Floor Type, E.g., False Bottom Patents (Class 210/293)
  • Patent number: 11713266
    Abstract: Systems for use in one or more sludge or waste collection devices (e.g., containers, vessels or basins). One such system is a sludge removal system for removing sludge from one or more sludge collection devices. The sludge removal system includes one or more sludge removal grids disposed in one or more sludge collection devices. Each sludge removal grid preferably includes at least one header and a plurality of sludge collection laterals. Another such system includes a fluid distribution system for distributing one or more fluids in one or more sludge or waste collection devices. A movement restricting or prevention member is provided in both the fluid distribution and sludge removal systems to prevent or restrict movement of the sludge collection laterals and the fluid distribution laterals away from or towards a floor of a corresponding collection device without anchoring or fixing the laterals to the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: Roberts Marketing DE, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Lee Roberts
  • Patent number: 11607625
    Abstract: A water treatment system, such as a water softening system, having a water treatment tank with at least one distributor plate mounted inside to support filter media and/or ion exchange resin. The water treatment system is designed to treat hard water with a packed ion-exchange filter media and has a distributor plate design for facilitating the ion-exchange within a water softener resin bed, as well as facilitating the regeneration of the resin bed. The distributor plate presents cavities to the topside for entrapping filter media, and the cavities have narrow slits located at the base for allowing fluid to pass. A method for assembling the water treatment tank and supporting inserted distributor plate is shown. The distributor plate rest on and is supported by a domed-shaped structure that can be placed in the bottom portion of the water treatment vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Ecowater Systems LLC
    Inventors: George L. Dimotsis, Christopher James Fangman, Mark Joseph Sowada, Malcolm Kahn
  • Patent number: 11084746
    Abstract: Systems for use in one or more sludge or waste collection devices (e.g., containers, vessels or basins). One such system is a sludge removal system for removing sludge from one or more sludge collection devices. The sludge removal system includes one or more sludge removal grids disposed in one or more sludge collection devices. Each sludge removal grid preferably includes at least one header and a plurality of sludge collection laterals. Another such system includes a fluid distribution system for distributing one or more fluids in one or more sludge or waste collection devices. A movement restricting or prevention member is provided in both the fluid distribution and sludge removal systems to prevent or restrict movement of the sludge collection laterals and the fluid distribution laterals away from or towards a floor of a corresponding collection device without anchoring or fixing the laterals to the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: Roberts Marketing DE, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Lee Roberts
  • Patent number: 10472251
    Abstract: A distributor plate for a fluid tank such as a water softener pressure vessel separates the resin bed from a lower end of the resin tank. The distributor plate includes a disk that is supported on an upwardly facing surface from below and that is restrained from upward motion by a weld bead located above an outer periphery of the disk. The disk may have an inner slotted plate portion and an outer portion, and wherein the outer portion of the disk has an upper surface having an annular protrusion extending above an upper surface of the slotted plate portion, with an upper surface of the protrusion forms an engagement surface for the weld bead. The disk may be formed from a thermoplastic material having a relatively high dimensional predictability such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and unfilled or 30% glass-filled Noryl®, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Clack Corporation
    Inventor: Don Vaughan
  • Patent number: 10406456
    Abstract: A modular distribution assembly comprises a top plate and a bottom plate, each of the top plate and the bottom plate comprises a plurality of recesses. A plurality of support members are slidably coupled to each of the top plate and the bottom plate, each support member of the plurality of support members comprising a protrusion on each of opposing sides thereof, each protrusion slidably coupled to a corresponding recess of the top plate and a corresponding recess of the bottom plate. Related assemblies comprising the modular distribution assembly and related methods of forming the modular distribution assembly and the assembly are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Intuitech, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric J. Hoopes
  • Patent number: 10294135
