Liquid Downflow Patents (Class 261/106)
  • Patent number: 5919533
    Abstract: An in-duct humidifier has a permeable rectangular pad to be placed in a heated air stream. Water dripping onto the top of the pad is evaporated by the air stream which is passing through the pad to thereby increase its humidity. The pad is held in a frame and the frame is mounted in the humidifier's housing. The frame holds the pad by an arrangement of sloped surfaces and narrow projections to minimize the area of the frame in direct contact with the pad. By minimizing the contact area between the pad and the frame, the amount of water flowing onto the frame and evaporating from the frame is minimized, thereby reducing the rate and amount of minerals dissolved in the water which are deposited on the frame surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Smith, Edward L. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 5882416
    Abstract: A liquid delivery system for delivery of an initially liquid reagent in vaporized form to a chemical vapor deposition reactor arranged in vapor-receiving relationship to the liquid delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter C. Van Buskirk, Steven M. Bilodeau, Ralph J. Carl, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5857350
    Abstract: The invention relates to an evaporative cooling device including a stand-alone housing that is not connected to any structure. The housing is multi-sided and evaporative pads are placed inside the opening of each of the multi-sides. An electric centrifugal blower is placed inside the housing to draw air through all of the eavaporate pads and to discharge the same in a vertical direction through an opening in a top cover. The top cover has a directional spout placed over the opening to direct the air in multi-adjusted directions. The cooling device is intended to be used on wide open playing or sport fields or in open sided warehouses or work stations. A smaller size is intended to be used in semi-confined areas such as verandas, patios, lanais, porches etc. A flexible air duct can be attached to the spout so as to temporarily deliver cooled air to confined spaces such attics in a house.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventors: Robert Edwin Johnson, Janice Ann Johnson
  • Patent number: 5853625
    Abstract: An in-duct humidifier has an evaporative pad onto the top of which water is dripped. Air passing through the pad evaporates the water to thereby increase the air's humidity. An improved tray for dripping the water onto the top of the pad has a sloped floor in which are a number of holes. A nozzle assembly which is mounted directly on the top of the tray and an improved arrangement of walls on the tray floor assists in delivering equal amounts of water to all of the holes, resulting in even distribution of water throughout the pad and more efficient operation of the humidifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Kensok, Timothy J. Smith
  • Patent number: 5851444
    Abstract: A humidifier (10) includes a water distribution tray (18) that functions to substantially uniformly distribute water to an evaporator pad (16) even when the distribution tray (18) is tilted and regardless of the rate of water flow. The distribution tray (18) includes a plurality of channels (100) that each lead from a liquid reception area (104) to an opening (106) in the bottom wall (82) of the tray (18). A wick (110) fabricated from a water absorbent material is carried by the tray (18) at the reception area (104). The wick (110) may extend at least partially into each channel (100), and absorbs water and pushes it into each of the channels (100) through capillary action. Thus, each channel (100) receives water even if the tray (18) is tilted. The humidifier (10) also has a damming rib (72) that prevents water from draining from the pad (16) out of the humidifier (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Skuttle Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Martin A. Hansell, Jr., Earl K. Lewis, II
  • Patent number: 5851445
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing carbonated water according to the invention can quickly produce carbonated water with a high carbonic acid gas content which does not easily lose carbonic acid gas and hence satisfactorily stimulates the throat with agreeable pungency. Since it has a simple configuration and hence is economic and effective, it can suitably be used in an carbonated beverage supplying apparatus such as an automatic vending machine, an automatic dispenser or the like. With such an arrangement, the apparatus improves its safety and hence can constantly supply delicious carbonated water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuo Kazuma
  • Patent number: 5765544
    Abstract: A humidifier for use with counter- or down-flow furnaces such as those traditionally found in mobile homes. The humidifier includes a louvered tip-out access door, behind which is housed a drawer containing a water panel. The drawer is detachably snap-fitted to the inside of the access door. Water is directed onto the water panel by a water dispersion bar, which is snap-fitted into the top of the drawer above the water panel. As air is drawn through the humidifier which is installed over the return air louvers of a counter-flow furnace, tiny water droplets in the water panel are picked up by the moving air stream and carried into the home. The tip-out feature of the access door and the snap-fit connections allow for simple, easy repair and cleaning, even by an untrained person, thus avoiding the need for a skilled technician when only routine maintenance is necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Charles E. Vigansky, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5711816
