Float In Receptacle Other Than That Of Separator Patents (Class 210/128)
  • Patent number: 11947369
    Abstract: Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for operation and control of gravity-fed fluid flows in water and wastewater related systems. The disclosed flow control system uses gravity to provide a flow of a fluid from a fluid source and a motorized flow control device fluidically coupled to the fluid source to control a defined flow rate of the flow by changing a position of an internal volume of the flow control device through which the fluid flows relative to a fixed level of the fluid in the fluid source. The disclosed devices, systems and methods can be used in a wide variety of systems for environmental and low-energy demand applications such as, for example, a wastewater treatment system to control a flow of wastewater in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: Aquacycl, Inc.
    Inventors: Sofia Malinova Babanova, Orianna Bretschger, José Daniel Barocio Montemayor, Gerardo Garcia Serrano
  • Patent number: 11918940
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (1, 1?) for filtering a fluid, in particular a Bernoulli filtering apparatus (1, 1?), comprising: a housing (3, 3?), a plurality of filter elements (55), arranged in the housing (3, 3?), for filtering the fluid, an inlet (5) for admitting fluid to be filtered into the housing (3, 3?), and an outlet (7) for discharging the filtered fluid from the housing (3, 3?). The invention solves the stated problem by providing the housing (3, 3?) with a plurality of housing segments (23) which can be connected to adjacent housing segments (23), and by a filter element (55) being arranged at least partially inside each housing segment (23), and by the housing segments (23) and filter elements (55) together forming a modularly assembled filter module (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: Georg Schünemann GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Linster
  • Patent number: 11465081
    Abstract: A water filter assembly may include a filter body having vertical side walls that defines a cavity within which one or more filter layers may be housed, the filter body further including a plurality of vertical barriers that define a plurality of flow paths that converge on an outlet hole, the vertical barriers further including a plurality of cutouts defining alternative overflow paths permitting water therethrough, and each filter layer including a plurality of vertical barriers that define a plurality of flow paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Danister Abeygunawardana, Andrew Reinhard Krause, Bradley Nicholas Gilkey, Gregory Sergeevich Chernov, Charles Benjamin Miller
  • Patent number: 11247153
    Abstract: Provided is a filter module for a gravity-type water purifier. The filter module for a gravity-type water purifier according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: a plurality of filter members which are plate shaped, and which are fixed to each other via one or more fastening bars while arranged spaced apart from each other in parallel having gaps therebetween; and a common water collecting member coupled to the respective water collecting holes formed in the filter members, and in which filtered water produced from the filter members is collected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: AMOGREENTECH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kyung Gu Han
  • Patent number: 11041300
    Abstract: A regulating tank includes a tank member having an annular wall to receive wastewater. A circular pipe is connected to the tank member. A draining device drains the wastewater in the tank member to the circular pipe. A plurality of nozzles connected to the circular pipe to eject the wastewater in the circular pipe back to the tank member. When the wastewater is ejected by the nozzles, a temperature of the wastewater is reduced, and dissolved oxygen of the wastewater is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: KUAN YUAN PAPER MFG. CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kuang Yuan Hsieh
  • Patent number: 10683742
    Abstract: A gas emissions recovery system. The recovery system is designed to receive fugitive gas emissions from a compressor, and pressurize those emissions using a double-acting liquid piston compressor system. The pressurized fugitive gas emissions may be returned to the compressor, or may be injected into a wellbore. The system includes a first liquid piston chamber and a second liquid piston chamber. Each chamber holds an incompressible fluid that is used to force a gas into a fluid reservoir in response to a piston motion of the incompressible fluid. A pump is provided, with the pump being configured to pump the incompressible fluid between the first and second liquid piston chambers and, thereby, induce piston action of the incompressible fluid in the liquid piston chambers. The system includes a processor that controls the cycling of the incompressible fluid in response to signals indicative of liquid levels in the chambers. A method for reclaiming fugitive gas emissions from a compressor is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: Encline Artificial Lift Technologies LLC
    Inventor: William G. Elmer
  • Patent number: 10294127
    Abstract: To enable energy-saving operation and stable supply of permeate water while water quality level of the permeate water is satisfied during operation, clarified seawater sw subjected to pretreatment and stored in to-be-treated water tank 12 is supplied to reverse osmosis membrane module 14 via clarified seawater supply passage 16. Permeate water pw obtained by an earlier stage element of the reverse osmosis membrane elements 36 of the reverse osmosis membrane module 14 is sent to a subsequent process from permeate water sending passage 46, and permeate water pw obtained by the reverse osmosis membrane element 36 is circulated into the to-be-treated water tank 12 via permeate water circulation passage 48.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES ENGINEERING, LTD.
