Biological (e.g., Sterilizing, Etc.) Patents (Class 205/701)
  • Patent number: 11891614
    Abstract: Methods for developing engineered T-cells for immunotherapy that are both non-alloreactive and resistant to immunosuppressive drugs. The present invention relates to methods for modifying T-cells by inactivating both genes encoding target for an immunosuppressive agent and T-cell receptor, in particular genes encoding CD52 and TCR. This method involves the use of specific rare cutting endonucleases, in particular TALE-nucleases (TAL effector endonuclease) and polynucleotides encoding such polypeptides, to precisely target a selection of key genes in T-cells, which are available from donors or from culture of primary cells. The invention opens the way to standard and affordable adoptive immunotherapy strategies for treating cancer and viral infections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: CELLECTIS
    Inventors: Roman Galetto, Agnes Gouble, Stephanie Grosse, Cecile Mannioui, Laurent Poirot, Andrew Scharenberg, Julianne Smith
  • Patent number: 11603596
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell, including a plurality of electrodes arranged to define a plurality of channels between adjacent electrodes is disclosed. Each channel is in fluid communication adjacent a first end with a first adjacent channel and is in fluid communication adjacent to a second end with a second adjacent channel. The electrolytic cell may be optimized for high concentration output of hypochlorite. The electrolytic cell may be used in conjunction with a plurality of cells operated collectively to provide operational efficiencies as compared to traditional hypochlorite generators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Electrichlor, LLC
    Inventors: Kent Douglas Henry, Malcolm Barrie Bentley
  • Patent number: 11267727
    Abstract: A water sterilization device includes: (1) a conduit; (2) a first porous electrode housed in the conduit; (3) a second porous electrode housed in the conduit and disposed adjacent to the first porous electrode; and (4) an electrical source coupled to the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode to apply a voltage difference between the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode. The conduit is configured to provide passage of a fluid stream through the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode, and an inactivation efficiency of pathogens in the fluid stream is at least about 99%, such as at least about 99.9% or at least about 99.95%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: THE BD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LELAND STANFORD JR UNIV
    Inventors: Yi Cui, Chong Liu, Sangmoo Jeong, Alexandria Boehm
  • Patent number: 11253044
    Abstract: The Pro Sponge Rejuvenator is sponge cleaner for cleaning a plurality of used sponges, comprising: a liquid-tight container in which stems which extend from a platform toward a bottom of the container are oscillate-able to rub the sponges against the bottom by an oscillation means connected to the platform and supported by the bottom. The Pro Sponge Rejuvenator cleans sponges using a cleaning solution that is filtered with every sponge cleaning oscillation up/down stroke of the apparatus through the use of one-way flow valves under the sponges and a central tube with filter media. The Pro Sponge Rejuvenator is ideal for cleaning sponges and especially cosmetics makeup sponges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Inventor: Asia Royal Tubbs
  • Patent number: 11180381
    Abstract: A water treatment device, preferably a device used for treating waters intended for a domestic and/or industrial use, includes a filtration apparatus and an ionization apparatus accommodated together in a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Inventor: Walter Villa
  • Patent number: 11161114
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a pH control device. The device comprises a substrate, on which is defined a flow path adapted to receive a liquid. The device further comprises a set of electrodes, which includes a pH sensing electrode and pH generation electrodes. The electrodes are arranged along the flow path. The pH sensing electrode is arranged so as to be subjected to a change in pH of a portion of the liquid on the flow path, as caused by the pH generation electrodes. In addition, the device includes a controller, which is configured to apply a voltage across the pH generation electrodes, based on a signal obtained via the pH sensing electrode and a reference electrode. This enables local control a pH of the liquid portion. The device may further be embodied as a sensor, additionally comprising a detection electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Neil Ebejer, Patrick Ruch
  • Patent number: 11161115
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a pH control device. The device comprises a substrate, on which is defined a flow path adapted to receive a liquid. The device further comprises a set of electrodes, which includes a pH sensing electrode and pH generation electrodes. The electrodes are arranged along the flow path. The pH sensing electrode is arranged so as to be subjected to a change in pH of a portion of the liquid on the flow path, as caused by the pH generation electrodes. In addition, the device includes a controller, which is configured to apply a voltage across the pH generation electrodes, based on a signal obtained via the pH sensing electrode and a reference electrode. This enables local control a pH of the liquid portion. The device may further be embodied as a sensor, additionally comprising a detection electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Neil Ebejer, Patrick Ruch
  • Patent number: 10974975