    Abstract: A horizontal flow water treatment method and wetland biofilter apparatus provides a chamber with impermeable outer walls spaced away from permeable interior walls of a media filtration bed such that a catch basin is formed between the outer walls and the interior walls. The catch basin creates an open area around the perimeter of the interior walls for influent water to fill within the open area before penetrating the filtration media, providing a large surface area for influent water to interact with the media filtration bed. The influent water enters the catch basin in a horizontal flow path to provide for pre-settling of particulates before making contact with the filtration media. The biofilter design increases the available surface area of the media filtration bed by up to four times for a given volume of water, and thereby minimizes the loading or infiltration rate on the media filtration bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: MODULAR WETLAND SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Greg B. Kent, Zach J. Kent
  • Patent number: 10183241
    Abstract: Open filtering equipment for a water treatment station, for open filters with a filter bed such as sand, coal, etc., comprising a plurality of support legs (10), a plurality of frames (20) supported on said support legs (10), each having at least one opening (22), said plurality of frames (20) being suitable to cover the bottom of a filter, and a plurality of filtering assemblies with a flat upper surface, each of them attachable on a frame (20) covering an opening (22) thereof, and each filter assembly comprising a filtering grid (32) for filtering the water from the filter bed by filtering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Inventors: Domingo Campillo Jara, Marcos Martin Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 9950459
    Abstract: To provide a vehicle resin part and a vehicle resin part manufacturing method with which raised portions can be formed using slanted slide molds even on opposing molded portions that have a narrow distance between them. In a rail cover, shelf-shaped portions that can be molded using a cavity and a core are formed on opposing side wall portions, and claw portions that can be molded using slanted slide molds are formed projecting from the shelf-shaped portions in the directions of the opposing side wall portions. Additionally, the claw portions are molded by moving, during demolding, the pair of slanted slide molds in the directions of the opposing side wall portions from a molding position and thereafter removing the pair of slanted slide molds in a forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jun Shirai, Taisuke Matsuzaki, Yuta Takagi
  • Patent number: 9938670
    Abstract: A permeable paving system having a base layer and a paving layer, in which the base layer is made of a plurality of substantially hollow structural modules having a rigid bottom wall and a substantially parallel to a rigid top wall retained in a fixed space relationship from each other by a plurality of spacers, in which the structural module has a plurality of side walls extending between the perimeters of the top wall and the bottom wall, in which the top and bottom walls have apertures to allow movement of fluids into and out of the structural modules, and in which the top wall has a plurality of guide lines configured for alignment of paving material, and/or as a guide for cutting the structural module. Alternatively, instead of guide lines, there may be string line posts connectable to an element of the permeable paving system configured to extend above the top wall of said structural module and configured for establishing elevations of paving materials, and/or alignment of paving materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Charles R. White
  • Publication number: 20150136679
    Abstract: The present invention aims at limiting the pressure loss and smoothly discharging water treated by ion exchangers to the outside of the apparatus. Ion exchanging apparatus 1 has outer vessel 3 that has inner space 2; and ion exchanger support 4 that separates at least a part of inner space 2 into upper space 2a and lower space 2b and that can support ion exchangers to be loaded in upper space 2a. At least a part of an upper surface of the ion exchanger support is made from at least one screen which supports the ion exchangers and which has a flow path allowing water treated by the ion exchangers to flow into the lower space 2b.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: ORGANO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mitsuru Yoden, Mikio Sugano, Kazuhiko Saiki, Reo Matsutani, Kazuhiro Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 9017554
