Electrolyte Property Sensing Means (e.g., Temperature, Concentration, Ph, Conductivity, Etc.) Patents (Class 204/228.6)
  • Patent number: 11623880
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for cleaning materials, such as flooring and upholstery. In some cases, the systems and methods use an electrolytic cell to electrolyze a solution comprising sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium acetate, sodium percarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, and/or any other suitable chemical to generate electrolyzed alkaline water and/or electrolyzed oxidizing water. In some cases, the cell comprises a recirculation loop that recirculates anolyte through an anode compartment of the cell. In some cases, the cell further comprises a senor and a processor, where the processor is configured to automatically change an operation of the cell, based on a reading from the sensor. In some cases, a fluid flows past a magnet before entering the cell. In some additional cases, fluid from the cell is conditioned by being split into multiple conduits that run in proximity to each other. Additional implementations are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: Z Intellectual Property Holding Company, LLC
    Inventors: Gaylord M. Karren, James K. Stone, John M. Hopkins, William R. Shupe
  • Patent number: 10815575
    Abstract: An electrochemical reduction device includes an electrode unit, a power control unit, an organic material storage tank, a concentration measurement unit, a water storage tank, a gas-water separation unit, and a control unit. The electrode unit includes an electrolyte membrane, a reduction electrode, and an oxygen evolving electrode. The control unit controls the power control unit so as to satisfy a relation of VHER?Vallow?VCA?VTRR when the potential at a reversible hydrogen electrode, the standard redox potential of the aromatic compound, and the potential of the reduction electrode are expressed as VHER, VTRR, and VCA, respectively. Vallow is adjusted according to the concentration of the aromatic compound measured by the concentration measurement unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: ENEOS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasushi Sato, Kota Miyoshi, Kojiro Nakagawa, Yoshihiro Kobori
  • Patent number: 10794260
    Abstract: A coolant pump for a vehicle may include an impeller mounted at one side of a shaft and pumping a coolant, a pulley mounted at the other side of the shaft and receiving a torque, a pump housing of which an outlet for the coolant to flow out therethrough is formed thereto, an inflow portion including a first inlet and a second inlet configured for receiving coolant, a slider of which a first closing portion selectively closing or opening the outlet and a second closing portion selectively closing or opening the second inlet are formed thereto, and the slider disposed slidable along longitudinal direction of the shaft and a driver moving the slider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Hyo Jo Lee, Woo Yeol Jung, Tae Man Chung
  • Patent number: 10662087
    Abstract: Contaminants are removed from untreated raw water or discharge water by applying direct current through an array of spaced, alternately charged electrodes positioned within and electrically isolated from a housing to eliminate or minimize clogging of the electrodes with precipitated contaminants. The housing is surrounded with container structure that cooperates with the housing to define an inlet chamber positioned between the source of untreated water and the housing containing the spaced array of electrodes. The container structure further includes an outlet chamber defined between the housing and the container structure for accumulating and draining water treated by the spaced electrode array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Inventor: David J. Rigby
  • Patent number: 10209214
    Abstract: A biosensor comprising an insulative substrate (1) and an electrode system arranged on the insulative substrate (1). The electrode system comprises thereon a reagent capable of reacting with a test sample. The electrode system comprises functional electrodes (2, 3, and 4) used for testing and assisted diffusion electrodes (12) used for controlling the diffusion of the reagent. The functional electrodes (2, 3, and 4) are arranged between the assisted diffusion electrodes (12). Because the assisted diffusion electrode (12) are capable of overcoming the effect of surface tension of the insulative base board, the reagent is allowed to diffuse smoothly and uniformly on the electrode system and to arrive at a predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: LEADWAY (HK) LIMITED
