Diverse Patents (Class 210/259)
  • Patent number: 11718546
    Abstract: A method and a system comprising an integrated water purifying apparatus with a pre-filter circuit including a particle filter and an activated carbon filter arranged to produce pre-treated water; a fluid circuit arranged to receive pre-treated water from the pre-filter circuit, the fluid circuit including an RO-pump and a Reverse Osmosis (RO) device arranged to produce purified water; a heating device arranged to heat purified water from the RO device to a temperature above 65°0 C.; the water purifying apparatus further arranged to heat disinfect the fluid circuit using the heated purified water. The system further comprises a line set connected to the purified water outlet connector at a water line connector of the line set, wherein the line set includes at least one sterile sterilizing grade filter arranged to further filter the purified water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare SA
    Inventors: Anders Wieslander, Olof Jansson, Per-Ola Wictor, Anders Wellings, Helena Jeppsson
  • Patent number: 11583621
    Abstract: A cartridge to be used for adsorption dialysis. A container having flexible walls are arranged to provide an inner space enclosing adsorption powder, comprising activated carbon, a phosphate adsorbent and a potassium ion adsorbent and other adsorbents. A sufficient amount of activated carbon is provided for adsorption of urea by the activated carbon. The cartridge forms a vacuum-packed transportation cartridge by generating a sub-pressure in the inner space, whereby the powder particles are immobilized and the cartridge becomes stiff. Before use, the cartridge is primed by introducing a liquid into the inner space, which introduction takes place at a low pressure. During use, dialysis solution is circulated through the cartridge, which is still exposed to a sub-pressure, whereby the flexible walls are sucked against the powder material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: TRIOMED AB
    Inventors: Anders Wallenås, Nina Meinander, Carin Malmborg, Stefan Landholm, Hans Bengtsson
  • Patent number: 11577183
    Abstract: One method disclosed herein of processing a process fluid that comprises dissolved gas includes performing a degassing process on the process fluid by heating the process fluid via heat transfer with a heat transfer fluid, wherein at least some amount of the heat transfer fluid condenses in the first heat transfer process and latent heat of the heat transfer fluid as it condenses is used to increase the temperature of the process fluid. Thereafter, the heat transfer fluid is passed through an expansion device so as to produce a post-expansion heat transfer fluid. The temperature of the heated process fluid is decreased by performing a second heat transfer process between the post-expansion heat transfer fluid and the heated process fluid, wherein the temperature of the post-expansion heat transfer fluid is increased and the latent heat that was supplied to the process fluid in the first heat transfer process is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: FMC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Sander Baaren
  • Patent number: 11565959
    Abstract: A method of increasing operational efficiency of a power plant includes determining an average rate of accumulation of scale-forming compounds in a cooling water source, directing water from the cooling water source having a first concentration of scale forming compounds through a treatment system to produce a treated water having a lower concentration of scale-forming components than the first concentration by operating the treatment system with operating parameters selected such that a rate of removal of the scale-forming components from the water in the treatment system is greater than the average rate of accumulation of the scale-forming components, directing the treated water back into the cooling water source, and circulating water including the treated water from the cooling water source through a cooling system of the power plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Evoqua Water Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Carol Jones, Justin Wayne Higgs
  • Patent number: 11565204
    Abstract: A water separation group is for a fuel filtration and separation assembly of a vehicle fuel circulation system. The assembly extends along a longitudinal axis positionable in the vehicle in a horizontal position having a filtration group. The water separation assembly is associable to the filtration group for receiving filtered fuel, being positioned in series along the longitudinal axis. The water separation assembly has a main body defining a separation chamber and at an axial end, an outlet wall with an outlet mouth. A separator is accommodated in the separation chamber. A blocking device is below the separator to prevent the return of water to the separator. The blocking device has a blocking surface extending longitudinally forming an angle that inclines at least a portion of the blocking surface to allow water separated from the fuel to flow towards the outlet wall from which the blocking surface extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: UFI FILTERS S.P.A.
