Float Patents (Class 210/121)
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Publication number: 20080128340Abstract: A tube and float system for use in separation and axial expansion of the buffy coat is provided. The system includes a transparent, or semi-transparent, flexible sample tube and a rigid separator float having a specific gravity intermediate that of red blood cells and plasma. The sample tube has an elongated sidewall having a first cross-sectional inner diameter. The float consists of a main body portion and one or more support members protruding from the main body portion to engage and support the sidewall of the sample tube. The main body portion and the support members of the float have a cross-sectional diameter less than that of the first cross-sectional inner diameter of the tube when the sample tube is expanded, such as by centrifugation. The main body portion of the float together with an axially aligned portion of the sidewall define an annular volume therebetween.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2008Publication date: June 5, 2008Inventors: Thomas Haubert, Stephen C. Wardlaw
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Publication number: 20080105616Abstract: A gravity separator S separates a liquid phase O and a gas phase G from a multiphase fluid mixture E. The gravity separator comprises a collector 1 for collecting the liquid phase O, and outlet 8 for extracting the gas phase G and a draining circuit 3 coupled to the collector 1 for draining the liquid phase O out of the separator. The gravity separator S further comprises a floating assembly 2 coupled to the collector 1. The floating assembly is arranged to float at an interface GLI between the liquid phase and the gas phase so that the collector is positioned in the multiphase fluid mixture present in the gravity separator S for collecting substantially the liquid phase O.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2005Publication date: May 8, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Francis Allouche
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Patent number: 7347255Abstract: A device for detecting the presence of water in a product-only hydrocarbon pump system particularly used for the removal of subterraneous hydrocarbons from a remediation site through a well. The device comprises a sealed float switch chamber, positioned either upstream or downstream from the hydrocarbon pump, wherein when a threshold amount of water is present in the hydrocarbon product being pumped through the float chamber, a switch is actuated by the float mechanism, electrically signaling an alarm, shutting off the power supply to the pump, or further activating a system controller or log.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2005Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Assignee: QED Environmental Systems, Inc.Inventors: David A. Fischer, Craig A. Bamm
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Publication number: 20080035539Abstract: A pressurized wastewater effluent chlorination system including a treatment tank defining a contact chamber and an aeration chamber. The treatment tank receives wastewater effluent. The system includes a pressure vessel within a liquid chlorine storage container positioned in or near the treatment tank. Preferably, the pressure vessel is a floating vessel having a check valve at its bottom, enabling the vessel to fill with a predetermined amount or measured charge of chlorine depending on the position of a float on the vessel. In response to a timer control or float switch, a valve operates to communicate air pressure from a compressor to the vessel to displace the measured charge of liquid chlorine into the wastewater effluent in the contact chamber. Effluent flow and air discharge into the contact chamber enhances mixing of the chlorine and the effluent.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2007Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventor: Mark N. Chaffin
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Publication number: 20070289906Abstract: A pool cleaner debris bag is provided having an open end adapted to receive debris from the pool and a closable end defining at least one discharge passage for the bag. The pool cleaner further comprises a securing apparatus disposed along at least a portion of the closable end. For example, the securing apparatus can have at least two separable members selectively movable between an unsecured position to permit opening of the discharge passage, and a secured position having at least a portion of the first end is disposed between the at least two separable members to permit closing of the discharge passage. In addition or alternatively, the debris bag can comprise a seam disposed at a location spaced apart from the open end for defining at least one discharge passage for the bag. In addition or alternatively, the securing apparatus can comprise a clasp.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2006Publication date: December 20, 2007Applicant: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.Inventor: Suresh Cherulassery Gopalan