    Abstract: An underdrain block including a top wall, a bottom wall, and a pair of sidewalls defining a hollow interior and having a longitudinal axis, wherein the sidewalls, top wall, or both comprise at least one external detail. A handle is detachably connected to the external detail for transportation and positioning of said underdrain block. The external detail may comprise one of a protrusion or a receptacle for receiving a protrusion and the handle may include the other of a protrusion or a receptacle for receiving a protrusion. Also, a method of installing an underdrain block lateral comprising at least one underdrain block including the steps of attaching a handle to external details on the underdrain block, lifting the underdrain block lateral by the handle, positioning the underdrain block lateral into the underdrain system, and detaching the handle from the external details of the underdrain block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventor: Daniel E. Bruce
  • Patent number: 8992774
    Abstract: A filter system having a filter bed for filtering water or wastewater, where the filter bed is periodically washed between service runs by directing washing liquid and washing gas upwardly through the filter bed. The filter system includes a filter bed and at least one flume. The flume is in fluid communication with the filter bed. Preferably, the flume is configured such that no washing liquid and washing gas interface is present in the flume. The flume may be configured such that during washing of the filter bed between service runs the flume receives a washing gas and directs the washing gas upwardly through the filter bed to assist in cleaning the filter bed between service runs. The flume may further be configured such that during washing the only liquid directed from the flume to the filter bed is residual liquid that may be present in the flume from a prior service run.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison, Andrew Scott Taylor, Jason Samuel Schmoyer
  • Publication number: 20150014236
    Abstract: A portable water treatment device comprising an outer shell having a substantially flat bottom and a plastic inner liner, wherein the outer shell and the plastic inner liner together define an internal chamber having a first end for influent of a water source and a second end for effluent of treated water. The device also comprises a porous underdrain positioned near the bottom of the internal chamber; a filter bed comprising sand, and a Schmutzdecke formed within the flexible shell on or within the filter bed opposite the porous underdrain. Other embodiments include water treatment methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Donald Fredrick Kerr
  • Patent number: 8889003
    Abstract: An underdrain filter block for use in draining and backwashing a filtering media in a filter bed includes a top wall, a pair of side walls extending from the top wall, and a bottom wall extending between the pair of side walls. The top wall, the pair of side walls, and the bottom wall define an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion includes a grout chamber having a plurality of openings defined by at least one of the bottom wall and the pair of side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventors: Dean T. Berkebile, Daniel E. Bruce, Christopher J. Ball
  • Patent number: 8871093
    Abstract: A filter system for filtering a liquid containing particles including a single media retainer plate having a top and bottom surface, and defining at least one hopper-shaped compartment having a sloped wall defining a slot spanning the top and bottom surfaces is disclosed. The plate also includes at least one baffle extending from the bottom surface and filter media disposed on the top surface. During a filtering operation of the filter system, the filter media captures the particles, such as dirt, from the liquid as the liquid passes through the filter media to an underdrain system. During a backwash operation of the filter system, the baffle is adapted to direct a backwash fluid in a vertical direction through the slot so that the backwash fluid actuates the filter media to scour the top surface of the plate and prevent the build-up of biological scaling on the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Ball, Brian Bates
  • Publication number: 20140305856
    Abstract: Utilizing mobile walls, a transportable (or stationary) low cost, low carbon footprint process and apparatus with a granular filter media dry cell (for filter or bed) for dewatering particulate solids from liquid. The mobile wall structures can be made of a rigid structure constructed of new or preferred salvaged materials, assembled, with watertight joints, used, disassembled and stored for redeployment. The walls are set in a keyway utilizing whatever soil composition is available. The walls can be used in the previous Deskins filters as old wall replacement or new wall construction. The invention utilizes a generator that is not dependent upon site or local electricity thus can be operated in any location. All parts can be engineered, fabricated according to the design of the Quick-Dry Filter Dewatering Mobile Process and Apparatus, packed in shipping containers and be readily available for any immediate need.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Franklin David Deskins
  • Publication number: 20140291229