    Inventor: Giorgio Girondi
  • Patent number: 11413582
    Abstract: A filtration device includes a continuous first unit including a first membrane that separates a liquid into first permeated and non-permeated liquids, a first adjuster that adjusts a flow rate of the first permeated liquid to be substantially constant, and a first liquid scale that detects a liquid amount, a second unit including a second membrane that separates another liquid into second permeated and non-permeated liquids, a second adjuster that adjusts a flow rate of the second permeated liquid to be substantially constant, and a second liquid scale that detects another liquid amount, a first controller that controls the liquid amount in the first storage tank based on measurement values from continuous two first units or from the continuous first and second units, and a second controller that controls the another liquid amount based on a measurement value from the second unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: Toray Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Yuka Asahi, Atsushi Minamino, Hiroyuki Kurihara, Katsushige Yamada
  • Patent number: 11358100
    Abstract: An arrangement for providing sterile water for injection purposes is described. A device for heating drinking water above the boiling point, a device for maintaining a chamber inner pressure which lies below the atmospheric pressure, and an electronic controller are provided, and the chamber is equipped with at least one membrane which is impermeable for liquids and a film or plate at a distance from the membrane, wherein steam which is permeated through the membrane is condensed on the film of plate. The membrane and the film or plate form a module, and the condensed water can be removed from the chamber via an outlet as sterile water for injection purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: Pharmatec GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Kretzschmar, Daniel Daemmig, Michael von Papen, Stephan Simon
  • Patent number: 11304359
    Abstract: A new method of disposing of waste for the hog industry is disclosed which avoids use of lagoons. Manure is semi-continuously degritted, anaerobically digested and digested with biomass to produce bio-organic fertilizer and biogas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Holistic Farming, Inc. (HFI)
    Inventor: Jason Chia Hsing Shih
  • Patent number: 11167228
    Abstract: A filter assembly that includes one or more features that enhance installation, inspection, and replacement of the filter is provided. In one exemplary aspect, the filter assembly includes a manifold and a filter media assembly that includes a filter media and an end cap attached thereto. The end cap and manifold include features that provide for secure mounting of the filter media assembly with the manifold so as to facilitate inspection, installation, and removal of the filter assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan John Prince, Alan Joseph Mitchell, Gregory Sergeevich Chernov
  • Patent number: 11047021
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is apparatus for recovering an acid or a base during a uranium extraction process. The apparatus contacts contacting a feed stream comprising the acid or base and the uranium with an ultrafiltration membrane to produce an ultrafiltration retentate and an ultrafiltration permeate, and contacting the ultrafiltration permeate with a nanofiltration membrane. The nanofiltration retentate produced comprises a majority of the uranium from the feed stream, and the nanofiltration permeate produced comprises a majority of the acid or base from the feed stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Paladin Intellectual Property Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Paul Boshoff, Merrill Ford, Shana McDougall, Mark Peacock
  • Patent number: 11021377
    Abstract: A system and method of operating the same includes a membrane chamber comprising a membrane, an inlet, a concentrate outlet and a permeate outlet. The membrane chamber is located in a body of water at a predetermined depth. A turbocharger is disposed at about the predetermined depth and includes a pump portion coupled to the inlet of the membrane chamber and a turbine portion coupled to the concentrate outlet. A pump communicates pressurizing feed fluid and communicates the feed fluid to the turbine portion of the turbocharger though a feed pipe. A permeate pipe extends from the permeate outlet to about the surface of at the body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: FLUID EQUIPMENT DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: Eli Oklejas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10980245
    Abstract: A method for at least partially dehydrating the casing of co-extruded food products, wherein an aqueous salt solution is supplied to the exterior of the co-extruded food products. A device for at least partially dehydrating the casing of co-extruded food products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: MAREL MEAT B.V.