    Inventors: Ziyi Zhang, Huanxi Ge
  • Patent number: 10147985
    Abstract: An inner case affixes single cells and has multiple individual storage chambers. A fluid drive device draws a fluid after passing through the individual storage chambers to form a circulation flow. A beam supports the inner case from the lower side. The inner case has an inlet port into which the fluid flows and an outlet port through which the fluid flows out. A downstream chamber, which communicates with the outlet port, is formed in an interior of the inner case between the individual storage chambers that face each other at a distance. The downstream side chamber is connected to a lower wall side passage partitioned by the beams. The fluid flowing out from the outlet port to the downstream side chamber passes through the lower wall side passage and is drawn into an intake port of the fluid drive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORTATION
    Inventor: Yoshimitsu Inoue
  • Patent number: 10086098
    Abstract: Generally discussed herein are systems, apparatuses, and methods for decontamination and/or sanitization. A system may include a water inlet to provide water to a first conduit, an outlet to provide a fluid to an end user, a catholyte tank to provide catholyte to a second conduit, an anolyte tank to provide anolyte to a third conduit, and an adapter coupled to the first, second, and third conduits, the adapter including one or more fluid paths therethrough to the outlet, the adapter to selectively provide one or more of the water, the catholyte, and the anolyte as the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Qlean Tech IP, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Johnson
  • Patent number: 9831762
    Abstract: Described is a soft-start scheme for a voltage regulator. The apparatus comprises: a first voltage regulator to provide regulated voltage to an output node coupled to a load, the first voltage regulator operable to be in open loop via a bypass unit, the first voltage regulator including a comparator; and a second voltage regulator, coupled to the first voltage regulator, operable to be in closed loop, via the bypass unit, to provide a reference voltage for the comparator of the first voltage regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Raghu Nandan Chepuri, Fenardi Thenus, Peng Zou, Henry W. Koertzen
  • Patent number: 9637836
    Abstract: An electrochemical deposition system is described. The electrochemical deposition system includes one or more electrochemical deposition modules arranged on a common platform for depositing one or more metals on a substrate, and a chemical management system coupled to the one or more electrochemical deposition modules. The chemical management system is configured to supply at least one of the one or more electrochemical deposition modules with one or more metal constituents for depositing the one or more metals. The chemical management system can include at least one metal enrichment cell and at least one metal-concentrate generator cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: TEL NEXX, INC.
    Inventors: Demetrius Papapanayiotou, Arthur Keigler, Jonathan Hander, Johannes Chiu, David G. Guarnaccia, Daniel L. Goodman
  • Patent number: 9481941
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for methods for manufacturing a metallized or metallizable felt by percolation of at least one felt element by electrodeposition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignees: UNIVERSITE DE RENNES, CNRS-CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE
    Inventors: Didier Floner, Florence Geneste, Dominique Paris, Olivier Lavastre
  • Patent number: 9090980
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for a point-of-use electrochemical generation of hypochlorite on demand in a wide range of volumes and concentration. The system is provided with a processor which adjusts the electrolyte composition, the current density and the electrolysis time, commanding an alert system capable of warning in advance whenever the replacement of electrodes is needed. Automated detection of the insertion and the correct type of several collecting vessels can also be provided, triggering the set-up of electrolysis parameters accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: INDUSTRIE DE NORA S.P.A.