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for delivering an involatile reagent in gaseous form, wherein an involatile reagent source liquid is flash vaporized on a vaporization matrix structure at elevated temperature. A carrier gas may be flowed past the flash vaporization matrix structure to yield a carrier gas mixture containing the flash vaporized source reagent. The matrix structure preferably has a high surface-to-volume ratio, and may suitably comprise a foraminous matrix element such as screen mesh onto which the reagent source liquid is distributed for flash vaporization. The invention is particularly useful for delivery of Group II reagents and compounds and complexes of early transition metals such as zirconium and hafnium, and may be usefully employed with Group II beta-diketonate source layers, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Advanced Technolgy Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter S. Kirlin, Robin L. Binder, Robin A. Gardiner, Peter Van Buskirk, Gregory Stauf, Jiming Zhang
  • Patent number: 5606868
    Abstract: A portable evaporative cooling unit (10) is disclosed. A housing (12) has a front opening (46) and a rear opening (20). Air-permeable water absorption media (22) are disposed across the rear opening (20) of the housing (12). An electric motor driven fan (42) having fan blades (44) is disposed in the front opening (46) of the housing (12) for drawing air through the water absorption media (22). A supply conduit (94) connects a water pump (52) to an elongated horizontal spray bar (64) disposed above the water absorption media (22). The spray bar (64) extends substantially the width of the water absorption media (22) and has a plurality of spaced holes (72) in its upper surface for distributing water. A foam sleeve (68) is disposed around the entire length of the spray bar (64). The foam sleeve (68) absorbs water expelled from the plurality of holes (72) and distributes the water onto the water absorption media (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: General Shelters of Texas S.B., Inc.
    Inventor: Philip D. Calvert
  • Patent number: 5536323
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for delivering an involatile reagent in gaseous form, wherein an involatile reagent source liquid is flash vaporized on a vaporization matrix structure at elevated temperature. A carrier gas may be flowed past the flash vaporzation matrix structure to yield a carrier gas mixture containing the flash vaporized source reagent. The matrix structure preferably has a high surface-to-volume ratio, and may sutiably comprise a foraminous matrix element such as screen mesh onto which the reagent source liquid is distributed for flash vaporization. The invention is particularly useful for delivery of Group II reagents and compounds and complexes of early transition metals such as zirconium and hafnium, and may be usefully employed with Group II beta-diketonate source layers, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter S. Kirlin, Robin L. Binder, Robin A. Gardiner, Peter V. Buskirk, Jiming Zhang, Gregory Stauf
  • Patent number: 5490957
    Abstract: A portable humidifier that provides a visual indication of the internal water flow, with a motor for pumping water so that it provides a visible show, flows over at least one vertical filter, which provides uniform increased humidity for the filter area, which motor is also attached to a fan blade to disperse moisture into the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Inventors: William E. Lasko, Charles Litvin, Kurt F. Hafeken, Leo Gonzales
  • Patent number: 5460755
    Abstract: A combination splash/trickle pack for an evaporative cooler, which comprises packing elements 10,12 made from expanded metal or plastics sheets. The packing elements 10,12 are arranged such that in use they form a stack of packing elements within the cooler with the width and length of the packing elements determining the width and depth of the pack. Each of a plurality of the elements 10,12 has an inclined surface with an angle of inclination which varies so that in use a first region of the surface is sufficiently inclined to the horizontal to serve as a trickle surface and a second region of the surface is sufficiently close to the horizontal to serve as a splash surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: T. C. Watermeyer Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter B. Bosman
  • Patent number: 5374381
    Abstract: An evaporative element or cartridge especially useful in humidifiers comprises a plurality of stacked slit and expanded wicking paper layers, and means for supporting the wicking paper. The supporting means may comprise a layer of slit and expanded metal sandwiched in between the stacked wicking paper layers. The stacked wicking paper and metal layers are held together with an adhesive. Alternatively, the supporting means may comprise a rigid frame on the side edges of the stacked wicking paper layers, the frame having prongs engaging the wicking paper layers. Each layer of stacked wicking paper is staggered with respect to adjoining layers. The wicking paper has superior capillary rise of 79 to 112 mm/min.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Assignee: RPS Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard P. Schuld, Daniel E. Schuld
  • Patent number: 5368784
    Abstract: A furnace mounted humidifier for increasing the moisture content of the air flowing through the humidifier and subsequently the air flowing from the furnace. The simple construction of the scoop humidifier ensures convenient installation and operation while adding moisture to the air flow. The humidifier includes a housing adapted to be mounted to the furnace wall and inlet and outlet passageways positioned within the duct for directing air flow into and out of the housing. A moisture media within the housing retains water sprayed across it through which the air flow is directed. The configuration of the air passageways and the housing facilitate the continuous flow of air across the moisture media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: American Metal Products Co.