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Patent number: 7309427Abstract: A system for treating wastewater includes a basin to contain wastewater, an aerator provided in the basin to mix the wastewater, and a cover system to cover a surface of the wastewater contained in the basin. The cover system includes a plurality of hollow bodies disposed on the surface of the wastewater. Each hollow body is adapted to float on the wastewater's surface, and has a contiguous outer surface and a sufficient mass so that 30 to 70 percent of the hollow body's outer surface is exposed to atmosphere during use. A method of treating wastewater is further disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Siemens Water Technologies Holding Corp.Inventors: Charles E. Kruse, Terry A. Johnson
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Patent number: 7276154Abstract: A settling grid separator apparatus and method of use which provides deep dehydration of high flow rate sludge in an environmentally friendly and energy efficient manner. The apparatus and method comprise and utilize an efficient mixing of the sludge with a flocculating agent or polymer solution, and sludge flow quieting techniques to reduce disturbances and promote flocculation of clustered solids. Free surface liquid rejection, a series of traps, and pressurized filtering utilize gravimetric, hydrometric, and densimetric techniques to separate liquid from suspended solids. Gravitational forces are utilized throughout the apparatus and method to promote separation of higher density solids from the lower density liquid carrier. Upon separation, solids with a minimal liquid content are controllably discharged for proper disposal or recycling.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: VAV Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Alan W. Schaefer, Valery D. Zimin, Vladimir N. Shtern, Michael A. Schaefer
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Patent number: 7267235Abstract: The invention provides a unitary device for converting an open-top container into a greywater recycling apparatus comprising a vessel lid having a submersible float switch-operated pump depending therefrom by extension means sized to enable the positioning of the pump adjacent the inner floor of a container to be covered by the lid, and further having an inlet pipe in fluid connection with a first primary filter means for removing coarse particles and fibers from greywater fed thereto, the first primary filter having an outlet feeding into a second fine filtering means, the filtering means being attached to the underside of the lid, the arrangement being such that after passing through the primary filter means and the fine filtering means, the filtered water falls under the influence of gravity to the bottom of the container to be pumped by the pump through an outlet provided in the lid.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Inventor: Eitan Sharir
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Patent number: 7238279Abstract: A pivoted gate across an opening from a gutter into a collector basin. An actuator inside the basin is insensitive to slow flow rates, but includes a rotor with vanes that actuate an opening linkage at sufficiently high rates of flow. A float is included in the actuator to exert a gate-opening torque when the rotor is flooded.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2005Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventors: Donald Alexander Saurenman, J. Anthony Baird
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Patent number: 7223346Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Platelets are then removed from the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Hanuman LLCInventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
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Patent number: 7214311Abstract: A filter assembly is provided that includes a hood, a drain manifold, a filter disposed between the hood and the drain manifold, a drainage space that is disposed between and in fluid communication with both the filter medium and the drain manifold, a check valve that is configured to permit air to escape but not to enter the drainage space so that a siphon can be established that draws additional fluid through the filter medium and into the drain manifold, the siphon continuing until air entering the hood disrupts the siphon, and a check valve cap that is configured to permit air to escape the check valve while preserving an air-filled void above the check valve when the filter assembly is submerged.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Contech Stormwater Solutions Inc.Inventors: Daniel W. Aberle, James H. Lenhart, Jr.
