commencing at the peripheral side wall (3) and increases in velocity and pressure towards the outlet and at least one secondary upper layer (17) that substantially follows a second flow path radially inwardly towards the central axis. The primary lower layer (16) and the secondary upper layer (17) interact and support each other over at least a portion of flow between the inlet and outlet (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Engineering Vortex Solutions Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jao Wu
  • Publication number: 20080245429
    Abstract: Summary An arrangement for a control valve (1) for controlling pressure and flow rate of a fluid, the fluid flowing via an inlet (16) into the control valve (1) being brought to rotate about a main flow axis (20) before the fluid, at least with reduced pressure or speed energy, flows via an outlet opening (12) from the control valve (1) and where at least one inlet port (14) communicating with the inlet (16) being provided tangentially in relation to an inlet portion (22) of the speed reduction chamber (6) located in the control valve (1), and where the speed reduction chamber (6), provided substantially concentric with the main flow axis (20), is divergent over at least the first portion of the main flow direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Trygve Husveg
  • Publication number: 20080194777
    Abstract: A transfer method and system (8) to discharge overflow slurry from a polymerization reactor (10) to a tank (14). The method includes thermally isolating a conduit extension (28) at a distal end of a transfer line (20) from a quench fluid inlet (42) to a quench chamber (12). The transfer system (8) is characterized by an annular thermal barrier around the conduit extension (28) that can include insulation (34) and/or thermally resistant support ring (36), and a trap-free conduit (20) in fluid communication between the reactor (10) and the conduit extension (28). The transfer method and system can reduce or eliminate incidents of transfer line (20) plugging in the manufacture of isoolefin polymers and copolymers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: E. Baud Richard, F. McDonald Michael, T. Milner Scott, D. Shaffer Timothy, H. Schatz Ralph, N. Webb Robert, J. Wright Pamela, Courseaux Jean-Pierre
  • Patent number: 7370669
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electromagnetic valve in which a force due to a working fluid from an inflow hole acting perpendicularly with respect to the axis of a shut-off valve is reduced to thereby reduce the sliding resistance of the shut-off valve. An electromagnetic valve according to the present invention includes: a housing (10) having an inflow hole (11), an inner flow path (12), and a discharge hole (13); a valve seat (15) secured in position inside the housing (10); a shut-off valve (16) adapted to abut one surface of the valve seat (15) to shut off the working fluid flowing into the inner flow path (12) through the inflow hole (11); and a pressure regulating valve (17) provided coaxially with the shut-off valve (16) and adapted to control, through adjustment of the dimensions of a gap between itself and the other surface of the valve seat (15), the amount of working fluid flowing to the exterior of the housing (10) through the discharge hole (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takuya Urya, Yuta Ichinose, Yoshihiko Onishi, Manabu Miyaki
  • Publication number: 20080023083
    Abstract: The inlet device has a horn-shaped passage piece at a peripheral wall of a column that feeds a fluid tangentially into the column so that the fluid enters into a vortex flow that rotates around an axis adjacent to a central axis of the column. A middle zone and discharge zone of the passage piece are made in the manner of a diffuser and abut the peripheral wall to extends over less than one half of the wall. A discharge zone of the passage piece through which flow takes place presets a middle flow direction of the fluid which extends along the peripheral wall and is inclined against the main direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventors: Felix Muggli, Pierre Schaeffer, Lorenzo Ghelfi
  • 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: 7011101
    Abstract: A valve system (10) controls the fluid flow between an inlet (12) and an outlet (14). The system (10) splits the flow into two parallel flow ducts (15, 16) and recombines the flows through opposed tangential inlets (18) and (19) of a fluidic vortex valve (20) which has an axial outlet (22). An adjustable valve (24) controls the flow through one of the parallel flow ducts (15), controlling the strength of the vortex generated within the vortex valve (20). Hence a small valve (24) can control and adjust the flows in both ducts (15 and 16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Accentus PLC
    Inventors: Michael Joseph Bowe, John William Stairmand, Richard Samuel Mills
  • 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