    Inventors: Kiichi Tokunaga, Takeshi Yasunaga
  • Patent number: 9795895
    Abstract: Atmospheric water generators, systems and methods are presented involve user authentication, recording and tracking of water volumes dispensed by respective users over periods of various lengths, controlling component noise level and timing, and cleaning, heating and cooling the collected water more efficiently. The generators may be placed in network communication with other such generators to exchange water availability information therewith, or may communicate with a central server element by way of LAN, Internet, cell tower, peer-to-peer mesh or satellite. Information is conveyed to the user regarding the amount of water they consume from the water generators, and their resulting positive impact on the environment. Water dispensing data may be shared on the users' social media accounts, or used as inputs for competitions or games in order to further engage the user. User authentication may be accomplished by way of biometrics or an RFID/NFC tag embedded in the user's water vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: Skywell, LLC
    Inventor: Ronald M. Dorfman
  • Patent number: 9650738
    Abstract: A laundry machine and a washing process allow the storage of water from prior washes, in order to minimize the consumption of water destined for laundry washing. According to an embodiment, the laundry machine includes an impeller (201); a wash tub (202); a mechanical and/or electric drive element of the impeller and of the tub; and at least a tank (203) encircling the wash tub. There is additionally a reservoir (300) in fluid communication (250) with the tank and disposed below the tank and the wash tub and encircling, at least partially, the mechanical and/or electric drive element of the impeller and the tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Electrolux Do Brazil S.A.
    Inventors: Cirilo Alex Cavalli, Marcelo Piekarski
  • Publication number: 20140263079
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods of wastewater treatment that rely primarily on the use of water treatment chemicals to clean wastewater without the need to use filtration mechanisms. The present invention generally provides a system that is less complex and less expensive to operate than wastewater treatment systems in the prior art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: DuBois Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent K. McCurdy
  • Publication number: 20140190904
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a drilling fluid reclaimer. The reclaimer has at least one adjustable screen assembly for providing a leveling filter for reclaimed drill fluid. Used drill fluid is placed at the screen assembly at the front the of the screen assembly. The at least one screen is vibrated to separate large particulate matter from liquid drilling fluid. A second screen is provided for additional filtering. Large particulate matter is expelled by a chute at the back of the screen assembly. Drilling fluid passing through the screen is “reclaimed” for use with a drilling system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Cody L. Sewell
  • Patent number: 8308937
    Abstract: A grey water diversion system is provided. An interceptor includes an inlet, a filter, an outlet, and an orifice. The filter is located along a bottom of a water flow path from the inlet to the outlet and delivers water to the orifice as filtered water. A gas pump, connected to a filter stem, delivers gas to the filter via the stem when the system detects the presence of the water. The gas rises through the filter to raise debris from the filter to the water flow path. A water overflow delivers the debris to the outlet. A suction manifold, including a sensor, receives the filtered water from the orifice. The sensor detects the presence of the filtered water. A water pump receives the filtered water from the manifold, activates when the sensor detects the presence of the filtered water, and delivers the filtered water into a water usage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Waste Water Systems
    Inventor: Samandar Milani
  • Publication number: 20120181238
    Abstract: A water treatment system can be essentially non-electric, and can use gravity to produce water that is safe for drinking. By such a system there can be provided a low cost, reliable way to treat water that is contaminated by water borne pathogens, to reduce or eliminate such contaminants to a safe level, and thereby produce water that is drinkable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: PRISTINA CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC
    Inventors: Arthur SUSSMAN, Lora Sussman
  • Publication number: 20120138544
    Abstract: A device for dissolving a solid chemical substance in water to obtain an aqueous solution, said device comprising: a container having a collection portion for containing the solution and a charging chamber designed to contain the substance; and a liquid-dispersing unit for directing a jet of water onto the substance; the device further comprises a feeding unit for feeding water to the collection portion from a hydraulic circuit and a discharging unit for conveying the solution from the container to the hydraulic circuit; the discharging unit being designed to feed the solution to the hydraulic circuit in a substantially continuous way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Corrado Barani
