Pressure-relief Valve (e.g., Pop-off Valve) Or Check Valve Patents (Class 422/113)
  • Patent number: 11425893
    Abstract: A beehive system includes a main hive body with opposed, insulated side walls having access ports formed respectively therein. A vent assembly fits into an access port, and includes a valve case with an outer housing, a coaxial core portion, and plural opposed panels between the outer housing and the core portion, with openings formed between the panels. A pivotally movable valve member includes a core portion and two or more blades attached to and extending outwardly from the core portion. The valve member cooperates with the valve case to regulate air flow through the vent assembly. A bimetallic coil interconnects the valve case and the valve member, and a perforated screen cover is attached to the valve case to allow air flow therethrough. A kit of components usable to retrofit an existing hive, and a method of retrofitting an existing beehive to add a vent thereto, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Inventor: Benjamin J. Logan
  • Patent number: 11305285
    Abstract: A cap closes a sample vessel for the microwave treatment of samples. The cap contains a closure body for closing the sample vessel. The closure body is fitted to the sample vessel and closes the sample vessel at a sealing surface. A spring-loaded pressure relief valve and a vent duct are provided. The vent duct, the pressure relief valve and the closure body are configured in such a manner that the vent duct connects the closure body via the pressure relief valve to the surrounding area such that when a defined first pressure level is exceeded at the closure body excess pressure can escape through the vent duct into the area surrounding the cap. A reservoir is provided. The reservoir and the vent duct are configured such that condensate precipitating in the vent duct accumulates in the reservoir when the cap is in the state fitted to the sample vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Anton Paar GmbH
    Inventor: Rainer Zentner
  • Patent number: 10799886
    Abstract: A method for thermally disinfecting a centrifuge to reduce the quantity of germs therein, the centrifuge having a rotatable drum and being used for centrifugally processing a product, involves reducing the quantity of germs using vapor that is not pressurized or which is at atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: GEA MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT GMBH
    Inventors: Thomas Bathelt, Dirk Esseling
  • Patent number: 9358516
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved design and operation of a short contact time Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Reactor wherein the upper internal riser and a lower internal riser are in fluid connection with one another and provide an improved disengaging zone for entraining the vapors from the dilute phase area of the FCC reactor. Detailed preferred embodiments include improvements over the prior art to the internal central riser, riser termination apparatus, cyclone separators, and a coke mitigation baffle system, as well as associated improved fluid catalytic cracking processes utilizing the novel reactor design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Robert F. Tammera, Edward Nicholas Jones, Christopher G. Smalley, Phillip A. Deis, Alvin U. Chen, Christopher S. Gurciullo
  • Patent number: 9330950
    Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus includes a processing unit performing a predetermined processing on a substrate; a transfer chamber; and a substrate accommodation unit including a substrate accommodation chamber communicating with the transfer chamber via a transfer opening, a gate provided at the transfer opening to separate the substrate accommodation chamber from the transfer chamber, and a gas supply unit supplying a gas into the substrate accommodation chamber. The substrate accommodation chamber accommodates therein substrates that have been processed by the processing unit, and the gas supply unit provides a gas flow suppressing an atmosphere of the transfer chamber from being introduced into the substrate accommodation chamber, thereby preventing undesired reaction between moisture in the atmosphere of the transfer chamber and deposits adhered on the processed substrates accommodated in the substrate accommodation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: Shinji Wakabayashi
  • Publication number: 20150125350
    Abstract: Endoscope connection portions, a fluid feeding duct, a liquid supply duct, a pump, a first atmospheric exposure duct including one end connected to the fluid feeding duct and the other end exposed to atmosphere, a relief valve disposed at an intermediate position of the first atmospheric exposure duct, a first stop section disposed at an intermediate position of the first atmospheric exposure duct, and a control section that performs control to supply a liquid to ducts of endoscopes and controls at least opening/closing operation of the first stop section are included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventors: Takaaki KOMIYA, Jiro KOMIYA
  • Publication number: 20150118131