    Abstract: An electrolytic zinc dosing device that regulates the amount of zinc delivered or dosed into a flowing stream of water as a function, in part, of the current applied to an electrolytic cell and the flow rate of the flowing water. A replaceable electrolytic cell having an anode and a cathode connected to a power supply, and at least one bipolar electrode in aqueous solution between the anode and cathode. Flow rate information and/or total current information are used to determine the dosing quantity of zinc delivered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Ecowater Systems LLC
    Inventors: Robert Astle, George Dimotsis
  • Patent number: 10961133
    Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate to use of a reverse diffusion system for removal of dissolved ions from a fluid, for example, salt ions. Specific embodiments include a system for desalinating salt water to produce potable water. The systems and methods can include pulsing low levels of electricity via electrodes in a scrolling pattern, so as to sweep the ions across a unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Signal One International IP, LLC
    Inventors: James Albert Coates, Charles R. Coates
  • Patent number: 10784092
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sputter depositing an insulation layer onto a surface of a cavity formed in a substrate and having a high aspect ratio is provided. A target formed at least in part from a material to be included in the insulation layer and the substrate are provided in a substantially enclosed chamber defined by a housing. A plasma is ignited within the substantially enclosed chamber and a magnetic field is provided adjacent to a surface of the target to at least partially contain the plasma adjacent to the surface of the target. A voltage is rapidly increased to repeatedly establish high-power electric pulses between a cathode and an anode. An average power of the electric pulses is at least 0.1 kW, and can optionally be much greater. An operational parameter of the sputter deposition is controlled to promote sputter depositing of the insulation layer in a transition mode between a metallic mode and a reactive mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: EVATEC AG
    Inventors: Juergen Weichart, Stanislav Kadlec, Mohamed Elghazzali
  • Patent number: 10683578
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for producing electrolyzed water. In exemplary embodiments, a fluid container capable of storing a brine solution therein is used. An electrolytic cell is disposed within the fluid container and in communication with the brine solution. A power source is in electrical communication with the electrolytic cell, a pump is disposed in the fluid container; as is a chlorometer. A fluid container head is in removable mechanical communication with the fluid container, the fluid container head including a nozzle in fluid communication with the pump, a trigger in electrical communication with the pump, and a power switch in communication with the power source. A controller is in communication with the chlorometer and the electrolytic cell, the controller operating the electrolytic cell to convert the brine solution to a cleaning solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: EcoLogic Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Anselm Karl Doering, Joshua George Knight, Edward Amoako
  • Patent number: 10683217
    Abstract: The systems and methods described herein relate to use of a reverse diffusion system for removal of dissolved ions from a fluid, for example, salt ions. Specific embodiments include a system for desalinating salt water to produce potable water. The systems and methods can include pulsing low levels of electricity via electrodes in a scrolling pattern, so as to sweep the ions across a unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: Signal One International IP, LLC
    Inventors: James Albert Coates, Charles R. Coates
  • Patent number: 10532356
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a pH control device. The device comprises a substrate, on which is defined a flow path adapted to receive a liquid. The device further comprises a set of electrodes, which includes a pH sensing electrode and pH generation electrodes. The electrodes are arranged along the flow path. The pH sensing electrode is arranged so as to be subjected to a change in pH of a portion of the liquid on the flow path, as caused by the pH generation electrodes. In addition, the device includes a controller, which is configured to apply a voltage across the pH generation electrodes, based on a signal obtained via the pH sensing electrode and a reference electrode. This enables local control a pH of the liquid portion. The device may further be embodied as a sensor, additionally comprising a detection electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Neil Ebejer, Patrick Ruch
  • Patent number: 10421956
    Abstract: In accordance with the present disclosure, exposure of a sample to one or more electric pulses via capacitive coupling is described. In certain embodiments, the sample may be a biological sample to be treated or modified using the pulsed electric fields. In certain embodiments, the electric pulses may be delivered to a load using capacitive coupling. In other embodiments, the electric pulses may be bipolar pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Antonio Caiafa, Vasile Bogdan Neculaes, Allen Lawrence Garner, Andrew Soliz Torres
  • Patent number: 10414675
    Abstract: Process for capturing and cleaning up pollutants by the formation of cement or concrete by electrolysis, the creation of a rocky conglomerate, assembly of sediments linked together by a calcium-magnesium deposit acting as binder. This process is thus applicable to the decontamination of ports, by enabling the capture of pollutants and by containing them in a sediment matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: GEOCORAIL