    Inventor: Mariachiara Benedetto
  • Publication number: 20150108008
    Abstract: A method is provided for fabricating a nanopore in a membrane. The method includes: applying an electric potential across the membrane, where value of the electric potential is selected to induce an electric field which causes a leakage current across the membrane; monitoring current flow across the membrane while the electric potential is being applied; detecting an abrupt increase in the leakage current across the membrane; and removing the electric potential across the membrane in response to detecting the abrupt increase in the leakage current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Wing Hei Kwok, Vincent Tabard-Cossa, Kyle Alexander Zarkel Briggs
  • Patent number: 8999173
    Abstract: An electrochlorination and electrochemical system for the on-site generation and treatment of municipal water supplies and other reservoirs of water, by using a custom mixed oxidant and mixed reductant generating system for the enhanced destruction of water borne contaminants by creating custom oxidation-reduction-reactant chemistries with real time monitoring. A range of chemical precursors are provided that when acted upon in an electrochemical cell either create an enhanced oxidation, or reduction environment for the destruction or control of contaminants. Chemical agents that can be used to control standard water quality parameters such as total hardness, total alkalinity, pH, total dissolved solids, and the like are introduced via the chemical precursor injection subsystem infrequently or in real time based on sensor inputs and controller set points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Global Water Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: David T. Schwartzel, Michael L. Fraim
  • Publication number: 20150068913
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for economically, reliably and efficiently controlling electrolytic processes by measuring the conductivity of the product of the electrolysis, and having the process terminate when a specified conductivity value is reached, that value corresponding to a desired pH and/or ORP value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Skyler Guest
  • Patent number: 8961747
    Abstract: In a method of stopping an operation of a water electrolysis system, an on-off valve disposed in a pressure release line communicating with a cathode side of an electrolytic membrane is opened while an electrolytic current is applied between power feeders to electrolyze water for generating oxygen on an anode side of the electrolytic membrane and high pressure hydrogen having a higher pressure than a pressure of the oxygen on the cathode side. A value of the electrolytic current is reduced in a predetermined cycle or continuously. One of a specific resistance and conductivity of water to be supplied to the high pressure hydrogen producing apparatus is detected. The value of the electrolytic current is increased if the specific resistance is equal to or lower than a first predetermined value, or if the conductivity is equal to or higher than a second predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Daisuke Kurashina, Nobuyuki Kawasaki, Hiroyuki Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 8940158
    Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for chlorine generation and distribution for the treatment of a pool, spa, body of water, or other water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: ChlorKing, Inc.
    Inventors: David Von Broembsen, Chris Warwick, Michael Podolak
  • Patent number: 8940138
    Abstract: The present biosensor system prevents a measurement error caused by the temperature of the environment in use. A biosensor system 100 includes a measuring instrument 101 having an operation part 306, and a sensor chip 200 insertable into and removable from the measuring instrument 101 and which accepts a blood sample. The sensor chip 200 includes a measurement part 41 that acquires Data a related to the concentration of an analyte in a blood sample based on the amount of electric current that flows in the sample due to a reaction in which an oxidoreductase with the analyte used as a substrate is involved, and a measurement part 42 that acquires, from the sample, Data b for temperature correction of Data a. The operation part 306 determines the concentration of the analyte in the sample, corrected according to the temperature of the sample based on Data a and Data b.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaki Fujiwara
  • Publication number: 20150008136
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method of separating and recovering metals whereby a mixture containing at least a first metal and a second metal, the second metal having a higher standard electrode potential than that of the first metal, is connected to an anode in a molten salt, and the first metal and the second metal are precipitated on a cathode in the molten salt by electrolysis, the method of separating and recovering metals comprising: a detection step of detecting a concentration change in each of a first metal ion and a second metal ion in the molten salt by a concentration change detection unit; a first electrolysis step of electrolyzing the first metal; a first recovery step of recovering a precipitated substance according to a detection in which a concentration decrease of the first metal ion, which is predefined in the concentration change detection unit, is detected in the detection step; a second electrolysis step of electrolyzing the second metal; and a second recovery step of recovering a pre