    Abstract: A system includes a solvent gas processing system having a high pressure reaction vessel configured to remove an acid gas from an untreated feed gas using a solvent in a lean solvent fluid stream. The system includes a high pressure reaction vessel is configured to output a treated clean gas and a first flow of a high pressure fluid stream via a first flow path. The system includes a turbine having a main nozzle, an auxiliary nozzle, and an outlet. The main nozzle is configured to receive a second flow of the high pressure fluid stream from the first flow path via a main flow path. The system includes an auxiliary nozzle valve disposed along an auxiliary flow path. The auxiliary nozzle valve is configured to control a third flow of the high pressure fluid stream into the auxiliary nozzle of the turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Jeremy Grant Martin, John Sienkiewicz, Prem Krish, Ying Ma, Mark Richter, Felix Winkler
  • Publication number: 20150080533
    Abstract: A polyolefin manufacturing system and method including polymerizing olefin in a first reactor to form a polyolefin, transferring the polyolefin to a second reactor, polymerizing olefin in the second reactor, and discharging a product polyolefin from the second reactor. The system and method including operating the first reactor with a first reactor pressure relief system and the second reactor with a second reactor pressure relief system, both pressure relief systems to discharge to a flare system, and wherein a relief instrumented system (RIS) is configured to direct at least one process interlock that mitigates an excess reaction scenario as an overpressure relief scenario.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: CHEVRON PHILLIPS CHEMICAL COMPANY, LP
    Inventors: Thanh T. Nguyen, Ralph Romig, Carolyn Lehman, Joel Mutchler
  • Patent number: 8951480
    Abstract: A modular chemical production system includes multiple modules for performing a chemical reaction, particularly of radiochemical compounds, from a remote location. One embodiment comprises a reaction vessel including a moveable heat source with the position thereof relative to the reaction vessel being controllable from a remote position. Alternatively the heat source may be fixed in location and the reaction vial is moveable into and out of the heat source. The reaction vessel has one or more sealing plugs, the positioning of which in relationship to the reaction vessel is controllable from a remote position. Also the one or more reaction vessel sealing plugs can include one or more conduits there through for delivery of reactants, gases at atmospheric or an elevated pressure, inert gases, drawing a vacuum and removal of reaction end products to and from the reaction vial, the reaction vial with sealing plug in position being operable at elevated pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Nagichettiar Satyamurthy, Jorge R. Barrio, Bernard Amarasekera, R. Michael Van Dam, Sebastian Olma, Dirk Williams, Mark A. Eddings, Clifton Kwang-Fu Shen
  • Patent number: 8926908
    Abstract: Reactor vessels with pressure and heat transfer features for producing hydrogen-based fuels and structural elements, and associated systems and methods. A representative reactor system includes a first reaction zone and a heat path, a reactant source coupled to the first reaction zone, and a first actuator coupled to cyclically pressurize the first reaction zone. A second reaction zone is in fluid communication with the first, a valve is coupled between the first and second reaction zones to control a flow rate therebetween, and a second actuator is coupled in fluid communication with the second reaction zone to cyclically pressurize the second reaction zone. First and second heat exchangers direct heat from products to reactants in the reaction zones. A controller controls the first and second actuators in a coordinated manner based at least in part on a flow rate of the second product from the second reaction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Patent number: 8920757
    Abstract: Reductant dosing systems and methods for engine exhaust aftertreatment are disclosed. The opening and closing of a metering valve in the reductant dosing system is controlled in a manner that mitigates pressure oscillations in the dosing system. The metering valve is opened in response to the dosing command exceeding a minimum threshold value and the differential pressure across the metering valve exceeding a differential pressure threshold. The metering valve is closed in response to either the differential pressure across the metering valve dropping below a differential pressure threshold or the actual dosed quantity exceeding the dosing command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Cummins Emission Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Srivardhan Chandrapati, Yongquan Chai, Stephen M. Holl, Shu Zhang
  • Patent number: 8869975