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Patent number: 7186330Abstract: A system for introducing a liquid disinfectant into treated wastewater comprising a source of liquid disinfectant, a sensor to detect flow of treated wastewater from a wastewater treatment system, a pump to introduce the liquid disinfectant into the treated wastewater and a controller operatively connected to the sensor to activate the pump in response to increased flow of treated wastewater above a sensed, predetermined flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2004Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: Jerry L. McKinney 2002 TrustInventor: Jerry L. McKinney
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Patent number: 7175756Abstract: The device for treating working fluid includes a fluid level detecting device for detecting a fluid level of cleaned fluid in a cleaned fluid tank, and a control unit for determining an adjustment value for a discharge rate command for a filter device pump, based on the fluid level detected by the fluid level detecting device. The control unit operates to determine a renewed discharge rate command by adding the adjustment value thus determined to the present discharge rate command, and to output the renewed discharge rate command to a pump controller. The pump controller drives the filter device pump according to the discharge rate command to transfer the working fluid from the polluted fluid tank to the cleaned fluid tank through the filter device.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Fanuc LtdInventors: Yuki Kita, Yushi Takayama
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Patent number: 7041213Abstract: A stormwater drainage system capable of collecting, pretreating and disposing of the stormwater runoff into a dry well. Further capable of stopping the flow of stormwater into the dry well in the event hydrocarbons or other contaminants are present in the stormwater. The system is also capable of isolating stagnant water in the system to prevent the infestation of mosquito larvae.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Quiktrip CorporationInventor: Shawn McClanahan
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Patent number: 6969459Abstract: A processing apparatus and an operating method of the processing apparatus, in which a water insoluble oil homogeneous to a water insoluble oil (processing oil) used for a mist-lubrication in a processing site on a work is used as a lubricating oil for a lubrication section of a processing machine, an aqueous solution is used as a cleaning liquid for cleaning the work after having been processed, and then a used processing oil and a used cleaning liquid are recovered and separated and further the separated processing oil and cleaning liquid are circulated into respective supply means, so that the used processing oil may be recovered and reused even if the lubricating oil is mixed into the processing oil since both are homogeneous oil and further the used cleaning liquid and the used processing oil can be surely separated from each other and reused, which allows to reduce an amount of waste as well as to reduce the cost.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Susumu Ihara, Katsuji Nakanishi, Tsugumaru Yamashita
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Patent number: 6881327Abstract: A filter cartridge end-of-life mechanism and a filter cartridge assembly for a water treatment device. The end-of-life mechanism comprises a float which is moved along an escapement path each time the device is filled. A counting mechanism connected to the float provides a continuous visual indication of the amount of useful life remaining in the filter cartridge. The cartridge assembly includes a tray detachably connected to a filter cartridge. The tray is positioned beneath the outlet end of the cartridge to remove water treatment particles from the treated water.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Pur Water Purification ProductsInventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Erik G. Orwoll
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Patent number: 6869523Abstract: A system to exclude trash from curbside drains during periods of no or slow water flow, but opening to permit full entry during heavier flow such as during heavy rains. The system may have a linkage preventing opening by force on its barrier, and to assure that it will remain open should downstream drainage systems become flooded.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Inventor: Antonio Martinez
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Patent number: 6863806Abstract: A tidal-powered desalinization system is mounted on a barge that oscillates about fixed pier structures, generating a two-way pumping action. The two-way pumping action is changed to a single direction flow of seawater. The sea water is directed into an on-board desalinization system. Fresh water is produced and collected in reservoirs, without an intervening generation of electricity.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2003Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: Lunatech, LLCInventors: Christian Stark, Brett Holton
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Patent number: 6843924Abstract: A water filtering system includes: a water intake system including a plurality of inlets in fluid communication with a water intake pump; and a containment/exclusion boom including (i) a support system positioned in a body of water, (ii) a curtain including a sheet of flexible fabric material that allows movement of water therethrough, the curtain having upper and lower ends with the upper end being connected to the support system, and (iii) means for maintaining the lower end of the curtain substantially against the floor of a body of water; wherein the curtain surrounds substantially all of the plurality of inlets and wherein, upon operation of the water intake pump, water is drawn through the curtain at which time the water is filtered, and subsequently filtered water is drawn through the plurality of inlets for delivery into the water intake system.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2003Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Gunderboom, Inc.Inventors: Harold B. Dreyer, Todd Nottingham