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Yuya TAKAHASHI, Hitoshi Nakamura, Shohei Kanamura, Akira Yamada, Koji Mizuguchi, Takashi Oomori
  • Publication number: 20140353167
    Abstract: There are provided an apparatus for water treatment using capacitive deionization and a method for controlling the same. The apparatus for water treatment using capacitive deionization includes a first filter unit and a second filter unit allowing dissolved solids included in an introduced fluid to be adsorbed on electrodes to generate purified water when a water purification voltage is applied to the electrodes, and allowing the dissolved solids adsorbed on the electrodes to be desorbed to generate regenerated water when a regeneration voltage is applied to the electrodes, respectively, and a controller iteratively alternatively applying the water purification voltage and the regeneration voltage to the first filter unit and the second filter unit to generate purified water having a pre-set target total dissolved solids (TDS) value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: COWAY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Young-Gun Cho
  • Patent number: 8858765
    Abstract: An improved device and method for the creation of acidic electrolyzed water is described. The device has an flow-through anode chamber and a static cathode chamber. The static cathode chamber contains a fixed amount of salt-containing electrolyte, which is renewed as needed. The flow rate of water through the anode is restricted to a range of about 5 to 40 ml per ampere of current passed through the electrode. Electrolyzed water flowing from the anode is diluted to obtain the desired concentration of hypochlorous acid, and is collected in a tank or other vessel. The electrolysis reaction is terminated when a preset amount of current has passed through the anode. Water circulation may be one pass or recycling. In a preferred embodiment, the membrane is anion-selective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Yoichi Sano, Barry R. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20140124377
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for electrolyzing a source liquid in an electrolytic device. The electrolytic device includes a first cathode in a cathode chamber; and an anode and a second, auxiliary cathode in an anode chamber. The anode chamber and cathode chamber are separated by a barrier, and the anode and the auxiliary cathode are separated by a gap that lacks a barrier. While electrolyzing the source liquid with the electrolytic device, a level of current applied to the auxiliary cathode is adjusted in response to pH of an anolyte liquid produced from the source liquid by the anode chamber to maintain the pH within a desired range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventor: Daniel L. Joynt
  • Publication number: 20140061035
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system and a method of plating metal alloys, as well as to the structures thus obtained. The system for plating metal alloys comprises an electrolytic cell containing an electrolytic solution (3) in which an anode (4,4a,4b), a cathode (5), and a plurality of metal components to be plated onto the cathode are immersed, the anode (4,4a,4b) and the cathode (5) being electrically connected to means (6) adapted to apply a potential difference between said anode (4,4a,4b) and said cathode (5). The invention is characterized in that the means (6) adapted to apply a potential difference between said cathode (5) and said anode (4,4a,4b) impose a potential difference value that changes over time according to a predefined law.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: CREATE NEW TECHNOLOGY S.R.L.
    Inventor: LORENZO BATTISTI
  • Publication number: 20140048067
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an electrolysis apparatus that includes an anode electrically connectable to a direct current electrical source. The apparatus also includes a cathode comprising a proximal segment and a distal segment. The proximal segment is electrically connectable to the direct current electrical source. Further, the apparatus includes a hydrogen collector receptacle that limits generation and collection of hydrogen at the cathode to a specified amount. The hydrogen collector receptacle encompasses a portion of the cathode. Also, the apparatus includes a delivery device that receives hydrogen from and is connected to the hydrogen collector receptacle. According to one embodiment, the hydrogen gas generated in the electrolysis apparatus and collected in the collector receptacle is less than about 4.5% of a user's breath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: Hydro Healer, LLC.