    Inventor: James W. Annestedt, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5349829
    Abstract: An air cooling method and apparatus in which air to be cooled is directed through the dry channel to sensibly cool the air. Wet channels are arranged adjacent the dry channels and a portion of the air exiting the dry channels is provided as cooled supply air and a portion is redirected through the wet channels countercurrently to the flow in the dry channels. Heat exchange elements extend between the wet and dry channels. A portion of the dry channels includes an adiabatic cooling zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: AOC, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandre Tsimerman
  • Patent number: 5302359
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing odorant vapor into an air stream is disclosed. The apparatus contains a reservoir for containing a volatilizable liquid, a dispensing well, liquid moving means for withdrawing liquid from the reservoir and causing it to flow into the dispensing well, and switch means for activating the liquid moving means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventor: Raymond L. Nowatzki
  • Patent number: 5252260
    Abstract: An electrical control assembly for a humidistat controlled humidifier of the type having a base connected to the furnace ductwork and a cover removably connected to the base includes a control circuit board having a primary circuit for operation of the fan and a secondary circuit for operation of the humidistat and solenoid valve. A separable electrical connector disposed within the humidifier has a connected state in which power is supplied to the humidistat and a solenoid valve and a disconnected state in which power for the humidistat and solenoid valve is cut off. The electrical connector is fixedly mounted in the base and cover of the humidifier and is positioned so that the electrical connection is automatically made when the cover is connected to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Research Products Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel C. Schuman
  • Patent number: 5226293
    Abstract: A modular, reversible louver and offset evaporative media housing system for evaporative air coolers primarily comprising a panel having downwardly cast louvers and a body in the shape of a truncated pyramid, contiguous with and sloping away from the louvers. The body defines an internal volume offset from the louvers for confining an evaporative media. The louvers extend between two side and one central louver rails. A shoulder defined in the interior of the body between the louvers and the internal volume offset the louvers from the evaporative media. Ribs are disposed on the interior surfaces of the bottom and sides of the body for setting the evaporative media off from the sides and bottom. An inverted trough disposed on the interior surface of the top mounts a perforated water distribution tube for supplying water. A peripheral flange extends perpendicularly from the body for adaptively securing the system to a new or existing evaporative cooling unit cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Walton Enterprises II L.P.