    Inventors: Brahim Benaissa, Nicolas Verjat, Marc Lansard
  • Patent number: 10329551
    Abstract: In accordance with the present disclosure, exposure of a sample to one or more electric pulses via capacitive coupling is described. In certain embodiments, the sample may be a biological sample to be treated or modified using the pulsed electric fields. In certain embodiments, the electric pulses may be delivered to a load using capacitive coupling. In other embodiments, the electric pulses may be bipolar pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Antonio Caiafa, Vasile Bogdan Neculaes, Allen Lawrence Garner, Andrew Soliz Torres
  • Patent number: 10287189
    Abstract: Electrocoagulation (EC) reactors having pellet flow circuits are disclosed. In one embodiment, the EC reactor includes a reactor vessel having a first inlet and an outlet through which a contaminated feed stream is received and discharged, respectively. An EC reaction chamber is located within the reactor vessel, fluidly coupled between the first inlet and the outlet, and configured to be loaded with consumable EC pellets. The EC reactor further includes an EC pellet flow circuit around which the consumable EC pellets circulate as the contaminated feed stream flows through the EC reaction chamber. First and second electrodes are coupled to the reactor vessel and positioned to generate an electrical field. The consumable EC pellets are exposed to (e.g., pass through or circulate within) the electrical field to induce coagulation of contaminants within the contaminated feed stream as the feed stream flows through the EC reaction chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: CARDEN Water Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Marc Tedhams
  • Patent number: 10082477
    Abstract: The present invention is one that makes it possible to continuously measure the resistivity of a liquid sample with accuracy as well as preventing the deterioration of the liquid sample associated with measurement, such as change in quality, and relates to a resistivity-measuring circuit C that measures the resistivity in order to sense the deterioration of the liquid sample. The resistivity-measuring circuit C is one that calculates the resistivity of the liquid sample by detecting voltage generated between an outer electrode and an inner electrode, and between the outer electrode and the inner electrode, applies square wave AC voltage having an amplitude of 1 V to 42 V and a frequency of 0.5 Hz to 30 Hz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: HORIBA ADVANCED TECHNO, CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Riichiro Suzuki, Tsunetoshi Sugawara, Tadashi Oshio
  • Patent number: 9962404
    Abstract: Described herein are systems, apparatus, and methods for electrolyzing liquids to create beneficial compositions, such as life enhancing compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Reoxcyn Innovation Group, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Robinson, James Pack
  • Patent number: 9895189
    Abstract: A method for treating an infection using irreversible electroporation is presented. The method includes providing an ablation device that has at least one electrode and inserting the ablation device into a target tissue of a patient. The tissue at least partially surrounds the implanted medical device. The outer surface of the medical device is at least partially covered by infectious cells. The method also involves positioning at least one electrode in or near the implanted medical device and delivering electrical pulses to or near the implanted medical device sufficient to irreversibly electroporate the infectious cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: AngioDynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Pearson
  • Patent number: 9839708
    Abstract: Provided is a method for treating a used absorbent article, this method being hygienic and capable of recovering recyclable material with a high degree of safety. This method for treating a used absorbent article is characterized by including (a) an acidic electrolyzed water treatment step that treats the used absorbent article in a treatment tank that has acidic electrolyzed water serve as a treatment fluid. This method preferably further includes (b) an alkaline electrolyzed water treatment step that treats the used absorbent article in a treatment tank that has alkaline electrolyzed water as a treatment fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: Unicharm Corporation
    Inventors: Masashi Yamaguchi, Takayoshi Konishi, Toru Oba
  • Patent number: 9579765
    Abstract: A sensor for detection and measurement of a particular substance present in a liquid is disclosed. The sensor includes a non-circular or non-symmetrically fixed electrode for detection and measurement of a particular substance present in a liquid in which said sensor is submersed. The sensor with non-circular or non-symmetrically fixed electrode and method of using the same reduces or eliminates electrode deformation upon residue removal therefrom thereby prolonging operating life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Technology GmbH
    Inventor: Rikard Håkansson
  • Patent number: 9512024
    Abstract: A system and process are provided for the disinfection of sewage sludge or solids without the addition of chemicals such as chlorine etc. or/and reverse osmosis. The treated sludge or solids can be deposited on landfills or used as fertilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Inventors: Alexander Blake, Hilary Boehme, Barbara Blake, Glen A. Menture, Jeffrey Goldberg, Andrea Monick