    Abstract: An apparatus for safely retaining an eye implant lens for transport and access for inspection and use in which a holding apparatus has a chamber for holding a lens. In one embodiment the chamber has aligned transparent portions and a lens can be placed in alignment with the transparent portions to enable inspection. Also, a system including the apparatus and a bottle assembly that will hold the apparatus in the bottle. A method for holding an eye implant lens in which a lens is placed in the apparatus which can then be placed in a bottle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Presbibio, LLC
    Inventor: Vladimir Feingold
  • Publication number: 20140223891
    Abstract: A low emissions 2-stroke natural gas fueled engine includes at least one cylinder with an exhaust port in communication with a silencer-catalytic converter unit. The unit has first and second volumes in communication with each other. The first volume damps spurious exhaust pressure excursions and removes particulates in the exhaust. The second volume houses an oxidation catalyst for treating exhaust to reduce exhaust emissions. The engine oil has at most 10 ppm zinc content to reduce metal poisons contained in the exhaust prior to contact with the oxidation catalyst. The engine oil preferably has a very low ash content to minimize sulfur combustion components in the exhaust to reduce masking of the oxidation catalyst. The first volume preferably has a pressure relief valve set to relieve at a pressure greater than the maximum normal operating pressure of the engine to avoid excessive pressure excursions of the engine exhaust from damaging the oxidation catalyst.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce M. Chrisman, Thomas J. Hurley
  • Publication number: 20140194583
    Abstract: A reactor system including an enclosed pressure relief system and/or a control system. The enclosed pressure relief system including a slurry separation system communicatively coupled with a pressure relief valve coupled to a loop reactor such that activation of the pressure relief valve results in discharge of a slurry from the loop reactor to the slurry separation system, wherein the slurry separation system is capable of separating solid and liquid components from gas components of the slurry and transmitting the gas components to a flare via a flare header.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP
    Inventors: John D. Hottovy, Richard Peacock
  • Patent number: 8715577
    Abstract: A nitric oxide delivery system, which includes a gas bottle having nitrogen dioxide in air, converts nitrogen dioxide to nitric oxide and employs a surface-active material, such as silica gel, coated with an aqueous solution of antioxidant, such as ascorbic acid. A nitric oxide delivery system may be used to generate therapeutic gas including nitric oxide for use in delivering the therapeutic gas to a mammal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Geno LLC
    Inventors: David H. Fine, David P. Rounbehler, Gregory Vasquez, Bryan Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140058173
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for converting methane in a feed stream to acetylene. A hydrocarbon stream is introduced into a supersonic reactor and pyrolyzed to convert at least a portion of the methane to acetylene. The reactor effluent stream may be treated to convert acetylene to another hydrocarbon process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Robert L. Bedard, Christopher Naunheimer, Gavin P. Towler, Laura E. Leonard, Rodolphe Dudebout, Gregory O. Woodcock, Donald L. Mittendorf
  • Publication number: 20140010713
    Abstract: A gasification reactor including a gasifier with a tubular gastight wall arranged within a pressure vessel. The tubular gastight wall is provided with one or more pressure relief passages sealed by a rupture element. The pressure relief passages can be provided with a cooled section, such as a double walled section confining a coolant channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Ibrahim Kar, Manfred Heinrich Schmitz-Goeb
  • Publication number: 20140004008
    Abstract: A gasification reactor including a gasifier having a tubular gastight wall with a discharge channel or dip at its lower end leading into a lower slag collection bath. The gastight wall and the slag collection bath are arranged within a pressure vessel. An annular space between the pressure vessel and the gasifier with the discharge channel is separated in a high pressure top section and a low pressure lower section by a sealing arrangement having a damper. The damper can for instance be a hydraulic, or a lower at a distance below an upper seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Paul Christian Karzel, Manfred Heinrich Schmitz-Goeb
  • Publication number: 20140001406
    Abstract: A gasification reactor comprising a gasifier with a tubular gastight wall arranged within a pressure vessel. The gasification reactor comprises one or more pressure responsive devices comprising a sleeve with a cooled section extending outwardly from an opening in the gastight wall. The pressure responsive devices can, e.g., include a pressure measurement device and/or a pressure equalizer. Method of using a pressure responsive device with such a gasifier, wherein a heat sluice is used formed by a sleeve with a cooled section extending outwardly from an opening in the gastight wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: SHELL INTERNATIONALE RESEARCH MAATSCHAPPIJ B.V.