    Abstract: A lightweight protection element and filter of the mattress type comprises an external containment structure (10, 20), a three-dimensional internal structure (30) with a high cavity index and a granular filler material which is inserted inside the containment structure. Engagement means (50, 52) of the mechanical type are distributed over the external containment structure in order to engage predetermined portions of those structure with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Francesco FERRAIOLO
  • Publication number: 20140227119
    Abstract: An oil filter can include porous material that acts to filter solid particulate matter from motor oil, that forms a chamber and that defines a central bore for receipt of a drive shaft of an electric motor forming part of a downhole device; and, disposed in at least a portion of the chamber, sorbent for removing aqueous liquids from the motor oil. A downhole device may be an electric submersible pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Stanislav Nikolaevich Verichev, Jacques Orban, Evgeny Mikhaylovich Sviridov
  • Publication number: 20140166567
    Abstract: A filter system having a filter media retainer seal includes: at least one underdrain block having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the top wall and the bottom wall; a filter media retainer mounted onto the top wall of the at least one underdrain block; and at least one rib positioned between the underdrain block and the filter media retainer. The at least one rib forms a seal between the underdrain block and the filter media retainer, and prevents filter media from entering the underdrain block. The at least one rib can be monolithically formed to the at least one underdrain block. Alternatively, the at least one rib is monolithically formed to the filter media retainer. The rib is crushable and/or it bites into a surface on the adjoining part to reduce or eliminate the need for a separate sealant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: XYLEM WATER SOLUTIONS ZELIENOPLE LLC
    Inventors: Howard James Sweeney, Brian James Bates
  • Patent number: 8728403
    Abstract: The device described in the present invention can trap plugging particles contained in the liquid feed supplying a reactor functioning in gas and liquid co-current down-flow mode using a specific distributor tray comprising a filtration medium. The present device is of particular application to the selective hydrogenation of feeds containing acetylenic and dienic compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: IFP Energies Nouvelles
    Inventors: Abdelhakim Koudil, Christophe Boyer
  • Patent number: 8657122
    Abstract: A media retainer assembly for retaining filter media in a filter assembly includes a top plate for supporting the filter media, the top plate having a top surface, a bottom surface and a plurality of openings extending therethrough; a bottom plate having a top surface and a plurality of openings extending therethrough; and scouring media, the scouring media being adapted to abrade the surfaces of the top and bottom plates. The top plate is connected to the bottom plate such that the top surface of the bottom plate is spaced from the bottom surface of the top plate to define at least one chamber between the top plate and the bottom plate. The top surface of the top plate is in fluid communication with the chamber via the openings in the top plate. The scouring media is supported by the bottom plate within the at least one chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventors: John L. Geibel, Christopher J. Ball
  • Publication number: 20140027369
    Abstract: A support grid assembly for use in a vessel. The support grid assembly includes panels each including a first wall including a media-supporting screen and a second wall to be supported by the vessel wall inner surface. A manifold is coupled to the panels and is in hydraulic communication with vessel outlet. The manifold and the panels permit fluid to flow through the screen in each panel, through the panels, into the manifold, and through the manifold to the outlet of the vessel, as well as in the reverse direction. At least a portion of the first wall may slope downward toward the manifold, and at least a portion of the second wall may form a bottom surface that is curved to substantially conform to a curvature of the vessel wall inner surface. The panels may be arranged in a circular configuration extending radially from the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Bilfinger Water Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Garth Hayes Saul, Robert Glen Norell, Dean Gerald Brabec, Benjamin Schmitt, Dusan Visekruna, Michael Richard Ekholm, Eugene Eberthardt, Edmund M. Wolfe
  • Publication number: 20140021121