  • Patent number: 9493369
    Abstract: An oxidizer generating apparatus comprising a cylindrical housing and an electrode assembly attached at one end of the housing comprising at least three vertically disposed electrodes, the electrodes being spaced apart so as to define a water flow path between them, the electrodes comprising titanium outer electrodes and at least one inner diamond electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Michael McCague
  • Patent number: 9403700
    Abstract: An oxidizer generating apparatus comprising a cylindrical housing and an electrode assembly attached at one end of the housing comprising at least three vertically disposed electrodes, the electrodes being spaced apart so as to define a water flow path between them, the electrodes comprising titanium outer electrodes and at least one inner diamond electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Michael McCague
  • Patent number: 9271671
    Abstract: A technique is provided, wherein any influence, which would be otherwise exerted on a reaction of an objective substance caused by a reagent enzyme by an interfering substance contained in a specimen, is suppressed in relation to an electrochemical sensor for measuring the objective substance contained in the specimen. A sensor comprises a substrate; a detecting unit which is provided on the substrate and which detects an objective substance; a filter which covers the detecting unit, which permits permeation of the objective substance on one hand, and which regulates permeation of an interfering substance contained in a sample on the other hand; and removing unit which removes the interfering substance adhered to the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: ARKRAY, Inc.
    Inventors: Yasunori Shiraki, Koji Katsuki, Kazuya Iketani
  • Patent number: 8940143
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a biochip comprising at least two measurement electrodes, a synthesis electrode, a ground electrode, a gap between the at least two measurement electrodes, a porous dielectric isolation layer and a gel comprising a probe in the gap, wherein the porous dielectric isolation layer is between the synthesis electrode and the gel. Yet other embodiments relate to the method of manufacturing the biochip and using the biochip for electrical detection of bio-species.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Valery M. Dubin, Nikolay Suetin
  • Patent number: 8871146
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to efficiently sterilize microorganisms present in or on a surface of a liquid. Plasma is generated in a vicinity of or in a manner to make contact with a liquid whose pH value is adjusted to become 4.8 or lower, more preferably 4.5 or lower. The plasma is generated in an atmospheric gas containing nitrogen, e.g., in the air. Superoxide anion radicals (O2?.) that are generated by the plasma react with protons (H+) in the liquid to form hydroperoxy radicals (HOO.). Further, nitrogen and oxygen included in the air are combined together by the action of plasma to form nitrogen oxide such as nitric oxide (NO.). The nitric oxide (NO.) combines with the hydroperoxy radicals (HOO.) to become peroxynitrite (ONOOH(ONOO?)) having a high microbiocidal activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventors: Satoshi Ikawa, Katsuhisa Kitano, Satoshi Hamaguchi
  • Patent number: 8808527
    Abstract: A method of sterilizing water that includes: immersing at least one electrode unit having a negative electrode within a container and a positive electrode within the container, the positive electrode separated from and facing the negative electrode, wherein the negative electrode has a plurality of negative electrode projections thereon, and the positive electrode has a plurality of positive electrode projections thereon, each positive electrode projection arranged to face and be aligned with each negative electrode projection one by one; and, supplying direct current by at least one power supply to the electrode unit immersed under the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Chil-Young Kim
  • Patent number: 8709231
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for enriching water with oxygen by an electrolytic process, that comprises the following series of steps: the electrolysis of Cl? Br? ion-free water in an electrolysis cell in which the anode and the cathode are separated by a gas-tight membrane that is pervious to electric charges; b) recovering the oxygen-enriched water from the anode compartment of the electrolysis cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Compagnie Gervais Danone
    Inventors: Christophe Lascoste, Stéphane Brunner, Liliana Jimenez, Alexis Klein
  • Patent number: 8641886
    Abstract: An electrolytic method for treatment of water to increase the dissolved oxygen content, the method including: (a) contacting the water with at least one first electrode device; (b) providing at least one second electrode device in non-physical, electrical contact with the water; (c) introducing an oxidant to the water, and (d) passing an electric current between the second electrode device and the first electrode device, so as to establish an electric field in the water of sufficient strength and duration to effect the electrolytic dissociation of the water to produce dissolved oxygen and/or hydrogen species.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Musson
  • Patent number: 8603320