    Inventors: Ibrahim Kar, Manfred Heinrich Schmitz-Goeb
  • Patent number: 8318100
    Abstract: Reactor vessels with pressure and heat transfer features for producing hydrogen-based fuels and structural elements, and associated systems and methods. A representative reactor system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a first reaction zone and a heat path positioned to direct heat into the first reaction zone, a reactant source coupled to the first reaction zone, and a first actuator coupled to cyclically pressurize the first reaction zone. The system can further include a second reaction zone in fluid communication with the first, a valve coupled between the first and second reaction zones to control a flow rate therebetween, and a second actuator coupled in fluid communication with the second reaction zone to cyclically pressurize the second reaction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Patent number: 8306665
    Abstract: The present invention provides a control system for the conversion of carbonaceous feedstock into a gas. In particular, the control system is designed to be configurable for use in controlling one or more processes implemented in, and/or by, a gasification system for the conversion of such feedstock into a gas, which may be used for one or more downstream applications. Gasification processes controllable by different embodiments of the disclosed control system may include in various combinations, a converter, a residue conditioner, a recuperator and/or heat exchanger system, one or more gas conditioners, a gas homogenization system and one or more downstream applications. The control system operatively controls various local, regional and/or global processes related to the overall gasification process, and thereby adjusts various control parameters thereof adapted to affect these processes for a selected result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Plasco Energy Group Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas Tsangaris, Kenneth Craig Campbell, Douglas Michael Feasby, Alisdair Alan McLean
  • Patent number: 8282891
    Abstract: The instant application provides apparatus and methods for the generation of gas, preferably chlorine dioxide. The methods and apparatus of the invention use a removable reaction chamber for the reaction of precursor chemicals, e.g., chlorite salt and an acid. The methods and compositions of the invention provide gas for a number of personal and commercial applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: TBS Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas J. Dee, Paul Sabin, Douglas Sabin
  • Patent number: 8236247
    Abstract: Material withdrawal apparatus, methods, and systems of regulating material inventory in one or more units are provided. A material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and transport medium junction configured to provide transport medium to transport the withdrawn material from the unit to the heat exchanger. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and shock coolant junction configured to provide shock coolant to the material withdrawn from the unit. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger, shock coolant junction, and transport medium junction. Another embodiment of a material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel and shock coolant junction. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel and transport medium junction. The vessel includes a wall, liner with heat insulating refractory material, fill port, and a discharge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Intercat Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Evans, Ronald Butterfield
  • Patent number: 8114352
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a high-pressure fluidized bed reactor for preparing granular polycrystalline silicon, comprising (a) a reactor tube, (b) a reactor shell encompassing the reactor tube, (c) an inner zone formed within the reactor tube, where a silicon particle bed is formed and silicon deposition occurs, and an outer zone formed in between the reactor shell and the reactor tube, which is maintained under the inert gas atmosphere, and (d) a controlling means to keep the difference between pressures in the inner zone and the outer zone being maintained within the range of 0 to 1 bar, thereby enabling to maintain physical stability of the reactor tube and efficiently prepare granular polycrystalline silicon even at relatively high reaction pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology
    Inventors: Hee Young Kim, Kyung Koo Yoon, Yong Ki Park, Won Choon Choi
  • Patent number: 8092756
    Abstract: Catalyst withdrawal apparatuses and methods for regulating catalyst inventory in one or more units are provided. In one embodiment, a catalyst withdrawal apparatus for removing catalyst from a FCC unit includes a vessel coupled to a flow control circuit. Another embodiment of a catalyst withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel, a delivery line, and control valve. The control valve is configured to control the amount of gas to the delivery line and entrained with the catalyst. Another embodiment of catalyst withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel coupled to a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a first conduit; a housing confining a coolant volume around a portion of the first conduit; and a sliding seal sealing the housing to the first conduit in manner that allows longitudinal expansion. A fluid catalyst cracking system coupled to a catalyst withdrawal apparatus and method for withdrawing catalyst from a unit are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Intercat Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Evans, Charles Radcliffe
  • Patent number: 8038957
    Abstract: A containment vessel having a spiral plate heat exchanger, a central catalyst chamber packed with particulate catalyst, a central heater, a plenum providing conductive flow access for a hydrocarbon-air mixture to and from the containment vessel interior, and essential flow pathways interconnecting the plenum section, heat exchanger, catalyst chamber and central heater. The spiral plate heat exchanger, catalyst chamber, and heater assembly occupy successively smaller annular regions within the containment vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: James M. Cleary
  • Publication number: 20110217203