  • Patent number: 8137541
    Abstract: A septic system can include an improved and more reliable apparatus for distributing effluent uniformly to a plurality of portions or fingers of a drain field. In such apparatus, an effluent container, or collection tank, is connected with the outlet of a septic tank, and an effluent-operated valve controls effluent flow from an outlet of the effluent container, or collection tank, to an effluent distribution tank which is connected to a plurality of portions, or fingers, of a sewage drain field to uniformly distribute the effluent from the septic tank to the drain field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Neal Zook
  • Publication number: 20110192771
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a solid-liquid separator with self-priming pump with which wear of a self-priming liquid pump connected to a cyclone mechanism can be prevented and a solid-liquid mixture can be purified at a low cost without requiring a special arrangement (special material or special structure) for the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventors: Yoji Mori, Yoji Karasawa, Yasuichi Haga, Koji Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 7938958
    Abstract: A de-aeration system for a fuel system, the fuel system having a housing for containing a fuel filter element, a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet is disclosed. The de-aeration system includes a de-aeration valve having a valve inlet in a lower face of the valve for connection to the housing for purging the air trapped in the housing. The de-aeration valve also includes a valve outlet in an upper face of the valve and a ball. The ball is configured to lift between the lower face and the upper face in response to an air pressure differential acting on the ball. This opens the valve to purge air trapped in the housing. The ball is further configured to close the valve by sealing against the valve outlet in the upper face in response to a pressure differential across the ball created by unfiltered fuel entering the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin (UK) Limited
    Inventors: Phil Core, James Ashton, Steven Wilson
  • Patent number: 7927481
    Abstract: System for the recovery of washing liquids used in showers, wash basins, and/or baths, including a first decantation tank provided with at least one inlet connected to a downflow point of washing water, a second collection tank, an overflow partition wall adapted to separate the two tanks, a sewer drainage at the bottom of the decantation tank, adapted to be closed by a plug that can be raised by a float in the collection tank according to the liquid level therein, a drawing pump in the collection tank, controllable by a relay, or electrical float, indicating the liquid requirements of a fixture, a pipe connecting the pump of the collection tank with the fixture, the relay, or electric float, electrically connected with the pump and a valve of the fixture and controlled by a float in the collection tank for closing the electrical power supply to the pump and opening the electrical power supply of a valve for liquid flow to the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Settimo Martinello
  • Patent number: 7879230
    Abstract: A vacuum-actuated liquid chlorine dispenser for use in an aerobic treatment system. Effluent is diverted from a discharge pipe in an aerobic treatment system into an inlet of a venturi chamber. The resulting pressure differential resulting from effluent flowing through the venturi chamber is communicated to a dosage container, which results in disinfectant flow from a reservoir into the dosage container until the volume of disinfectant contained by the dosage container causes a pressure control device, such as a float valve, to inhibit further pressure communication. Thereafter, the accumulated disinfectant within the dosage container egresses through a disinfectant outlet that may include a flow regulation device such as a drip emitter or check valve. The present invention allows for more regular dosing of known and accurate disinfectant amounts following each pumping cycle of the aerobic treatment system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Cecil Yandell
  • Patent number: 7635431
    Abstract: A flow control device for the drain lines of a septic system interrupts the flow in the event the proximate water table rises to a level of over-saturation resulting in the effluent flow being directed to the remaining drain lines. Each drain line is provided with a control box having a float controlled inlet valve having an open position allowing flow to the drain line. When the drain line cannot handle the required flow rate or when the proximate water table rises, the float shifts the valve toward a closed position, thereby redirecting the flow to the remaining lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventor: James H. Tyler
  • Publication number: 20090288999