    Inventors: Jos Kobussen, Marcus Bernhard Hubert Bontjer, Kasper Willem Van den Berg, Hector Angel Flores
  • Patent number: 10974980
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating produced water and/or flowback water from fracking operations include: an oil water separator; a first filter downstream of the oil water separator; and an electrocoagulation unit downstream of the first filter. Systems and methods can be used for producing a concentrated brine for use in industrial applications and a separate stream of fresh water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Absolute Graphic Technologies USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Englram
  • Patent number: 10941049
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water purifier comprising a body having an external appearance of a shape able to hold water, and a discharge device which is located inside the body and discharges the water held in the body to the outside of the body; wherein the discharge device comprises a discharge unit body which has a hollow shape that provides a flow pathway for discharging the water held in the body, and a light-source unit which is disposed facing the discharge unit body and irradiates light having the wavelength band of ultraviolet light towards water flowing through the discharge unit body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hyun Kyong Cho, Sung Won Roh
  • Patent number: 10934181
    Abstract: The subject disclosure provides systems for electric power generation and water desalination. In certain aspects, the systems include a power generation unit such as a reciprocating generator or fuel cell having a water cooling subsystem configured to receive cool water and output warm water and a water desalination plant co-located with the power generation unit and configured to receive and desalinate the warm water. Aspects of the invention also include methods for cooling a power generation unit using a water cooling subsystem and desalinating water with a desalination plant that is co-located with the power generation unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: DeepWater Desal LLC
    Inventor: Brent R. Constantz
  • Patent number: 10926016
    Abstract: A system that fills multiple containers includes a filter with an inlet port and multiple outlet ports. The outlet ports are pre-attached to containers by respective filling lines of each container. Each container has an interior and each of the respective filling lines is connected to a respective container interior. All of the respective filling lines are sealed to the outlet ports and the containers such that the container interiors are isolated from an external environment except the inlet port, via the filter, forming a combined interior volume which is sterile. The system can produce batches of multiple sterile containers with sterile medicament in the containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: NXSTAGE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey H. Burbank, James M. Brugger
  • Patent number: 10907303
    Abstract: A process is provided for preparing a low density, fibrous primary lignocellulose biomass, particularly straw for anaerobic digestion at large scale, i.e. >2 MWth, which comprises a step that greatly increasing the density of the straw through size reduction, moisture adjustment and compression ahead of loading and subsequent agitation of the resultant biomass in a pressure vessel through an atmosphere of saturated steam providing heat for thermal-pressure hydrolysis and recovering treated biomass from the vessel. The primary lignocellulose biomass may be prepared in admixture with secondary biomass which may be manure-based.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: THERMO PRESSURE TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED
    Inventors: Ian Cecil Toll, Christian Andrew Ian Toll, Nigel Anthony Bailey, Zhengjian Wang, Andrew Walsh
  • Patent number: 10899652
    Abstract: Glass fibers have a chemical composition that includes the following constituents, in a weight content that varies within the limits defined below: SiO2 50-70%, Al2O3 0-5%, CaO+MgO 0-7%, Na2O 5-15%, K2O 0-10%, BaO 2-10%, SrO 2-10%, ZnO <2%, and B2O3 5-15%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: SAINT-GOBAIN ISOVER
    Inventors: Emmanuel Lecomte, Christopher Ellison
  • Patent number: 10828647
    Abstract: A froth collection launder for a collection of froth from a mineral flotation includes a first and a second sidewall which are joined to form a bottom including a tip extending along the bottom, the first sidewall including a first end and the second sidewall including a second end at their open ends, at least one of the first and the second ends includes a froth overflow lip, and when the froth collection launder is positioned at its operation position a centre line is located in the middle of the first and the second end in the cross direction (x) of the froth collection launder. The tip is located between the centre line and one of the first and the second end in the cross direction (x) of the froth collection launder and the tip forms the lowest point of the froth collection launder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: OUTOTEC (FINLAND) OY
    Inventors: Tatu Miettinen, Rodrigo Grau, Alejandro Yanez, Zakaria Mönkäre, Jere Tuominen
  • Patent number: 10821386