    Inventor: James A. Brock
  • Patent number: 5211891
    Abstract: A frame for holding an evaporative pad in the base of a humidifier includes side walls, base and a top that define an evaporative pad holding chamber. Each of the side walls, base and top is provided with a flange that extends inwardly toward the opening and is engageable with a lip on the base to form an air seal. The flange is provided with a rib portion that extends outwardly away from the pad chamber and is dimensioned so as to create a gap between the rib and any adjacent base surface in order to inhibit the migration of mineral deposits from the pad to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Assignee: Research Products Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Anoszko
  • Patent number: 5203505
    Abstract: A gravity fed humidifier has a reservoir for holding a liquid to be evaporated. The reservoir has openings in the bottom of the reservoir through which the liquid passes and two side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The reservoir is suspended over an absorbent material by at least one support leg to which is attached a circular support surface for supporting the absorbent material. A drip tray is provided beneath the absorbent material and the openings for catching liquid that is not evaporated by the surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Inventor: Pil M. Yum
  • Patent number: 5168832
    Abstract: This device relates to a frame adapted for use as a chicken brooder conditioned air system comprised of a pressurized water supply, a supply hose through which the water from the pressurized water supply flows, an air permeable frame through which the water from the supply hose flows, with the frame being comprised of a first air permeable wall and a second air permeable wall, between which is positioned at least one water retaining porous material. The frame is also comprised of a drain to allow for the exiting of excess water such that water flowing between the first and second walls of the air permeable frame flows through and onto the water retaining porous material, wherein air flows through the first wall, the water retaining porous material and the second wall and is directed towards the chicken brooder, thereby regulating the temperature of the chicken brooder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Inventor: Roscoe S. Price
  • Patent number: 5130063
    Abstract: Water distribution apparatus for an evaporative medium in the evaporative cooler includes a single molded element which is disposed on the top of an evaporative medium. The water distribution apparatus contacts the four sides of the evaporative medium at the top of the evaporative medium and is sealed to both the top of the evaporative medium and to the top of the evaporative cooler housing in which the apparatus is disposed to prevent air loss around the apparatus and accordingly to insure that air flow is through the evaporative medium. A water distribution tube is disposed within a central water deflection element in the apparatus, and water from the tube falls onto the top of the evaporative medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Inventors: Harold O. Collins, James J. Hennessy
  • Patent number: 5121768
    Abstract: A valve apparatus in which moisture sensitive material controls the opening size of a water valve. The moisture sensitive material is placed in an evaporative pad of an evaporative cooler. As the material dries, the moisture sensitive material constricts to open a valve draining a timing reservoir so as to hasten the refreshing of moisture to the evaporative pad. In an alternative embodiment, this moisture sensitive material located in the evaporative pad is balanced against an identical moisture sensitive material located in a constantly moisturized pad. This balancing of the materials permits fine control of the moisture content in the evaporative pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Planetary Design Corporation
    Inventor: Tommy L. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5121770
    Abstract: A valve operating on hydraulic pressure for the control of water being deposited onto evaporative pads located on a cool tower. The valve utilizes water flow to fill a basin or tank which is slowly being drained. When the tank is empty, a valve is opened that releases water to the evaporative cooling pads and also to the tank; when the tank is filled, the valve closes permitting the tank to slowly drain and repeat the cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Planetary Design Corporation
    Inventor: Tommy L. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5112535
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing heat from warm or hot air and then blowing cooled air into a compartment, such as an occupant compartment, of a vehicle, such as a golf cart, is disclosed. Such an apparatus includes a water recirculating system including a filter means, a pumping means for pumping water through the filter means, drawing means for passing warm or hot air through the filter means and blower means for blowing cooled air into the compartment. Also included is a means for interrupting power to the pumping means when the vehicle is at an incline so as to avoid spillage of the water from the water recirculating system. An interruption means in the form of a mercury tilt switch is further disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Inventor: Joe E. Roberson
  • Patent number: 5015420
    Abstract: An improved evaporative cooler containing a new and unique designed funnel induction system, which creates a greater vacuum of air drawn directly through each pad frame equally, and into the split squirrel cage, thereby increasing the vacuum and cooling efficiency by completely bypassing any heat generated or trapped inside the evaporative coolers dead space. The wettable air permeable pads have been redesigned and incorporated in a sandwich-type installation, being constructed of an absorbent spong-like plastic fiber, backed by a layer of coarse mesh-like type plastic fiber filter, thus providing a cleaner hygienic air supply,--at the same time reducing the amount of water needed in prior art evaporative coolers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1991
    Inventor: Tom F. Jones
  • Patent number: 4977756