    Abstract: A process challenge device comprising process challenge device comprising a container defining a space within the container, wherein the space can fully contain a process indicator; and at least one pressure-actuating valve associated with the container, wherein the at least one pressure-actuating valve regulates entrance of a sterilant into and exiting of a gas and/or liquid out of the space within the container, methods of using the device and a kit including the device are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Barry W. Robole, William E. Foltz
  • Patent number: 7972563
    Abstract: A system for alkylating hydrocarbons which includes an improved method of safely handling alkylation catalyst is disclosed. The process includes passing the alkylation catalyst from a settler vessel to a catalyst receiving vessel, via a catalyst cooler, for containment therein in the presence of a condensible gas. Also disclosed is a method for controlling the pressure in the catalyst receiving vessel by controlling the rate of removal of vapors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: UOP LLC
    Inventors: Keith W. Hovis, Khalid Iqbal, Mark R. Cragun
  • Patent number: 7927550
    Abstract: A microfluidic connection comprising a carrier element having a microfluidic channel fixed between a feeding element and a backplate. The feeding element comprises a channel adopted for feeding a fluid into the microfluidic channel of the carrier element. The backplate comprises a recess arranged opposing the feeding element and comprising an elastic thrust piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Baeuerle, Jan Eikhoff
  • Publication number: 20100323257
    Abstract: A fuel processing apparatus of the present invention includes: a reformer (110); a raw material supplying unit (201) configured to supply a raw material through a raw material supplying passage (113) to the reformer (110) and block the supply of the raw material; a steam supplying unit (114) configured to supply steam through a steam supplying passage (115) to the reformer (110) and block the supply of the steam; a closing device (141) configured to block a gas passage (152) located downstream of the reformer (110); and a controller (200), and the controller (200) is configured to seal the reformer (110) by blocking the supply of the raw material from the raw material supplying unit (201) and the supply of the steam from the steam supplying unit (114) and closing the closing device (141), and carry out a pressure compensation operation by using both the supply of the steam from the steam supplying unit (114) and the supply of the raw material from the raw material unit (201) with respect to pressure decrease
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Seiji Fujihara, Yukimune Kani, Tomoyuki Nakajima, Hidenobu Wakita
  • Publication number: 20100310429
    Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by using a catalyst which increases in effective surface area during the process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems which are designed to maintain a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution for a longer period of time before increasing the overall surface area of catalyst exposed to the hydrogen peroxide solution. The devices utilize pressure from expanding oxygen generated within the system through use of a small catalyst, or through exposure of only a small portion of a large catalyst, to control deployment of the large catalyst for completing disproportionation of the hydrogen peroxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: ATRION MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Rowland W. Kanner
  • Publication number: 20100290958
    Abstract: A germ eliminator system is for disinfecting an enclosure which includes a green disinfectant liquid. A mechanism is for distributing the disinfectant liquid in a timely and sequentially manner throughout the enclosure, to kill germs, bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms within the enclosure, thereby the enclosure will become safe for people to use when entering the enclosure such as building, hotel, school, bus, train, or ship. The germ eliminator system can be stationary or mobile on a service cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: REBECCA BRENTS, Steve Brents
  • Publication number: 20100233039
    Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: ATRION MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Rowland W. Kanner
  • Publication number: 20100233040
    Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: ATRION MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Rowland W. Kanner
  • Publication number: 20100233041
    Abstract: A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: ATRION MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Rowland W. Kanner
  • Publication number: 20100170572
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to devices and methods for affecting the flow rate of fluid using pressure. The invention generally provides for controlled application of pressure to flowing fluids to control pressure and flow rates of those fluids, independent of location of the fluids relative to various devices. For example, in a series of devices, each connected to another via a conduit, pressure control units can be provided between devices to raise or lower pressure and/or flow rate of fluid flowing from one device to the next. In this way, a series of interconnected devices can be arranged such that inlet fluid pressure or flow rate of any individual device can be set independently of every other device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Hemantkumar R. Sahoo, Klavs F. Jensen
  • Patent number: 7739217
    Abstract: One exemplary method for message suppression comprises: providing first and second rules, each having one or more preconditions and a conclusion, wherein the first rule also has a suppressed-by attribute and at least one of the second preconditions is suppressing; evaluating the one or more first and second preconditions; identifying the first rule as true or false; displaying the message of the second rule if all of the second preconditions are met; identifying the first rule as suppressed if the second rule is named in the suppressed-by attribute; and inhibiting the message display of the suppressed rule or routing the message to second display. The system can comprise: a database containing knowledge of the production unit; a user interface, and at least one precondition, a suppressed by attribute, and one or more rules each having a conclusion and at least one suppressing precondition; an inference engine; and a display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Inc.