    Abstract: An apparatus for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects by successive, selective layer-by-layer exposure and thus successive, selective layer-by-layer solidification of construction material layers of construction material that can be solidified by means of an energy beam, comprising a filter device provided for filtering process gas arising in the course of performing additive construction processes in a process chamber of the apparatus, wherein the filter device comprises several filter modules with a filter module housing each, wherein every filter module housing comprises a filter body receiving room configured with a defined geometry provided for receiving a defined number of filter bodies configured with a defined geometry, wherein every filter module comprises connection interfaces on the filter module via which it is or can be connected, if required, to defined connection areas of a pipe structure of the apparatus that is or can be flown through by the process gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: CONCEPT LASER GMBH
    Inventors: Alexander Hofmann, Jens Stammberger, Ralf Hetzel
  • Patent number: 10821387
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for additive manufacturing of three-dimensional objects (2) by successive, selective layer-by-layer exposure and thus successive, selective layer-by-layer solidification of construction material layers of construction material (3) that can be solidified by means of an energy beam, comprising a pipe structure (12), and a filter device (7) that is connected to the pipe structure (12), provided for filtering the process gas (9), wherein the filter device (7) comprises several filter modules (14) that can be or are arranged exchangeably connected to the pipe structure (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: CONCEPT LASER GMBH
    Inventors: Jens Stammberger, Christian Diller, Ralf Hetzel
  • Patent number: 10822241
    Abstract: The invention relates to the complex processing of a nuclear power plant's NPP's liquid, boron-containing waste with a complex composition, being generated during the operation of NPPs, including of ones VVER-type, and can be used to isolate boric and nitric acids and hydroxides of sodium and potassium for their reuse in the NPP process cycle. The invention allows to obtain crystalline boric acid and highly concentrated solutions of nitric acid and hydroxides of sodium and potassium, suitable for reuse in the NPP process cycle and for general industrial use. Conducting electrodialysis at low values of current and voltage provides a reduction of the method's energy intensity. The involvement of all major components of waste mother liquors into the processing reduces the amount of stored and disposed hazardous waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignees: JOINT STOCK COMPANY “ROSENERGOATOM”, JOINT STOCK COMPANY “SCIENCE AND INNOVATIONS”
    Inventors: Vladimir Ivanovich Ivanenko, Tat'yana Andreevna Sedneva, Efroim Pinkhusovich Lokshin, Roman Ivanovich Korneikov
  • Patent number: 10788480
    Abstract: Methods for separating blood plasma from whole blood in the absence of performing centrifugation are provided. The method combines mechanical filtration and blood cell aggregation and is adapted for use in POC clinical testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: William O. Osburn, Stuart C. Ray
  • Patent number: 10716244
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides facilities having water cooling subsystems and multi-lumen conduits coupled thereto. Also provided are methods of cooling facilities by, for example, receiving cool water into a water cooling subsystem of a facility and outputting warm water from the water cooling subsystem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: DeepWater Desal LLC
    Inventor: Brent R. Constantz
  • Patent number: 10618850
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes methods of making a fertilizer composition from pretreated biomass by removing one or more inorganic nutrients from a fermentation beer to form an aqueous fertilizer composition. The present disclosure also includes systems configured to make a fertilizer composition from pretreated biomass, where the systems include one or more apparatuses in fluid communication with a fermentation vessel, wherein at least one apparatus is configured to remove one or more inorganic nutrients from the fermentation beer to form an aqueous fertilizer composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: POET Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Tad Scott Hepner, W. Wade Robey, Steven G. Redford, Adam R. Wirt
  • Patent number: 10568298
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting agricultural manure in a confined animal feeding operation includes a separator which receives heavy manure removing particulate from suspension to produce light manure. Heavy manure is collected to a volume of heavy manure sufficient to substantially fill the first tank. Within the first tank, particulate migrates, due to the influence of gravity to form a layer containing manure comprising a lesser density of particulate than is present in the volume of heavy manure. Additional heavy manure buoys the layer such that the upper surface exceeds a height of a weir. The weir is situated in a channel communicating between the first tank and a second tank configured to receive light manure from the separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Dari-Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: David DeWaard
  • Patent number: 10557109
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an infusion filter arrangement with a forced infusion system for a beer-brewing system that is configured to create a liquid flow in a grain bed that provides self-agitation of the grains by delivering liquid inside of or below the grain bed from an intermediate segment of a filter cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Inventor: Darin L. Danelski
  • Patent number: 10526225