    Abstract: A highly efficient, multi-stage evaporative air cooler for either residential or commercial applications comprises an internal air pathway traversing an evaporative pad more than once. The cooler comprises an upright free-standing cabinet having an air inlet and a frontal surface through which cooled air is discharged. A rigid cage disposed internally within the cabinet comprises a rigid front plate and a separator plate which divides the cage into separate compartments. The periphery of the cage is completed by a pad support mesh, comprising a grid-like wire wall extending around and between the front plate edges and about the separator plate. An absorbent evaporative pad surrounding the cage adjoins and is supported by the pad support mesh. An internal annular boundary volume defined between the cage and the interior walls of the cabinet establishes fluid flow communication between the separate cage compartments. A fan and a blower motor assembly are secured to the separator plate within the cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Walton Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Brock
  • Patent number: 4933117
    Abstract: An evaporative cooler of the invention includes a water distribution system having a dispersion cover spaced from a water pipe having evenly spaced orifices therein for expelling water. The water impinges on a flock-coated concave surface of the dispersion cover. The flock coating retards the water flow and spreads the water flowing downwardly so that the water substantially evenly covers a drip rail at the lower edge of the flock-coated surface adjacent the evaporative medium in the cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignee: Champion Cooler Corporation
    Inventor: M. Cecil Wilson
  • Patent number: 4775499
    Abstract: A gas-liquid contacting apparatus according to the present invention comprises a gas channel, a blowing device, a screen, a liquid feeding device and a pump. The screen is supplied continuously with liquid by means of the pump and the liquid dosing device, forming liquid film in intervals where gas passes through all the time. Gas fed out of the blowing device breaks through said liquid film or screen. In this moment, the gas-liquid contact is completed as the specific components contained in the gas are chemically decomposed and removed, being diffused in liquid. The liquid film is broken and re-formed repeatedly while the gas flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Sankyo Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenjiro Hongo, Shiro Saito
  • Patent number: 4774030
    Abstract: An improved evaporative cooler is disclosed which includes a highly efficient air transfer system and an effective system for closing off the conditioned space from the ambient when the cooler is out of service. The air transfer system includes a vertically oriented shroud having an air intake region situated at the top, an air exhaust region situated at the bottom and an imperforate intermediate region continuously connecting the intake and exhaust regions. The intermediate region diverges smoothly downwardly, and a horizontally disposed fan is centrally disposed at the shroud bottom. The efficient intake of air into the shroud is promoted by a circumferential lip extending completely around the air intake region, the lip curling smoothly inwardly and arcuately. Effective seasonal sealing is achieved with an optional shroud sealing system supported on the shroud intake region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Inventors: Steve Kinkel, Peter J. Kinkel
  • Patent number: 4762650
    Abstract: A packing element 70, 94, 112 for an evaporative cooler, which comprises an apertured, corrosion resistant structure which includes a sheet of expanded metal. The metal is preferably of a ferritic corrosion resistant material such as 3Cr12. The invention also provides for a method of packing an evaporative cooler which includes using, in a single packing 68 for an evaporative cooler, packing elements 94 having a configuration suited to cross-flow conditons and, in addition, packing elements 70 having a configuration suited to counter-flow conditions. The invention provides further for a method of supporting a packing 68 having a trickle pack configuration, in a wet cooling tower 40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Assignee: WLPU Holdings Proprietary Limited
    Inventor: Peter B. Bosman
  • Patent number: 4752419
    Abstract: A shroud, including a shield placed on either side of an evaporation pad, increases the length of travel air transit time within the pad. Pressurized water, emitted in jets from a plurality of orifices spaced along a manifold, is directed against a diffuser for dissipation and dissemination to the upper edge of the pad. The pad is wetted intermittently as the result of a timer controlling distribution of the water. An auxiliary reservoir, in combination with relocatable pump, inlet valve and pad frames, provide for alternate downdraft as side draft operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1988
    Inventors: Charles J. Sperr, Jr., Douglas C. Sperr
  • Patent number: 4701287
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for the exchange of substances and/or heat between and/or mixing of gaseous and/or fluid substances wherein the flowing substances are guided repeatedly through permeable walls (1, 2, 3 and 4) running essentially parallel to the direction of the main flow (14 and 17). According to the apparatus, this will be achieved by the spacing means (5) of lesser permeability which are disposed alternately in the flow channel (13) between the permeable walls (1, 2, 3 and 4). The permeable walls preferably consist of fabrics which are placed in movement or into oscillation by the flowing media. For a more effective exchange, the walls are provided with areas (1, 2, 3 and 4) of variable density of fabric, whereby the denser areas are preferably located near the spacing means (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Inventor: Rolf P. C. Manteufel
  • Patent number: 4701286
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a water treating composition into the recirculating water of an evaporative system, such as an evaporative cooler. The water treating composition is contained in a container that is suspended in an inverted condition within the housing of the evaporative cooler with the outlet of the container facing downwardly. One end of a drip line is connected through a sealed closure to the interior of the container, and the opposite end of the drip line terminates above the level of water in the reservoir of the evaporative cooler. A manually adjustable needle valve is connected in the drip line and controls the gravity feed of the liquid composition through the drip line to the reservoir. Through the addition of the treating composition, scaling problems in the evaporative system are minimized, corrosion is eliminated and growth of bacteria and algae is inhibited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Assignee: Applied Biochemists Inc.