    Inventors: Bruce J McGill, Stephen Doughty, Tim Nieman
  • Publication number: 20140038074
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus of reacting reaction components. The method comprises electro-chemically reacting reaction components on opposite sides of at least one membrane with at least one catalyst encompassing a respective volume. In another embodiment, the method includes conducting electrolysis, such as electrolysis of water. The apparatus includes at least one membrane with first and second sides encompassing a respective volume. The apparatus further includes at least one catalyst coupled to the first and second sides to electro-chemically react reaction components on the first and second sides in gaseous communication with the at least one catalyst, and a cover coupled to the at least one membrane to separate flow paths on the first and second sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Encite, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen A. Marsh
  • Publication number: 20140001053
    Abstract: A system and method for generating hypochlorous acid, the system comprising an electrolysis cell, a first fluid line configured to direct a first salt solution to a cathode chamber of the electrolysis cell, and a second fluid line configured to direct a second salt solution to an anode chamber of the electrolysis cell, where the second salt solution has a greater salt concentration than the first salt solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel P. Longhenry, Daniel L. Joynt
  • Patent number: 8585875
    Abstract: A system for electroplating a substrate includes one or more controllers, with each controller having an FPGA with one or more output channels. A bulk power supply is connected to each controller. One or more transistors are associated with each output channel. An electroplating chamber has one or more electrodes, with each electrode connected to at least one output channel. The system may include a waveform capture and viewing circuit providing built-in process verification and diagnostic tools. The system may also have a throttle back mode which attempts to maintain proper anode current ratios by reducing setpoints of all anodes by the same percentage, if a fault condition causes a reduction in current to one of the anodes. Blackbox logging may also optionally be used for recording selected data values into a circular buffer having a selected amount of memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Cummings, Mikael R. Borjesson
  • Patent number: 8562796
    Abstract: Control systems for use of electrolysis solutions for automated recirculating or single-pass cleaning systems, such as clean-in-place (CIP) applications are disclosed. Control systems and methods for using automated chlorine output solutions for various cleaning applications are measurable over broad pH ranges. The control systems generate consistent and predictable electrolytic solutions and include a measurement system that identifies chlorine oxyanion concentration across broad ranges of pH, overcoming the sensitivity of chlorine monitors to pH and permitting use of the control systems to control cleaning systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Brandon Herdt, Robert Ryther
  • Publication number: 20130264195
    Abstract: A pumpless, fanless electrolyte-circulation system comprises an electrolyzer core that generates hydrogen and oxygen gases and includes a water electrolyzer having a plurality of electrolytic serial clusters connected substantially in parallel with each other and assembled into respective sealed reaction cells. Each of the electrolytic serial clusters includes a plurality of electrolytic cells. An electrolyte container includes a plurality of electrolytes in form of a concentration and is substantially separated from and connected to the electrolyzer core with a supply tube and return tube. A frame is substantially resistant to the concentration and separates a plurality of electrodes. Releasing of the gases brings the electrolytes in the electrolyzer core out of the electrolyzer core through the supply tube into the electrolyte container. The return tube allows each of the electrolytes to enter the electrolyzer core such that the electrolyte is forced to circulate by a releasing force of the gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Qiang Zhou, Yong Zhou, Yu He, Jason Loftus, Jonathan Zhou, Shaojiu Wang
  • Publication number: 20130220375
    Abstract: The invention proposes a pH monitoring device 10 comprising a chamber 107 for containing a solution; a polymer 105 being immersed in the solution, wherein the physical state of the polymer is changeable in dependence on whether the pH of the solution exceeds a threshold value; and a detector 109 for detecting the change of the physical state of the polymer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Jun Shi, Weiran Wang
  • Publication number: 20130193001
    Abstract: A cleaning system comprising a liquid source configured to provide a feed liquid, an electrolysis cell configured to receive the feed liquid and to electrochemically activate the feed liquid to provide an electrochemically-activated liquid, where the electrochemical activation also heats the feed liquid such that the electrochemically-activated liquid is heated, and a dispenser configured to dispense the electrochemically-activated liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventor: Tennant Company
  • Publication number: 20130175210
    Abstract: An odor treatment device for septic tanks, including an electrolytic oxidation module that has one or multiple electrode sets and processes odor precursors or organic matters that cause odor from organic wastewater and excretion flow inside by an electrolytic oxidation reaction; a supply line through which the excretion is supplied from a septic tank to the electrolytic oxidation module; a circulation line through which the organic wastewater and excretion with the odor precursors and organic matters processed by the electrolytic oxidation module are circulated back to the septic tank; a circulation pump that is disposed in the supply line and continuously circulates the organic wastewater and excretion; a direct current power supply unit that supplies direct current to the electrode sets of the electrolytic oxidation module; and a pump power supply unit that supplies power to the circulation pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicants: EXEN ENVIRONMENTAL INC., Industry-Academia Cooperation Group Of Sejong University
    Inventors: Industry-Academia Cooperation Group Of Sejong, EXEN ENVIRONMENTAL INC.