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for generating and applying a sanitizing liquid. The method includes moving a mobile floor cleaning device along a floor and electrochemically activating a liquid on the mobile floor cleaning device by passing the liquid through a functional generator having first and second electrode chambers that are separated by an ion exchange membrane such that the liquid activated in the first electrode chamber comprises O3 molecules. Substantially all of the liquid activated in the first and second electrode chambers are dispensed from the device within 5 seconds of the time at which the liquids are activated by the functional generator without an intermediate step of storing either of the liquids produced in the first or second electrode chambers. At least some of the dispensed liquid is recovered from the floor with a recovery device carried by the mobile floor cleaning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Tennant Company
    Inventor: Bruce F. Field
  • Patent number: 8518233
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of medical sterilized normal saline, more specifically, to such a method for manufacturing sterilized normal saline for medical purpose with effective sterilizing efficacy comprising: a step of disposing at least one electrode set immersed in saline solution of pH 4.0 to pH 7.5 including a pair of electrodes with flat surface separated from each other by an interval between 1 mm and 3 mm, the flat surfaces of the electrodes facing each other; and a step of supplying 30 mA to 200 mA direct current to the electrodes by applying 2.4V to 3.3V DC power to the electrodes; wherein free chlorine is reliably and stably generated as having concentration range between 0.17 ppm and 6 ppm from electrolysis between electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Chil-Young Kim
  • Publication number: 20130213821
    Abstract: A method for automated in situ determining an analyte content of a liquid sample by means of a bioanalyzer, wherein a measurement duct has at least one substrate, comprising a repeatedly performable sequence of steps as follows: (i) preparing a sensor matrix, which has a plurality of receptors, which bind the analyte and/or a further target molecule, or bring about a chemical conversion of the analyte or of the further target molecule, leading through the measurement duct a preparation solution of at least a first chemical species, wherein a plurality of the first chemical species are bound on the substrate via the functional group binding on the substrate, wherein the other functional group of the plurality of the first chemical species bound on the substrate serves as a receptor or for subsequent binding of a receptor; (ii) leading the liquid sample, through the measurement duct, wherein analyte contained in the liquid sample or in the liquid to be measured, and/or other target molecules contained in the li
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Hanko, Angela Eubisch, Axel Fikus
  • Publication number: 20130196441
    Abstract: Provided herein are the concept that “singularity-based configuration” electrodes design and method can produce in an ionic substance local high electric fields with low potential differences between electrodes. The singularity-based configuration described here includes: an anode electrode; a cathode electrode; and an insulator disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. The singularity-based electrode design concept refers to electrodes in which the anode and cathode are adjacent to each other, placed essentially co-planar and are separated by an insulator. The essentially co-planar anode/insulator/cathode configuration bound one surface of the volume of interest and produce desired electric fields locally, i.e., in the vicinity of the interface between the anode and cathode. In an ideal configuration, the interface dimension between the anode and the cathode tends to zero and becomes a point of singularity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Boris Rubinsky, Gregory D. Troszak
  • Patent number: 8491775
    Abstract: Water sanitizing apparatus is provided for pools, spas hot tubs and other similar bathing facilities that integrates an ozone generator and a chlorine generator in one unit, in addition to exposing a flow of water to be purified to ultraviolet radiation from the ozone generator for advanced oxidation reactions. In one embodiment, a mixing venturi allows for mixing various substances together prior to insertion into the motive flow. In another embodiment the venturi is constructed as inserts that allow tuning of the venturi for individual systems. In other embodiments, salt is added to a portion of the water flow as a concentrated brine from which chlorine is generated, or the salt may be simply be added to the water of the facility at a much lower concentration and chlorine generated from the flow of water through the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald L. Barnes
  • Patent number: 8486252
    Abstract: A two-in-one copper chloride/copper bromide disinfector and a method of controlling the same. In operation, when copper is released, the positive and negative electrodes of a copper billet are periodically reversed, while the positive and negative electrodes of a titanium plate/graphite polar plate are in an uncharged state. When chlorine/bromine is released, the positive and negative electrodes of a titanium plate/graphite polar plate are periodically reversed, while the positive and negative electrodes of the copper billet are short-connected, then connected to the negative electrode of the titanium plate/graphite polar plate, or applied thereon with an electric voltage that is lower than the electric voltage of the negative electrode of the titanium plate/graphite polar plate. With this method, the copper billet out of operation is shorted-connected to the negative electrode of the titanium plate/graphite polar plate or connected to an electric voltage that is lower than that of the negative electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Intex Recreation Corp.