    Abstract: A reverse osmosis water purifying system includes a base with a support platform on which a water container is put and a purifying unit is received in the base so as to provide purified water into the water tank. A water level control device has a magnetic float unit connected to the water tank and the magnetic float unit has a magnetic float which can be inducted by a first magnetic-spring switch and a second magnetic-spring switch located on the base. The first magnetic-spring switch is located below the second magnetic-spring switch. The magnetic float moves along with the water level and activates the first magnetic-spring switch or the second magnetic-spring switch respectively to control the pump to provide the purified water into the water tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Shih-Ping Lee
  • Patent number: 7125485
    Abstract: A water cooler/water purification station that is portable, and small in size that is capable of cooling and purifying about 8 to 15 liters of water per hour between 3 to 10° C. The water cooler/water purification station is equipped with an ultraviolet lamp which serves to kill bacteria in stagnant water. A removable kit is positioned in the top of the housing. The Kit includes various sensors, as well as, the UV lamp and an exit passageway 70 for treated water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Jamel Hanbli
  • Patent number: 7083717
    Abstract: A chlorinator connected to a water system includes a hopper for holding chemical tablets on a perforated bed and an underlying basin. A spray head is supported by the perforated bed and sprays water onto the tablets and parallel to the perforated bed. The basin receives the water through the perforated bed. Rinse nozzles in the basin are connected to the re-circulation system, and a float valve controls the flow of water to the rinse nozzles. A discharge pump draws water from the basin and discharges it to the water system at a rate faster than water is added to the basin by the spray head, but at the same rate as the overall incoming water makeup water is added to the basin through the rinse nozzles and the float valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: BioLab, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald L. Hustelll, Jason M. Crain, Stephen D. Clark, Acevedo H. Cuahutemoc
  • Patent number: 6994782
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing phosphorus from a wastewater effluent stream from a hog waste lagoon. The wastewater effluent is introduced to the bottom of an inverted cone-shaped continuous crystallizer including a fluidized bed of struvite therein. An effective amount of ammonia is introduced to the wastewater effluent at the bottom of the crystallizer to elevate the pH of wastewater effluent a predetermined amount. An effective amount of magnesium is also introduced to the wastewater effluent at the bottom of the crystallizer. The composition adjusted wastewater effluent is then continuously passed upwardly through the fluidized bed of struvite to reduce the total phosphorus content of the wastewater effluent a predetermined amount of up to about 80% or more. The treated wastewater effluent stream is removed from the top of the crystallizer, and struvite crystals that grow large enough to sink from the bottom of the crystallizer are periodically removed from a collection chamber therebeneath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: North Carolina State University
    Inventors: Keith E. Bowers, Philip W. Westerman
  • Patent number: 6979399
    Abstract: A paint spray booth sludge recovery system, apparatus and method is provided for water washed paint spray booths. The spray booths are used with a tank or pit which can accommodate flotation for removal of spent paint. Preferably, the tank has a drop box section, a chemical treatment section, a weir box section and a booth recirculation pump section. A series of weirs are used to separate the spent paint and send a concentration thereof from the weir box to a separator or centrifuge. The water level in the system is controlled by sensing the weir box water level to keep the water crests over the weirs at the desired levels. Scavenging and agitation are provided in the tank to keep it entirely clean for prolonged periods without any accumulation, even during downtime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Steve E. Telchuk
  • Patent number: 6749743
    Abstract: A device for diverting the flow of liquid in a wastewater treatment system in flow communication with effluent returning from a recirculating treatment section and in flow communication with a discharge line for removing a portion of treated effluent to a receiving body. The device also has openings for returning a percentage of the effluent back to the wastewater treatment system. A valve operatively responsive to a float in the treatment system whereby when the effluent level in the system falls below a critical point, all of the effluent is recirculated back into the treatment system and when the effluent level rises sufficiently a percentage of cleaned effluent exits the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignees: Zabel Industries International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Rohrer, Theophilus B. Terry, III
  • Patent number: 6682654
    Abstract: A paint spray booth sludge recovery system, apparatus and method is provided for water washed paint spray booths. The spray booths are used with a tank or pit which can accommodate flotation for removal of spent paint. Preferably, the tank has a drop box section, a chemical treatment section, a weir box section and a booth recirculation pump section. A series of weirs are used to separate the spent paint and send a concentration thereof from the weir box to a separator or centrifuge. The water level in the system is controlled by sensing the weir box water level to keep the water crests over the weirs at the desired levels. Scavenging and agitation are provided in the tank to keep it entirely clean for prolonged periods without any accumulation, even during downtime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Steve E. Telchuk