    Inventors: Bohumil Vaclav Kral, David Jack Sandell
  • Patent number: 7722823
    Abstract: Systems and methods using the properties of supercritical water to allow raw air including a contaminant to be combined with water and to be purified in a supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) process. A supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) air purifier will generally take in a mixture of water and raw air which includes oxygen via a pumping and mixing apparatus, put the mixture into a supercritical water reactor (SCWR), and run the resultant effluent stream through a system for separating the water from the resultant clean air and the other relatively harmless outputs of the supercritical water reactor (SCWO).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Asdrubal Garcia-Ortiz, Sunggyu Lee, John Wootton
  • Publication number: 20100094200
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved smoke evacuation device for use in laparoscopic surgeries. One improvement is a hydrophilic wick positioned within the inlet system of the smoke device for absorbing moisture and trapping surgical waste entering the smoke evacuation device. The second improvement is a multi-outlet valve inserted into the outlet system of the smoke evacuation device to enable quick depressurization of the surgical site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: MEDTEK DEVICES, INC. D/B/A BUFFALO FILTER
    Inventors: Robert O. Dean, Jay T. Kajdas
  • Publication number: 20100092345
    Abstract: A portable, lightweight, easy-to-carry, reusable, durable, and environmentally-friendly assembly for sterilizing contaminated equipment using conditions of a chemical sterilant, heat, and humidity generated in situ without requiring external electricity, fuels, or other exogenous energy sources for operation. The carry assembly includes a plastic carry-case or insulated aluminum pressure vessel having an inner chamber for accepting microbiologically contaminated objects, a vessel disposed in the chamber for serving as a reaction chamber and/or boiler, a chemical combination which upon mixing generates at least minimally sufficient conditions of the sterilant, heat, and humidity to effect sterilization of the objects, and outlet valves mounted on the carry-case for controllably venting pressures above ambient air pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: USA as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Christopher Doona, Maria Curtin, Florence Feeherry, Satish Kandlikar, Kenneth Kustin, Irwin A. Taub, Barbara Taub, David Baer, Albert T. McManus
  • Publication number: 20100068573
    Abstract: A hydrogen generator (100) includes: a reformer (1) configured to generate a hydrogen-containing gas using a raw material and steam; a water evaporator (4) configured to supply the steam to the reformer (1); a sealing device (10) provided on a passage located downstream of the reformer (1) and configured to block a gas in the passage from flowing to the atmosphere; and a depressurizer (3) provided on a passage located upstream of the reformer (1) and configured to release to the atmosphere, pressure in the hydrogen generator (100) which pressure is increased by water evaporation in the water evaporator (4) after the sealing device (10) is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: Yoshio Tamura, Kiyoshi Taguchi, Masataka Ozeki, Hideo Ohara
  • Publication number: 20100044320
    Abstract: A system includes a first source including a first reactant; a second source including a second reactant capable of reacting with the first reactant to form a first product; and a reactor. The reactor includes a first element having a wall connecting a first point and a second point, the wall extending more than 180° around the first point; and a second element movably engaged with the first element to define a reconfigurable reaction chamber capable of being in fluid communication with the first and second reactants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: TIAX, LLC
    Inventors: Robert S. Weber, Mark Marion, Jayanti Sinha, William Barney
  • Patent number: 7651671
    Abstract: The present invention is for dissolving a metal complex and a low-pressure additive gas in a supercritical fluid and supplying the same continuously to a reaction vessel, aiming to provide a method and an apparatus for adding a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure supercritical fluid continuously, so that a gas which should be handled with care, such as a combustible gas, can be added to a supercritical fluid without compression. The method for continuously adding a low-pressure gas to a supercritical fluid comprises supplying a reactant gas to a supercritical fluid or a subcritical fluid by repeating, in an alternate manner, a step of storing a reactant gas midway through a piping in a low-pressure state and a step of carrying the reactant gas toward a reaction vessel with the supercritical fluid or the subcritical fluid, so that the reactant gas is continuously charged in the reaction vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: National University Corporation University of Yamanashi
    Inventor: Eiichi Kondoh
  • Publication number: 20090263291
    Abstract: A portable, lightweight, easy-to-carry, reusable, durable, and environmentally-friendly assembly for sterilizing contaminated equipment using conditions of a chemical sterilant, heat, and humidity generated in situ without requiring external electricity, fuels, or other exogenous energy sources for operation. The carry assembly includes a plastic carry-case or insulated aluminum pressure vessel having an inner chamber for accepting microbiologically contaminated objects, a vessel disposed in the chamber for serving as a reaction chamber and/or boiler, a chemical combination which upon mixing generates at least minimally sufficient conditions of the sterilant, heat, and humidity to effect sterilization of the objects, and outlet valves mounted on the carry-case for controllably venting pressures above ambient air pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher Doona, Maria Curtin, Florence Feeherry, Satish Kandlikar, David Baer, Kenneth Kustin, Irwin A. Taub, Albert T. McManus