    Abstract: A water filtration and disinfection device comprises a water basin having an inlet for receiving water from a source. A sidestream treatment device is provided for treating water from the water basin, and the sidestream treatment device comprises a plurality of filtration or disinfection mechanisms for acting on water within the sidestream treatment device. A feed conduit extends between the water basin and the sidestream treatment device for feeding water from the water basin to the sidestream and a return conduit extends from the sidestream treatment device to the water basin for returning at least a part of the water to the water basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: GREEN CROWN WATER SYSTEMS LLC
    Inventor: Emmanuel Moya
  • Patent number: 10465152
    Abstract: Systems and methods for fractionating whole stillage from an ethanol production facility are provided. Whole stillage undergoes a separation of its liquid portion (thin stillage) from the solid portion (fiber cake). In some embodiments, the solids and liquids in whole stillage may be separated utilizing a screening centrifuge. The fiber cake may be dried to generate a high fiber animal feed. The thin stillage may be provided to a three-phase separator for separation into an oil emulsion, an aqueous clarified stillage, and a protein paste. The protein paste may be dried to generate a high protein animal feed with greater than about 45% protein content. The clarified thin stillage is condensed to yield a syrup with greater than around 60% solids. The oil emulsion is subjected to a pH adjustment to liberate the oil from the emulsion, which is then separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: POET Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Alan Bootsma
  • Patent number: 10399879
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for treating a biomass (1) mixed with water in order to produce, independently, combustible solids (14) and drinking water (12) and biogas (13A, 13B), and also to a device for treating a biomass (1) mixed with water in order to produce, independently, combustible solids (14), drinking water (12) and biogas (13A, 13B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: NEREUS SAS
    Inventor: Franck Merican
  • Patent number: 10384963
    Abstract: A method for controlling a treatment apparatus arrangement in a treatment plant, the treatment plant including a basin housing a liquid and solid matter. The operating condition in the basin is anoxic and/or anaerobic, and the treatment apparatus arrangement includes at least one mixer machine located in the basin and a variable speed drive operatively connected to the mixer machine. The variable speed drive operates the mixer machine alternately in a Normal Operation Mode, in which an operational speed of the mixer machine is at least the greater of a suspension speed and a process speed, and a Reduced Operation Mode, in which the operational speed of the mixer machine is below the suspension speed. Also described is a treatment apparatus arrangement and a treatment plant, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: XYLEM EUROPE GMBH
    Inventor: Lars Uby
  • Patent number: 10377641
    Abstract: A gas flotation tank is provided that includes a series of adjacent chambers which impart a rotational current therein. Each chamber is separated from a skim oil trough by a skimming weir. Each chamber comprises an alternating fluid communication device between adjacent chambers allowing fluid communication between adjacent chambers in the form of a communication port in the dividing wall between adjacent chambers and a chamber outlet in conjunction with a perforated plate and the outlet is positioned in fluid communication with the final chamber. An optional coalescing media may be positioned in or proximate the communication port to absorb or coalesce contaminants as they pass therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Exterran Water Solutions ULC
    Inventors: Todd William Kirk, Daniel Clifford Whitney, Douglas Walker Lee
  • Patent number: 10301191
    Abstract: A filtration system and method are provided for removing suspended solids and other affiliated pollutants from stormwater runoff and any other contaminated water. The filtration system and method utilize a filtration medium including steel slag. By improving or replacing a conventional filtration media, such as a sand filtration system, with a filtration medium including steel slag, the removal efficiency of suspended solids and affiliated pollutants is improved and the lifespan of the filtration system is lengthened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignees: UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT DESIGN GROUP, LLC, The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Allen P. Davis, Neil A. Weinstein, Rufus L. Chaney
  • Patent number: 10233404
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to corn dry-milling, and more specifically, to methods for producing a high protein corn meal from a whole stillage byproduct produced in a corn dry-milling process for making ethanol and a system therefore. In one embodiment, a method for producing a high protein corn meal from a whole stillage byproduct includes, in a corn dry-milling process for making ethanol, separating the whole stillage byproduct into an insoluble solids portion and a thin stillage portion. The thin stillage portion is separated into a protein portion and a water soluble solids portion. Next, the protein portion is dewatered then dried to define a high protein corn meal that includes at least 40 wt % protein on a dry basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: Fluid Quip, Inc.