  • Patent number: 6649047
    Abstract: A protection system arranged to prevent a large trans-membrane pressure difference over a pressure sensitive membrane (4) fitted in a pressure resistant chamber (3), wherein the membrane forms a physical barrier between a liquid and a gas mixture carried through the chamber (3), the protection system includes two shut-off valves (9, 10) provided in the liquid inlet and outlet lines respectively, a buffer tank (3) provided in the line between one of the shut-off valves (9, 10) and the pressure resistant chamber (3), a pressure equalizing valve (12) provided between the gas inlet line (8) and the buffer tank (2) and a pressure sensing valve (14) for measuring the pressure difference over the membrane (4) and which activates the shut-off valves (9, 10) once this pressure difference exceeds a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: K.V. Aerner Process Systems AS
    Inventor: Nils T. Ottestad
  • Patent number: 6596158
    Abstract: A waste water filtration tank receives waste water under hydrostatic pressure. The tank collects solids using a filter screen. When the screen becomes clogged with collected solids, liquid is forced into a float chamber which contains a float. As waste water collects in the float chamber, the float rises, as do a beam member and a pair of rod members to which the float is attached. When the float reaches a predetermined level, cams contained on the rising rod members act on spring-loaded latches, opening the latches and permitting a spring loaded sleeve and reservoir gate to rise, opening the reservoir outlet. Accumulated solids are then drained from the reservoir and the backwash from the screen chamber also clears the clogged screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: G & K Valve Services Limited
    Inventor: Anthony Cowan
  • Patent number: 6331255
    Abstract: A well (12) outside of a brine tank (10) is provided which provides better accessibility to the brine refill valve (112) or other components within the well. Also, apertures (42-48) of differing elevations above the bottom of the brine tank can communicate between the brine tank and the well (12). Selected ones of the apertures can be plugged to select the quantity of water which can be removed and refilled in the brine tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Inventor: Donald B. Peddicord
  • Patent number: 6264832
    Abstract: An apparatus (18) for receiving rain water from a water collecting means (20) and treating this water according to a treatment cycle. The apparatus has a stop tank (24) to hold incoming water while a treatment cycle is being executed in a main tank (32), so there is no mixing of the treated water with water to be treated. The main tank has various reservoirs (42, 52, 62), valves (30, 40, 50) and buoyant elements (68, 70), and the water flow is strictly controlled by gravity and the buoyancy of the water. Treating solutions such as a mineral solution and a chloride solution are added in predetermined quantities to the water during the treatment cycle, and the treated water is stored into a storage tank (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Fazlollah Panahi
  • Patent number: 6132626
    Abstract: A filtration unit is provided with a self-cleaning mechanism which backflushes a screening element therein when it becomes blinded by solid material. A reservoir enables a head of screened liquid to be built up above the screening element. Upon blinding of the screening element, a subsequent rise in the pressure at the inlet of the filtration unit is detected by way of a rising fluid level in a vertically extending chamber. The above causes the opening of a discharge valve which enables a discharge flow to rapidly empty the reservoir through the screening element in a reverse direction, thereby clearing the screen. The clearing operation is carried out entirely hydraulically by the action of the screened fluid and thus no brushes, rakes or scraping devices are required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Maguire Boss
    Inventor: John Michael Hart
  • Patent number: 6062255
    Abstract: A float valve assembly is provided for regulating water inflow to a purification module of a water purification system, such as a reverse osmosis purification module or the like. The float valve assembly is mounted within a reservoir for receiving and storing relatively purified water produced by the purification module, and includes a valve unit defining a vertically extending flow path from a tap water source to the purification module. A primary float responds to rising and falling water level within the reservoir for respectively closing and opening a primary banjo valve mounted along the flow path. A secondary banjo valve is mounted along the flow path at a location above the primary valve, and, in the event of primary valve malfunction, is closed by a secondary float responsive to rising reservoir water level. In a preferred form, the secondary valve remains closed upon subsequent descent of the water level, and is manually re-opened by depression of a reset button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Oasis Corporation