  • Publication number: 20090202396
    Abstract: A dielectric assembly for generating ozone includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode in operational proximity to the positive electrode, a dielectric in operational proximity to the positive and negative electrodes for generating the ozone, and a knob adapted to extend outside of a housing into which the dielectric assembly is to be placed. A system is also provided for sanitizing and deodorizing water, food, surfaces and air including a microbiological reduction filter device having an input connected to a water supply, a venturi injector disposed within a housing and connected to an output of the microbiological reduction filter device which generates ozone and mixes the generated ozone with the water, and an electrode assembly comprising a plurality of electrodes, a dielectric for generating the ozone, and a knob extending outside of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Bruce Long
  • Publication number: 20090110609
    Abstract: A pressurization device is for a flexible enclosure disposable within an environment having air at a pressure and configured to define an interior chamber having a sufficient volume to entirely contain at least one person and containing air. The device includes a gas generator configured to generate and release a gas into the enclosure chamber such that the enclosure air pressure is increased or maintained above the environment air pressure to prevent entry of environment air into the enclosure chamber. The generator is preferably configured to generate the gas by a chemical reaction, and preferably includes a quantity of at least one reactant, such as sodium nitrate, sulfuric acid or ammonium chloride, and initiates chemical reaction of the reactant to generate the gas. Furthermore, the pressurization device is preferably incorporated into an air treatment system including an oxygen generator that generates and discharges oxygen into the enclosure chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Edward V. Roscioli
  • Patent number: 7521029
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tubular reactor for carrying out catalytic gas-phase reactions, containing a catalyst tube bundle (8) that is traversed by the relevant reaction gas mixture, is filled with a catalyst, extends between two tube sheets (4, 148) and around which flows a heat transfer medium contained within a surrounding reactor jacket (6). The reactor also comprises gas entry and discharge hoods (2; 60) that cover the two tube sheets for supplying the relevant process gas to the catalyst tubes and for discharging the reacted process gas from the catalyst tubes. Together with all the parts that come into contact with the process gas mixture, the reactor is designed to have an appropriate strength for withstanding the deflagration and explosive pressures that are to be taken into account during its operation. The volume available to the process gas mixture prior to its entry into the catalyst tubes is restricted as much as possible in construction and flow engineering terms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: MAN DWE GmbH
    Inventors: Friedrich Guetlhuber, Manfred Lehr
  • Publication number: 20090090152
    Abstract: Systems and methods for managing and disinfecting excrement material. A device includes a biopolymer decomposition container. The method includes treating an excrement sample with a bioactive agent, providing oxygen to the bioactive agent, and disinfecting microorganisms present within the system. The system and method further provides a byproduct that may be used to enrich soil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Charles W. Kallmann, Edward T. Woodruff, Kenneth S. Marsh
  • Publication number: 20090054605
    Abstract: A polymer synthesis apparatus (20) for building a polymer chain including a head assembly (21) having an array of nozzles (22) with each nozzle coupled to a reservoir (23) of liquid reagent (24), and a base assembly (25) having an array of reaction wells (26). A transport mechanism (27) aligns the reaction wells (26) and selected nozzles (22) for deposition of the liquid reagent (24) into selected reaction wells (26). A sliding seal (30) is positioned between the head assembly (21) and the base assembly (25) to form a common chamber (31) enclosing both the reaction well (26) and the nozzles (22) therein. A gas inlet (70) into the common chamber (31), upstream from the nozzles (22), and a gas outlet (71) out of the common chamber (31), downstream from the nozzles (22), sweeps the common chamber (31) of toxic fumes emitted by the reagents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventor: Thomas M. Brennan
  • Patent number: 7470406
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for metering catalyst in a fluid catalytic cracking catalyst injection system are provided. In one embodiment, apparatus for metering catalyst in a fluid catalytic cracking catalyst injection system includes a low pressure storage vessel coupled to a pressure vessel that defines a high pressure side of the apparatus, where the determination of the amount of catalyst transferred is made on the low pressure side of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Intercat Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Evans