    Abstract: A filter system for filtering particles from a liquid includes an underdrain assembly having an underdrain defining at least one underdrain chamber and a media retainer assembly. The media retainer assembly includes an upper filter media retainer plate defining a plurality of hopper-shaped cavities and a lower filter media retainer plate defining a plurality of hopper-shaped cavities corresponding to the plurality of hopper-shaped cavities on the upper plate. The plates are in a nested arrangement such that the hopper-shaped cavities on the upper plate are in alignment with the corresponding plurality of hopper-shaped cavities on the lower plate to define a plurality of passages therebetween and allow for the passage of the liquid while preventing the passage of a filter media. During a backwash operation, the upper and lower plates are relatively moveable such that the backwash fluid releases any particles lodged in the passages between the plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: XYLEM WATER SOLUTIONS ZELIENOPLE LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Ball, Brian J. Bates, Howard James Sweeney
  • Patent number: 8491787
    Abstract: A mechanism levels and holds down lateral screens on a basin floor having drop pipes. Support plates fit underneath the lateral screens along their length, and bolts on the ends of these support plates can be used to level the screens. Anchor bolts are affixed to the basin floor using known techniques along and between the various screens. Hold-down bars then fit on these anchor bolts and are held by washers and nuts. Ends of these bars hold against the edges of the plates and the sides of the screens to hold them against the basin floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson Screens, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Wolf, Garth Saul, Michael Ekholm, Ehrich Shaw, Frederick Granet, Fabrice Courageot, John Schwert
  • Patent number: 8487151
    Abstract: The device described in the present invention allows pre-distribution of the gas and liquid feed supplying a reactor functioning in gas and liquid co-current downflow mode to be carried out by means of a pre-distribution plate comprising a filtration medium and an overflow tube in order to regulate the flow of liquid arriving on the distributor plate located downstream of said device. More particularly, the present invention is applicable to the selective hydrogenation treatment of feeds containing acetylenic and dienic compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: IFP Energies Nouvelles
    Inventors: Abdelhakim Koudil, Christophe Boyer
  • Patent number: 8480896
    Abstract: A scavenging filter includes a volume containing activated beads or fiber particles of a scavenging material housed in a removable housing in a cartridge filter body having an axial inlet extending to a space below a permeable false bottom, the fluid permeating upwards through the material, and cleaned liquor leaving via an annular space surrounding the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Madison Filter 981 Ltd.
    Inventor: Martin Moss
  • Patent number: 8409437
    Abstract: A filter system for filtering water and/or wastewater which includes an underdrain system having a plurality of laterals that are anchored to the floor of a filter by a hold-down assembly. Preferably, the hold-down assembly does not rely on grout or other substance that is applied in a viscous or semi-viscous state and subsequently hardened as the primary means for connecting the underdrain laterals to the floor of the filter. Preferably, the hold-down assembly includes hold-down clips that can move relative to an anchor assembly and corresponding underdrain blocks so that the hold-down clips can cooperate with any desired portion of the corresponding underdrain blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison
  • Publication number: 20130064727
    Abstract: The device described in the present invention can trap plugging particles contained in the liquid feed supplying a reactor functioning in gas and liquid co-current down-flow mode using a specific distributor tray comprising a filtration medium. The present device is of particular application to the selective hydrogenation of feeds containing acetylenic and dienic compounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: IFP ENERGIES NOUVELLES
    Inventors: Abdelhakim KOUDIL, Christophe BOYER
  • Patent number: 8388840
    Abstract: Device for stiffening the plates of a multi-stage column with a diameter of more than 2 meters, whereby each plate supports a particle bed and the flow of at least one fluid passes through it from top to bottom, whereby said device consists of a number of beams that are located under the plate in question, each beam having a lower surface that is shaped like a triangle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: IFP Energies Nouvelles
    Inventors: Frederic Augier, Denis Darmancier, Gerard Hotier
  • Patent number: 8388841
    Abstract: A filter cartridge (1), particularly for percolating filter jugs, with a cartridge body (2) intended to contain a filter bed, provided with at least one inlet aperture (7) for the fluid to be filtered and at least one opposing outlet aperture (8) for the filtered fluid, with at least one grid (11) for retaining the filter bed inside the body and an element (12) for limiting the outflow of the filtered fluid at the outlet aperture (8), in which the grid (11) and the limiting element (12) are both placed in the same seat (10) provided in the outlet aperture (8) of the cartridge body (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Laica S.p.A.