    Inventor: Hua Hsiang Lin
  • Patent number: 8470161
    Abstract: A self-contained system which promotes the multiplication of algae from either salt water or fresh water sources as a feedstock. This process inspires a direct output of lipids for bio-diesel fuel as well as a significant raw algae yield which can be further processed into additional bio-fuel as well as other valuable resources. In addition to inspiring a direct output of algal lipids for bio-diesel, the system generates massive raw algae biomass output that can be directly utilized as an agent for efficiently cleaning up oil spills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Stuart D. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20130134053
    Abstract: Electrodes for transferring a charge, the electrodes have a plurality of members for making electrical contact. The electrodes are suitable for treating aqueous, substantially aqueous and nonaqueous fluids including wastewater, solvents and gases. Water may be treated using the electrodes to provide higher dissolved oxygen or lower levels of contaminants after treatment. The electrodes may be useful in precipitation reactions such as electrowinning methods. The electrodes may also be capable of altering biological characteristics of organisms such as algae and bacteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: IOGENYX PTY LTD
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Musson
  • Patent number: 8431008
    Abstract: Provided is an electrolytic disinfection system and method for purifying water. The electrolytic disinfection system includes; an electrolytic disinfection device which includes; a chamber, a first electrode disposed in the chamber, a second electrode disposed in the chamber and spaced apart from the first electrode, a water inlet part connected to the chamber, wherein the water inlet part allows influent water to be introduced to the chamber therethrough, and a water outlet part connected to the chamber, wherein the water outlet part allows the influent water to be discharged from the chamber therethrough, and an influent water heating device which is disposed upstream of the water inlet part and heats the influent water introduced to the chamber through the water inlet part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae-eun Kim, Joo-wook Lee, Chang-hyun Kim, Hyo-rang Kang, Mi-jeong Song, Jae-young Kim
  • Publication number: 20130087466
    Abstract: Various methods and systems are provided for electrochemical digestion of organic molecules. In one example, among others, a method includes providing an electrolyte fluid including organic molecules between the electrodes of a reaction vessel and applying a voltage wave shape to the electrodes of the reaction vessel to digest the organic molecules. No separator exists between the electrodes of the reaction vessel. In another example, a system for digesting organic molecules includes a reaction vessel, an electrolyte fluid including the organic molecules, and a power source. The reaction vessel includes a plurality of electrodes where no separator exists between the electrodes. The electrolyte fluid is provided between the plurality of electrodes of the reaction vessel and the power source can applies a voltage wave shape to the electrodes of the reaction vessel to digest the organic molecules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Brian Dopp
  • Patent number: 8337690
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for reducing an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of an electrochemically activated liquid. The ORP is reduced by emitting ions from an ion generator into the electrochemically activated liquid, wherein the ions have a charge polarity that is opposite to the ORP of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Tennant Company
    Inventor: Bruce F. Field
  • Patent number: 8287702
    Abstract: The commercial unipolar activation of water to disinfect raw water supply from rivers or wells, seawater, or waste water from sewage, animal waste, processing plant waste, cooling tower water, swimming pool and spa water, ship ballast water and similar polluted waters. Disinfection is accomplished by hydrogen peroxide and ozone including biocides from chlorine and sulphur compounds in the water that are produced during the electrolytic unipolar activation of the water. Unipolar activation can also be used to perform chemical reactions such as in the activation of seawater. This invention can also produce alkaline water that is beneficial for health.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Rodolfo Antonio M. Gomez
  • Publication number: 20120255871
    Abstract: A pH adjusting apparatus includes an electrolytic chip receiving a solution, an electrolytic chip loading station receiving the electrolytic chip, an input unit inputting electrolysis conditions, a control unit receiving the electrolysis conditions and controlling electrolysis performed in the electrolytic chip, and a display unit displaying the electrolysis conditions and a progress of the electrolysis. Thus, the pH of a solution can be adjusted easily and accurately, by precisely controlling a constant current, a constant voltage, and current and voltage application times, thereby enabling useful application in various biological assays such as cell lysis. Furthermore, the pH adjusting apparatus has small size and weight and can be operated for a long time after charging once due to low power consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hun-joo LEE, Jin-tae KIM, Sung-young JEONG, Joon-ho KIM, Hee-kyun LIM