  • Patent number: 8449732
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for automatically producing nano-gold or silver ionized water having a simplified structure. Therefore, the apparatus can be easily fabricated with low cost. Since the ionized water is continuously produced using a waterway through which raw water flows, differently from the conventional techniques in which the raw water stays in a reservoir, it is possible to solve problems such as settlement of ionized water, and thus it is possible to produce nano-gold/silver ionized water having a desired concentration of gold/silver ions within a short period of time. As a result, the antibacterial and sterilizing activity which is an intrinsic property of the nano-gold/silver ions is improved, and the thus produced ionized water having strong detergency can be used as antibacterial and sterilizing water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Moon Sik Choi
  • Publication number: 20130126337
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in the electro-production of metals, comprising a plurality of anodes and a plurality of cathodes in an interleaved configuration, wherein each anode and cathode pair forms a cell; a plurality of power supplies, each cell associated with one or more respective power supplies; and the power supplies are arranged to control a direct current in the one or more cells to a predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Duncan Grant
  • Patent number: 8436621
    Abstract: A pH measurement system using a glass pH sensor includes a power supply applying a voltage to the glass pH sensor through a resistor; a detector detecting the output voltage of the glass pH sensor; and a calculator calculating the pH of a solution based on the detected output voltage. The resistor provides a resistance of at least ten times less than the equivalent internal resistance of the glass pH sensor. The pH measurement system can improve the response rate by reducing the time constant depending on the dynamic characteristics of the glass pH sensor, and it is possible to diagnose whether the pH measurement system is defective or not by calculating the equivalent internal resistance and the supply voltage of the glass pH sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Kyungpook National University Industry-Academic Corporation Foundation
    Inventors: Jie Tae Lee, Dae Ryook Yang, Seung Jae Lee, Su Whan Sung
  • Patent number: 8425756
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing electrolyzed water includes an electrochemical cell and a solution reservoir containing a solution and having an outlet. An injection pump has an input end in fluid communication with the outlet of the solution reservoir and an output end in fluid communication with the electrochemical cell, wherein the injection pumps an amount of the solution from the solution reservoir to mix with a water solution and enter the electrochemical cell. A current feedback sensor senses a cell current in the electrochemical cell. A current control unit in data communication with the current feedback sensor and the injection pump wherein the current control unit compares the cell current with a preselected current and adjusts the amount of solution pumped from the injection pump responsive to the comparison. The apparatus may also include an automatic control feedback system to monitor and adjust pH.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Electric Aquagenics Unlimited
    Inventor: Douglas Wayne Kindred
  • Publication number: 20130092615
    Abstract: A micro-current electrolysis-sterilization-algaecide device includes the solution conductivity detector installed in the inlet pipe of the tank, at least a group of electrodes set in the tank in accordance with the order of anode, auxiliary electrode, and cathode, and the controller, which judges the conductance values, controls the electrode polarity and the circuit connections. Said controller includes judging unit to determine the conductance values of water, and according to the results to trigger the corresponding seawater electrolysis-model unit, the fresh water electrolysis-model unit, or the pole-reversing electrolysis-model unit. The device can be used to the seawater and fresh water sterilization algaecide, with good bactericidal algaecide effect, automatic scaling, and a wide range of applications. By adding ultrasonic generator, the device can destroy a variety of bacteria and algae cells. Said device has a simple structure and a wide range of use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: QINGDAO HEADWAY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: QINGDAO HEADWAY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130092558
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing electrolytic reduced water, the apparatus including a water purifying unit configured to generate purified water by filtering water, an electrolytic reduced water generating unit comprising a first electrode and a second electrode, which have different polarities, configured to receive the purified water through a first pipe connected to the water purifying unit and configured to generate reduced water containing dissolved hydrogen gas by performing electrolysis on the purified water through the first electrode and the second electrode. a control unit configured to determine a point of time for switching polarities of the first electrode and the second electrode based on the detected water quality and to control an operation of the power supply unit such that the polarities of the first electrode and the second electrode are switched if it is determined that the point of time is reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130087449
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for a point-of-use electrochemical generation of hypochlorite on demand in a wide range of volumes and concentration. The system is provided with a processor which adjusts the electrolyte composition, the current density and the electrolysis time, commanding an alert system capable of warning in advance whenever the replacement of electrodes is needed. Automated detection of the insertion and the correct type of several collecting vessels can also be provided, triggering the set-up of electrolysis parameters accordingly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: Industrie De Nora S.p.A.