    Inventor: Maurizio Moretto
  • Patent number: 8357295
    Abstract: An adjustable anchor rod arrangement for use with an underdrain system that includes the a pair of spaced apart legs and an elongated member adjustably attached to the legs, wherein the legs are adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated member and the elongated member is adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventor: John L. Geibel
  • Patent number: 8343343
    Abstract: An underdrain apparatus includes one or more underdrain blocks and an anchor assembly that includes one or more support members. Each of the underdrain blocks includes a top wall, a bottom wall, a pair of opposing side walls, a pair of opposing end walls, and a center separation wall that extends between the pair of opposing end walls. The center separation wall of at least one of the underdrain blocks may have one or more apertures formed therein, the apertures configured to receive at least one of the support members. One or more of the side walls of the pair of opposing side walls of the underdrain blocks may have one or more side clips. At least one of the side clips defines an aperture for receiving a support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Severn Trent Water Purification, Inc.
    Inventors: Navin Kadakia, Edward Kuchtjak, Keith Baker
  • Patent number: 8333889
    Abstract: A filter system having a filter bed for filtering water or wastewater, where the filter bed is periodically washed between service runs by directing washing liquid and washing gas upwardly through the filter bed. The filter system includes a filter bed and at least one flume. The flume is in fluid communication with the filter bed. Preferably, the flume is configured such that no washing liquid and washing gas interface is present in the flume. The flume may be configured such that during washing of the filter bed between service runs the flume receives a washing gas and directs the washing gas upwardly through the filter bed to assist in cleaning the filter bed between service runs. The flume may further be configured such that during washing the only liquid directed from the flume to the filter bed is residual liquid that may be present in the flume from a prior service run.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison, Andrew Scott Taylor, Jason Samuel Schmoyer
  • Publication number: 20120223004
    Abstract: A lightweight protection element and filter of the mattress type comprises an external containment structure (10, 20), a three-dimensional internal structure (30) with a high cavity index and a granular filler material which is inserted inside the containment structure. Engagement means (50, 52) of the mechanical type are distributed over the external containment structure in order to engage predetermined portions of those structure with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Francesco Ferraiolo
  • Patent number: 8226834
    Abstract: A backwash distribution apparatus for a filter having a filter tank and a plurality of underdrain laterals includes a first and second separator device positioned in a common main conduit to define first and second auxiliary flumes. The first and second auxiliary flumes are in fluid communication with the common main conduit and the underdrain laterals. The first separator device has at least one flume liquid metering orifice preferably located near the bottom of the first separator device so that it may be below a gas liquid interface in the first auxiliary flume. The second separator device has either a weir edge or a plurality of metering orifices (or both) for passing backwash liquid from the common main conduit into the second auxiliary flume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople, LLC
    Inventor: John L. Geibel
  • Patent number: 8177970
    Abstract: A water filtration apparatus has at least one tank in fluid communication with a conduit through at least one aperture in a wall. Each tank uses filter blocks to support the filter medium and to direct the filtered water to the conduit via the aperture. An end plate for the filter block is provided, the end plate being adapted to seal against a free end of the filter block. The end plate also provides apertures for fluid flow into and out of the filter block, and a device for receiving a sealant to provide a seal between the end plate and the wall. The end plate improves the installation of the apparatus, and the sealant improves the reliability of the seal round the apertures, which in turn improves the efficiency of a backwash operation used to clean the filter medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Severn Trent Services, Limited
    Inventors: Nigel Paul Thoresby Bradley, Mark Hadley, Neil Dodsley
  • Publication number: 20120048793
    Abstract: A filter system for filtering water and/or wastewater which includes an underdrain system having a plurality of laterals that are anchored to the floor of a filter by a hold-down assembly. Preferably, the hold-down assembly does not rely on grout or other substance that is applied in a viscous or semi-viscous state and subsequently hardened as the primary means for connecting the underdrain laterals to the floor of the filter. Preferably, the hold-down assembly includes hold-down clips that can move relative to an anchor assembly and corresponding underdrain blocks so that the hold-down clips can cooperate with any desired portion of the corresponding underdrain blocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison