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Publication number: 20040247394Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for extracting liquid from a body of liquid are disclosed. One such apparatus includes a conduit terminator operable to terminate a conduit, the conduit terminator having an inlet opening to facilitate conduction of liquid from the body of liquid. The apparatus further includes a solid object diverter including at least one solid wall surrounding the inlet opening to define a liquid admitting cavity about the inlet opening to impede solid objects from entering the inlet opening while permitting entry of liquid into the cavity for admission into the inlet opening. The apparatus also has a positioner operable to position the diverter in a position in the liquid body such that the cavity admits liquid from the body of liquid while the inlet opening admits liquid from the cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2003Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventors: Rodney E. Smith, Colin Victor Hall
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Patent number: 6803022Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising a deformable bellows, a ballast mounted to the lower end of the bellows, and a float is engageable with an upper end of the bellows. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the ballast to move toward the bottom of the tube and causes an elongation and narrowing of the bellows. The separator then moves down the tube and stabilizes in a position between the separated phases of the fluid sample. Termination of the centrifugal load enables the bellows to return to its original condition in sealing engagement with the walls of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2000Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: Paul C. DiCesare, Jeffrey R. Radziunas, Robert Losada, Fu-Chung Lin
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Publication number: 20040195157Abstract: A water supply sub-system for connection to a main water supply system includes a storage tank having an inlet with a flow control valve for connection to the main water supply system. The sub-system may be disconnected from the main system and configured as a closed system for disinfecting the sub-system. An outlet line connects the storage tank to a pump that pumps water from the tank to a sub-system supply line. One or more branch connections may connect the sub-system supply line to high-demand water using devices, such as dialysis machines. The supply line may be a feedback loop. A shunt feedback loop parallel to the feedback loop of the supply line has a pressure control valve that regulates pressure in the supply line feedback loop. A filtration device may also be included to ensure the purity of the water circulating through the sub-system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Applicant: GAMBRO, INC.Inventors: Stephen M. Mullins, Douglas A. Luehmann, John D. Bielefeld
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Publication number: 20040173507Abstract: A filter cartridge end-of-life mechanism and a filter cartridge assembly for a water treatment device. The end-of-life mechanism comprises a float which is moved along an escapement path each time the device is filled. A counting mechanism connected to the float provides a continuous visual indication of the amount of useful life remaining in the filter cartridge. The cartridge assembly includes a tray detachably connected to a filter cartridge. The tray is positioned beneath the outlet end of the cartridge to remove water treatment particles from the treated water.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2003Publication date: September 9, 2004Applicant: PUR Water Purification Products, Inc.Inventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Erik G. Orwoll
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Patent number: 6780334Abstract: An apparatus for separating from a liquid mixture, first and second liquid components such as oil and water, wherein the first liquid has a greater density than the second liquid, includes a vessel (10) having an inlet (13) through which the mixture is introduced into the vessel (10), and an outlet (14) through which separated first liquid is in use discharged, and there being a separating member (12) within the vessel (10), the mixture being constrained to contact the separating member (12), the separating member (12) including a material which adsorbs the second liquid component characterised in that the separating member (12) is adapted to move in the vessel (10) downwardly in response to an increase in the weight thereof as second liquid component is adsorbed.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2001Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Inventors: John Andrew Timmins, John Timmins
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Publication number: 20040134842Abstract: An apparatus for filtering suspended solids from a liquid having a group of filters mounted inside a filter chamber. The filters divide the chamber into dirty liquid chambers and clean liquid chambers. A wash assembly is disposed within the chamber having vacuum/pump heads in contact with the filters rotates within the chamber. The vacuum/pump heads are connected to a pump and vacuum source located either within or without the apparatus. The vacuum/pump heads either vacuum material up or spray material therefrom in order to clean the filters. As the wash assembly rotates, the vacuum heads are able to contact and clean the entire surface of the filters.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventor: Donald D. Ricketts