    Inventor: Chie Ying Lee
  • Patent number: 10112126
    Abstract: An extrusion system for separating soil entrained in wash water, e.g. from harvesting tuberous produce, includes a settling tank configured to receive a flow of soiled water, to allow soil to settle by gravity, and to allow clarified water collection at the top. A diffuser suspended within the tank converts the flow of soiled water into multiple transverse flows to avoid churning the settled soil. A sensor detects the level of settled soil reaching a predetermined setpoint, and in response the system actuates an auger and opens a pinch valve to force concentrated soil from the bottom of the settling tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Southern Field Welding, LLC
    Inventors: Neil Justesen, Fred Leoni
  • Patent number: 10097065
    Abstract: A bioenergy management system and method for generating and supplying on-demand auxiliary electrical power is disclosed. The system/method includes a biogas generation unit (BGU) that produces biogas from dairy farm manure and stores the biogas in a biogas storage unit (BSU). An stored energy electric generation unit (SEGU) converts the stored biogas to electricity. A biogas control unit (BCU) measures the quality and quantity of biogas stored in the BSU and calculates available electric power (AEP) from this information. Depending on auxiliary electrical power requirements, a utility control unit (UCU) initiates an on-demand request for electric power (REP) to the BCU using a producer communication device (PCD)/utility communication device (UCD) data link. The BCU processes the REP from the UCU and negotiates electrical power (NEP) quantity. The BCU may electrically connect the SEGU to an electric transmission grid (ETG) to allow instantaneous/scheduled NEP delivery to the ETG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: CALIFORNIA BIOENERGY, LLC
    Inventor: N. Ross Buckenham
  • Patent number: 10093570
    Abstract: A system is provided for the dynamic dewatering of any of a variety of sludges, slurries, or waters. A stream of material is treated in a series of distinct operations to release free water, draw off additional water through vacuum, and compress the resultant dewatered solids to result in a substantially dewatered material. One or more open cells are used in vacuum dewatering in continuous dynamic operation. The system may be integrated into a packaged unit that may be installed at a operation site, and maybe operated with multiple like units to increase treatment flowrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Inventor: Paul Vette
  • Patent number: 10087089
    Abstract: A forward osmosis apparatus is improved. A forward osmosis apparatus, comprising a diluting means for bringing a feed solution and a draw solution comprising a cation source and an anion source in an ionized state into contact through a semi-permeable membrane and diluting the draw solution with water separated from the feed solution by means of the semi-permeable membrane; a separating means for separating the draw solution that has been diluted by the diluting means into the cation source and anion source and into water; and a dissolving means, returning the cation source and the anion source that have been separated by the separating means to, and dissolving the cation source and anion source in, the draw solution that has been diluted; wherein the molecular weight of the cation source in an uncharged state is 31 or greater and the Henry's law constant of each of the anion source and cation source is 1.0×104 (Pa/mol·fraction) or greater in a standard state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Morihito Ikeda, Kimiaki Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 10087090
    Abstract: A forward osmosis apparatus is improved. A forward osmosis apparatus, comprising a diluting means for bringing a feed solution and a draw solution comprising a cation source and an anion source in an ionized state into contact through a semi-permeable membrane and diluting the draw solution with water separated from the feed solution by means of the semi-permeable membrane; a separating means for separating the draw solution that has been diluted by the diluting means into the cation source and anion source and into water; and a dissolving means, returning the cation source and the anion source that have been separated by the separating means to, and dissolving the cation source and anion source in, the draw solution that has been diluted; wherein the molecular weight of the cation source in an uncharged state is 31 or greater and the Henry's law constant of each of the anion source and cation source is 1.0×104 (Pa/mol·fraction) or greater in a standard state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Morihito Ikeda, Kimiaki Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 9962060