    Inventor: Louis M. Busick
  • Patent number: 5935428
    Abstract: A bus control apparatus is provided which can control the access timing between a central processing unit and a peripheral equipment without increasing the size and the cost of the entire system. The access timing between the central processing unit and the peripheral equipment is controlled in accordance with an operation timing of the peripheral equipment described in a timing table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Yamamoto, Toshiya Ishibashi
  • Patent number: 5902477
    Abstract: A diverter screen for efficiently handling solid and floatable objects in combined sewer overflows and storm water runoff systems is disclosed. The screen is formed of a mechanical bar screen, one or more regulator or overflow chambers, and a deflector plate for diverting the solids and floatables into the outgoing sewage interceptor channel. The bar screen sits on a shelf in a concrete channel, and is sized to capture solids and floatables that must be prevented from entering the rivers, lakes or oceans The bar screen uses a downward rake motion to push solids and some floatables into the outgoing interceptor, while other floatables are allowed to drain out as the regulator channel drains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: John Vena
    Inventor: John Vena
  • Patent number: 5814213
    Abstract: An improved skimming apparatus for skimming a two component liquid includes a housing mounted to a tank below the normal liquid level for the tank, an outlet for pumping fluid from the submerged housing and an intake structure extending upwardly from the submerged housing and defining an inlet for permitting inflow of liquid to the interior of the submerged housing. The intake structure includes an intake tube rotatably mounted to the housing at upper and lower ends. The intake tube rotates in response to variations of the liquid level in the housing, to vary the inlet size and hence the rate of inflow to the housing. An adjuster provides control over the variation of the inlet size, to accommodate different skimming rates for liquids of different temperatures. An intermediate tube surrounds the intake tube, and an outer tube surrounds the intermediate tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: James A. Glasgow
  • Patent number: 5622619
    Abstract: Proposed is a light-liquid offtake system designed for installation in a separator basin, the device having a separator tank with an inlet port for the liquid mixture to be separated, an overflow port for light liquid, an overflow port for water, a collector tank for the light liquid and a collector tank for the water. Both tanks contain a float. When the level in a tank exceeds a predetermined limit, the floats actuate closure devices fitted to close off the separator-tank inlet port and prevent water flowing back into the separator tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: Heinrich Ortner
  • Patent number: 5614086
    Abstract: A bubble aeration system and method for removing radon and other contaminants from domestic or commercial water supplies in a single tank having a baffle arrangement or channels creating a sinuous water path for a more effective separation of radon from the water supply and incorporating a storage chamber for cleaned water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventors: David D. Hill, Timothy Kane
  • Patent number: 5573677
    Abstract: A cloudy water recovery and recycling apparatus and method of use. The apparatus recovers cloudy water defined as water recovered from the rinse cycle of a clothes washing machine. The apparatus is comprised of an electronic controller, a storage tank, a trap having a lint screen, a pumping means, and a pressurized storage container. Water from a clothes washing machine is separated into rinse water and wash water by an electronic controller. The wash water is disposed of and the rinse water is strained to remove lint, collected in the storage tank, treated with dye and bactericide, pumped from the storage tank to a pressurized container and then utilized to flush at least one toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventor: Edward Dembrosky
  • Patent number: 5374352
    Abstract: A universal recycled wash water plant having a collector tank through which collected wash water and rinse water is channeled to a grease/oil/water separation tank which separates oil and grease from the water and which holds the oil-separated water in a pump compartment. The water in the pump compartment is pumped to two sand filter tanks which removes suspended trace oil and other suspended solids from the water received from the pump compartment. The water upon passing through the sand filter tanks is channeled to a balancing tank and pumped by means of a recirculating pump to a separator which removes solid particles up to six microns in size from the water received from the balancing tank. From the separator the water is channeled in desired proportions to a carbon filter and to a wash water tank. The carbon filter removes any remaining soap elements from the water before the clarified water is channeled into a rinse water tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Inventor: Harley J. Pattee