    Inventor: Mariachiara Benedetto
  • Patent number: 8409409
    Abstract: System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same are disclosed. The system includes a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus, wherein the selectively positionable is configured to move the analytical apparatus into and out of physical communication with a bath. The system may also include a crust breaker for breaking the surface of a bath and an electronic device for measuring bath level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Xiangwen Wang, Robert Hosler, Gary Tarcy
  • Publication number: 20130062215
    Abstract: In a method of stopping an operation of a water electrolysis system, an on-off valve disposed in a pressure release line communicating with a cathode side of an electrolytic membrane is opened while an electrolytic current is applied between power feeders to electrolyze water for generating oxygen on an anode side of the electrolytic membrane and high pressure hydrogen having a higher pressure than a pressure of the oxygen on the cathode side. A value of the electrolytic current is reduced in a predetermined cycle or continuously. One of a specific resistance and conductivity of water to be supplied to the high pressure hydrogen producing apparatus is detected. The value of the electrolytic current is increased if the specific resistance is equal to or lower than a first predetermined value, or if the conductivity is equal to or higher than a second predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke KURASHINA, Nobuyuki KAWASAKI, Hiroyuki ISHIKAWA
  • Publication number: 20130062196
    Abstract: The apparatus capable of producing ionized water may have a simplified structure to prevent water from being lost and also prevent an electrode and ion diaphragm from being damaged. The apparatus may selectively supply alkaline water and acidic water. The apparatus includes an ionization electrolytic cell configured to contact the raw water only with one electrode disposed on one or more inner walls of the ionization electrolytic cell to contact the raw water only with either of the anode and cathode, an ionization water controller controlling the ionization electrode according to the discharge of the ionized water, and a switch applying a signal from a user to the ionization water controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: IONFARMS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jong-Ho Sin
  • Patent number: 8388817
    Abstract: Fluid treatment devices are disclosed. The fluid treatment devices may include a first electrode and a second electrode and a control device which provides an alternating potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Eric John Kruger
  • Publication number: 20130048507
    Abstract: A water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen production unit for electrolyzing water to generate oxygen and high-pressure hydrogen (the pressure of the high-pressure hydrogen being higher than that of the oxygen), and a gas-liquid separation unit for removing water contained in the high-pressure hydrogen. The gas-liquid separation unit is placed on a hydrogen pipe for discharging the high-pressure hydrogen from the high-pressure hydrogen production unit. In addition, the water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe for transferring dewatered high-pressure hydrogen from the gas-liquid separation unit, a cooling unit, which is placed on the high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe and is capable of variably controlling the temperature of the high-pressure hydrogen to adjust the humidity of the high-pressure hydrogen, and a control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke KURASHINA, Koji NAKAZAWA, Hisashi NAGAOKA, Hiroyuki ISHIKAWA, Yuji YAMAKAWA, Jun TAKEUCHI
  • Patent number: 8323474
    Abstract: Provided is an electro-chemical water treatment apparatus and method for removing total nitrogen ingredients of ammonia nitrogen, nitrous acid nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen etc., organic materials of BOD and COD induction ingredients, and cyanogen included in wastewater and dirty water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventors: Chi-Jung Jeon, Jong-Sung Kim, Kwang-Su Kim, Sang-Ki Hong
  • Patent number: 8323462
    Abstract: A device for adjustment of the pH of a target liquid includes a working electrode (10), an electrolyte chamber (16) which holds an electrolyte (14), a counter electrode (12) in electrical contact with the electrolyte, a junction (18) which spaces the electrolyte from a target liquid (20) when the working electrode is in contact therewith, and a source of current (22), for supplying current to the working electrode for electrolysis of water at the working electrode, whereby the pH of the target solution is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Miklos Gratzl, Gautam Nithyanand Shetty