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Patent number: 6746612Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system of water recycling in residential households. A water recycling method includes the steps of collecting water from at least one residential water source and channeling water from at least one residential water source through pipes via gravity to a storage tank. The method includes the steps of filtering and treating the water with a sanitizing agent to remove impurities. The method includes the step of delivering water to the soil and subsoil of the landscape. A water recycling system includes at least one residential water source and a storage tank to collect recycled water from at least one household water source. The pipes are adapted to channel water from at least one residential water source via gravity. A filter and a sanitizing agent can be included to remove impurities. A water delivery device is included to deliver water to the aquifer, soil and subsoil of the landscape.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2001Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: University of FloridaInventor: Scot M. Hammond
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Publication number: 20040065616Abstract: A method of desalination of sea water is disclosed and the method comprises the steps of drawing a stream of sea water into a supplying tank; passing a high pressure air via the top end of the supplying tank; delivering sea water to a pressure tank; and performing desalination via a plurality of reverse osmosis films.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2002Publication date: April 8, 2004Inventor: Chau-Fu Shu
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Publication number: 20040060850Abstract: A water purifier includes a first reservoir, a second reservoir having an outlet through which filtered water can be dispensed, and a pump for pumping water from the first reservoir to the second reservoir. Water passes through a filter from the first reservoir en route to the second reservoir upon activation of the pump. There is a first water level detector in the first reservoir and a second water level detector in the second reservoir. A switch co-operates with the second water level detector to activate the pump when a reduced water level is detected in the second reservoir by the second water level detector. The switch also co-operates with the first water level detector to deactivate the pump, should the first water level detector detect a low water level in the first reservoir. A single switch performs both tasks.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2002Publication date: April 1, 2004Applicant: Chiaphua Industries LimitedInventor: John Duncan McNair
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Patent number: 6709577Abstract: An apparatus for treating water with ozone includes a first conduit and a passageway for admitting ozone into the first conduit. There is a second conduit having a top, an inlet connected to the first conduit and an outlet. There is a third conduit having a top and a vertical portion extending downwardly adjacent to the outlet of the second conduit. The third conduit has a bottom with an outlet below the outlet of the second conduit. The outlet of the second conduit is no more than one-third the distance from the top of the third conduit to the outlet of the third conduit. There is a passageway connecting the third conduit to the first conduit above the outlet of the second conduit. The passageway is sized to permit a reduced flow of water through the third conduit compared to the flow through the second conduit and provides means for gas discharged from the outlet of the second conduit to rise through the vertical portion of the third conduit to increase dissolving of the gas in the water.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2003Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Northern Research Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Donald Shaw
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Patent number: 6660170Abstract: A water filtering system includes: a water intake system including a plurality of inlets in fluid communication with a water intake pump; and a containment/exclusion boom including (i) a support system positioned in a body of water, (ii) a curtain including a sheet of flexible fabric material that allows movement of water therethrough, the curtain having upper and lower ends with the upper end being connected to the support system, and (iii) means for maintaining the lower end of the curtain substantially against the floor of a body of water; wherein the curtain surrounds substantially all of the plurality of inlets and wherein, upon operation of the water intake pump, water is drawn through the curtain at which time the water is filtered, and subsequently filtered water is drawn through the plurality of inlets for delivery into the water intake system.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Gunderboom, Inc.Inventors: Harold B. Dreyer, Todd Nottingham
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Patent number: 6649045Abstract: A filter cartridge end-of-life mechanism and a filter cartridge assembly for a water treatment device. The end-of-life mechanism comprises a float which is moved along an escapement path each time the device is filled. A counting mechanism connected to the float provides a continuous visual indication of the amount of useful life remaining in the filter cartridge. The cartridge assembly includes a tray detachably connected to a filter cartridge. The tray is positioned beneath the outlet end of the cartridge to remove water treatment particles from the treated water.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: PUR Water Purification Products, Inc.Inventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Erik G. Orwoll