  • Patent number: 8241484
    Abstract: [Problem] To provide a membrane treatment method and a membrane treatment apparatus for ballast water using a membrane module, which are capable of inhibiting the formation of scale on the membrane surface to reduce fouling, using a simple installation. [Means for Solving the Problem] The membrane treatment method and the membrane treatment apparatus for ballast water using a membrane module according to the invention, having a membrane treatment tank 2 and a membrane module 1 provided in the tank for continuously performing filtration while ballast water is being passed thereto as raw water; wherein a positive electrode and a negative electrode are provided in the membrane treatment tank 2 so as to come into contact with raw water in the tank, and a current passing means is provided in the tank for applying a voltage between the electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Saito, Gaku Taniguchi, Taishi Sato, Satoru Okada
  • Patent number: 8242026
    Abstract: Provided is a method for performing etching process or film forming process to a substrate W whereupon a prescribed pattern is formed with an opening. The method is provided with a step of mixing a liquid and a gas, at least one of which contains a component that contributes to the etching process or the film forming process, and generating charged nano-bubbles 85 having a diameter smaller than that of the opening formed on the semiconductor substrate W; a step of forming an electric field to attract the nano-bubbles onto the surface of the substrate W; and a step of performing the process by supplying the substrate with the liquid containing the nano-bubbles 85 while forming the electric field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Sumie Nagaseki
  • Patent number: 8226811
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for generating time variant and invariant electric fields (E-fields) for various applications. Generating the E-field utilizes high impedance dielectric materials having a collection of three imperative material properties: high permittivity (?), high volume resistivity (?) and high maximum allowable E-field stress (?) and physical geometries that take advantage of the manner in which E-fields are divided or distributed in series capacitance networks. The generated E-field can act upon a subject material, including a gas, liquid or solid, wherein the material is stationary or in motion. The method allows an E-field of given intensity to be set up in the subject material with a significantly lower applied voltage ?a, or conversely, a significantly higher E-field intensity with a given applied voltage ?a.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: May-Ruben Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne A. May, Peter Ruben
  • Patent number: 8216445
    Abstract: A nanoporous insulating oxide deionization device, method of manufacture and method of use thereof for deionizing a water supply (such as a hard water supply), for desalinating a salt water supply, and for treating a bacteria-containing water supply. The device contains two composite electrodes each constructed from a conductive backing electrode and a composite oxide layer being an insulating oxide or a non-insulating oxide and an intermediate porous layer. The composite layer being substantially free of mixed oxidation states and nanoporous and having a median pore diameter of 0.5-500 nanometers and average surface area of 300-600 m2/g. The composite layer made from a stable sol-gel suspension containing particles of the insulating oxide, the median primary particle diameter being 1-50 nanometers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Marc A. Anderson, Kevin C. Leonard
  • Patent number: 8211288
    Abstract: Feed water comprising an aqueous salt solution is supplied to an anode chamber and to a cathode chamber. The feed water is cathodically electrolyzed in the cathode chamber to produce alkaline electrolyzed water (catholyte) and is anodically electrolyzed in the anode chamber to produce electrolyzed water (anolyte) whose pH is modified. A portion of alkaline catholyte from the cathode chamber is recycled back to the feed water during continuous electrolysis to provide a blend of feed water and alkaline catholyte to the anode chamber to control pH of the anodically electrolyzed water therein to provide more stable bactericidal activity thereof over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: University of Georgia Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Yen-Con Hung, Donghwan Chung
  • Publication number: 20120118759
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and a method to eliminate E. Coli bacteria from various food products. When DC current is applied to any pathogen that is gram negative, it overrides the internal governing electrostatic charge that controls and causes the hydrophilic nature of E. Coli to be activated and rushes in water instantaneously. This results in E. Coli blowing itself up. This is E. Coli's “Achilles heel”. Testing has shown when E. Coli is exposed to as little as 30 volts for approximately 30 seconds, 99.9% of ALL E. Coli were killed. 100% kill using 60 volts has been achieved through this invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Lex Camany