    Abstract: A method of operating a dishwasher having a pump and filter assembly including an impeller adapted to recirculate liquid, a housing defining an interior and exterior, a rotating filter to effect a filtering of the liquid, and a granular agent supply with granular agent cleaning the filter by scouring the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Jacquelyn R. Geda, Antony M. Rappette
  • Patent number: 9957180
    Abstract: Cations that can precipitate from an aqueous composition to produce scaling are sequestered by adding a multi-dentate ligand to the aqueous composition. The multi-dentate ligand bonds with the cation to form a non-scaling ionic complex; and the aqueous solution with the ionic complex is used in a process that produces substantially pure water from the aqueous composition, where the cation, absent formation of the ionic complex, is subject to scaling. The pH of the aqueous composition (or a brine including components of the aqueous composition) is then reduced to release the cation from the multi-dentate ligand; and the multi-dentate ligand, after the cation is released, is then reused in a predominantly closed loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Prakash Narayan Govindan, Windsor Sung, Steven Lam, Maximus G. St. John, John H. Lienhard, Mohammed Mirhi, Anurag Bajpayee
  • Patent number: 9751045
    Abstract: Equipment, systems, processes and techniques for conducting processing of solutions are described. The techniques can be applied to provide diluted solution (i.e. purified solvent), concentrate solution or each. A variety of specific equipment, example systems and processes are depicted and described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Solution Dynamics, LLC
    Inventor: Calvin Wohlert
  • Patent number: 9752082
    Abstract: The reduction of viscosity of petroleum products and hydrocarbon emulsions and the like is effected by applying electrodynamic shocks unto a foaming streamflow of the high viscosity emulsion to create a densely whirled streamflow by agitation with a high radial gradient of pressure. Chemical bonding breakup and destruction of long structured molecules of paraffin occur in the emulsion to result in the formations of free radicals and carbamides, and separation of a processed mixture into light and heavy fractions. The process alters the physiochemical properties of the emulsion to cause decrease of density, and the reduction of viscosity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: 1861244 ONTARIO INC
    Inventors: Lazarus Saidakovsky, Sergey Rakhinskiy, Nicolai Novikov
  • Patent number: 9637402
    Abstract: A process for treatment of sludge made up of saline organic solids or organic waste produced in a saltwater or brackish aquaculture system is described. The process includes use of a modified reactor, operating under anaerobic conditions, which yields methane from the digestion of the saline organic solids. Modification of a traditional reactor to include a packing substrate provides for saline waste digestion not previously known. Additionally provided is a process for producing methane from the digestion of organic solids. Inclusion of and use of modified reactors in aquaculture systems is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE COUNTY
    Inventors: Yossi Tal, Kevin R. Sowers
  • Patent number: 9587381
    Abstract: A system for condensing water from air includes a column having a substantially non-reflective surface effective for absorbing heat energy from the sun and transferring the heat to air in the interior of the column. A condenser is secured within the column, and includes a channel having a condensing surface with a thermoelectric or natural gas cooler positioned thereon for cooling the condensing surface. A collector is positioned within the column for collecting water that condenses on and flows through the channel, and an accumulator is coupled in fluid communication with the collector for accumulating the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: J. Glenn Turner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9499424