    Inventors: Neil W. Stillman, John T. Geiger
  • Patent number: 4687604
    Abstract: A floor pan for use in the cabinet of an evaporative cooler is formed with an elevated central platform which is surrounded by an endless upwardly opening trough for containing the operating water supply of the evaporative cooler. The floor pan is configured so that the endless trough is disposed below the wettable pads of the evaporative cooler so as to catch unevaporated water returning from the pads to the water supply, and the trough is sized so as to be as small as possible to facility periodic draining and replacement of the water supply and otherwise reduce water induced damage of the cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1987
    Inventor: Adam D. Goettl
  • Patent number: 4672820
    Abstract: A cooler pad assembly for use in evaporative coolers is provided with an improved wire rod grill structure for demountably holding a wettable pad medium in the air passage defined by the frame of the cooler pad assembly. The grill structure is demountably connected to the water distribution trough at the top end of the frame and depends therefrom in engagement with the pad medium to hold it in place. The grill structure, which may be formed of one or more independent grill segments, is mounted and configured so as to be in spaced non-engaging relationship with the frame other than its demountable attachment to the water distribution trough, and the grill is demountably held in place by an elongated bar which extends transversely of the frame structure and is in demountable engagement therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventor: Adam D. Goettl
  • Patent number: 4657709
    Abstract: Improved water distribution troughs are disclosed for use in the cooler pad assemblies of evaporative coolers. The troughs are provided with a primary channel and at least one secondary channel both of which are coextensive in a side-by-side relationship longitudinally of the trough and both are provided with multiple water outlets. The coextending plural channels provided in the troughs results in improved water distribution capabilities so that they can be used to overcome the water distribution problems of the large cooler pad assemblies used in industrial size evaporative coolers. The troughs can also be used in the relatively small pad assemblies of residential size evaporative coolers with such use providing overflow protection in the event of restricted water outlet flow resulting from mineral deposition and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1987
    Inventor: Adam D. Goettl
  • Patent number: 4602487
    Abstract: A plate-like water distributor having a plurality of upstanding ribs which deflect a flow of water into a plurality of streams which discharge over a downturned peripheral edge, the underside of the distributor near that edge having a plurality of retaining means thereon which engage and retain the upper end of an absorptive pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1986
    Assignee: Coolair Corporation
    Inventor: Frederic F. Seeley
  • Patent number: 4594861
    Abstract: A single monolithic moulding of a fan volute and water spreader for an air cooler. There is provided at least one shelf, either on the volute or on the spreader, which supports the spreader from the volute, the spreader being of generally curved shape and outstanding from the outer surface of the volute. Link means hinge the spreader to the volute to enable the spreader to be tilted, for example for replacement of an absorptive pad which can depend from the spreader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1986
    Assignee: Coolair Corporation PTE., Ltd.