  • Patent number: 8097159
    Abstract: A pressure filter type water kettle includes a kettle body for holding water, a pressure device holder mounted in the kettle body to close the top open side of the kettle body, a filter fastened to the bottom side of the pressure device holder and dipped in water in the kettle body, and a pressure device mounted in the pressure device holder and operable to apply compressed air to force filled water through a series of filter layers in the filter so that water is filtered into a drinkable condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventor: Pinhung Peng
  • Patent number: 8070946
    Abstract: An apparatus for filtering water and/or wastewater including at least one underdrain lateral. The underdrain lateral is configured to receive a liquid during a filtration cycle and directs a washing fluid through a filter bed of one or more layers of filter media during a washing cycle. The filter can take any form including but not limited to an upflow clarifier, an upflow filter, a downflow clarifier, a downflow filter and a bi-flow filter. The filter media may be supported by one or more layers of gravel. Alternatively, a porous plate can be attached to the underdrain lateral in place of the gravel layers. The washing cycle can be a liquid only wash, a gas only wash, a combined liquid and gas wash or a combination of any of the aforementioned wash cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison
  • Patent number: 8069630
    Abstract: A system and method for forming a filter media support system with multiple locking mechanisms. The support system comprises two or more interlocking rows of support blocks. One or more slides and one or more guides protrude from the side walls of the blocks. Each guide is conformed to receive one slide from a neighboring block, forming a first locking joint. The side walls also comprise one or more nubs and one or more recesses. Each nub is conformed to fit within one recess of a neighboring block, forming a second locking joint. In one embodiment, the method for assembling the support system comprises aligning a slide of a first support block with a guide of a second support block. The slide of the first support block is vertically moved into the guide of the second support block. Force is applied so that the nubs are flexed within the recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Severn Trent Water Purification, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Slack, Navin Kadakia
  • Patent number: 8052871
    Abstract: An underdrain system for a filter having filter media. The underdrain system preferably includes a bottom formed of concrete having a plurality of generally cone-shaped depressions formed therein. Fluid flows through the plurality of generally cone-shaped depressions during filtration and washing. The underdrain system further includes a fluid distributor operably associated with at least one of the generally cone-shaped depressions. The fluid distributor preferably has a plurality of elongated slots for distributing the flow of fluid passing into and out of the generally cone-shaped depressions. The slots are sized to prevent filter media supported by the fluid distributor from passing therethrough. An optional insert may be provided to ensure even distribution of fluid through the fluid distributor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: R. Lee Roberts, Mark Kevin Addison
  • Patent number: 8048301
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device 1 for treating a fluid, including a container 2,3 with inner space, at least one entrance to the inner space arranged on the container, wherein the entrance includes a first and second opening 4,5, a grid body 14 which is arranged in the inner space and which divides the inner space into a first compartment for a treatment arrangement, preferably filter material, connected to the first opening 4 and at least one second compartment which is connected by means of a tube 25 to the second opening 5 and which is free of filter material. The tube has a connector arrangement for connecting the second opening to the first compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Delta Water Engineering Limited
    Inventor: Guido Ivo Caesar Maria Van De Moortele
  • Patent number: 7997041
    Abstract: A system and method for forming a filter media support system with dual locking mechanisms. The support system comprises two or more interlocking rows of support blocks. One or more slides and one or more guides protrude from the side walls of the blocks. Each guide is conformed to receive one slide from a neighboring block, forming a first locking joint. The side walls also comprise one or more posts and one or more sockets. Each post is conformed to fit within one socket of a neighboring block, forming a second locking joint. In one embodiment, the method for assembling the support system comprises aligning a slide of a first support block with a guide of a second support block. The slide of the first support block is vertically moved into the guide of the second support block. Force is applied so that the posts snap-lock into the sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Seven Trent Water Purification, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Slack, Navin Kadakia, Joseph M. Bonazza
  • Patent number: 7901576