  • Patent number: 5271808
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided reclaiming a useful oil product from waste oil, such as used lubricating oil. The apparatus comprises an oil feed means, a boiler, a heater and a separating means. The heater is used to heat the waste oil in the boiler to a temperature such that lighter hydrocarbons remain unvolatilized, trapping contaminants therewith. The separating means separates the volatilized lighter hydrocarbons from the unvolatilized heavier hydrocarbons and contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Inventor: Edward C. Shurtleff
  • Patent number: 5256263
    Abstract: A method enabling thorough purification of lacustrine water with simple operation in an energy-saving manner within a short period of time and being free from the possibility of secondary public nuisance, and further a filthy water purification boat for implementing said method. According to this invention, while operating filthy water purification boat having an electrolyzing device for calcium fluoride, DC current power source, and coagulant pouring device mounted thereon on lakes or marshes, the electrolyzing device is operated and coagulant is fed into a pipe having a coagulant pouring nozzle. Lacustrine water, while passed through electrodes, is fed with fluorine ion and coagulant, and polluting substances coagulate and turn into flocks of a large diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventor: Masakuni Kanai
  • Patent number: 5160607
    Abstract: A filter for aquarium has a housing having a bottom chamber and at least one filter compartment for a filter material located above the bottom chamber, a supply arranged so that water is supplied from above so as to pass the filter compartment and float to the bottom chamber, a pump for pumping water from the bottom chamber back into the aquarium, so that the filter operates as alternating lifting-lowering filter. Each of the filter compartments has at least one overflow aspiration lifting device with an inlet located at a base side and substantially at a height of a bottom of the filter compartment and an outlet which opens downwardly toward a next one of the filter compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Eheim GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Helmut Thiemer, Walter Schottner, Peter Voss
  • Patent number: 5149446
    Abstract: A water generating device for obtaining potable water from inside or outside ambient air, having ducts for bringing a supply of inside or outside ambient air to the device and for releasing the air back outside the device after it has been processed. There is an air filter for filtering the air prior to processing of the air. The air filter includes at least one filter element which becomes unusable when removed from the generator. A condenser is provided for extracting water vapor in the air brought thereto by the ducts. Within the ducts there is a fan or blower to move air from outside the device through the condenser and for returning the air back outside after it has traversed the condenser. Between the condenser and the collection point, there is a water filter for filtering the water from the condenser. The water filter includes a filter element cooperating female sensor which becomes unusable when removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventor: James J. Reidy
  • Patent number: 5106512
    Abstract: A water generating device for obtaining potable water from ambient air inside or outside a structure or dwelling, having ducts for bringing this supply of ambient air to the device and for releasing the air back outside the device after it has been processed. There is an air filter for filtering the air prior to processing of the air. The air filter includes a one-time sensing element which renders it unusable when removed from the generator. A condenser is provided for extracting water vapor in the air brought thereto by the ducts. Within the ducts there is a fan or blower to move air from outside the device through the condenser and for returning the air back outside the device after it has traversed the condenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventor: James J. Reidy
  • Patent number: 5098585
    Abstract: An aquarium filter assembly which can be utilized as a diatomaceous earth filter which is self-priming. The filter includes a housing having a pump means from which depends a filtering element. The water pumped through the filtering element can be directed either back into the housing for recirculation of the water in the housing, or out of the housing and back into the aquarium tank for filtering of the aquarium tank water. A valve within the housing operates to permit water entry into the housing upon initial insertion and during filtration of the aquarium tank water. The valve closes when the water flow from the filtering element is directed back into the housing. Diatomaceous earth can be added into the housing and the water recirculated within the housing serves to self-prime the filter element. After charging the filter element, the water flow from the filtering element is directed into the aquarium tank and the valve opens to permit regular filtering of the aquarium tank water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Assignee: Willinger Bros., Inc.