    Inventor: Anthony D. Kearney
  • Patent number: 4589712
    Abstract: A transaction processing enclosure for housing of electronic data processing equipment and the like, comprising a frame rack assembly formed of hollow conduit support members, arranged at spaced intervals to provide a unitary support structure adapted to receive and store electronic data processing equipment and the like; the hollow support members being interconnected to permit distribution of a fluid thereto with emission therefrom along the course of the hollow support members into the enclosure in combination with a turntable mounted to support the frame rack assembly and affect rotation thereof within said enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1986
    Inventor: Otis H. Hastings
  • Patent number: 4562016
    Abstract: A water bleed-off device for an evaporative air conditioner comprising an elongate water collection tray arranged to lie beneath a filter pad/filter pad support frame assembly so that water draining from the bottom of the filter pad is collected by the tray, the tray having a depending funnel arranged to communicate with a drain outlet in the base tank of the air conditioner whereby the water collected in the tray can be bled to drain through the depending funnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1985
    Assignee: F.F. Seeley Nominees Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Anthony D. Colliver
  • Patent number: 4556521
    Abstract: An evaporative cooler in which a cooler pad includes a high loft body of synthetic fibers coated with a hydrophilic foam. The open nature of the pad allows air to flow freely through the pad, while the foam coating the fibers serves to wick water contacting the pad throughout the pad thus optimizing the cooling efficiency of the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1985
    Assignee: Hobbs Bonded Fibers
    Inventor: Joseph F. Baigas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4523441
    Abstract: The invention relates to a yarn handling arrangement in which the yarn is subjected to conditioning in a humid atmosphere before and as it is drawn off for use in a textile machine. The apparatus described in an example consists of an enclosure comprising a housing, in one compartment whereof are a plurality of pairs of bobbins on support rods, another compartment being defined by a sleeve member which is kept constantly moist by a water distributing device. A flow of air is arranged to fill the sleeve member and to escape therefrom through slots provided at levels corresponding to each of the levels at which the bobbins are supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1985
    Assignee: Alan Shelton Limited
    Inventors: George E. Braybrook, David C. Corby, Mark A. Shelton, William E. A. Shelton
  • Patent number: 4499030
    Abstract: An evaporative cooler structure with provision for reversing the positions of the sump pan and top cover to permit continued service of the original equipment after corrosion of the sump pan results in water leaks. Reversal of top and bottom panels is facilitated through the provision of special mounting means for the water delivery "spider" and delivery tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1985
    Inventor: Biven Stewart
  • Patent number: 4460520
    Abstract: A spreader plate having a water receiving area which receives water from a pump, a plurality of ribs radiating outwardly from the central water receiving area, the lengths and spacing of the ribs being such as to divide the water up into a plurality of streams of approximately equal intensity, and a cover over the water receiving area comprising a deflector which deflects water flow over the water receiving area in a constant thickness film and into the channels between the ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Inventor: Robert W. Wrightson
  • Patent number: 4449764
    Abstract: A transaction processing enclosure for housing of electronic data processing equipment and the like, comprising a frame rack assembly formed of hollow conduit support members, arranged at spaced intervals to provide a unitary support structure adapted to receive and store electronic data processing equipment and the like; the hollow support members being interconnected to permit distribution of a fluid thereto with emission therefrom along the course of the hollow support members into the enclosure in combination with a turntable mounted to support the frame rack assembly and affect rotation thereof within said enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Transaction Security, Inc.
    Inventor: Otis H. Hastings
  • Patent number: 4443386
    Abstract: A baffle is upstanding from the base of an evaporative cooler tank, and a spreader has a depending flange, the pad frames having their lower ends located and supported by the upper edge of the baffle and their upper ends engaged and located by the depending spreader flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Assignee: F.F. Seeley Nominees Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert W. Wrightson
  • Patent number: 4439375
    Abstract: Evaporative cooler apparatus includes a relatively thin housing adapted to be secured to a window and a module at the front of the housing adapted to be secured to the housing in any of four orientations so as to fit with the type of window for which the apparatus is to be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1984
    Assignee: Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Koble, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4428890
    Abstract: Cylindrical evaporator cooler apparatus includes a lower portion having a water sump, a water pump, and a support for a blower system, a vertically extending and cylindrical pad frame, and a top lid covering the pad frame which includes an integral trough through which water is fed to saturate the pads disclosed in the pad frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1984
    Assignee: Hi-Lo Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Harrell
  • Patent number: 4419300
    Abstract: An evaporative cooler body comprises a non-corrosive, insulative assembly of self-locating, self-jigging parts. Stand-off means are provided for increasing the effective area of the evaporative cooling pads and for improving air flow across the surface of and through said pads. An improved water distribution means permits sheeting of the water across the top surfaces of the evaporative cooling pads to obtain a more uniform distribution of water within said pads. Means are provided for interrupting water flow on the surface of the evaporative cooling pads and returning such water to the interior of said pad so as to increases the overall efficiency of the evaporative cooler. The evaporative cooler cabinet is comprised of a minimal number of reaction injection molded elements of high modulus urethane elastomer. The material insulates both sound and heat providing a quieter running and more cooling-efficient device. Color may be permanently molded into the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Assignee: General Texas Corporation
    Inventors: David VanNess, Joseph Hines, William E. Wells