    Abstract: The present invention provides: a distributor plate for a composite pressure vessel. The distributor plate includes a thermoplastic polymeric disk having a top side, a bottom side, a perimeter edge and a central opening. Radial slits are formed in the disk to define fluid flow passages through the disk between the central opening and the perimeter edge. The fluid flow passages through the disk are adapted to swirl fluid flowing through the disk from the bottom side to the top side around the central opening. The present invention also provides a water treatment vessel that includes one or more distributor plates, a method for manufacturing a composite pressure vessel that includes one or more of the distributor plates and a method for preparing a composite pressure vessel that includes one or more of the distributor plate for use as a water treatment apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Enpress, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Douglas S. Stolarik, Douglas M. Horner, Michael P. Mormino, Richard A. Mest
  • Patent number: 7788867
    Abstract: A flooring system for intercepting debris including at least a plurality of floor tiles with a perforated top surface providing on a top of the plurality of tube frames for intercepting the debris. Each plurality of floor tiles may include a plurality of tube frames in side by side relationship to form a distributed suction area for fluid entrance into tile interiors and for debris interception and capture. The tile interiors of the flooring system may also provide a distributed flow path for fluid flow to a transition plenum. The flooring system may also include a transition plenum for directing a flow path of the fluid from the tiles to a sump, wherein the pumps take suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James Hibbert Oates, Alan Wayne Fanning, Brian Douglas Frew, Bruce Peter Matthew Kobel, Imad Ahmad Baghdadi
  • Patent number: 7744759
    Abstract: A downflow sand filter used for treating wastewater which has degraded in function from its original design is at least in part rejuvenated by flowing air downwardly through the bed during time when flow of wastewater is ceased. The low velocity air flow helps dewater the bed and leads to the removal of accumulated organic material which has clogged the pores of the bed. In accord with different embodiments, air flow is alternated with water flow in particular ways, for instance, so the water flow is sufficient to create ponding or is sufficient to maintain moisture content within the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: David A. Potts
  • Patent number: 7520987
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus are provided for purging an adsorptive material of entrapped particulates. Methods, systems and apparatus rely upon a reverse loop for reversing the flow of medium within an adsorption material, allowing particulates caught within the adsorption material to be preferentially moved through and out of the adsorption material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: WRT International LLC
    Inventors: Charles S. Williams, Scott E. Heffner
  • Patent number: 7481930
    Abstract: A filter having a gravel-less underdrain and a filter layer installed directly on top of the gravel-less underdrain. The filter layer is designed such that when fluid is directed through the filter layer at controlled rates a protective barrier is formed by the larger particles of the filter layer directly above the gravel-less underdrain to prevent clogging and/or structural failure of the gravel-less underdrain thereby obviating the need for one or more layers of gravel or torpedo sand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: RG Delaware, Inc.
    Inventor: R. Lee Roberts
  • Publication number: 20080121580
    Abstract: An embedded geometrically variable filter underdrain header and a method for constructing such a filter. Often the variation is a decrease in cross section along the header from the backwash media source, which avoids a pressure loss as liquid is diverted to the laterals along the header. The header is formed inside a filter underdrain basin and is embedded in the basin. The method for constructing the basin and header includes providing a mold for the basin and the header and filling the molds with concrete by pouring concrete into the area between the interior of the mold for the basin and the exterior of the mold for the header. After the concrete cures, the mold for the basin may or may not be removed, while the mold for the header is kept in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/ LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Ekholm, Mark E. Watson, Thomas J. Steinke
  • Patent number: 7303665
    Abstract: An aquarium drainage system having a filter, funnel, clear tube, sensor housing, light sensor, light beam generator, waste indicator light, primary valve, secondary/safety valve, safety cap and safety switch, as well as the other components shown in the drawings, wherein the filter comprises a vented plate that is placed under the gravel at the bottom of the tank to allow the waste to travel downward under the force of gravity to the funnel where waste is directed to the clear tube connected to the bottom of the funnel. The sensor sends a signal to the waste indicator light when blocked causing the special primary valve to open allowing the waste to drop and be collected in a bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Pedro A. Claudio-Alvarado