  • Patent number: 8307484
    Abstract: An automated self-propelled pool cleaner having a housing, a water pump for moving water through the housing, drive means for moving the pool cleaner over the surface of the salt water pool to be cleaned, and an integral electrochemical chlorine generator mounted in the housing, includes a processor/controller that is programmed to activate the chlorine generator, the pump and drive means in predetermined operational sequences that minimize wear and tear on the water pump and drive means, while at the same time distribute and maintain a safe level of sanitizing chlorine in the pool, to thereby obviate the need for an in-line chlorinator or other chemical additive treatments; an optional automated sensor device can be provided to activate a secondary maintenance program which enables the pool cleaner to operate over prolonged periods of time as the sole means for filtering and sanitizing the pool water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Aqua Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Porat
  • Patent number: 8298391
    Abstract: An amperometric sensor includes a first electrode, a second electrode and a reference electrode. The sensor further includes a switch to selectably electrically connect the first electrode as a working electrode and to electrically connecting the second electrode as an auxiliary electrode during a first time interval. During a second time interval, the switch electrically connects the first electrode as the auxiliary electrode and electrically connects the second electrode as the working electrode. The switching of the two electrodes is repeated continuously as amperometric measurements are performed. Preferably, the sensor includes an ultrasonic transducer proximate the working electrode and the auxiliary electrode to clean the electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Michael A. Silveri
  • Patent number: 8274293
    Abstract: A sensor for measuring the pH of a solution of the present invention includes: (a) a tubular body portion constructed from a flexible electrically-insulating material, the tubular body portion having an interior passage; (b) a first reverse osmosis membrane disposed in the interior passage; (c) a second reverse osmosis membrane disposed in the interior passage; (d) a proton conducting membrane disposed between the first reverse osmosis membrane and the second reverse osmosis membrane in the interior passage; (e) a first electrode; and (f) a second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: The Ohio State University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Sudhir K. Sastry, Chaminda P. Samaranayake
  • Patent number: 8262870
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for removing coatings from metal components, such as metal components used in aircraft and other aerospace vehicles and the oil industry, as well as aqueous bath compositions. The metal component may be DC coupled with a counter electrode and immersed in an aqueous bath that includes an active oxygen source and a ligand in a composition effective to remove the coating. The aqueous bath may include hydrogen peroxide as the active oxygen source and may be maintained in a specific pH range if the temperature of the aqueous bath is controlled. In an alternative embodiment, the composition of the aqueous bath may include a non-peroxide active oxygen source, such as sodium perborate, and be maintained in a different specific pH range. An oxygen sensor may be provided to periodically monitor the concentration of active oxygen in the aqueous bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Aeromet Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Fairbourn, Max Sorenson
  • Patent number: 8226813
    Abstract: A method of purifying cooling water which requires the lowest maintenance and management cost without the need for a cumbersome cleaning operation for removing scale in an electrolytic purifying vessel by taking out the electrodes from the electrolytic purifying vessel, and an apparatus therefor are provided. In the method of purifying circulating cooling water by applying a DC voltage across opposing electrodes while flowing water to be treated therebetween, so that ions in the water are electrolytically precipitated on the surfaces of electrodes on the negative pole side, thereby purifying the water to be treated, the electrodes comprise titanium and have an oxide film preformed by heating having a thickness of 5 nm to 130 nm thereon, and electric current is flown between the electrodes in an amount large enough to apply a voltage capable of dielectrically breaking down the oxide film on the surfaces of electrodes on the positive pole side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Koganei Corporation
    Inventor: Takayuki Nakano