    Abstract: A method for wastewater treatment, in a continuous flow system, and a plant for wastewater treatment, to achieve high level reduction of biogenic nitrate compounds are provided. Subjecting a mixture of active sludge and wastewater to vacuum degassing on the mixture that has been subject to earlier nitrification, but not introduced in a recirculation-return connection, and constituting the outflow from a nitrification volume, before degassing, is subject to additional denitrification. The mixture of active sludge and wastewater, due to the additional denitrification step, may be free of carbon carried along with wastewater. An external source of readily available carbon is introduced, and further deepened nitrates removal is performed. After wastewater is degassed, treatment continues within a gaseous nitrogen undersaturated aqueous zone of a secondary sedimentation tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Inventor: Andrzej Golcz
  • Patent number: 9485998
    Abstract: Poultry carcasses are contacted with water treated with one or more specified dihalodialkylhydantoin biocides in a processing operation downstream from a scalding tank. The aqueous effluent from that downstream operation or from any location further downstream is recycled to the scalding tank. Surprisingly, the bromine residues from the dihalodialkylhydantoin biocides are much more thermally unstable than, for example, the commonly used microbiocide, sodium hypochlorite. Thus, the effluent from the scalding tank has its active bromine content significantly reduced before it is sent to a water purification facility wherein microbial action is used to reduce the BOD of the waste water before its release to the environment. Thus, injury to this desired microbial action is reduced. In addition, the recycle reduces water consumption in the overall poultry processing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: ALBEMARLE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Eric W. Liimatta
  • Patent number: 9452938
    Abstract: An ammonia capture recovery system is disclosed. The ammonia capture recovery system may include pretreatment with conventional solid removal devices and a single or a series of hydrophobic membrane concentrators receiving a heated ammonium containing influent either heated to a sufficient temperature to convert ammonia to ammonium or containing sufficient alkali to convert ammonia to ammonium in the influent. The heated ammonium containing liquid is pumped through the hydrophobic membrane concentrator and the hydrophobic membrane concentrator receives an acid. The acid then reacts with the extracted gaseous ammonia and ultimately forms a saturated ammonium salt product that is discharged from the hydrophobic membrane concentrator, the hydrophobic membrane concentrator includes a feed line, a plurality of hydrophobic membrane modules, a diluted acid source and a concentrated acid source and tanks to receive the saturated ammonium salt product and the low ammonia effluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Inventors: Morton Orentlicher, Mark Simon
  • Patent number: 9233348
    Abstract: An equipment assembly for preparing, harvesting and collecting particles is disclosed. The assembly comprises a tandem filter system with one or more high pressure filters, one or more low pressure filters and one or more collection vessel. Particles can be prepared, harvested and collected continuously, semi-continuously or in a batch-type operation. A tandem filter system and its method of use are also disclosed. Particles made with the assembly and according the instant methods are also disclosed. The assembly provides improved particle harvesting and collection over other systems and permits continuous particle formation, in particular by dispersion of a solute-containing process fluid within a supercritical anti-solvent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Crititech, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg S Johnson, Bala Subramaniam, Fenhui Niu
  • Publication number: 20150144554
    Abstract: In a wastewater treatment system, feed water is processed by anaerobic digestion, preferably in an anaerobic moving bed bioreactor (AnMBBR). Effluent from the AnMBBR passes through one or more solid-liquid separation units. A solids portions is treated by hydrolysis or suspended growth anaerobic digestion. A liquid portion of the hydrolysis or suspended growth anaerobic digestion effluent is returned to the AnMBBR or blended with effluent from the AnMBBR. The AnMBBR effluent may be treated with an aerobic moving bed bioreactor (MBBR) before the one or more solid-liquid separation steps. Membrane filtration may provide a first solid-liquid separation step. A thickened waste stream may be withdrawn from a recirculation loop flowing from the first solid-liquid separation unit to the MBBR. Optionally, a solids portion separated from the feed water upstream of the AnMBBR may also be treated by hydrolysis or suspended growth anaerobic digestion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Juan Carlos Josse, Michael David Theodoulou, Sasha Rollings-Scattergood