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Patent number: 6645372Abstract: An automatic bleed unit for a fuel filter used particularly in diesel engines includes a filter chamber 5 for accumulating water present in the fuel. Sensors 220, 230 and associated floats 24, 25 are provided for determining the level of water in the chamber. Upon reaching a predetermined level, a microprocessor activates a withdrawal device 7 to drain water from the chamber. The device is only activated when the vehicle engine is at rest and the ignition key is in first switch position that makes the relevant electrical system live. A system that verifies the compatibility between the withdrawal device casing 70 and a base part 20 of the sensing system can also be included.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: UFI Universal Filter International S.p.AInventor: Giorgio Girondi
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Publication number: 20030205538Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Platelets are then removed from the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2002Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard W. Storrs
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Patent number: 6641328Abstract: An apparatus and method for extracting liquid from a body of liquid. The apparatus includes a conduit terminator operable to terminate a conduit, the conduit terminator having an inlet opening to facilitate conduction of liquid from the body of liquid. The apparatus includes a solid object diverter connected to the conduit terminator, the diverter defining a liquid admitting cavity about the inlet opening to impede solid objects from entering the inlet opening while permitting entry of liquid into the cavity for admission into the inlet opening. The apparatus also has a positioner operable to position the diverter in a position in the liquid body such that the cavity admits liquid from the body of liquid while the inlet opening admits liquid from the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2000Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Balaton Power Corporation S.A.Inventors: Rodney Elliott Smith, Colin Victor Hall
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Patent number: 6627071Abstract: A chlorinator for wastewater treatment systems having a circulation pump and return flow line, which includes a tank having an internal space, a buoyant container within the internal space which intakes a determined quantity of disinfectant fluid through a check valve from a quantity of such fluid disposed in said tank. The check valve limits flow during operation of the circulation pump. Operation of the circulation pump causes flow through the return line, inducing distribution of the quantity of disinfectant fluid into the circulation tank. After cessation of the circulation pump, the check valve opens to reestablish the quantity of disinfectant fluid. Regardless of the duration of pumping, only the uniform volume of disinfectant fluid is supplied.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2002Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Inventor: Michael R. Braden
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Publication number: 20030136716Abstract: Disclosed is an improved, fully automated system for on-site growth and conditioning of microorganisms for use in water body restoration. The system includes a reservoir for the microorganisms and the nutrients, a bioreactor system, a water conditioning system, and an electrical control device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2003Publication date: July 24, 2003Applicant: AQUARESEARCH CANADA LTD./ AQUARECHERCHE CANADA LTEEInventors: Scott Moffitt, Karl F. Ehrlich, Bruce Arrington
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Patent number: 6572762Abstract: A discharge water system for the bilge of a boat includes a primary bilge discharge system and a supplemental bilge filtration system. The primary discharge system includes a pump operable when the fluid in the bilge collects above a predetermined level in the boat to discharge bilge water overboard. The supplemental system includes a filter assembly with filter media for removing hydrocarbons in bilge water passing through the media; and a pump operable when the water in the bilge collects to a selected level below the operating level “L” of the primary pump to pump bilge water to the filter assembly and then to discharge the essentially hydrocarbon-free bilge water overboard. The filter assembly includes primary secondary filter cartridge, both of which include hydrocarbon-absorbing media, and are connected in series. A pressure sensor and remote indicating device provide an indication of the primary filter cartridge becoming spent.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Martin C. Maxwell, Robin B. MacDonald, Jeffrey A. Fulan, Gary A. Garcia
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Publication number: 20030085166Abstract: A water filtering system includes: a water intake system including a plurality of inlets in fluid communication with a water intake pump; and a containment/exclusion boom including (i) a support system positioned in a body of water, (ii) a curtain including a sheet of flexible fabric material that allows movement of water therethrough, the curtain having upper and lower ends with the upper end being connected to the support system, and (iii) means for maintaining the lower end of the curtain substantially against the floor of a body of water; wherein the curtain surrounds substantially all of the plurality of inlets and wherein, upon operation of the water intake pump, water is drawn through the curtain at which time the water is filtered, and subsequently filtered water is drawn through the plurality of inlets for delivery into the water intake system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2002Publication date: May 8, 2003Inventors: Harold B. Dreyer, Todd Nottingham