    Inventors: Klaus Woltman, Allan H. Willinger
  • Patent number: 5068030
    Abstract: A water filtering, sterilizing and heating apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes filter tank provided with activated carbon therein, to filter bacteria, miscellaneous impurities and odor in water. The output of the filter is coupled to a microwave oscillator to vibrate and churn the water coming from the filter tank. The water from the microwave oscillator is coupled to an ultraviolet light sterilizing tank having an ultraviolet lamp disposed vertically in the center thereof. A storage tank is provided to receive and store the water coming from the ultraviolet light sterilzing tank. The fluid level in the storage tank is maintained by automatically controlling the passage of water thereto by means of an electromagnetic valve actuated by a micro switch responsive to displacement of a float. The temperature of the stored water being kept at a preset temperature by means of a heater and a temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Assignee: Oxford Science Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi-Min Chen
  • Patent number: 5055185
    Abstract: This invention relates to an anti-freeze separator assembly connected to a piece of equipment in outdoor freezing conditions in order to take a fluid, such as water, and treat same for subsequent disposal without freezing. The anti-freeze separator assembly includes 1) a main container housing; 2) a material retainer member mounted within the main container housing to receive and hold a treatment chemical therein; 3) an enclosure cap assembly releasably mounted on the main container housing; 4) a main fluid inlet assembly connected to the main container housing to transfer a fluid to be treated therein; and 5) a main discharge assembly connected to the main container housing to transfer a treat fluid therefrom. The main discharge assembly includes a discharge pipe member connected to a transfer pipe assembly with a diaphragm valve assembly therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Inventor: Luther M. McMurphy
  • Patent number: 5055184
    Abstract: This invention relates to a gas assisted flotation process and apparatus useful in the separation of solids from liquids in a slurry, such as treated waste waters, paper pulp solutions etc. The gas assisted flotation process may be operated on a continuous basis. The upper portion of the main chamber of the apparatus is tapered inward to terminate in an apex which has an opening through which the floated and compressed solids and gas are removed. The apparatus also has a fluid discharge line through which the separated fluids may be removed which also contains a fluid discharge valve which may be opened and constricted intermittently to control the flow of slurry through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Assignee: Redux Corporation
    Inventors: Robert K. Carpenter, Harrison F. Lyman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5000843
    Abstract: There is provided between a concentrate tank and a membrane filter a circulating line which consists of a feed line and a return line. It is also possible to use an ultrafilter as the membrane filter. There is provided a leveling tube connected by respective pipes to the concentrate tank at top and bottom portions thereof, respectively. A buoy floats within the leveling tube and a position of this buoy is detected by means of transparency of the leveling tube itself or photosensors in order to detect a degree of concentration of the culture fluid progressing within the concentrate tank. There may be provided multi-stage circulating lines each connecting the associated concentrate tank to the associated membrane filter so that the culture fluid can be transferred during the process of concentration from the stage of the largest volume treatment to the state of the least volume treatment in order to concentrate the culture fluid more efficiently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Assignee: Snow Brand Milk Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eitaro Kumazawa, Takao Hatai, Seiji Ishida, Atushi Baba, Masahiko Takahashi