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Publication number: 20030070994Abstract: A die lube recovery and recycling system includes a weir tank, a filtration assembly, and a holding tank. The weir tank receives used, dirty die lube and filters large particles therefrom. Preliminarily filtered die lube is pumped through the filtration assembly and reconditioned die lube is delivered to the holding tank. A level of reconditioned die lube in the holding tank is monitored and, the die lube is replenished with fresh die lube from a fresh die lube source when the level falls below a predetermined level. A die lube pressure booster is used to withdraw die lube from the holding tank, pressurize the withdrawn die lube, and spray the pressurized die lube on a die in a casting machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2001Publication date: April 17, 2003Applicant: Honda of America Mfg., Inc.Inventor: Michael R. Steiner
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Publication number: 20030066789Abstract: A covering system that includes a first membrane, a first flotation member coupled to the first membrane. The first flotation member includes a first float and a first float compartment membrane, and the first float compartment membrane is coupled to the first membrane. The covering system also includes a first plurality of gas-relief passageways positioned either within the first float compartment membrane, or within the first membrane and adjacent to the first flotation member. And at least one of the gas-relief passageways within the first plurality is structured so that gas flows unobstructed through it when the system is used. Gas-relief openings formed between overlapping membranes may also be utilized as avenues through which gas may escape to atmosphere from beneath the covers and covering systems. Venting methods are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2001Publication date: April 10, 2003Applicant: Agri Covers, Inc.Inventors: William D. Morgan, Michael A. Morgan, Michael S. Gallant
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Publication number: 20030057145Abstract: A coolant recycling system for efficiently recycling contaminated machine tool coolant thereby extending the useful life of the coolant. The coolant recycling system includes a support frame, a first tank for receiving contaminated coolant, a second tank for receiving a volume of water and coolant concentrate, and a third tank for treating and cleaning the contaminated coolant. A skimmer apparatus is positioned within the third tank for removing the upper level of contaminants from the coolant for filtering separately from the significant volume of coolant within the third tank. An ozone applicator applies a specific volume of ozone to the coolant during the mixing of the coolant within the third tank which kills mold, yeast, fungus and bacteria while also changing the physical state of dissolved solids for increasing the ability to remove the contaminants from the coolant and micro air bubbles float contaminants to the surface to be skimmed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2001Publication date: March 27, 2003Inventor: Jon A. Jensen
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Patent number: 6533946Abstract: An apparatus and method for recycling drilling mud contaminated with particulates, consists of channelling a stream of contaminated slurry onto a screen deck, with the partly cleansed liquid entering a mixing tank. Liquid within the tank is continually mixed. An exit conduit removes liquid from the tank on a continuous basis, where it is given an additional purification with a cyclonic separator. The heavier fraction is further screened, with the resulting purified liquid re-entering the tank. The lighter fraction exists the cyclonic separator, and a portion of the lighter liquid is withdrawn for use as a substantially cleansed liquid. Another portion of the lighter fraction is re-circulated back into the tank, thus providing multi passes through the system to provide enhanced purification. The cleansed liquid may be directed into a separate mixing apparatus, in which additional slurry-forming powder such as Bentonite is added for forming a new slurry.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Roger H. Woods LimitedInventor: Doug Pullman
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Publication number: 20030024862Abstract: A filtering system for cleaning a pool. The system including a casing for immersing in the pool, and at least one filtering unit located within the casing. The floor of the pool or an appendage thereto define at least one chamber together with the casing.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2002Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventor: Yosef Gal
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Patent number: 6511594Abstract: An apparatus for treating water with ozone includes a first conduit and a passageway for admitting ozone into the first conduit. There is a second conduit having a top, an inlet connected to the first conduit and an outlet. There is a third conduit having a top and a vertical portion extending downwardly adjacent to the outlet of the second conduit. The third conduit has a bottom with an outlet below the outlet of the second conduit. The outlet of the second conduit is no more than one-third the distance from the top of the third conduit to the outlet of the third conduit. There is a passageway connecting the third conduit to the first conduit above the outlet of the second conduit. The passageway is sized to permit a reduced flow of water through the third conduit compared to the flow through the second conduit and provides means for gas discharged from the outlet of the second conduit to rise through the vertical portion of the third conduit to increase dissolving of the gas in the water.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Assignee: Northern Research Technologies Inc.Inventor: Donald Shaw
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Patent number: 6500344Abstract: Method and arrangement for filtering particles out of a liquid, in which the liquid containing particles is supplied to a sedimentation tank (12), and the liquid is made, by means of hydrostatic liquid pressure prevailing in the tank, to flow through a filter member (18) on the shell surface of a drum (14) mounted in the tank (12). When the liquid in the tank has risen to a predetermined level above the drum (14) as a result of clogging of the filter member (18), cleaning of the filter member (18) in situ in the tank is initiated.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Hyosong Lee, Lars Ehnstrom
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Patent number: 6479298Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising at least two components and more particularly, a bellows with a seal body, a low-density float and a high-density ballast. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the seal body of the separator to deform so that the separator migrates through the fluid sample and then stabilizes between the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample. The seal body of the separator will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of the centrifugal load such that the seal body sealingly engages the container and the composite element separates the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1999Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: Henry F. Miller, Fu-Chung Lin, Robert J. Losada, Jeffrey P. Radziunas, Jeffrey Karg
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Publication number: 20020134715Abstract: A filter cartridge end-of-life mechanism and a filter cartridge assembly for a water treatment device. The end-of-life mechanism comprises a float which is moved along an escapement path each time the device is filled. A counting mechanism connected to the float provides a continuous visual indication of the amount of useful life remaining in the filter cartridge. The cartridge assembly includes a tray detachably connected to a filter cartridge. The tray is positioned beneath the outlet end of the cartridge to remove water treatment particles from the treated water.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2002Publication date: September 26, 2002Applicant: PUR Water Purification Products, Inc.Inventors: John D. Tanner, David J. Emmons, Erik G. Orwoll
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Patent number: 6444126Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a wastewater treatment plant having, in serial fluid flow relationship, a wastewater source, a wastewater treatment plant, and a discharge site. The wastewater treatment plant has, in serial fluid flow relationship, an aerobic bioreactor in fluid flow communication with the wastewater source and an anoxic bioreactor in fluid flow communication with the discharge site. Fixed film packing for growing microbes is disposed in first and second tanks of the first and second bioreactors, respectively. A primary holding tank is disposed between the wastewater source and the aerobic bioreactor. A first pump is used for pumping liquid out of the primary hold tank through a first pressure line into the first tank to a pressure line outlet in a bottom of the first tank.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: T. M. Gates, Inc.Inventors: Patrick T. Gates, Todd M. Gates
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Publication number: 20020104788Abstract: An apparatus for treating water with ozone includes a first conduit and a passageway for admitting ozone into the first conduit. There is a second conduit having a top, an inlet connected to the first conduit and an outlet. There is a third conduit having a top and a vertical portion extending downwardly adjacent to the outlet of the second conduit. The third conduit has a bottom with an outlet below the outlet of the second conduit. The outlet of the second conduit is no more than one-third the distance from the top of the third conduit to the outlet of the third conduit. There is a passageway connecting the third conduit to the first conduit above the outlet of the second conduit. The passageway is sized to permit a reduced flow of water through the third conduit compared to the flow through the second conduit and provides means for gas discharged from the outlet of the second conduit to rise through the vertical portion of the third conduit to increase dissolving of the gas in the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventor: Donald Shaw
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Publication number: 20020104806Abstract: An apparatus and method for recycling drilling mud contaminated with particulates, consists of channelling a stream of contaminated slurry onto a screen deck, with the partly cleansed liquid entering a mixing tank. Liquid within the tank is continually mixed. An exit conduit removes liquid from the tank on a continuous basis, where it is given an additional purification with a cyclonic separator. The heavier fraction is further screened, with the resulting purified liquid reentering the tank. The lighter fraction exists the cyclonic separator, and a portion of the lighter liquid is withdrawn for use as a substantially cleansed liquid. Another portion of the lighter fraction is re-circulated back into the tank, thus providing multi passes through the system to provide enhanced purification. The cleansed liquid may be directed into a separate mixing apparatus, in which additional slurry-forming powder such as Bentonite is added for forming a new slurry.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventor: Doug Pullman